Santa Cruz, Jamaica

It's a minor market town that grew rapidly in the 1950s and '60s thanks to nearby bauxite mining and the establishment of a technical high school. Today, Santa Cruz has the basic amenities - a courthouse, police station, restaurants, and supermarkets - but in 2025 it was heavily damaged by Hurricane Melissa, a stark reminder of the climate challenges facing Jamaica.

The bureaucracy is a persistent headache, with locals reporting long wait times at the courthouse and police station. And safety can be a concern, as Jamaica grapples with high crime rates.

If you don't mind the occasional hurricane and red tape, Santa Cruz could be a viable option. But for most expats, the hassles may outweigh the modest charms of this small market town.