By Dean Jones, Realtor Associate at Coldwell Banker Jamaica Realty and Founder of Jamaica Homes
On May 29, 2025, the U.S. State Department updated its travel advisory for Jamaica, lowering the country’s risk level to Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution, a significant improvement from previous ratings. This shift is attributed to a measurable decline in violent crime since 2024, and while the advisory still cautions travelers against visiting certain high-risk communities, this overall change signals a major milestone in Jamaica’s journey toward safety, stability, and economic renewal.
For those watching the real estate market—whether as buyers, renters, sellers, or international investors—this advisory revision is more than a headline. It’s a signal of transformation. The implications are deep, far-reaching, and layered in possibility.
A Brief Look Back: Context Matters
Historically, Jamaica has faced challenges with crime, particularly in certain urban areas like parts of Kingston, Montego Bay, and Spanish Town. Over the years, these issues affected tourism, economic growth, and investor confidence. The travel advisories issued by the U.S. State Department—often ranked at Level 3 (Reconsider Travel) or even Level 4 (Do Not Travel)—reflected these realities and shaped international perceptions of the island nation.
However, since 2024, Jamaica has witnessed a strong national push for crime reduction through increased police presence, community programs, and technology-driven policing. Government initiatives and private sector partnerships have played a critical role in shifting the trajectory. Now, in mid-2025, this new Level 2 advisory marks the beginning of a new chapter.
“Progress doesn’t shout—it whispers through safer streets, brighter futures, and new keys turning in fresh front doors.”
— Dean Jones, Realtor Associate, Coldwell Banker
What This Means for Buyers: Confidence Is Climbing
With the travel advisory being downgraded, potential buyers—especially those from the U.S. and Canada—may feel more confident exploring the Jamaican property market. Buying a home in Jamaica has always offered a combination of natural beauty, rich culture, and lifestyle perks. But safety is a top priority for most international buyers, especially retirees and families.
This new advisory gives buyers the confidence that they can not only purchase property here but live or vacation in their homes with greater peace of mind.
Key buyer impacts:
- Greater accessibility for foreign nationals looking to purchase vacation homes or retirement properties.
- Improved financing opportunities as banks and private lenders feel more secure underwriting loans in a less risky environment.
- Increased property value expectations in safe and desirable areas like St. Ann, St. James, Manchester, and Portland.
What This Means for Renters: Better Options, Safer Living
For both locals and expats renting in Jamaica, the lowered advisory level has potential trickle-down benefits. As investment grows and more properties enter the market, rental options are likely to improve in quality and availability. With increased development, long-term renters may finally find stability in neighborhoods that were once considered too volatile.
“Safety isn’t just a statistic—it’s the invisible thread that lets families hang curtains, plant roots, and truly live.”
— Dean Jones, Founder, Jamaica Homes
Foreign professionals, digital nomads, and long-stay tourists are also likely to be drawn to the island in greater numbers, which can fuel the short- and mid-term rental markets. Expect increased demand in cities like Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, and even up-and-coming inland towns like Mandeville and May Pen.
What This Means for Sellers: Rising Demand, Renewed Energy
For sellers, especially those who own properties in safe or emerging areas, the advisory update offers a fresh narrative to leverage in listings and negotiations. Properties that may have struggled to attract interest in recent years could now see a renewed wave of activity.
Marketing messages will begin to shift. Instead of focusing solely on scenic views or local amenities, sellers can now include enhanced safety perceptions as part of the value proposition.
What sellers should consider now:
- Timing matters. Listing now, before prices potentially surge from growing demand, could lead to faster sales.
- International buyers are returning. With travel to Jamaica being more viable, listings can now appeal to a global audience.
- Neighborhood matters. Sellers in “green zone” communities stand to benefit the most as buyers look to avoid still-restricted areas.
What This Means for Investors: A Strategic Window Opens
Perhaps the most profound implications are for real estate investors—both domestic and foreign. The revised travel advisory provides what every smart investor wants: a signal of upward momentum before the rest of the world fully catches on.
Now is a strategic time to invest in:
- Mixed-use developments in areas close to airports or tourist attractions.
- Affordable housing projects in safe, mid-tier locations with high rental demand.
- Eco-resorts and green communities that tap into Jamaica’s natural beauty and growing sustainability market.
There is also growing interest from the diaspora investment community, many of whom have long dreamed of owning a piece of their homeland. This advisory shift may act as the confidence boost they need.
“The best time to invest is when the world is still deciding. That’s when visionaries claim the future.”
— Dean Jones, Coldwell Banker
Caution Still Required: Know Where You’re Investing
Despite the improved advisory rating, it’s essential to note that the U.S. State Department continues to warn against travel to specific communities due to ongoing safety concerns. These areas often change based on crime data, so prospective buyers and investors should consult both local authorities and licensed real estate professionals.
Here are some best practices:
- Work only with registered realtors.
- Visit properties in person, or work through verified video tours.
- Stay updated on which communities remain on the “do not travel” list.
- Build relationships with local property managers and legal experts.
The Bigger Picture: Jamaica’s Path Forward
This travel advisory change is more than a reaction to reduced crime—it reflects a broader, long-term effort by Jamaica to reshape its global image, strengthen institutions, and create safer, more inclusive cities and towns. Real estate is at the heart of this movement, because every new homeowner, renter, and investor literally builds a stake in Jamaica’s future.
“We are not just selling homes—we’re laying foundations for generations. A better Jamaica starts with every door we help open.”
— Dean Jones, Jamaica Homes
Final Thoughts
Jamaica’s new Level 2 travel advisory status is a powerful vote of confidence for a country rich in culture, promise, and possibility. While challenges remain, the tone of the moment is one of optimism and progress. For the real estate market, this moment presents a unique convergence of safety, opportunity, and timing—a trifecta that rarely comes all at once.
Whether you’re looking to buy a dream home, invest in a growing market, sell with confidence, or rent in a safer environment, Jamaica in 2025 is a landscape in transition—from risk to reward, from hesitation to action.
And that may be the most valuable shift of all.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or financial advice. Please note: Jamaica Homes is not authorized to offer financial advice. The information provided is not financial advice and should not be relied upon for financial decisions. Consult a regulated mortgage adviser for guidance.