Economy Guide in Saint Lucia
Economic overview, job market trends, income levels, and financial landscape for expats
GDP
$2.07B
Total economic output of the country
HDI
0.71
High human development
Quality of Life
N/A
Composite score based on cost of living, safety, healthcare & climate
Purchasing Power
N/A
How much your salary buys after living costs
Cost of Living Index
Exact CPI data is unavailable; however, based on a very low Rent Index (10.76), moderate Restaurant Price Index (46.65), and relatively high Groceries Index (75.20), the overall cost of living is estimated to be moderate.
Housing Market
The property price to income ratio is very low at 0.98 years, indicating a highly affordable housing market. The Rent Index is also very low at 10.76.
Average Income Levels
Purchasing power index is unavailable. However, with a GDP (PPP) per capita of $17,840 in 2024, and considering the estimated moderate cost of living and very affordable housing, purchasing power is assessed as moderate.
Tax System
Saint Lucia has a progressive income tax system with rates ranging from 10% to 30% on income over EC$18,400. The standard VAT rate is 12.5%, with reduced rates for tourism. Residential property tax is 0.25% of assessed value. There are no capital gains, wealth, or inheritance taxes.
Business Environment
Saint Lucia was ranked 93rd out of 190 economies in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business (2019 data). The government is actively working to improve the business climate, offering incentives for foreign investment and streamlining regulations.
Social Security
The National Insurance Scheme (NIS) provides old-age, disability, and survivors' pensions, as well as sickness, maternity, and employment injury benefits. Contributions also finance medical benefits.
Banking & Financial Safety
Deposits are protected up to EC$100,000 (approximately USD 37,037) per depositor under the Eastern Caribbean Currency Union (ECCU) guarantee scheme. The banking sector is stable and regulated by the Eastern Caribbean Central Bank (ECCB) and the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA), adhering to international standards like FATF and Basel III.
Deposit Protection: up to $37,037 USD (see sources)More Insights for your Move to Saint Lucia
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