The cost of living in Barbados is considered high, especially in comparison to other Caribbean islands. This is due to the importation of goods, which can make everyday items and groceries quite expensive.

Barbados experiences a tropical monsoon climate with a wet season from June to November and a drier season from December to May. The island is generally sunny and warm, moderated by northeast trade winds. Hurricanes may affect the island during the wet season, but Barbados typically experiences milder effects compared to other Caribbean islands.

The educational system in Barbados is highly regarded and follows a British-based structure, reflecting the country's history as a former British colony. Education is compulsory between the ages of 5 and 16 and is provided free of charge at public schools. The system is divided into four stages: nursery, primary, secondary, and tertiary. Nursery education begins at the age of 3 and is optional. Primary education starts at age 5 and continues until age 11, culminating in the Common Entrance Examination, which determines placement into secondary school. Secondary education lasts for five to seven years, and students are prepared for the Caribbean Examinations Council (CXC) examinations, including the Caribbean Secondary Education Certificate (CSEC) and the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination (CAPE). Students typically start secondary school at age 11 and graduate at age 16 or 18, depending on whether they pursue sixth form studies, which are equivalent to the British A-Levels. Barbados has a high literacy rate, and the government places a strong emphasis on education, with a significant portion of the national budget allocated to this sector. The quality of education is generally high, with a curriculum that includes traditional academic subjects, vocational training, and life skills. For families moving to Barbados, the education system offers a solid foundation for children, with opportunities for academic and personal development.

The healthcare system in Barbados is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and provides services to citizens and residents at low or no cost. The Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Bridgetown is the primary state-owned healthcare facility, along with a network of polyclinics providing a range of services across the island. Private healthcare is also available and offers an alternative for those seeking quicker access to specialists and more upscale facilities, albeit at a higher cost. The quality of healthcare in Barbados is generally considered good, with well-trained medical staff, though resources may be more limited compared to larger countries. Expats and digital nomads can access public healthcare once they are legal residents or if they contribute to the National Insurance Scheme, but many opt for private health insurance to cover private healthcare services.