By Justine Murray                                                                                                                                                                                                   7 min Read

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Why Vanuatu Now?

The timing of Vanuatu’s rise in interest is not accidental. As housing affordability in Australia and New Zealand worsens, and remote work becomes mainstream, the appeal of an island nation that offers security, natural beauty, and community grows stronger.

Tourism data backs this shift. According to the Vanuatu National Statistics Office, international arrivals grew by nearly 30% between 2023 and 2024, signaling a renewed global appetite for island living. At the same time, The World Happiness Report continues to highlight Vanuatu’s strong community bonds and cultural richness as core reasons why locals consistently report high levels of life satisfaction.

As one new homeowner from Brisbane put it:
“We visited for two weeks and realised  why go back? Here we could afford land by the beach for less than the cost of a car back home.”

Cost of Living vs. Australia and New Zealand

Perhaps the most compelling factor for many expats is cost of living. On average, rent is 60% lower in Vanuatu compared to major Australian cities. Locally grown produce, fresh seafood, and abundant fruit markets make weekly grocery bills far lighter than in Sydney or Auckland.

Healthcare costs are significantly lower as well, with private clinics offering services at a fraction of the cost of Australian equivalents. Imported goods do carry a premium, but for those who adapt to local shopping, the savings are substantial.

According to expat couple James and Emily from Melbourne:
“We were paying over AUD $3,000 a month in rent back in Melbourne. Here, for less than that, we cover rent, food, utilities, and still save.”

This affordability, combined with tax advantages — Vanuatu has no income tax, capital gains tax, or inheritance tax  positions the nation as one of the most financially appealing lifestyle moves in the Pacific.

Community and Culture

Beyond the financial benefits, the heart of Vanuatu’s appeal lies in its community spirit. The Ni-Vanuatu people live by the concept of kastom traditional custom  which emphasizes kinship, responsibility, and shared community values. Life often revolves around village activities, ceremonies, and communal feasting.

“When I first moved here, I was struck by how everyone knows and looks after each other. It’s not just friendly  it’s genuine community living,” says Maria, an expat teacher from Auckland.

With over 100 languages spoken across the archipelago’s 83 islands, Vanuatu is among the most culturally diverse nations in the world. This diversity is celebrated through dances, festivals, and rituals such as the famous Naghol land dive on Pentecost Island  a precursor to modern bungee jumping.

Outdoor Lifestyle

For those drawn to the outdoors, Vanuatu delivers in spades. With pristine beaches, volcanic mountains, and world-class diving spots, the archipelago is an adventure playground. Visitors and locals alike hike to waterfalls, kayak turquoise lagoons, or snorkel coral reefs teeming with marine life.

On Tanna Island, thrill-seekers can climb the rim of Mount Yasur, one of the world’s most accessible active volcanoes, and witness eruptions up close. Meanwhile, Espiritu Santo, Vanuatu’s largest island, is renowned for Champagne Beach  consistently rated among the best beaches globally.

“Every day feels like a holiday,” says Lisa, who relocated from Sydney in 2024. “We wake up, swim before work, and finish the day watching the sunset. It’s a rhythm of life we never had in the city.”

A Food and Dining Paradise

Vanuatu’s food culture is both traditional and globally inspired. The staple dish, Lap lap, is a delicious combination of grated root vegetables, coconut milk, and sometimes meat, baked underground in banana leaves. Fresh fish, lobster, and seasonal fruits such as pawpaw and mango dominate local diets.

Restaurants in Port Vila and Luganville offer international cuisine too, from French-inspired cafes to Asian fusion. Outdoor dining, often overlooking the sea, turns even a simple meal into a memorable experience.

Work, Digital Nomads, and Tax Benefits

The post-pandemic rise of remote work has changed the game. With improved fiber internet infrastructure, Vanuatu is attracting digital nomads who want both connectivity and lifestyle.

One freelancer from London shared:

 “I earn online in pounds, but my cost of living here is a fraction of what it was in the UK. It means I save more while living in paradise.”

On top of this, Vanuatu’s tax structure makes it highly attractive. The absence of personal and corporate income tax has drawn entrepreneurs and investors to set up businesses or manage finances from the islands.

One of the biggest advantages of living in Vanuatu is its tax system. The nation has no income tax, capital gains tax, inheritance tax, or wealth tax, making it highly attractive for retirees, expats, and business owners. This unique tax-friendly environment allows residents to keep more of what they earn while enjoying a lower cost of living in a tropical paradise. [Learn more about Vanuatu’s tax benefits here].”

Real estate in Vanuatu is uniquely affordable compared to Australia and New Zealand, with titled beachfront and agricultural land starting from just AUD $45,000. All properties sold through Aore Real Estate are secure leasehold titles registered with the Ministry of Lands.

Frequently Asked Questions About Life in Vanuatu