Knowing how much things cost in Jamaica will give you an idea of whether you are paying the right amount (i.e. the local price), or the tourist price. Keep in mind that things in Jamaican tourist areas tend to be more expensive than in other places on the island.
Although Jamaica is generally less expensive than other islands in the Caribbean, costs can still add up pretty fast if you’re not careful. A bit of financial planning will enable you to enjoy a fantastic beach vacation in Jamaica without breaking the bank. Read on for the ultimate guide to money in Jamaica.
Are Things Expensive in Jamaica?
Not really. In general, the cost of living in Jamaica is lower than in urban cities in the United States, as well as European cities such as London. In Jamaica, you can easily live on US $50 a day or even US $1,000 a day. It really is up to you.
If things are priced in US dollars, know that you are in an expensive area in Jamaica. Prices in touristy areas are normally hiked up by 30-40%. Travelers to Jamaica can cut down on costs by booking package deals in hotels at all-inclusive resorts.
Is It Expensive to Eat Out?
It depends on where you go to eat. Restaurants that charge more than US $30 for a meal are regarded as expensive by Jamaican standards. Many restaurants that cater to a local clientele will charge less than US $15 for a meal. Breakfast prices are usually a bit cheaper than lunch or dinner.
Is Accommodation Expensive in Jamaica?
From cheap hostels and mid-range hotels to all-inclusive resorts, Jamaica offers a variety of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference. No matter your travel style, you are certain to find the perfect place to stay. Average room rates in Jamaica are as follows:
Accommodation | Rate (USD) |
Hostel | $15-20 |
Budget Hotel | $25-50 |
Mid-Range Hotel | $50-150 |
All-Inclusive Resort | $200-400+ |
What is the Average Cost of an All-Inclusive Resort in Jamaica?
All-inclusive resorts in Jamaica can be expensive. The average room rate at some of the bigger chains is US $450 per person per night. That said, it is possible to secure a room at a smaller all-inclusive resort on the island for US $200.
Is All-Inclusive Worth It?
As with anywhere else in the world, all-inclusive resorts in Jamaica generally offer better value for money. For travelers who don’t plan on leaving the resort, but do plan on enjoying lots of food and drinks while there, an all-inclusive resort is the best bet.
How Much Money Do You Need for a Week in Jamaica?
Plan to spend around JA $107,313 (US $767) per person for a week-long vacation in Jamaica.
Tourists in Jamaica spend an average of JA $15,330 (US $110) per day. This includes JA $3,051 (US $22) on meals and JA $1,413 (US $10) on transportation.
What if I Am Staying at an All Inclusive Resort?
If staying at an all-inclusive resort, you will not need a lot of money for a week in Jamaica. You may bring around US $400 in US $1 or US $5 bills, for giving tips and buying souvenirs. Also bring a credit card or debit card in case of additional spending.
What is the Currency of Jamaica?
The official currency in Jamaica is the Jamaican Dollar (code: JMD), which is often abbreviated as J$ or JA$. Jamaican dollar banknotes currently in circulation are in the denominations of J$50, J$100, J$500, J$1,000, and J$5,000.
Here are some quick conversions from the Jamaican Dollar to the United States Dollar (Exchange Rate: 1 JMD = 0.00713 USD).
Jamaican Dollar (JMD) | American Dollar (USD) |
J$ 50 | US$ 0.36 |
J$ 100 | US$ 0.71 |
J$ 500 | US$ 3.57 |
J$ 1,000 | US$ 7.13 |
J$ 5,000 | US$ 35.67 |
What is the Best Currency to Use in Jamaica?
The Jamaican dollar is the best currency to use in Jamaica. This is because most prices on the island are quoted in Jamaican dollars. Moreover, when using other currency, you will always pay more than if you paid in Jamaican dollars. This is because you will lose about 10% due to conversion rates.
Should You Exchange Money before Going?
It is recommended that you exchange currency before you travel to Jamaica. Currency conversion is often an unnecessary expense that can be avoided with some advanced preparation. Before you leave home, exchange some currency at your local bank into Jamaican currency that you can bring with you.
Where Can I Get Jamaican Dollars (in Jamaica)?
You can withdraw Jamaican dollars from ATMs in Jamaica using your credit card or debit card. If you brought foreign currency, you may convert it into Jamaican dollars at a cambio.
Cambios offer the best currency conversion rates – even better than Jamaican banks. Hotels and shops on the island typically set the exchange rate to their advantage. Cambios are found in all the major tourist areas of Jamaica, and most will convert US dollars, British pounds and Euros.
How Much Money Can I Travel with To or From Jamaica?
While there are no restrictions on the import or export of local or foreign currency in Jamaica, amounts exceeding US $10,000 must be declared.
If you have some Jamaican dollars left over at the end of your holiday, you will need to present receipts from a bank or other official bureau for the local currency you bought. To avoid this inconvenient process, only exchange the amount of Jamaican money you’re sure you’ll need.
Also exchange any Jamaican coins to banknotes in your home currency before you leave Jamaica as they will have no value when you return home.
Can I Use US Dollars in Jamaica?
Yes, you can use U.S. dollars in Jamaica, as American dollars are widely accepted on the island. Major tourist areas in Jamaica accept both Jamaican dollars and US dollars.
In fact, major resorts and high-end restaurants in Jamaica typically quote prices in US dollars, such that visitors can easily go their entire vacation without having to convert their currency into Jamaican dollars.
But keep in mind that under Jamaican law, change must be given in Jamaican dollars. As such, hotels and shops in Jamaica do not give change in U.S. dollars or any other foreign currency.
Moreover, many Jamaican vendors will set the exchange rate to their advantage when giving back change. If paying in U.S. dollars, be sure to pay the exact amount, preferably using US $1 or US $5 bills.
Are US Dollars Worth a Lot in Jamaica?
One US dollar is worth about JA $140 in Jamaica, depending on where you exchange it.
How Much Cash Should I Bring to Jamaica?
This will depend on the intended duration of your stay. Plan to spend around JA $15,330 (US $110) per day during your trip to Jamaica. This is the average daily cost based on the general expenses of most visitors to the island.
Should I Bring Cash to Jamaica?
It depends. If you will be staying at an all-inclusive resort in Jamaica, you may never need to use cash. Only a few small hotels, mainly situated away from the major tourist areas, will accept only Jamaican dollars. If you plan to buy souvenirs or local goods, cash is your best bet.
How Do I Carry Cash Around In Jamaica?
Use your common sense just as you would at home and never flash cash. Carry your cash in a way that is difficult for thieves to access, but easy to retrieve when you need to pay for something. Keep large amounts of cash securely locked inside your room safe.
Can I Use My Credit/ Debit Card in Jamaica?
Yes. Both credit cards and debit cards are widely accepted at key tourist areas on the island, including most hotels, resorts and high-end shops. That said, avoid relying on debit cards and credit cards as your only source of money when visiting Jamaica. Also bring travelers checks and some cash, as many smaller shops only accept cash.
Which Credit Cards are accepted in Jamaica?
Visa and MasterCard credit cards are widely accepted by most merchants across Jamaica. While many large hotels and high-end shops also accept American Express cards, Diners Club and Discover cards have more limited acceptance.
Is it better to use Cash or Credit in Jamaica?
It depends on the purchase. Plastic is generally invaluable when travelling in Jamaica, as most merchants in the major tourist areas will accept credit cards. On the other hand, many smaller shops and businesses on the island will only accept cash, which is still widely used in Jamaica.
Are there ATMs in Jamaica?
Yes, there are ATMs in Jamaica, and most ATM machines on the island accept international bank cards. That said, ATM machines are not as widespread across Jamaica as they are in other places in the world. They are also out of service more often than you might expect, although this is typically during servicing e.g. when cash is being replenished.
When is the Cheapest Time to Visit Jamaica?
The cheapest time to visit Jamaica is from mid-November to January.