What Is the Cheapest Island To Live on in The Bahamas

For many people moving to The Bahamas, Nassau is an obvious choice due to its vibrant lifestyle and status as the capital. However, this popularity comes with a high home price and a high cost of living, driven by the island's limited space and high demand. 

The Family Islands offer a compelling alternative for those seeking more affordable real estate options. These islands, each with its unique charm and lifestyle, provide opportunities to find beautiful and budget-friendly properties (with excellent investment potential) away from the hustle and bustle of Nassau. 

Whether you are looking for a tranquil retirement spot, a vacation home, or an investment property, the Family Islands present a range of options that combine affordability with the idyllic Bahamian lifestyle.

Abaco

Abaco, a gem within the Bahamas archipelago, offers a serene and picturesque lifestyle that is hard to match. Known for its stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life, Abaco is a paradise for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. 

The island's laid-back atmosphere makes it an ideal destination for those seeking tranquillity away from the hustle and bustle of city life. Additionally, Abaco boasts a close-knit community where neighbours know each other and a strong sense of local culture and tradition prevails. 

Abaco is renowned for its excellent boating, fishing, and diving opportunities, making it a haven for water sports enthusiasts. Located conveniently near Nassau, it’s accessible via Marsh Harbour, the largest town in Abaco. Marsh Harbour has its own airport with a 7000' runway, providing easy access to international destinations, especially the east coast of Florida.

Here are a few affordable communities and neighbourhoods for you to explore. 

Treasure Cay

Treasure Cay has one of the world's finest beaches. It’s the entry point for water taxis to the outer cays of Green Turtle Cay and Spanish Cay. 

You can find Treasure Cay lots in small marina-facing and beachfront communities for less than $30,000 Waterfront Condominiums start in the 200s and are within walking distance of the world-famous Treasure Cay Beach. 

Treasure Cay offers a great vacation rental opportunity for those who want to earn a return on their investment while they’re away from home. 

Bahama Palm Shores

It is a waterfront community south of Marsh Harbour Abaco, another excellent opportunity to pick up bargain beachfront lots for under $30,000. 

Bahama Palm Shores is close to The Abaco Club at Winding Bay, Schooner Bay, picturesque Little Harbour, and Pete's Pub, which is just a stone's throw away.

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Eleuthera

Eleuthera is famous worldwide for its enchanting pink sand beaches, lush landscapes, and charming settlements. Stretching over 100 miles, Eleuthera offers a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling town of Governor’s Harbour to the serene shores of Spanish Wells. 

A blend of serene living, stunning natural beauty, and easy accessibility make Eleuthera a desirable island for peaceful living and affordable real estate investments. Outdoor enthusiasts will find numerous opportunities for snorkelling, diving, and exploring hidden coves. 

The island is conveniently located near Nassau, and daily flights from Governor’s Harbour International Airport ensure easy access to the capital and other destinations. 

Rainbow Bay

Rainbow Bay is a hilltop neighbourhood that overlooks the deep blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean on one side and the Caribbean's peaceful, pristine turquoise waters on the other. Located just minutes away from Governors Harbour International Airport, which has daily flights out of Nassau and the USA, Rainbow Bay is the ideal location for a second home, with lots for as low as $35,000.

Whale Point Estates

Close to the Glass Window Bridge, Whale Point is just 20 minutes from North Eleuthera Airport and only five minutes by boat to Harbour Island. It’s a tranquil place with stunning views and lots available for as low as $30,000.

Governor’s Harbour

Governor's Harbour is a historic settlement dating back to the late 18th century. Its colonial architecture, pastel cottages, and cobblestone streets reflect the best of island living. Local markets boast fresh produce, seafood, and cultural goods. 

The real estate market in the Governor's Harbour offers lucrative options for permanent residences and vacation homes, with lots ranging from $50,000 to some excellent options under $100,000. 

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Long Island

Long Island is a hidden gem with pristine beaches, dramatic cliffs, and a serene ambience throughout its 80-mile stretch of land. 

From the famous Dean’s Blue Hole, one of the world's deepest underwater sinkholes, to the charming settlements dotted along its coastline, Long Island provides a unique and picturesque lifestyle. 

The island is ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, offering excellent opportunities for fishing, diving, and exploring unspoiled landscapes. The community is proud of its rich history of hard work, fishing, and farming. 

Conveniently accessible via Deadman’s Cay Airport with connections to Nassau, Long Island combines serene living with easy access to the capital's amenities.

Stella Maris

With about an acre of land priced at $50,000, Stella Maris offers a very affordable entry point for investing in Long Island. The community is known for its secluded and elevated lots, which provide great views and easy beach access. 

The lots are near conveniences like stores, restaurants, and health centres. The airport and Stella Maris resort are also nearby.

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Cat Island

Cat Island offers even more seclusion than Abaco and Eleuthera. In Cat Island you'll find quieter boutique resorts that focus on diving and solitude. 

The island is famous for its historical sites, such as the Hermitage on Mount Alvernia, the highest point in the Bahamas. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the island’s excellent diving, snorkelling, and fishing opportunities. 

The community on Cat Island values peace and simplicity, and the island's seclusion enhances its charm, providing a quiet retreat where you can unwind. 

Accessible via New Bight Airport with flights to Nassau, Cat Island combines peaceful living with convenient access to the capital's amenities, making it an attractive choice for those looking to experience the best of the Bahamas.

Fernandez Bay Village

Fernandez Bay Village offers a unique real estate opportunity for those seeking a serene beachfront lifestyle. Located on Southern Cat Island, it is well-serviced by local airlines from Nassau, making it easily accessible. 

Real estate prices in this area are significantly more affordable than Nassau's, with beachfront lots available at a fraction of the cost​. This affordability, combined with Cat Island's natural beauty and tranquillity, makes Fernandez Bay Village an attractive option for both investment and leisurely living.

Pigeon Cay

In the northern part of Cat Island, Pigeon Cay offers idyllic beachfront properties easily accessible via New Bight Airport. This area is known for its pristine beaches and peaceful surroundings, making it a desirable location for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle. 

Real estate prices in Pigeon Cay are significantly low, with beachfront lots averaging around $35,000 for an average residential plot. This affordability and the area's natural beauty make Pigeon Cay an excellent investment for vacation homes or long-term residences. 

Greenwood

This serene area is perfect for nature lovers and those seeking a quiet retreat. Properties in Greenwood range from residential lots to beachfront homes, with prices starting as low as $35,000 for a 0.23-acre lot. 

These lots provide stunning views and easy access to some of the best beaches. With essential amenities like electricity, telephone, and internet services, Greenwood ensures a comfortable island lifestyle. Accessible via New Bight Airport, Greenwood combines seclusion with convenience, making it an ideal investment for vacation or long-term living.

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Exuma

The Exumas, a stunning chain of islands within the Bahamas, are renowned for their pristine beauty, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant marine life. Comprising over 365 islands and cays, the Exumas offer a unique blend of luxury and tranquillity, making them a perfect destination for those seeking an idyllic island lifestyle. 

Besides its private islands and celebrity hideouts, Exuma has many affordable settlements ripe for investment. 

Great Exuma and its capital, George Town, are the main hubs, providing essential amenities and hosting the annual Georgetown Sailing Regatta. The Exumas are ideal for water sports enthusiasts, nature lovers, and those looking to invest in a serene yet accessible paradise​. Also in Great Exuma is the Sandals Emerald Bay, with its Greg Norman Signature Golf Course and a full-service Marina.

Island Harbour Beach

Island Harbour Beach, located in Little Exuma, is a prime location near the famous Tropic of Cancer Beach. This serene community is perfect for those seeking a peaceful retreat with easy access to beautiful beaches. 

Properties here range from residential lots to vacation rentals, with prices starting at $38,000 for lots suitable for single-family units. The area is ideal for long-term residents and vacation rental investments, offering stunning views and a tranquil environment​.

Bahama Sound

Bahama Sound is a tranquil settlement ideal for building your dream home. This area offers single-family lots starting at $20,000 for a 0.22-acre lot. Bahama Sound provides a serene setting close to pristine beaches, dining options, and attractions, making it an excellent investment for those looking to enjoy the island lifestyle​.

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So, the question remains: What is the cheapest island to live on in the Bahamas? Buying real estate isn’t a simple case of looking at the lowest price. It’s about setting a budget and trying to get the best value.

Properties in the Family Islands are cheaper than in Nassau; there are no two opinions about it. Once you leave New Providence Island, you will find diverse and affordable real estate options that cater to different preferences and budgets. 

Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a retirement spot, or a long-term investment, these islands combine natural beauty, tranquillity, and affordability. To learn more about what affordable island will be best for you, contact one of our trusted and experienced real estate agents to explore your options.