Verified Facts
Economic Indicators
The cost of utilities and internet in Belize can vary depending on the location, usage, and provider, but on average, a monthly utility bill for an 85 sqm apartment can range from $150 to $300 USD.
Quick Facts
Utility Costs Overview
Belize's utility infrastructure is relatively well-developed, with a reliable supply of electricity, water, and telecommunications services. However, the cost of utilities can fluctuate depending on the season, with higher electricity costs during the summer months due to increased air conditioning usage. The Belizean government has implemented measures to stabilize electricity costs, including the use of renewable energy sources and energy-efficient technologies. Despite these efforts, utility costs can still be a significant expense for households and businesses, especially in areas with high energy consumption.
The quality of utility services in Belize is generally good, with a high level of access to electricity, water, and telecommunications services. However, there can be occasional outages and disruptions, particularly during severe weather events. The government and utility providers are working to improve the resilience and reliability of the utility infrastructure, including the use of backup power systems and redundant networks. Overall, the cost of utilities in Belize is relatively high compared to other countries in the region, but the quality of services is generally good.
Monthly Utility Bills
| Utility | Small Apt (45 sqm) | Medium Apt (85 sqm) | Large Apt (120 sqm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $80 | $120 | $180 | |
| Water | $20 | $30 | $40 | |
| Gas / Heating | $10 | $15 | $20 | (propane or butane) |
| Garbage / Municipal | $10 | $15 | $20 | (included in property taxes) |
| Total | $120 | $180 | $260 |
Internet & Phone Plans
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Speed / Allowance | Provider Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet (basic) | $40-60 | 10-20 Mbps | Belize Telemedia, Speednet |
| Fiber Internet (fast) | $80-120 | 50-100 Mbps | Belize Telemedia, Speednet |
| Mobile Data (prepaid) | $10-20 | 1-5 GB | Digicel, SMART |
| Mobile Data (postpaid) | $20-50 | 5-20 GB | Digicel, SMART |
| Phone + Internet Bundle | $60-150 | varies | Belize Telemedia, Speednet |
Streaming & Digital Services
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (standard) | $8 | |
| Spotify (premium) | $10 | |
| Local Streaming | $5 | (Belizean content, e.g., Channel 5) |
Utility Tips
- To set up utilities in Belize, residents typically need to provide identification, proof of address, and a deposit, which can range from $50 to $200 USD, depending on the provider.
- Prepaid electricity plans are available, which can help residents budget and avoid unexpected bills, but may incur additional fees for reconnection.
- The best internet providers in Belize are Belize Telemedia and Speednet, which offer reliable and fast connections, but may have varying prices and packages depending on the location.
- To save on utility bills, residents can consider using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and using public transportation or carpooling to reduce fuel consumption.
- It is also recommended to regularly review and compare utility plans to ensure the best rates and services are being used.