Exact Cost of Living Index (CPI) is unavailable; estimated at 75 (NYC = 100 baseline). Groceries are notably expensive (index 92.14), while rent (index 32.25) and restaurant prices (index 53.09) are more moderate. The standard sales tax (ABST) is 17% as of January 2024, with lower rates for hotels and certain services.

Property Price to Income Ratio is unavailable; estimated at 13 years, indicating an expensive market, partly due to foreign investment and the Citizenship by Investment program. The Rent Index is relatively low at 32.25. Annual property taxes range from 0.1% to 0.5% of assessed value. Non-citizens face additional fees and taxes when buying and selling property.

Purchasing Power Index is unavailable; estimated at 105 (NYC = 100 baseline). With a GDP per capita of approximately $18,600 and a high Human Development Index (0.826), coupled with no personal income tax for residents, the effective purchasing power is considered good.

Antigua and Barbuda has a highly favorable tax system for residents, with no personal income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax. The standard corporate tax rate is 25%, with reduced rates for specific sectors and 0% for International Business Companies (IBCs) on international profits. The standard sales tax (ABST) is 17%.

The Ease of Doing Business ranking was 113 out of 190 in 2019. However, recent legal reforms in 2025 aim to streamline regulations, enhance intellectual property protections, and introduce tax incentives for tech firms, positioning the nation as a burgeoning tech hub. The government actively encourages foreign direct investment, particularly in tourism and related services.

Antigua and Barbuda offers public healthcare that is low-cost or free for citizens and legal residents through the Medical Benefits Scheme. A comprehensive social security system provides sickness, maternity, invalidity, age pension, survivor's pension, and funeral grants, but notably, it does not include unemployment benefits. Expats often opt for private health insurance.

Deposits are protected up to EC$50,000 (approximately USD 18,500) per depositor per financial institution under the newly established Eastern Caribbean Deposit Insurance Corporation (ECDIC) as of 2025. The banking sector is regulated by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and is considered stable, though the coverage limit is relatively low compared to many developed nations.