May 3, 2024 – Kingston, Jamaica
By Dean Jones | Contributor
A growing number of Jamaicans living overseas are choosing not to return to the island—despite once holding dreams of retiring back home. While some continue to invest in property locally, the majority now say that the realities of life abroad have reshaped their long-term plans.
Several members of the Jamaican diaspora, including those living in North America and the UK, cite quality of life, safety, and access to healthcare as the top reasons for their decision to remain abroad.
“In my current neighbourhood, women jog safely at 10 p.m. and the police don’t even carry guns,” one Jamaican living overseas told us. “It’s hard to think about going back to living behind burglar bars and needing to consider a gun for personal protection.”
Healthcare infrastructure is also a major concern. As people age and begin to experience more serious health issues, many fear that the local health system may not be equipped to meet their needs. "It's sad," said another interviewee. "Most people never return because of these issues—hospitals and security being the top two."
There’s also the generational disconnect. Many children of the diaspora have been raised outside of Jamaica, are fully integrated into their countries of residence, and no longer identify strongly with the island. “Their accents are different, their friends are there, and for them, home is where they have a job and a good quality of life,” said one parent. “Even if I try to take them back and introduce them to Jamaica, it’s ultimately their choice.”
This phenomenon is not exclusive to Jamaicans. Similar patterns are observed among African and Caribbean immigrants who left with hopes of building wealth and eventually returning home. However, as one contributor noted, "The longer you’re away, the harder it becomes to go back—especially if you never brought your children back to experience life in your home country.”
Even those who left Jamaica as adults and maintain a strong emotional connection often face logistical hurdles. “Each time I try to do business in Jamaica, it’s difficult. Everything requires you to be there in person,” said another Jamaican living overseas. “It makes me question whether retiring back home is the right choice.”
Some observers point to structural issues. “Jamaica hardly has the capacity to provide employment for all the skilled workers here now, much less those abroad,” noted a commenter. “Until the government invests more outside of BPO-related jobs, it’s unlikely we’ll see a return of our skilled diaspora.”
Despite the challenges, the emotional pull of home remains. Many still dream of one day retiring in Jamaica—if not full-time, then at least seasonally. But for now, personal safety, stable systems, and healthcare access remain the biggest factors keeping many away.
Disclaimer (Dated May 3, 2024):
This article is based on personal stories and opinions shared by individuals in the Jamaican and Caribbean diaspora. It aims to reflect current experiences and does not represent every Jamaican living abroad. Circumstances may change, and readers are encouraged to consult updated resources before making major life decisions.
https://jamaica-homes.com/docs/why-many-jamaicans-abroad-choose-not-to-return-even-in-retirement/