Retirement. No more daily 9 to 5 schedule, an entirely new approach to life. The thing we've all known will inevitably happen someday, but what if that 'someday' was actually today. What if that today is actually on an island in the Caribbean at your beachfront property where you relax, take in the sunshine, and feel the warm breeze sweep across your face. Now, we all want to know what living your best-retired life is really like, what you can expect when moving to Aruba and how you can turn your dream life into reality. We're blessed with more sunny days in Aruba than any other island and only get on average 18 inches of rain per year.
The island itself is small, diverse and a melting pot of different cultures. With an average temperature around the low 80's year-round, clear skies, and warm sunshine, it's not surprising why so many choose Aruba as their retirement destination. The scenery speaks for itself, from white sand beaches to tropical plants and greenery all over the island. It so happens to be that Eagle beach was also named the 3rd best beach in the world (2019). What could be better than that? You can take on a new adventure every day - go for a hike, sign up for a yoga class or go snorkeling with the turtles. At 19 miles long and 6 miles wide, Aruba is a natural playground and so easy to explore without feeling cramped or it being overcrowded.
Purchasing a home in Aruba
The good news is you don't have to be a permanent resident to be able to buy a home in Aruba. Stay on the island for a total of 30 days without a tourists visa or 180 days (6 months) with a special tourist visa. Retirees and pensioners are eligible to apply for a special permit when meeting special criteria (age + income). When looking for homes to purchase keep in mind there are two different types of property you can own, either Long Lease Land or Property Land. What's the difference you may be asking? with Long Lease Land (LLL), the land itself is owned by the Land of Aruba and is a lease for 60 years. You pay a yearly fee on the property. A majority of land in Aruba is Long Lease Land and many popular areas such as Palm Beach, Eagle Beach, and a large part of homes built in the Noord area are situated on long lease Land. Property land is owned outright by the deed holder. If you're thinking about financing a property, local financing is available to non-residents who decide to purchase a home in Aruba. Banks will typically lend up to 60% of the property's value.
Safety in the Caribbean
Low crime rates, friendly people, and helpful locals make the island what is. Aruba has always been known to be "one of the safest places in the Caribbean." Being located well south of the hurricane belt makes it a great place to live all year round. The reason why Aruba makes people so happy is the peace of mind you get to experience while here.
When thinking about safety, we don't always think about life necessities like water. Having clean and safe water to drink is very important. Not everyone knows this, but all of Aruba’s tap water is safe to drink. The water here meets some of the highest standards set by the World Health Organization. Compared to many other Caribbean destinations this is most definitely a luxury taken for granted by many because for the local population, this is the norm. Being able to use water straight from the tap is not easy but super convenient. This will save you tons of money and reduces litter. Locals tend to just use a reusable water bottle when on the go and have a glass canister always filled up when at home. Nothing tastes better than a glass of cold refreshing water after being out in the Aruba heat all day.
Now that you know a little bit more about Aruba, are you ready to take the leap and live your best retired life? Who could say no to warm weather, soft sand beaches, and clear blue skies all year? Whenever you're ready to start your dream home search, you know you can always count on RE/MAX Aruba to help guide you through the process. Our local experts have years of experience and knowledge. For more information, you can send us an email at info@remaxaruba.com
FAQs
Not only does Aruba have one of the highest standards of living in the Caribbean, but the island also offers retirees many opportunities to freely embrace this new stage of their lives. To begin with, the island celebrates many North American holidays, which will make you feel right at home.
How much do I need to retire in Aruba? ›
Retire To Aruba
To become eligible, the following are the prerequisites: You have to be older than 55 years as a pensioner. Proof of a gross income, from pension or other legal source, of minimum $ 56,200.00 per year.
What is it like to retire in Aruba? ›
With an average temperature around the low 80's year-round, clear skies, and warm sunshine, it's not surprising why so many choose Aruba as their retirement destination. The scenery speaks for itself, from white sand beaches to tropical plants and greenery all over the island.
How long can a US citizen live in Aruba? ›
If looking to stay a little longer, U.S. and Canadian citizens can request an extension of this visa to 180 days if they have property in Aruba or have a declaration of guarantee from a resident of Aruba who will act as guarantor for and be liable for any costs incurred during their stay.
What are the cons of Aruba? ›
From sunny skies and great beaches to cultural benefits and a thriving nightlife, there are plenty of reasons to consider living in Aruba. Of course, there are also a few drawbacks that should be considered before making the decision to relocate, such as higher prices and an overcrowded tourist season!
What is the safest Caribbean island to retire? ›
Some of the safest islands to venture to in the Caribbean include Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, The British Virgin Islands, the Cayman Islands, Martinique, Montserrat, and St Barts. Check out our article: Living in the Caribbean – The Pros and Cons You Need to Know.
Where is the best place to retire in Aruba? ›
Oranjestad. Combining colorful buildings and turquoise waters with many attractions and family-friendly things to do, Oranjestad is a great place to retire. The capital city of Aruba is especially perfect for retired individuals who want to take their families with them.
Can US citizens own property in Aruba? ›
Q.: Can an American/Canadian/ European citizen buy property in Aruba? A.: Yes, there are no restrictions for foreigners on buying property in Aruba. Q.: How much time can I spend in Aruba as a homeowner? A.: Homeowners can spend 180 days of the calendar year in Aruba without residency or additional permits.
How much does a home cost in Aruba? ›
(In mid-2019, the median price for a house in Aruba was about 580,000 Aruban florins, or about $321,000, according to the Central Bank van Aruba.)
Can you live permanently in Aruba? ›
Persons desiring a permanent residence-permit must be in possession of: a passport valid for Aruba. three passport photographs of true likeness. a valid vaccination certificate for smallpox, not more than three years old.
The fishing town of Savaneta, and the former capital, is a popular location on Aruba for expats. Located in the southwest of the island and is away from all the hustle and bustle of the more touristy Oranjestad. Another popular area is Noord, the island's most populated town. It's located north east of the capital.
What is the quality of life in Aruba? ›
Aruba is an attractive location for people to live. It is very safe, has a high standard of living, and is generally well organized and politically stable.
How much money do you need to move to Aruba? ›
Summary of cost of living in Aruba: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 4,101.7$ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,136.5$ without rent. Cost of living in Aruba is, on average, 6.1% higher than in United States.
What are the taxes in Aruba? ›
The corporate income tax rate is reduced from 25% to 22% under the Profit Tax Ordinance, with the rate under the Aruba Petroleum Ordinance (28%) changed to instead refer to the tax rate under the Profit Tax Ordinance (i.e., 22%);
Does Aruba allow dual citizenship? ›
Local law is based on Dutch law, which allows for the detention of subjects during an investigation with the approval of a judge. People detained in Aruba do not have the option of posting bond for their release. Dual Nationality: Dutch law, in principle, does not permit dual nationality.
How much does it cost to live comfortably in Aruba? ›
Summary of cost of living in Aruba: A family of four estimated monthly costs are 4,104.3$ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 1,137.5$ without rent. Cost of living in Aruba is, on average, 6.1% higher than in United States.
Are homes expensive in Aruba? ›
Market Overview
(In mid-2019, the median price for a house in Aruba was about 580,000 Aruban florins, or about $321,000, according to the Central Bank van Aruba.)
