Barbados is generally considered one of the more expensive destinations in the Caribbean, largely because it imports a vast majority of its goods, from fuel to processed foods. In 2026, visitors can expect prices for a mid-range dinner for two to range between $80 and $150 USD, particularly in popular areas like Holetown or the St. Lawrence Gap. Grocery prices are also high; items like imported cheese, cereal, and meats can be double the price found in the U.S. or UK. However, local products like rum, flying fish, and "cou-cou" remain relatively affordable. Accommodation ranges from budget guesthouses to ultra-luxury villas on the "Platinum Coast" that can cost thousands per night. To save money, many travelers utilize the "ZR" white vans (local minibuses) which cost only a few Barbados dollars per ride, rather than expensive taxis. While it is possible to visit on a budget by eating at local "rum shops" and using public transit, Barbados remains a premium destination where the cost of living reflects its high standard of luxury.