Cayman Islands Partners

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Living in Cayman

Housing

Many newcomers to the Cayman Islands prefer to rent before committing to a property purchase. Renting is a smart choice if you’re uncertain about the duration of your stay.

However, buying property can be a great long-term decision if you plan to settle down. Both rental and purchase options are available, with condos being the most common. Rental properties typically come furnished, including fixtures, appliances, and furniture, as it is not practical to move an entire household internationally. Some rentals even include linens and kitchenware. Two-bedroom units are the most common, though one-bedroom and larger three-bedroom properties are available, though they may require a bit more searching.

Standard features typically include tile floors, air conditioning, a porch or balcony, one uncovered parking space, laundry, ceiling fans, and at least a small yard. Additional amenities to consider might include a swimming pool, TV, cable access, and internet.

For those relocating for employment, popular neighborhoods include Governor’s Harbour, South Sound, Prospect, Savannah, and West Bay, all of which are within a reasonable commute to George Town, the island’s main employment hub. The closer you are to George Town or Seven Mile Beach, the more expensive the property will be. If you are looking for more affordable options, districts like Bodden Town, East End, and North Side offer better value for money, and beachfront properties are more easily accessible.

Sharing a rental with roommates is a common and cost-effective way to enjoy a nicer property. Group houses are also available.

Rental listings are published in local newspapers, with the Friday edition featuring the most listings. Additionally, real estate agents specializing in rentals are available, and your employer may have useful resources as well.

Most landlords require a 12-month lease and a security deposit. It’s a good idea to have a clause in your lease that allows you to break the contract if your work permit is canceled or not renewed.

While most rental properties accept children, pet policies vary. Some landlords accept pets, while others only allow small pets or cats. Be sure to clarify the pet policy before signing your lease.

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Utilities & Phone Service

Utility services in the Cayman Islands are well-established, with multiple offices for power, water, phone, and cable TV companies conveniently located in George Town and along the Seven Mile Beach area.

To set up utility accounts, a deposit is required. While most utilities are connected promptly, cable TV may take several weeks to install, whereas other services like electricity and water are typically activated within a few days.

Water company accounts are typically held by the property owner. If you’re renting, you can either request that the bill be sent directly to you or rely on the landlord to inform you of the monthly charges.

Cable TV requires a deposit for the initial cable box, with additional boxes available for a nominal fee for use in other rooms. Satellite TV is also an option, although reception may be affected by rain or storms. Some apartment complexes have cable services already installed, and the monthly charge is typically included as part of the rent. These services are usually offered at a discounted rate due to bulk installation.

Several telephone service providers offer both landline and mobile options, with choices for pre-paid, pay-as-you-go, and post-paid plans. Top-up machines are readily available, and many gas stations provide top-up services as well.

Driver’s License and Auto Registration

To drive in the Cayman Islands, the first step is obtaining a local driver’s license. You can apply for it at either the George Town or West Bay offices of the Department of Vehicle and Drivers’ Licensing. You will need to present a valid driver’s license from your home country.

Cars for sale are listed in the Caymanian Compass and can also be found at various dealerships across the island. If you purchase a vehicle, you will need to have it inspected for registration. New residents bringing their own cars will need to adjust the headlights to comply with the island’s left-side driving rules. Additionally, proof of insurance will be required for registration.

Opening a Bank Account

To open a bank account in the Cayman Islands, you will need to provide a letter from your employer and a bank reference letter from your home bank, in accordance with strict Know Your Customer (KYC) regulations.

Retail banks in Cayman offer a variety of accounts, including checking, savings, and fixed deposit accounts, available to both personal and business entities.

Below is a list of some retail banks operating in Grand Cayman. Please keep in mind that services and branch locations may change over time, so it’s advisable to confirm the most up-to-date information when you arrive:

 

In the Cayman Islands, accounts can be opened in Cayman dollars (KYD) or US dollars (USD), with many employers in the financial services industry paying employees in US dollars. While banks also offer accounts in Canadian dollars (CAD) and British pounds (GBP), these are less commonly used for everyday transactions.

All retail banks issue credit and debit cards, with debit cards available for both Cayman dollar and US dollar accounts. Credit cards are only available in US dollars, and both credit and debit cards are accepted internationally.

ATMs are available at each bank branch, as well as at grocery stores and other locations across the island.

Banking hours are typically from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Monday through Thursday, and until 4:30 PM on Fridays. Many banks are also open on Saturdays. However, Mondays and Friday afternoons are especially busy, and large quantities of coins are not accepted on these days, or on the first business day after a public holiday.

Groceries and Pharmacies

Grand Cayman offers all the modern conveniences of a large city, including well-stocked grocery stores and pharmacies. The island is home to three major grocery chains and numerous convenience stores, all providing a wide selection of international foods and organic products. At least one grocery store can be found in each district, with small independent food marts scattered throughout, as well as gas stations that also carry grocery supplies.

Grocery stores are closed on Sundays, and most small shops follow suit, making Saturday nights particularly busy. However, stores are open early and late throughout the week, with limited hours on public holidays.

In addition to groceries, stores in Cayman carry school supplies, magazines, kitchenware, health and beauty products, and more. Each major store features a deli, bakery, meat and seafood market, and hot food and salad bars serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Catering services are also available.

There are two bulk chains on the island that offer groceries and home supplies in large quantity packaging. Locally grown produce can be found at the Market at the Grounds in Savannah and occasionally in grocery stores, with fresh local fruit available at roadside stands.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies in the Cayman Islands are well-stocked and staffed by professional pharmacists with internationally recognized degrees. Each of the major grocery chains operates a pharmacy in its larger stores. Additionally, there are independent pharmacies located in West Bay, Seven Mile Beach, George Town, Prospect, and Savannah. Both hospitals on the island also have their own pharmacies.

House Wares

If your rental property doesn’t come with all the basic supplies, you can easily outfit your new home at any of the island’s homeware stores. Several large stores offer a variety of home, kitchen, garden, and patio supplies, while boutiques provide luxury home goods. Grocery stores typically carry a selection of utensils, pots, and pans, and specialty shops offer blinds, curtains, lighting, and high-quality linens. For furniture and décor, numerous stores and interior designer services are available, offering a wide range of furnishings.

Yard sales are also a great option for picking up additional items. These sales are advertised in the Friday newspaper, and there are many each week. For those on a budget, second-hand stores provide affordable options for furniture and other home goods. The Red Cross and the Humane Society also operate thrift shops with great deals.

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