Moving abroad as a Black person has some unique challenges. Here are 10 Safe & Enjoyable Places for Black expats and digital nomads. I created this list with racial harmony, diversity, safety, and economic opportunity in mind. I want to prefix this by saying that I believe that racism is everywhere but don’t let that keep you from countries you wish to see. I urge you to visit and form your own opinions. With that being said, when posted on TikTok, my list received a lot of interesting dialogue.
United Arab Emirates: The Best Place to Raise a Black Family?
The United Arab Emirates is extremely safe, has lots of things to do, and amazing shopping. It is a Majority Muslim country with lots of conservative laws and a rich culture, so make sure to check out my blog on things to know before you visit the United Arab Emirates.
The UAE is a great place for digital nomads who aren’t seeking a turnup. You can definitely find lots of parties in Dubai but if public intoxication and being outspoken about the government is your style, pick another country. Abu Dhabi is another emirate in the UAE with a much calmer vibe and more affordable prices.
There’s a lot of diversity. In fact, there are more expats than local Emiratis.
*Teaching is a common way US citizens find employment here.*
Mauritius
Located in Africa and is very diverse. A beautiful getaway that is currently giving out digital nomad visas.
Mauritius is a multicultural country located in East Africa. Known for being one of the safest countries in Africa, its an ideal location for Black expats. Mauritus has a long shoreline of white-sand beaches, waterfalls, and majestic mountains. The culture is a blend of African, Indian, European, and Chinese influences, creating a unique environment where all are welcome. Black expats who value wellness, the outdoors, and diversity will thrive here.
Antigua & Barbuda
Antigua and Barbuda is a beautiful country located in the Eastern Caribbean. The cost of living can be a bit high, but the over 365 beaches make it worth it. Delicious local cuisine, exciting nightlife, and lots of water activities make it a digital nomad’s dream. It’s a great place for children because there’s a huge sports culture and kids still play outside in peace.
Antigua and Barbuda is considered moderately expensive due to the high reliance on imported goods. An average two-bedroom apartment in a less central area of Antigua costs around $900 per month, while a more comfortable and better located property can be considerbly higher.
Monthly living expenses for a family generally range from $2,500 to $5,000, dependent on your lifestyle. Areas like English Harbour and Jolly Harbour have a high amount of expats, but is much higher than other neighborhoods. The grocery store can be a bit expensive so most Antiguans try to get essentials from the market and ship in large amounts of dry goods frm the United States through shipping barrels.
Belize
Belize is perfect for those who love nature and scuba diving. There’s a large expat community and the cost of living is pretty affordable. It’s a family-friendly destination perfect for those who prefer a more laid back environment. Consider taking a quick trip to Caye Caulker or Corozal before making the plunge. Lots of people speak English but you’ll want to learn Spanish if staying there for the long haul.
Belize is known for its outdoor adventures, from snorkeling in the Great Blue Hole to exploring ancient Mayan ruins, so if you prefer city life, you may want to look at another country. The country’s growing expat community and affordable cost of living also make it appealing for families looking for a balanced and enriching lifestyle. Additionally, the slower pace and focus on community create a nurturing atmosphere for family life.
Cape Verde: Black Expat Friendly
Located close to Senegal, Cape Verde is a hiking lover’s dream. It’s known for its beautiful hills and an abundance of small islands. Tourism is not very big here yet so it has kept a lot of its original charm. Cape Verde offers Black expat families a welcoming and safe environment Not only are its beaches and volcanoes stunning, but its also pretty affordable.
Cape Verde has a much lower cost of living compared to other islands. An average two-bedroom apartment in a central area costs between $200 and $500 per month, depending on the area. Monthly expenses typically range from $800 to $1,000 for a family.
Costa Rica
Costa Rica is a lovely place for those who value organic food, nature, and beautiful waterfalls. There’s so much to explore here. There’s a sizeable expat community and a large Afro-Latino community in Limón, a city located on the Atlantic coast. You can spend months exploring interesting cities in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica is on the moderate end for average cost of living in South American countries. An average two bedroom apartment in Guanacaste is $687.41 dollars and the average monthly expenses is between $1,500 to $2,500, depending on your lifestyle and location.
Dominica
One of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean. The cost of living is pretty affordable and it definitely has more of a hometown feel. There are lots of great music and food. You’ll fall in love with the sounds of bouyon and Dominica’s carnival season.
As for expenses, a two-bedroom apartment in Roseau, typically costs around $700 per month, but you can find more affordable accommodation outside of the capital. The average monthly costs for a family area between $1,000 and $1,800.
Mexico City: Popular With Black Expats
Mexico City is a great place to live if you want beautiful weather and a good standard of living. The city offers a unique blend of history and modern design. Black expats often find a welcoming community and opportunities to connect with others through cultural events, social groups, and creative spaces. Roma and Centro Histórico are popular areas.
Housing and food costs are less than major U.S. cities. Plus expats will thrive in Mexico City’s art and music scene.
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