How much money you need to live in Jamaica. Cost of Living in Jamaica.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

00:00 - Introduction 02:04 - Rent per month 03:55 - Electricity 06:40 - Water 08:44 - Internet 10:40 - Phone 11:20 - Cooking Gas 11:58 - Gardener 13:14 - Pool 14:25 - Security 15:13 - Helper 16:34 - Food 18:00 - Home Maintenance 19:28 - Health Insurance 20:03 - Public Transport 20:26 - Car Expenses 22:32 - Summary Tables USD, JMD, GBP, CAD

[@da1stamericus]

Electricity is also very expensive in Saint Martin. It's about the same the cost of living there.

[@countrygirlcam]

Khalila Reynolds explains the lightbill on her channel. It is very easy to understand

[@winchesterlyon]

For the internet part, for home users, you can get up to 400 Mbps down and 150 Mbps up from Digicel. Their basic package offers 100/50 Mbps. Flow, on the other hand, offers up to 100Mbps down and that ridiculous 5Mbps up. What needs to be understood about internet speeds is that in today's world, we need upload speed as much as the download. This is because of mobile phone apps and how they interact with the internet. If you only have 1 phone and 1 computer at home, then Flow's 5Mbps upload speed is fine. But, add a family of 3, each with a phone and a single computer can make that network crawl if all are on at the same time. Mobile phone apps are constantly checking for content and app updates, even when you're not using the phone. Also, I have a 50/25Mbps Digicel connection and at the time of this video, it cost around JM$5,500/month (~US$40/month). Digicel's 100/50Mbps connection was around JM$7,500/month (~US$54/month). I don't know what Flow was charging then, but that US129/month seems very high, even for Flow. If you're in Mobay, I know Digicel is not there as yet, and you have no other choice than to use Flow. Flow sucks, especially since C&WJ bought them out.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

@@winchesterlyon The problem with Digicel - they are only available in Kingston with these amazing 400Mbs/150Mbs packages. I can't wait for them to come to other places around Jamaica!

[@winchesterlyon]

@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE Yes.. Sorry, but I've been commenting while watching the videos. I've been editing the comment as I go along. You are correct and my latest edit to the comment reflects this. I have family in Mobay and they have the same problem.

[@travelwithme4990]

Our Ukraine girl in Jamaica knows everything about the cost of living for sure! We do love and respect you and your hard work.

[@calisthenicarts312]

My Ukrainian girl🤣

[@ianh.8249]

Hello Irena thank you for posting such wonderful materials. Anyway I am a resident of Florida, retired and Jamaican by birth and I would like to visit jamaica and do some bird watching. I am hoping you can assist me with information concerning bird watching groups to join up with while I am there. I would truly appreciate any assistance that you can supply. Thanks again bye.

[@stanleyrichards3422]

U don't know anything about Jamaican people, an average jamaican needs a thousand dollars u s to survive.

[@travelwithme4990]

@@stanleyrichards3422 you are one of the illiterate ones!

[@vevenamcleish6533]

@@stanleyrichards3422 you must be from somewhere else. What is the earning of the lower income Jamaicans..OK....hmm I am sure it is 8.500

[@tatyanafiddis-stewart1412]

Girl you can give an more accurate break down than most Jamaicans can. I love it!!

[@landofahhs_1]

Once again, Irie does what so many others fail repeatedly at doing...She presents the simple facts in black and white. So refreshing, so 'to the point'...no rambling or getting side-tracked. Just the answers to our questions. Thank you Irie.

[@anniecastillo4547]

Okay so how do you want it to be don't watch the video if you don't like it

[@sharainedoyen490]

@@anniecastillo4547don’t you have to watch a video in order to know if you like it? . I think the commenter likes it though

[@ShadowHane]

Just a tip for you regarding fans. As a Jamaican we tend save where we can which includes fans. So I tend to clean the fans like every month or so and service them myself. So i normally clean the fans by dismantling it and dust it down and then wash it. Then machine oil / WD40 the major joints that may sieze up so fan keeps going longer and saving 2.5k per fan there to service it. I know alot of effort but at least your saving. Aside from that great video, you touched the most important things a foreigner needs to know when wanting to live here.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Wow, super helpful about fan-cleaning! Never paid too much attention to dusty/unserviced fans, but you're absolutely right, of course, they use up more electricity...Thank you so much! Looks like more tasks adding up to my husband's "before Christmas to do list" 😊

[@Lifestylewithjada]

Great information,Very informative.

[@arnanderson6821]

salute for that info

[@michelwallace908]

I'm a Jamaican living in the Bahamas, and I just happened to come across your vid but I have to say nuff respect to you. I appreciate your vid, it was thorough and I sensed no sort of dislike or negativity even when you elaborated on the expensive items, unlike so many who talk soooooo much smack about the country. Blessed love and keep doing what you do. You just gained a new subscriber.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Welcome and thank you so much! Sending love to Bahamas 🇧🇸from Jamaica 🇯🇲, I hope you like it there too :)

[@Chris_oak80]

Every time I watch one of your videos, I get the best information I could ever ask for. No one explains and answer questions like you do. Thanks you so much.

[@pattyrick99dad]

Even the world's best supercomputer wouldn't be able to calculate JPS"s rate. I really enjoy your videos, I can sense how sincere you are about the topics you are discussing. Jamaica is happy to welcome you. Keep putting out these informative videos.

[@Jamaicalandofthefree]

Irina every week you teach me something about my country. This video came at the perfect time. I plan on emailing you soon. Keep making these amazing videos.

[@user-qc8vj3vp9v]

She really does an excellent job explaining everything. And the costs do give you a realistic idea of costs - give or take a dollar or $5.👍🏼

[@cavellcarter3541]

Very good information for people who want to move to jamaica or return to jamaica

[@stephanobuddle837]

This was 10000000% accurate and enjoyable at the same time!!!!!

[@paulmarriott266]

Irie, good afternoon! After 6 years of living in Jamaica, obviously it is imperative that you know these Jamaican intricacies; nonetheless, your general knowledge is impressive.

[@mikeymarriott]

Family

[@paulmarriott266]

@@mikeymarriott a nuff a wi ennuh fam!

[@mysticdre321]

I think that this is now, the best source of info on Jamaica...Big up Irina

[@iamisaidi]

My goal is to be completely self reliant. Enough solar to power the house and batteries to store the reserve. Plus a home generator as backup.

[@Pipe-Layer]

Depending on where you live, using batteries for energy storage can be very expensive. Making it unreasonable.

[@asdfdfggfd]

When I explored this it turns out the tariff on solar power equipment into Jamaica is on the order of 100%, and everything still needs to be shipped there.

[@asdfdfggfd]

If I had to guess by looking at the policy, they want the solar equipment manufacturers to ship the parts to island and assemble the products in country. I would guess they want the economic opportunity that a functioning solar industry would provide them. I would look at the domestic products and compare them to the premium products that would be imported before you make a decision on how to proceed.

[@asdfdfggfd]

@Imani D Blessed I don't look at Jamaica as ever being a place with a bustling economy. I see it as a place in a tropical paradise, where the government seems to want to keep it primitive, and life easy and simple, with just enough financial and economic development to meet the financial needs of its people.

[@asdfdfggfd]

@Imani D Blessed Different strokes I guess, I see it as an appealing feature of the nation, and why I hope to live there one day.

[@mooreflava]

I appreciate the information. I've been "living" here 3 months now and can attest that your video is riddled with facts. Especially the electric and food prices.

[@onelovenailshair8499]

I have land in Jamaica building my house was cheap. I live great everyone is different I’m a Canadian with a Visa . Grow your own vegetables . Living close to the falls.positive thoughts.

[@beatricerights]

I don't believe these prices. These sound similar to prices in the US. In fact with the electricity it would be even more than I pay for my million plus dollar house in NYC.

[@cjfacey]

@@beatricerights well let me tell you she's perfectly right with the prices

[@hainleysimpson1507]

B Philanthropy as a poor jobless Jamaican living with family this video is accurate. The price of living here is very high in Kingston and South St Andrew in particular.

[@GreenOrchid9]

@@beatricerights if you can afford that house in NYC then you can hire a private jet to Jamaica and see for youself, obviously you have never been there. You probably think it's a black country it couldn't possibly have the homes she's showed too🤔 Irine would be pulled off KZbin by Jamaicans in a minute for misinfo!!!

[@Opalhandyjewellery]

You're right...that's why I don't understand why Jamaican running away leave here

[@headley70]

Very informative video Irena! We live in NY but my husband is building a home in Jamaica(his birthplace). We don’t plan to live there until retirement although your videos are making it harder and harder to stay away. Can’t wait til Covid is over so we can come back.

[@winstoncaarons4657]

This is a realist crash course someone must have to have a taste of Jamaican reality before thinking about relocating to Jamaica

[@frannybkranny8760]

RIght! As much as I love Jamaica (and I really love Jamaica) I might be looking elsewhere to emigrate to. :(

[@andybowman7462]

That’s why Jamaica’s favourite saying is : It’s not easy ya understand !

[@redcrimson1028]

Thats anywhere. I'm from jamaica and i live good. Cant speak for everybody else

[@tangitv6758]

Well if you have the same high standards of living as this lady, yeah for sure 😂 Brah she called having a pool just 'confortable' 😂😂😂 Only rich/wealthy ppl can afford that in Europe.

[@davidgreen4084]

@@tangitv6758 right? I live in america and never use A\C cuz I’m always broke and work 7 days a week

[@zaddylue4092]

I'm a jamaican living in London for 20 years. and thank you for the knowledge keep up the good work it will pay off 👍

[@OhLookItsMauve]

I'm British-born of Jamaican heritage and I'd like to live there one day. This video is very helpful in planning. Thanks for your channel.

[@chordonhaye5631]

Trust me , Jamaica is not a place to live and invest in.

[@dy6682]

My monthly budget is $150,000 for a middle class lifestyle plus car. Includes property tax , car and house insurance . This is for a family of four and fortunately own my home .

[@Fari-100]

That's what I know too. Me nuh kno who a guh live expensive so, even coming from foreign like me. The amount a bills weh she a mention, no suh! 😅

[@karensimmons1107]

I'm in agreement with you beloved, even basic living doesn't cost so much for me .

[@independentc4348]

I like the way that she breaks down the cost. However, I think that her model should be applied per parish as the economy of each parish can be quite different. Rent in a slum or farm area is immensely different from rent in a middle income or gated neighbourhood.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

You're absolutely right! In fact, I first tried making it "per parish", but quickly realized it would be too confusing and some info would repeat itself (e.g. jps, flow, nwc etc all the same rates), but such things as rent and food prices would be very different.

[@angelamclean4590]

@Clive Larence Who returning to live in a slum or certain places. She is giving the most realistic cost that would make sense to many. Her summary is on point for most ppl returning. Good video keep them coming.

[@mikeinthetruth]

Question...... Which parishes have the best economies and which ones are more affordable or are they all pretty much the same ?

[@diannetgoldingfrankson2105]

@@mikeinthetruth, Kingston most expensive, Montego Bay second most expensive, every where else reduces. Water is cheaper in Kingston and Mobay, else where a bit expensive, hope that helped you.

[@NATURALMYSTICMK]

Dianne....montego bay is much more expensive than Kingston.i lived there 12 years. Food costs are way higher in the supermarket. Remember downtown Kingston has lowest prices for clothes and even appliances and furniture. Vendors buy in Kingston then resell islandwide.

[@sheawalkerm6764]

Wow I’m in awe!! This is truly well done. Born, grow and live in jamaica and I can tell you you know more than me 😜. I’m learning. Didn’t realize you guys have it so bad as foreigners

[@warriorqueen8285]

Oh the USA is Hell

[@nadinebeckford3340]

Jamaica is very expensive.... even a foreigner realize this..... I never travel she is so Right.... so Right....

[@domG]

I'm a Jamaican living abroad and I love your channel. You've taught me so much about my home and you eyebrows even born there! Keep up the good work and I can't wait to see more. Big up yourself! Stay blessed. Stay safe. 🇯🇲

[@travelwithme4990]

I watched all of your videos as well and they are so positive.

[@SS-li5ej]

Grew up in country, we had wash ladies, live in child minder at my grandparents. With my parents we had ladies that they would hire on Wednesday to wash clothes and if mommy doing heavy cleaning she will hire a someone to help. Just so some ladies could make a ting for the day in the community. This doesn't mean you're rich though lol, just certain families usually do things to help others in the community. Like a lady who need school uniforms or food for the kids and she won't take hand but will work for it...love your blog

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Exactly, I couldn't have said it better! Thank you so much! I will be talking about this situation in a video about salaries and standard of living in general.

[@redcrimson1028]

Real shit! I'm from coral gardens montego bay

[@TheKingkingg]

I now see you as my Jamaican sister and one of the best ambassadors even better than many born Jamaicans...Yeshua bless you and your family, I hope I have the honor of meeting and talking with you.

[@troyhenry3505]

Hand wash when doing laundry, lights off when watching tv, leave phone to full charge not on them while charging, limit open the fridge,use room temperature water to shower, less bath if you have hot water, eat leftovers also eat out less. That’s how I usually live while I was living back there

[@chickoneyyoung3516]

You are so right because we don't have a lot of things in the house and the bill comes $8000 sometimes more and we are confused. And jps will say that we have to pay it no matter what. That is bad

[@shane_smith_]

That from ppl stealing electricity

[@randalsewell9171]

Thanks...Im in JA 5 times/yr & know the "ropes". I find your videos instructive & very informative.

[@angelabrown5748]

Ha! I use the Ukraine method of heating water on a gas stove to washcloth bath or dump warm water over my head at my family's home in Davyton, near Mandeville. Hot water is a luxury.

[@roseskitchen640]

Thanks you Irie, I can't Express how timely this video is. I've taken notes and adding to my research on returning residents thanks again. Peace and Blessings Always 🙏

[@adriiko]

Really appreciate your thorough calculations and the graphs in various currencies, including Canadian ! Yay! 🇨🇦

[@sheisroyal78]

Jamaica is expensive. Good info for people planning to return to ja. Jps is a scam 😤

[@noblegirl1991]

For real. The government needs to do something about JPS behavior

[@drewski1441]

@@noblegirl1991 JPS is the Government.

[@balvinricketts4153]

@@drewski1441 How comes I heard they don't own JPS anymore..?

[@independentc4348]

JPS is not a scam. It’s a legitimate business. Problem is the primary sources of energy (crude oil, natural gas) are not part of our resource base. The capital cost of turbines and the installation and operating cost thereof needs optimization. More effort needs to be made to capture waste heat from alumina plants and and run this through heat recovery steam generators and thus a distributive power grid would be born.

[@dabest133]

Clive Lawrence him seh wah him seh. dem ah teef!

[@drewski1441]

This information so detailed, thanks Irina.👍 My issue is with JPS they are over charging customers, they have no competition. Jamaica gets a lot of sunshine, I would go Solar. The Government also need to attract more competition for Internet providers, you cannot have a country with the population of Jamaica with only one or two providers for phone and internet.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

oh, things with internet in the Caribbean are very complicated, but interesting...there will be a video about it.

[@nursetmarie]

Thank you again Irina. Your dedication to providing real life information is superb. Your knowledge of Jamaica is AMAZING. I am grateful to have found your channel💕

[@RacquelNM]

Kalilah Reynolds has a video series on KZbin that breaks down the JPS bill and the meter readings so it’s easier to understand. The series called Light Bill Maths. She recently did an interview with JPS new CEO (I think he’s from Switzerland but don’t quote me on that). Anyway, the interview shed some light on JPS operations and why the bill always high. I didn’t know Digicel concentration was Kingston and Cable & Wireless is branded as flow! I swear I lean so much from your channel Irina! Thank you!

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Thank you so much for sharing the info about Kalilah Reynolds, I'll look for it!

[@OnlyPathToTheTruth]

I spent a little over 2 months in Jamaica, and met the kindest people there, especially in Mandeville. LOVE your videos and really need to go back to Kingston soon.

[@doncarrleon]

I had commented before, a few hours ago before watching the entire video because I was interupted; I just completed it. The info you provided is comprehensive and easy to understand. Thank you so much and keep up the awesome work.

[@patrickochinski6754]

This is brilliant breakdown of facts!! Thank you!!💛

[@BebeStellas]

Great video Irina! Not many will take the time to do all this research.

[@stephonie06able]

Wow! You have every thing down pat!!! I am Jamaican living in the US, and I must say you are doing an amazing job and telling truth in ALL your videos. I came across this today and I love them!!!! I have subscribe and I will be sharing it on my social media page for more publicity. Great job! Thank you💖❤️🇯🇲🇯🇲

[@jesus.christis.lord.foreve899]

Your clarity, upfrontness, intuitiveness in knowing what it is your viewers are looking to understand is greatly appreciated. Thank you

[@peleb22]

As usual another informative and in depth video. I am so happy that you started this channel. One you get your citizenship you should run for Minster of Tourism😁😁😁. Big Up!!👊🏿💪🏿💪🏿💕

[@charlesgore5827]

Irena, you are truly hard core. You understand hardship, hence, rice with rice. I knew a young couple who were trying to by a home in London. They said they lived on tomato curry for a year. Bless up you self your doing an outstanding job.

[@samrichman1145]

Thks irie 🖐🏿, very interesting topic 🤔 for a guy like me? An for me returne i most do some business , I'm just hoping ppl who's ina Jamaica are listening to yr vlog... love u irie 👌🏿

[@suebell1212]

Awesome work and very informative, since I’m planning on returning home it does gives me an idea, thank you!! 🙏❤️🇯🇲

[@VictorMiguelMarciales]

I got hooked with your videos and the way you explain what is like to live in Jamaica, I was thinking to relocate to Jamaica to improve my English but now it is doubtful, it is way too expensive comparing with minimum wages in Jamaica. I wish I could have the source to live in Jamaica for an entire year. Thanks for your videos.

[@karenr3355]

Trick to not having a high electrical bill due to water heater .... for me, turn it on once a day to take a shower, not leave it constantly on and during hot some days, bathe in the mid to late afternoon when the water in the pipe is warm

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

yep, so I heard some people do. When I tried at a house I rented back in 2014 (using the heater only in the evening for shower), my bill increased by 10k JMD, so I was like... meh. not worth it :) Maybe it's because it was a house.. for an apartment it might be cheaper, because it keeps within 100-200 Kwts consumption, while for a house it goes 400-500.. How much is your JPS bill by the way, if you don't mind sharing?

[@NATURALMYSTICMK]

Better trick.....get a tankless water heater . $14,000. Save 70% on water heating. Or get solar...which is expensive to set up.

[@KarimDMan]

@@NATURALMYSTICMK I personally install solar systems and have one on my house that helps out tremendously A-LOT.... My monthly JPS bill is $1121.00 JA ($8 USD) and that's running 2 Air condition between 10am - 4pm, 1 Fridge, 1 Microwave, 1 TV, 1 Fan, 1 Laptop, 2 Tankless water heater and normal house lights. Bear in mind my solar system is a 3KW system which is average for a house. If anyone need to have solar installed at a low price just contact me.

[@webcomment8895]

@@KarimDMan What about battery storage to run air conditioning at night?

[@NATURALMYSTICMK]

K G ...solar is not as simple as it is made out to be. Maintainance is a big , costly issue. Purchase and installation no matter how economically done is expensive. I am sure i cant affird solar for a 4 bedroom older home. My JPS bill is 31k to 38k per month ! Oh...i live alone. Highway robbery JPS is.

[@gloriarobinson1869]

Thanks again Irie for another informative video, you have certainly done your research.Its true about people who lives in Kingston, they will get food stuff from their country relatives, and I can say that Jamaicans do rely on helpers, even those who lived in the country side, but its not the kind of thing they would boast about. Have a very merry christmas, and I look forward to more vlogs.

[@noreensamuels8638]

Interesting 🤨 when I left Jamaica I use to spend $30.00jm go to market $30.00jm go grocery store. The $20.00jm was about to come out. When I came back to Jamaica 20.00jm became coin and I lost it I could not spend the money anymore. Now I’m learning. 😀😀

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

inflation is taking place everywhere, at least it's more-or-less controlled in Jamaica, so it helps to plan expenses.

[@atlrr8366]

Great and interesting advice...I will certainly take note of the information...As a Jamaican living in Canada, this information will surely help me planing my future retirement in Jamaica...

[@izodman]

Very informative! As a native of the island I probably would not require the pampered life and easily can revert back to "island" living as Ive done from my past visits. From your chart, my lifestyle would probably fall in the mid-range living (adequate) to be just about comfy but without the added fluff. I love Manchester parish because of the higher elevation therefore a lot cooler but there are other areas I have yet to explore and definitely something to keep on the radar for future visits. Thumbs up again on this informative and educational content.

[@originalfoxylady4520]

Wow! I also love the hi elevation n cool temps of Manchester (Hatfield); only problem - too far from the beach. So, I chose Treasure Beach area. The older one gets, they need iron in the body - the wind will bring iron n potassium up to 1 mile inland - so it's healthier living closer or visiting beaches.

[@amelicious_cooking9914]

Not rice , cornmeal and chicken back. For dogs or chicken fats .. and yes some people do have insurance for medical.. and life insurance. May not be popular with the poorer class. But if you have good job it’s provided the the package.

[@allgoodthingsjamaican]

Best video on Living Expenses in Jamaica EVER!!!! Tek it from mi..I live here and mi gawn yah!!! EXCELLENT IRIEnah!

[@doncarrleon]

I have been thinking and now planning to return home for a few years now. The info you provide here is the most useful I have found sofar.

[@damionevans3973]

This is the most in-depth and informative video I’ve found on moving to Jamaica. Thank you for sharing.

[@fp8237]

Very sobering informative video! Thank you for sharing your research! Definitely pushing those who wish to move to Jamica to work harder to forfil their dreams.

[@ugochionyenwere2362]

Please can you talk about international students survival in jamaica.you are doing a great job . keep it up.

[@kevonrose4455]

Been living here abroad since my early teens, so it never occurred to me. So I now changed my tune whenever my grandma calls for her monthly electricity bill contribution.

[@wandao2801]

I live in Texas and have a good job. However, everything you mentioned for survival point of view in Jamaica is a lot cheaper than living here in Texas. Based on your USA financial chart, I would be living comfortably in a house there, I prefer a condo or an apartment because I'm over owning a home. 😊

[@ANTSEL]

Great informative videos. Suprising how much a "comfortable" living could potentially cost in Jamaica. I plan on creating a "immigrant to USA living cost video" and you have given me some ideas. SUBSCRIBED!

[@rogernoble781]

This is very good for the people who don't like jamaica I do like this video nice

[@TheAmorchef]

Great video. One thing I have noticed is that for one or two persons sometimes there are Airbnb long term rentals. I have been looking the last few months. I have found owners willing to sign long term leases. Nice near beach units for well under $1000 cdn. Includes all but high speed wifi. Currently with covid market conditions are good for offshore renters. This video was very good. All her videos are great.. I plan to stay at her bnb next year when the gods lift this virus curse...👽

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

The thing is... using Airbnb rentals for long-term and charge under 1000 cad is ok if the place has NO a/c. If it has A/C - it would be a financial-suicide to the home owner. If you see these prices, it means the place either has no a/c, or it's because the owner doesn't know that the bills will be higher than the amount a guest is paying per month. Our JPS bill was over 1000 CAD for an apartment with 2 A/C units, when we were fully booked for a month. Most people from the USA are not worried about electricity prices, since it's relatively cheap there, so they just leave A/Cs running 24/7. As a result, our bill came to 148,000 JMD (that's 1088 USD) for that month.. and remember + other bills. I think those Airbnb home owners who are thinking of renting out long-term with bills included are risking big time.

[@TheAmorchef]

@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE nice to know. Actually I have traveller to Jamaica many times. I hate AC usually noisy...lol I come for the heat...I live in BC and sometimes Alberta. Hot is good. Cheers

[@Saquan876]

Great video as always Irene. On internet/phone/cable providers, there are actually many in operation. The problem is that they are all immensely smaller than Flow and Digicel. The established monopoly, resources and "links" (huge topic you should consider covering) held by the giants disadvantage the smaller companies from growing. Some of them even face commercial pressure where they are effectively handicapped by said giants. See Caricel owners story on starting her business and what she had to go through.

[@noblegirl1991]

Super informative. Thank you. This will help persons who are planning to live in Jamaica

[@irisfrancis4397]

Very informative, cost of living sounds very scary.

[@gizzellemcleish1837]

Hi Irena! I'd love a video on shopping stores like Bashco, MegaMart and others. That all in one shopping experience that Jamaicans like myself love to take advantage of (and complain about the prices. That's a part of the shopping experience. You can't shop without complaining). I'd also love to see what you think about local hangouts as well. How many have you experienced? Bye for now :)

[@andrewmanley9579]

Digicell is on the West End as well. First timer here on your channel, I like you. (You seem very likeable) Your English is perfect for someone who grew up in the Ukraine. My Wife and I plan on living in Negril for 4-6 weeks per year starting in late 2022. Thanks for the information.

[@lwjunior2]

Phenomenal video as per usual. Always informative and on point. Thank you for raising the bar!

[@lwjunior2]

Out of curiosity, are you aware of any reputable building contractors in St. James?

[@theinsidetrader580]

I’m coming to Montego Bay soon would really love to meet you. Glad you’re enjoying it here 🇯🇲❤️

[@MusicHaven_490]

I love the spreadsheet…..For 400usd a month, you can get a two or three bedroom regular house with no swimming pool house in St. Catherine…an average person in a regular house without heater and a pool Pays about 80usd or less for light with no ac……solar does reduce your light…..a lot of ppl don’t have ac, time is hot so most ppl don’t see the need for hot water when the place already hot

[@queensophiab.9990]

Hi my Ukrainian sister. I'm born Jamaican/British and love your informative Videos. Yo do seem to know more than most locals about My Jamaica. Very well done. I do hope you will enjoy your life in my home Country, that you have chosen to call home. Loving your positivity. Can't wait to resume travel to JJ..One love! Much Blessings.

[@leonardbarrett3563]

Thanks for the information. I am very impressed with your knowledge of Jamaica. I am Jamaican and I appreciate your intelligence of the Jamaican society.

[@paulam1596]

I am a Jamaican living Florida and I must say I love your videos

[@seanclue7248]

I am a Jamaican living in North America a d I did my investigations as well and Irene nailed it

[@Genuinepleather]

Jamaica is a country in North America.

[@ashes876]

Hi Irie, another informative video! Your description of taking a hot/warm shower on the occasions that you have no hot water in the Ukraine, is how I'd get ready for school in the mornings🤣. We didn't have a heater and I'm not taking a shower in cold water and then go to school in the cold(by my standards) hills of St. Ann so that water haffi warm up lol 🤣

[@ramassesskaggs8294]

Hey Irena your information is quite accurate, when I used to live back home I always told myself that no water utility company will ever get my money, I didn't know what it was like to pay water bill's until I lived moved to Kingston for a while and even when I come back to Jamaica I still not gonna pay water or light bill to JPS, we have a water tank in our yard to harvest rain water and we piped it to our house to run kitchen and bathroom and we filtered it also for drinking or boiled it if we want, when you live in rural areas it much more convenient and a bit less expensive than in urban areas, Jamaica has sunshine for almost 8 to 9 hours a day so it is better to go solar if people can afford it, we all know that money is hard to come by but Jamaicans are a people who always resilient in turn their hands and substitute to a lot of things, we grow most of our ground provisions and rearing of chickens for eggs... I love listening to your videos and I have learned a lot and well informed about the cost of living in Jamaica.

[@vernalroper5198]

She's always right on point with her information.

[@deancrawford5393]

Wow! She knows more than most Jamaican natives, including me who left there in my childhood. Now having second thoughts 💭 of living there🙏

[@lolahynes7764]

Irena that was a really good summary, I will definitely keep following. Great😊

[@rebecamartinez691]

Thank you. I am working on moving to Jamaica

[@dancelifeforsure]

That is crazy! Was told Jamacia was one of the cheapest places to live. Evidently not. Nomads take note.

[@jahnamejah7539]

Irina I haven't been to Jamaica a while now but compared to then and now I can see that inflation is at a high level but thanks for videos like these and others we won't be off guard .. thank you 👁👁 😊👍

[@love83forever]

You are so smart to come up with this grid/spreadsheet.

[@user-fm7vg4dv1k]

thank you so much for breaking that down for us, i truly enjoy your videos

[@AuntySlays777]

God Bless the Miserable People who gave this a Thumps Down... GOD IS LOVE... RESPEST IRIE

[@originalfoxylady4520]

My sentiments exactly.

[@JamaicanInsider]

Can't please everybody. I think this a great video with a lot of information.

[@hughheadlam753]

Those thumbs down are probably the people who don't want anything change because it benefits their bottom line.

[@crysy2444]

I am impressed.. weirdly... like you made me question my own budget. The breakdown was impeccable.

[@spiritofsalt6780]

This was a tour de force, really well researched and presented. Thank you.

[@jaikedar9736]

Very well written & well estimated cost. Greatly appreciated!!!!

[@seanreynolds516]

People who live in the Red Hills & Constant Spring areas in St. Andrew, have a third option for internet and cable , we use Logic One.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Unfortunately, Logic One buys internet from Flow and then simply resells it to end customers, while using satellite for cableTV and as back up internet - satellite is very slow and results in interruptions during bad weather, that's why they have to buy service from Flow. All small companies in Jamaica (e.g. Cornwall Communications, HomeTime, Logic One etc) - all of them buy from Flow. 😢 Why? Because the only sea cable that comes to Jamaica - belongs to Flow. Or rather to Cable&Wireless company, which was recently bought by Liberty Global... The point is - flow owns the cable, hence sets the rules all over the Caribbean. Digicel is an exception, but it's because it uses other technology. I'll make a video about internet in the Caribbean soon.

[@careydepass130]

Wonderful summary of costs in Jamaica. Thank you very much!!

[@lokilewis]

I love your videos your attention to detail is extraordinary

[@raymundofantastico]

Videos, like this one, not only encourage us to be aware of the various prices but to be more prudent in our spending habits so we may not consume more than what is necessary and be prudent renters and buyers. This should also serve as a reminder that EVERYONE should save/conserve more because it is simply worth it. The information you share with us is SO accurate Irina. Your willingness to share it & bold honesty is really appreciated. BTW, hot water in Jamaica (with such a warm climate)? I can't tell when last I showered in it. More than likely last year 😆😆

[@jahmallajaima]

I was staying in Kingston and we didn’t have hot water. I had to bathe in cold water. It was too cold for me. Only time it was okay was when I was in da country and I bathed where there was no roof , I’d be standing in the sun and I’d pour water over me.

[@hurricanegilbert]

Your content is soon good, it's evident that you do your homework, keep it up 👍🏿

[@hughheadlam753]

Thank you again Irie for this relevant information well articulated. I love your verbal and non verbal sense of humor and facial expressions :) also when you describe upper class living and how much it cost and how foreigners cannot do certain things Jamaicans can do in surviving there. I am looking forward to your next very informative videos I hope it starts a lot of competition among monopolized businesses so everyone wins and the prices go down. You forgot for security a lot of people use big dogs i think its a lot cheaper than those security companies.

[@Tamoiii]

Wow! I’ve been looking for this information for such a long time!! You’re amazing 💕

[@Dee-pj7hh]

Eye opener. One thing for sure you can live life in JA even if your poor., but for many the levity is hard. I never understand though why governments after governments fail to address the electricity problem in Jamaica. It’s been like this for years. With the development of solar energy how Countries like Jamaica never embrace this technology. And lower the dependency on oil? Great topic and video again Iris . You prove again you research topics very well 👏 well done 👍

[@lennonharris4837]

There are a few wind farms that generate electricity eg Wigton wind farm in Manchester.

[@Dee-pj7hh]

@@lennonharris4837 I did not know that. But need it on a grander scale. JA need to develop man. Wish I had the financial resources to do some things in regulars to electricity.

[@malachisadventure3174]

@@Dee-pj7hh I sometimes think the same why nothing ever gets done in Jamaica look at water it is so abundant yet still we get lock off constantly since the government cannot provide for me ie water and electricity and other basic amenities I would have to provide it for myself or create ways and means to pay for it

[@originalfoxylady4520]

Great job, Miss Irie. Thanks for your perspective; but, for ppl in rural areas I think COL will be somewhat less.

[@JamaicanInsider]

True, location is always an important factor

[@naturalloveanddevotioninc4005]

What cities are considered the rural areas?

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

Hm, how much are people who have to go to work spend in rural areas per month? I thought it was from 21,000 JMD per person per month. (it's shown in the table as "43,000 JMD" since I'm giving prices for 2 adults). Is it less than that?

[@Fari-100]

Hella less

[@webcomment8895]

If you own a private home, solar power would make sense to rid yourself of outrageous electricity bills. Then you can stay comfortable running air conditioning all day, use an electric stove for cooking and have an electric water heater without concerns or hassles of replacing or refilling gas tanks. You would also need battery packs like Tesla Powerwalls so you have stored power available at night and on very cloudy days.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

yeah... I wish it worked that way, but it doesn't in our case, unfortunately. The problem is.. the investment required for solar system like that is very high. E.g. for our house it's 12,800 USD (I know, because I wanted to install it....). It could have been worth it IF it worked 24/7, but it only works during the day time, while most people need A/C at night, because during the day they are at work/travelling. At night, however, you cannot use solar power, so you would still end up using JPS at night.. which means you would only cut your bill by 1/3 only, since most of the consumption comes after dark..... and it gets dark early in Jamaica. As a result, during the day time you'd be selling electricity to JPS from your solar system (not much, but still), but you'd be buying from JPS after dark. The result - out of 54,000. bill you'd save around 18,000, which is 216,000 during the year. To get return on investment of 12,800 USD (1,740,800 JMD) - you'll need 8 years. Is it a good deal? I realized that I could put 12.8k USD to a much better use, then get double returns on it in less than a year, and simply keep paying JPS for now...

[@webcomment8895]

@@JAMAICAWITHIRIE For power at night, they make battery packs to store power generated during the daytime. Tesla has Powerwalls, but I know other companies have their own versions of battery storage. Store excess power in your own batteries to run a bedroom A/C unit at night instead of selling that power to JPS.

[@JAMAICAWITHIRIE]

@@webcomment8895 I didn't mention batteries, because this technology is VERY expensive. You're talking about self-sufficient power station. Here is what one need to build one in Jamaica. 12.5k - basics (panels, converter, generator) 40k - batteries 10k - installation and transportation costs 10k - maintenance and servicing for the first 5 years (increases after that) TOTAL: 72,500 USD The usual JPS bill is around 400 USD per month. 72500 / 400 = 181 months = 15 years. For this amount of money I can use JPS service for 15 years. In that time - I'd need new batteries/panels installed, since their guarantee is only 10 years! People often don't realize what goes into solar power - they think it's free energy!!! The sad truth is - this technology is still very expensive, and for now - it's simply not worth it, that's why JPS is making so much money - no alternative.

[@toniahawkins9152]

You need to also look at owning vs. renting. I purchased and bought solar panels so my output was high but now my cost of living is very low. except for the internet I don't have to rent and when I am not there a week of air bnb covers "rent".