How Cuba compares across key indices
Cost of Living
41 vs NYC
100 = NYC
Safety Index
64/100
Healthcare
59/100
How far your money goes in Cuba
Cost of Living
41
100 = NYC baseline
Rent Index
11
100 = NYC rent
Groceries
41
100 = NYC groceries
Restaurant Prices
25
100 = NYC dining
How safe residents feel in Cuba — based on surveys of people living there
Safety Index
64/100
Crime Index
36/100
Lower is better
Crime Trend
56/100
Mixed perception
19 point drop from day to night
0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem
Based on 148 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.
We're gathering city-level data for Cuba.
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Healthcare system overview for Cuba
Healthcare Index
59/100
How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality
Based on 39 survey responses
Limited data — some indices are not yet available.
Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Air quality, water, and environmental conditions in Cuba
Pollution Index
66/100
Lower is better
0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern
Based on 42 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.
How people get around in Cuba
Average One-Way Commute
48minutes
Long
Traffic Index
228
Heavy congestion
Inefficiency
257
Time wasted in traffic
CO2 Emissions
8.8kg/trip
Based on 20 survey responses.
Common questions about living in Cuba, answered with data
Cuba has a cost of living index of 41 relative to New York City (100). It is moderately affordable compared to the US.
Cuba has a safety index of 64/100, making it generally safe for expats and travellers.
Cuba scores 59/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it adequate by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.
Yes. Cuba's cost of living is roughly 59% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 89% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.
Cuba has a pollution index of 66/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.
Your pre-departure checklist for Cuba
Escape Plan Quiz
Find your best-fit country based on budget, climate, safety, and lifestyle priorities.
Salary Calculator
See what your income is actually worth after taxes and cost of living adjustments.
Compare Countries
Side-by-side breakdown of cost of living, safety, healthcare, and more.
90-Day Move Planner
Your personalized countdown checklist — visas, banking, housing, and logistics.
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Get a multi-currency account before you leave. Essential for managing money abroad.
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