Micronesia
Profiled in Palikir · Oceania and the Pacific
Six hundred islands across four states, from the megalithic ruins of Nan Madol to the wreck-filled lagoon of Chuuk, with US dollar currency and visa-free access to the United States.
Cost of living
What a month costs
The US dollar is legal tender. Imported goods dominate and inter-island travel is expensive, though local food is cheap.
The scores
How it rates for a moving family
See and do
Top 10 in Palikir
- Nan MadolBasalt-walled ceremonial city built on artificial islets.
- Chuuk LagoonSunken Japanese fleet from Operation Hailstone in 1944.
- Yapese stone moneyLarge limestone discs still used ceremonially.
- Kepirohi WaterfallWaterfall in Pohnpei's interior.
- Lelu RuinsStone-walled royal complex on Kosrae.
- Sokehs RockBasalt cliff dominating Pohnpei's north coast.
- PalikirThe purpose-built national capital.
- Mwand WallHistoric stone structures on Pohnpei.
Where to go
Weekend escapes
- Nan MadolMegalithic stone city on Pohnpei, a UNESCO site.
- Chuuk LagoonThe world's greatest concentration of wreck diving.
- KosraeQuiet forested island with intact reef.
- YapStone money island with manta ray dives.
- Sokehs RidgeCliff and wartime remains above Pohnpei's capital.
Residency
Residence follows work permits. The Compact of Free Association gives citizens the right to live and work in the United States without a visa, which is the country's defining feature.
Tax
A flat wage tax of 6% applies to the first USD 11,000 and 10% above it. There is no general corporate income tax; a gross revenue tax of 3% applies instead. The US dollar is legal tender.
Curious what you would actually pay? See the Micronesia tax profile: income, corporate, VAT and exit rules →
Nearby
More of Oceania and the Pacific
Frequently asked
How much does it cost to live in Micronesia?
About $1,300 a month for one person and $2,800 for a family. A one-bedroom flat rents for around $700, and a casual meal costs about $10. The US dollar is legal tender. Imported goods dominate and inter-island travel is expensive, though local food is cheap.
Is Micronesia safe, and what is healthcare like?
In our index safety scores 7 out of 10 and healthcare 3 out of 10, where 10 is best.
What language and currency are used in Micronesia?
English. The currency is US dollar (USD).
What is the capital of Micronesia?
Palikir.
How can a foreigner get residency in Micronesia?
Residence follows work permits. The Compact of Free Association gives citizens the right to live and work in the United States without a visa, which is the country's defining feature.
What taxes does Micronesia charge?
A flat wage tax of 6% applies to the first USD 11,000 and 10% above it. There is no general corporate income tax; a gross revenue tax of 3% applies instead. The US dollar is legal tender.