The overall cost of living is estimated to be moderate (CPI estimated around 68.0, NYC=100). While the Rent Index is low at 25.9, the Restaurant Price Index is 81.03, and imported groceries are noted as expensive.

The housing market is estimated to be moderate, with a property price to income ratio estimated around 9.0. Average house prices nearly doubled between 2011 and 2024, driven by tourism and investor interest. The Rent Index is 25.94.

Average income is below average, with a purchasing power index estimated around 70. The average monthly net salary after tax was approximately $1,683.67 as of September 2025, close to the statutory minimum wage of $1,750 per month (effective July 2024).

Bonaire has a progressive income tax system. As of January 1, 2025, the tax-free allowance is linked to the minimum wage (around $20,000-$21,373). Income up to $51,250 is taxed at 30.4%, and above that at 35.4%. Sales tax (ABB) is generally 6% for services and 8% for goods. Property tax is 17.5% on a deemed income of 4% of the property's value.

The business environment benefits from stable Dutch governance and oversight. Tourism accounts for roughly half of the GDP and employment. Starting a sole proprietorship is straightforward, and the financial sector is regulated by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB).

Bonaire offers a comprehensive social security system. Minimum wage and social benefits, including AOV pension ($1,525/month from Jan 2025) and child benefit ($231/month per child from Jan 2025), are regularly increased and adjusted for inflation. The island has a modern hospital.

Deposits are protected up to USD 25,000 per person, per bank, under the Deposit Guarantee Caribbean Netherlands (DGC CN), effective January 1, 2025. This scheme is administered by De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB), which also provides strong oversight and regulation of the financial sector.