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Photo: Bahamas

Crooked Island, Bahamas

🌊 Coastal

Data updated Oct 9, 2026

Follows Bahamas Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →

📊 Scores

64
Retiree
59
Digital Nomad

Best fit: Retiree (score: 62)

Crooked Island sits low in the southeastern Bahamas, its highest point barely 10 meters above the sea, with a tropical climate that keeps things warm and humid year-round. The island's population of 323 is spread across a handful of small settlements, and there are no distinct expat neighborhoods to speak of; most newcomers simply rent whatever is available near the coast or in the main village. The timezone is America/Toronto, which makes scheduling calls with North American contacts straightforward, and the nearest airport, CRI, is just 4 kilometers away, though the island's quiet pace means you will not be rushing anywhere.

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🏚️ Cost of Living

A 1BR in the center runs about $550/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.

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🛡️ Safety & Crime

85
Safety Index

(Higher is safer)

15
Crime Index

(Lower is safer)

Crooked Island is exceptionally safe for expats, with minimal violent crime and a tight-knit community of 323 residents where strangers are quickly noticed. The primary concerns are petty theft and opportunistic break-ins rather than organized crime or street violence. Remote location means limited police presence and emergency services—medical emergencies require air evacuation to Nassau. Expats should secure homes well, avoid displaying valuables, and maintain good relations with neighbors. This is genuinely one of the safest places in the Caribbean, ideal for those seeking tranquility over urban amenities.

🏥 Healthcare

Poor
Public Hospitals
No
Private Clinics
No
English-Speaking Doctors
Limited

See how Crooked Island's healthcare compares with Fresh Creek

🌤️ Climate

Climate Zones
Tropical
Summer Temp
35°C
Winter Temp
18°C
Humidity
71%
Air Quality Index
35
Annual Rainfall
908 mm

Best Months

AprMayOctNov

Climate Notes

Crooked Island has a tropical climate with warm, humid conditions year-round, hot summers (35°C) from June to September with hurricane risk, and mild winters (18°C minimum) from December to February.

💻 Digital Nomad

Avg Internet Speed
25 Mbps
Internet (monthly)
$70/mo
Coworking Availability
None
Coworking Spaces Nearby
0
Digital Nomad Score
59/100

Community Notes

Crooked Island is perfect for those seeking solitude on picturesque beaches.

Coworking Spaces

NameNotes
Pittstown Point Landings ResortThis resort offers a relaxed atmosphere and reliable internet, making it suitable for remote work. While not a dedicated coworking space, the common areas and rooms can be used for work, with the added benefit of resort amenities and beautiful ocean views in Landrail Point.

Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).

Planning to live in Crooked Island long-term? Bahamas BEATS Extended Access Travel Stay lets remote workers live legally.

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🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Widely Spoken
Expat Community
medium
Banks Nearby
0
ATMs Nearby
0

🏘️ Neighborhoods in Crooked Island

Areas of Crooked Island that expats often consider.

Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.

Colonel Hill

Island life, central hub

As the main settlement, Colonel Hill offers the most amenities, including the airport, government offices, and a few small shops. It's a good base for exploring the island, but expect a slower pace of life. While English is spoken, integrating into the close-knit community takes time.

Pittstown Point

Secluded, upscale, beachfront living

Home to the Pittstown Point Landings resort, this area offers beautiful beaches and a more luxurious experience. Rental options are limited and pricier, but the tranquility and ocean views are a major draw. A car is essential for accessing other parts of the island.

Landrail Point

Quiet, remote, fishing village

Located on the northern tip of the island, Landrail Point is a small, traditional fishing village. It's very quiet and offers a glimpse into authentic Bahamian life. Limited services and a strong local dialect make it less suitable for expats seeking immediate comfort and convenience.

Cabbage Hill

Residential, peaceful, community-focused

A primarily residential area, Cabbage Hill offers a more immersive experience of local life. It's a good option for those seeking a quiet and affordable place to live. Expect to rely on local transportation or your own vehicle, and be prepared to adapt to a slower pace.

Could living/working in Crooked Island cut years off your work life?

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🛂 Visa Options for Bahamas

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FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Crooked Island

Click any question to expand the answer.

Crooked Island has a population of approximately 323 people.
A single person can expect to spend around $1,375 per month in Crooked Island, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $550/month.
The nearest airport to Crooked Island is CRI, approximately 3.6km away.
Crooked Island is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 85.0. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.
Crooked Island has an average internet speed of 25 Mbps. It is not yet considered a well-established digital nomad destination.
Only if you work remotely. There are no jobs, no employers, and the local economy is subsistence-level fishing and farming. Internet is unreliable and expensive, so you'll need solid connectivity before arriving.
Colonel Hill Airport has flights to Nassau, but they're infrequent and costly. Expect limited schedules and high prices. Plan ahead for supplies and medical needs—you can't pop to Nassau easily.
No. Population is 323 and declining. There's no expat community, no restaurants, no nightlife. Social life revolves around fishing and the local 51-person town. This is genuine isolation, not a lifestyle choice for most people.
Crooked Island is relatively affordable, but prices can be higher than in the US due to import costs. Expect to pay around $800-$1200 per month for rent depending on location (Pittstown is pricier), $400-$600 for groceries, and $20-$40 for a meal at a local restaurant.
Crooked Island is generally very safe with low crime rates, especially violent crime. Petty theft can occur, so it's wise to take basic precautions like locking your doors and not leaving valuables unattended. The locals are very welcoming and look out for each other.
US citizens can typically enter the Bahamas visa-free for tourist stays up to 90 days. For longer stays, you'll need to apply for a residency permit, which can be based on employment, investment, or owning property. Consult a Bahamian immigration lawyer for the most up-to-date requirements.
Healthcare on Crooked Island is limited. There's a small clinic for basic medical needs, but serious conditions require evacuation to Nassau or the US. It's essential to have comprehensive international health insurance that covers medical evacuation.
Internet connectivity can be unreliable and slow, especially outside of the main settlements like Colonel Hill. Expect speeds sufficient for basic email and browsing, but video conferencing can be challenging. Consider satellite internet as a backup.
Banking services are extremely limited. There are no ATMs on Crooked Island. It's best to bring sufficient cash with you and arrange for international money transfers through a service like Western Union, which may be available at a local business.
Public transportation is virtually non-existent. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore the island, but options are limited, so book in advance. Walking or cycling are viable options within settlements.
Crooked Island has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. Expect hot, humid summers (June-August) and mild, dry winters (December-February). Hurricane season runs from June to November, so be prepared.
English is the official language of the Bahamas, so communication is generally easy for English speakers. You'll encounter the Bahamian dialect, which can take some getting used to, but most locals are fluent in standard English.
As a US citizen, you're still required to file US taxes even when living abroad. You may be able to exclude a portion of your foreign earned income using the Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE). Also, report foreign bank accounts if they exceed $10,000 total (FBAR).
Life on Crooked Island is very slow-paced and relaxed. Expect a simpler way of life, where things move at a different speed. This can be a welcome change for retirees seeking tranquility, but it requires patience and adaptability.
Retiring early on Crooked Island is possible, but requires careful budgeting. With $2,500-$3,500 per month, you can live comfortably, but frugally, if you own your home or find affordable rent. Healthcare costs and potential emergencies should be factored in.
Wire transfers are possible, but can be expensive. Services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) or Remitly can offer better exchange rates and lower fees compared to traditional banks. Always compare options before sending money.

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