Living and Working in the Cayman Islands
The Unique Cayman Islands
We’re delighted to introduce you to Optimal Healthcare Ltd and to living and working in the Cayman Islands as a Health Professional. It’s a very, very special place and you can explore why right here.
Discover the Enchantment of the Cayman Islands
Welcome to the Cayman Islands, a stunning Caribbean destination that seamlessly blends modern amenities with tropical charm. Just 90 minutes from Miami, this sun-kissed paradise offers a perfect balance of work and leisure, making it an ideal place to live and work.
Vibrant Culture and Community
Experience the warmth of the Caymanian people and immerse yourself in a vibrant cultural and culinary scene that rivals any in the Caribbean. From world-class cuisine to abundant leisure activities, there’s something for everyone here.
Unmatched Marine Adventures
Dive into one of the world’s premier underwater environments. Swim with turtles right off the beach, explore colorful reefs, and discover historic shipwrecks. The marine life is both abundant and awe-inspiring, making every dive or snorkel a memorable adventure.
Prime Location and Accessibility
The Cayman Islands boast convenient access through a modern international airport with direct flights from major US cities and London. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, getting here is a breeze, and exploring the whole region provides endless escapes.
Quality Living
Choose from a variety of accommodations, from ocean-side condos to beautiful developments near Seven Mile Beach, Camana Bay and South Sound. The benefits of a tax-free living environment means earnings go further, allowing you to embrace a higher standard of living.
High Quality of Life
Despite a higher cost of living, the Cayman Islands offer an exceptional quality of life. Enjoy fresh seafood, a thriving economy, and a strong sense of community. The islands are known for their safety, with low crime rates and a friendly atmosphere.
Great Education
Families will find excellent private schools offering both US and UK curricula. With top-notch educational facilities and a supportive community, your children will thrive here.
Cayman Prep & High (English Curriculum)
Cayman International School (US Curriculum)
A Place to Call Home
The Cayman Islands are so much more than just a destination. With a strong expat community, endless opportunities for adventure, a serene environment, a very healthy sense of work-life balance, it’s easy to see why so many fall in love with this unique island paradise. It helps that we get 300 days of sunshine a year too!
Understanding the Cayman Islands as a Business & Living Destination
This short video really does capture some of the essential considerations when it comes to living and working in the Cayman Islands.
Words from the Founders
We moved to the Cayman Islands, from the UK, in July 2016. We adore the Islands and the especially the wonderful people.
Sara was Neonatal Unit Chief of Service at UCLH, as well as Associate Responsible Officer and on the Clinical Reference Group too, when we moved. As you can imagine, the ‘right’ move professionally and personally was a big consideration. It has been more than we could have ever hoped for.
We especially love how the professional population (all of the population, in fact) embraces life, with a truly healthy balance between professional life and down-time.
We strongly believe that the right person for the Cayman Islands, and what makes the Cayman Islands right for the person, is someone who wants to do great things professionally and have the time and support to do them really well, wants to work hard whilst at work but then enjoy life too, and who loves truly being part of the community. It’s small, so you’ll see everybody, all the time, everywhere, and it’s wonderful for it.
If you’re coming to retire, it isn’t for you. If you are coming for the money, you are unlikely to be for us (we’re not saying it isn’t robust). But if you are coming because you want to put all the good things back into life, then you’re on the right track.
Lastly, we believe it is an utter privilege to live and work in this inspiringly beautiful corner of the world, amongst some of the most lovely and community-spirited people on the planet. Consequently, we wholeheartedly believe you need to come here to be kind to the Cayman Islands, and in return the people and the Islands will be kind to you. We actually call that Cayman Kind – it’s a real thing.
Andrew Vincent & Sara Watkin
Frequently Asked Questions
How does the cost of living compare to the UK?
The like for like comparison of prices definitely has the Cayman Islands running much more expensive than say the United Kingdom. The challenge though is that every life is so unique. Typical estimates say that the generally Cayman is around 55% more expensive than the UK, especially around food, where everything has to be transported to the Island first. However, this is missing two very large points of consideration; taxation and comparative salary level.
So, for example, the average GP in the UK earns around $90,000 KYD (Cayman Islands Dollars) equivalent, or around $150,000 KYD as a locum. In Cayman, the baseline earnings are generally between $120,000 and $150,000 KYD. However, NET earnings are very different.
- $90,000 equivalent is around $62,000 net in UK
- $150,000 is around $90,000 net in UK
- $150,000 in Cayman, net, is $150,000 i.e. 67% more than the locum rate
When considering the cost of living differential of 55%, the average locum GP moving to Cayman for a substantive post would already be 12% net better off, before lifestyle choices, salary enhancements and other factors. However, there are many more influencing factors, but our experience is that a move to the Cayman Islands is generally financially beneficial.
What are the typical average temperatures and sunshine hours in the Cayman Islands?
The Cayman Islands have a tropical marine climate, characterized by warm temperatures and plenty of sunshine year-round. Here’s a general overview of the typical average temperatures and sunshine hours:
Average Temperatures
- Winter (December to February):
- Daytime highs: 24°C to 28°C (75°F to 82°F)
- Nighttime lows: 20°C to 23°C (68°F to 73°F)
- Spring (March to May):
- Daytime highs: 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F)
- Nighttime lows: 21°C to 25°C (70°F to 77°F)
- Summer (June to August):
- Daytime highs: 28°C to 32°C (82°F to 90°F)
- Nighttime lows: 24°C to 27°C (75°F to 81°F)
- Fall (September to November):
- Daytime highs: 27°C to 31°C (81°F to 88°F)
- Nighttime lows: 23°C to 26°C (73°F to 79°F)
Sunshine Hours
- Winter (December to February): Approximately 8-9 hours of sunshine per day.
- Spring (March to May): Approximately 9-10 hours of sunshine per day.
- Summer (June to August): Approximately 10-11 hours of sunshine per day.
- Fall (September to November): Approximately 8-9 hours of sunshine per day.
These figures are averages and can vary slightly from year to year. The Cayman Islands experience more sunshine and warmer temperatures during the summer months, while the winter months are slightly cooler with fewer daylight hours.