Bridgetown: what to see and whether to move there

Is it worth moving to Bridgetown in 2026

Bridgetown is the capital of Barbados, a small English-speaking city with British traditions, a stable currency pegged to the US dollar and one of the world's best-known programmes for remote workers. Remote specialists, wealthy families and pensioners move here for safety, English and beaches half an hour from the office. Island life is noticeably more expensive than in most of Latin America: almost everything is imported.

What it costs to live in Bridgetown

Prices come from two independent 2026 price databases and depend heavily on the area and proximity to the beach. The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar at 2 to 1. A square metre of a flat in the centre costs about $3,500, while west coast villas cost several times more.

Where to live in Barbados

• West coast, St James parish - calm sea, villas and golf clubs, the island's most expensive housing.
• South coast, Christ Church parish - Hastings, Rockley and Worthing with restaurants, a boardwalk and flats for remote workers.
• Bridgetown and the Garrison - the UNESCO-listed historic centre, offices and government buildings.
• East coast - Bathsheba with surf and quiet, but far from shops and schools.

Remote work visa and residence

The simplest route is a 12-month remote work permit, renewable, for income from $50,000 a year. The fee is $2,000 for one person or $3,000 for a family, and a decision usually takes about 7 business days. Holders pay no Barbados income tax on remote income but cannot work for local employers. For long-term living, people obtain a work permit through a local employer or residence on other grounds. More on the Barbados digital nomad visa page.

What taxes are paid in Barbados

For 2026 income tax rates were cut to 11.5% on the first BBD 50,000 of taxable income and 27.5% above, after a personal allowance of BBD 25,000, about $12,500. A resident without Barbados domicile pays tax on foreign income only if a benefit from it is received on the island. Corporate tax is 9%, 5.5% for small businesses, and VAT is 17.5%. There are no capital gains or inheritance taxes. More on the Taxes in Barbados page.

Work and business

The island's economy rests on tourism and international business: insurers, fund managers and service centres operate here. Since 2024 companies pay 9% corporate tax, small businesses 5.5%, and income from intellectual property 4.5%. A foreigner may work for a local company only with a work permit arranged by the employer.

Getting there and money

Barbados has direct flights to London, New York, Miami and Toronto, and Europe and Russia are reached with a connection via London or US cities. The Barbados dollar is pegged to the US dollar at 2 to 1, and US dollars are accepted almost everywhere, with change often given in local currency. A local bank account usually requires a reference from your previous bank, proof of address and source of income, so many remote workers rely on foreign cards at first.

Buying property

Foreigners can buy property in Barbados. On sale, a 2.5% transfer tax on the amount above BBD 150,000 if the land has a house and 1% stamp duty are paid, usually both by the seller. Annual land tax is 0 to 1% of the value. The inflow of purchase funds should be registered with the Central Bank of Barbados so that sale proceeds can later be repatriated without difficulty.

Climate and everyday life

The tropical climate keeps temperatures around 25-31 degrees all year; December to May is drier and June to November is hurricane season, though direct hits on the island are rare. The language is English and traffic drives on the left; government buses and private minibuses cover the island, but a car is more convenient. Healthcare means the public hospital in Bridgetown and private clinics, and many people fly to the US for complex treatment. There are private and international schools.

Barbados or its Caribbean neighbours

People choose Barbados for English, safety and clear rules for remote workers, and look to the Dominican Republic for lower prices.

Family and schools

The remote work permit can cover the whole family, with a fee of $3,000, and holders' children can attend local schools. Bridgetown and the west coast have private and international schools with British and international curricula, and places are limited, so apply before moving. State schools are free for citizens, and rules for foreign children are confirmed with the education ministry. For young children there are private English-language nurseries.

Pitfalls of moving

• High prices for food and goods: almost everything is imported.
• Beachside rentals are expensive, and supply shrinks in high season.
• Limited choice of medical care on the island.
• The remote work permit does not allow working for local companies.
• Flights to Europe and Russia involve connections.

Murblz specialists obtain the remote work permit, plan taxes on foreign income and support property purchases.