The Top 5 Benefits of Retiring in Beautiful Belize

If you’re considering where to spend your retirement years, you may have looked at the beautiful nation of Belize. It is a popular place to retire due to a few key reasons. While each person’s situation is unique and people look for different things in retirement, some of the benefits of Belize appeal to many people in this stage of life.

A small coastal nation in Central America, Belize is home to around 400,000 people. Even though it is less than 9,000 square miles, Belize has a rich culture, history, and environment. It is a popular place for retirement from the United States due to the climate and environment, the low cost of living, and the ease of joining the welcoming community. Keep reading to learn about the benefits of retiring in Belize.

1. Warm Climate

With a tropical climate, Belize is perfect for those who want to avoid harsher winter weather or sweltering hot summers. Temperatures in the winter only get down to around 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers can get into the mid-90s There is also plenty of moisture in the air so you don’t need to worry about dry air.

Belize does experience a wet season, usually from May to October. The dry season runs from February to May. They also enjoy trade winds which keep things cool and breezy, even in the summer. Belize does have an increased risk for hurricanes so make sure that you take precautions and know what to do for an incoming hurricane if you decide to retire to this area.

2. Low Cost of Living

Compared to the United States, Belize has a much lower cost of living. Everything from fresh produce to housing to taxes costs less than in many places in the U.S. Some variables, especially housing, can make the cost of living change. For example, if you move from a small home in an area with a low cost of living in the U.S. to a much higher beachfront home in Belize, there’s a good chance that your housing costs will go up. But for the most part, you get more home for your money in Belize.

3. Friendly Communities

Locals are known to be very friendly and welcoming. It has a very diverse population and welcomes new residents and visitors alike. It helps that Belize has a culture based on hospitality and taking time to enjoy life. Things move a little bit slower in Belize compared to major metropolitan cities in the U.S. So if you’ve spent the majority of your life working and hustling, retiring to Belize is the time to slow down a bit.

History lovers will enjoy exploring the Mayan ruins in the country. Top sites include Altun Ha, Xunantunich, and Caracol. These are mainly located in the south and west. The Belize River allowed Mayans to travel easily throughout the country, resulting in many impressive towns and cities. Today, you can visit them to learn more about Mayan history and culture.

4. English is the Official Language

This area was explored by the Spanish in the 1500s and became important to Great Britain shortly after. It was officially recognized as a formal British colony in 1862 when it was named British Honduras. English became the most commonly used language and is still widely spoken today. Belize gained its independence in 1981. English is the only official language.

This can make it easier for retirees and ex-pats from the United States and other English-speaking countries to get around. English is used for everyday conversations including at restaurants, shops, and businesses. So one of the benefits to retiring in Belize is you don’t need to worry about learning another language to participate fully in the local community. Spanish and Belizean Creole are also spoken. Learning a new language can be a great way to keep your brain active during your golden years.

5. Amazing Belize Wildlife

Belize has a long coastline to the east and a dense, spectacular jungle to the west. The forested areas of Belize include evergreens, deciduous forests, and tropical jungles. The coastal forests feature mangrove trees and open plains and grasslands are in the south. You can spot many fascinating animals, including pumas, jaguars, tapirs, crocodiles, and toucans. The national animal of Belize is the Baird’s tapir, which can get up to 600 pounds and is the largest land mammal in the region. The keel billed toucan is the national bird of Belize.

If you enjoy the water, Belize is ideal. The Belize Barrier Reef is the largest in the Northern Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Within the region, seven protected areas are perfect for getting up close to marine life. Belize’s Great Blue Hole is one of the must-see spots for scuba divers. There are also numerous atolls, sand cays, lagoons, and maritime forests. Animals that you can see in the water include many types of sharks, manatees, sea turtles, and, of course, coral.