Cost of living in Saipan
Saipan, the largest island of the Northern Mariana Islands, offers a unique blend of cultural influences and natural beauty. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering relocating or planning an extended stay.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of the expenses you can expect in Saipan, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $8 on average, with a range between $6 and $15.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $40, with prices fixed at $40.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $12, with a fixed price of $12.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $3 to $7, imported beer $5 to $9, cappuccino $3 to $5.5, and Coke/Pepsi $1 to $2.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1.06 and $2.99 per liter, averaging $2.23.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $3 and $4, with an average price of $3.33.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $4 to $8, averaging $6.33.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples and oranges both average $6.59 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $1.99 and $2.18 per kg, and lettuce costs $4.99 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - Public transport is not typically priced, indicating limited or free services.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.32 and $1.55 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $6.5, with a cost of $1.86 per km.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $600 to $650, averaging $625.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $350 to $600, averaging $450.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $1000 to $1100, averaging $1050.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $800 to $900, averaging $850.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $1800.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment average $332.7.
- Internet - Internet services average $60.
Cost of Living Data
Restaurants
Restaurants
Markets
Markets
Transportation
Transportation
Rent Per Month
Rent Per Month
Utilities (Monthly)
Utilities (Monthly)
Sports And Leisure
Sports And Leisure
Clothing And Shoes
Clothing And Shoes
Buy Apartment Price
Buy Apartment Price
Salaries And Financing
Salaries And Financing
Childcare
Childcare
"Key Takeaways"
Saipan offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas, with moderate prices for dining and housing.
Transportation costs are minimal, especially with limited public transport expenses, making it easier to manage daily commutes.
Grocery prices can vary, with some items like eggs and fruits being relatively high, so budgeting for these is advisable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Saipan presents a balanced cost of living with affordable housing and dining options, though some grocery items may be pricier.
Potential residents should consider the limited public transport options and plan accordingly for personal transportation needs.
Overall, Saipan offers a unique living experience with its cultural diversity and natural beauty, making it an attractive option for those seeking a change of pace.