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Considering living in Puerto Rico? Then you need this post!
When most people think of paradise, they often picture a tropical island with white sand beaches and crystal-clear waters.
And while there are certainly plenty of those islands scattered throughout the world, one of the best places to find them is right here in the Caribbean.
In fact, Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful and secluded islands in the region.
But Puerto Rico is more than just a pretty face.
This island has a lot to offer, from its rich culture and history to its diverse landscape and incredible food.
There’s truly something for everyone in Puerto Rico.
Of course, no place is perfect, and Puerto Rico is no exception.
Before you pack your bags and move to paradise, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of living in Puerto Rico.
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Table of Contents
Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
Before you move to Puerto Rico, you have to consider the cost of living in PR.
On average, a single person will need $2,000 USD a month to live comfortably in Puerto Rico.
Here is a breakdown of some common costs across the island of Puerto Rico (Of course, prices vary by city. So smaller towns will cost far less than San Juan.):
- Rent: $450-800
- Electricity & Heat/Air Con: $200
- Phone Plan: $30
- Internet: $60+
- Groceries: $300
- Milk: $1.72
- Bread: $2.50
- Apples: $5.78/kg
- Wine: $12
- Beer: $2.08
- Eating Out: $300
- Entertainment: $100-400
- Gas: $0.94/L
Moving to and Living in Puerto Rico
Rent in Puerto Rico
The average cost of rent in Puerto Rico is $450-800 USD per month.
Of course, this varies depending on the city you live in and the size and type of apartment or house you want to rent.
For example, renting a one-bedroom apartment in San Juan will be far more expensive than renting a three-bedroom house in a small town.
Puerto Rico offers a wide range of housing options, from apartments and houses to villas and even beach huts.
So no matter what your budget is, you should be able to find something that suits your needs.
Is it safe to drink the tap water in Puerto Rico?
According to the CDC, the tap water in Puerto Rico is safe to drink.
However, the majority of people on the island still prefer to drink bottled water, as it’s generally seen as being of higher quality.
This is especially true in rural areas, where the tap water may not be as well-filtered as it is in urban areas like San Juan.
If you’re unsure about the quality of the tap water in your area, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and drink bottled water instead.
To save on money and help protect the environment, I recommend buying a filtered water bottle if you are moving to Puerto Rico.
Considering Moving Abroad? Find Out Which Country is Right for You!
Visas to Live in Puerto Rico
If you are a citizen of the United States, you do not need a visa to live in Puerto Rico.
However, if you are not a US citizen, you will need to apply for a visa before moving to PR.
The most common type of visa for Puerto Rico is the tourist visa, which allows you to stay on the island for up to 90 days.
If you want to stay longer than that, you will need to apply for a different type of visa, such as a student visa or work visa.
You can apply for visas here.
23 Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Rico
1. Pro: Natural Beauty of the Islands
Puerto Rico is made up of the main Caribbean island and several smaller islands, all boasting beautiful sandy beaches, verdant mountains, and crystal-clear waters. The natural beauty of Puerto Rico is one of its biggest draws for tourists and residents alike.
Whether you’re looking to relax on the beach, take a hike in the mountains, or go for a swim in the ocean, Puerto Rico has something for everyone.
2. Con: Things Move Slower
If you’re used to the fast pace of life in a big city, Puerto Rico may come as a bit of a shock. Things move at a much slower pace, and people are generally more laid-back.
This relaxed attitude can be seen in everything from the way people drive (more on that later) to the way businesses operate. For example, it’s not uncommon for stores to close for a few hours in the middle of the day so that employees can go home for lunch and take a nap.
This can be frustrating for people from the mainland United States, especially from urban areas like New York City, who are trying to get things done quickly – such as house repairs.
Take your time adjusting to this slower pace and soon you’ll be moving slower too!
3. Pro: Warm Weather All Year Round
Puerto Rico enjoys warm weather all year round.
Its average temperature in July is 16C. In January (the hottest month), it’s 26C.
Temperatures rise to above 30C regularly in January, so if you’re moving to Puerto Rico from a colder climate, be prepared for some adjusting!
It is a great escape from cold weather for retirees and digital nomads.
4. Con: Hurricane Season
Although Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean, it’s not all sunny skies and sandy beaches.
The island is also prone to hurricanes, which typically occur between June and November.
Hurricane Maria, which struck Puerto Rico in September 2017, was one of the most destructive storms in recent history and caused widespread damage across the island.
If you’re moving to Puerto Rico, be sure to have a hurricane plan in place and make sure your home is properly insured.
These tropical storms don’t stop people from living in PR though!
5. Pro: Beautiful Beaches
Puerto Rico is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.
Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to relax or a place to catch some waves, you’ll find it here.
Some of the most popular beaches include Playa Flamenco on Culebra Island and Playa Sucia on Vieques Island.
6. Con: Mosquitos and Sand Fleas
Although the beaches are beautiful, they do come with their own set of pests: mosquitos and sand fleas.
These tiny critters can be a nuisance, especially at night when they’re out in full force.
Be sure to pack bug spray and wear light-colored clothing to reduce the risk of being bitten.
You’ll also want to be up to date on your shots, as both Dengue Fever and Zika virus are present in Puerto Rico.
7. Pro: High Quality of Life
Puerto Rico offers a high quality of life, especially when compared to other countries in the region.
The island has a relatively low cost of living, and there are plenty of amenities and services available.
For example, Puerto Rico has some of the best hospitals in Latin America.
It also boasts an excellent education system, with many private and public schools to choose from.
8. Con: High Crime Rates
Despite the high quality of life, Puerto Rico does have a problem with crime.
Violent crime, in particular, is a serious issue.
The island has one of the highest murder rates in the world, and its capital, San Juan, is considered to be one of the most dangerous cities in the Americas.
Puerto Rico is the 20th worst “city” of the US for murder rates (falling around the same rate as Chicago per capita).
You need to be careful of drugs and gang violence as well. However, these tend to be a larger issue for people who live on the poverty line in public housing.
If you’re moving to Puerto Rico, be sure to research the area you’ll be living in and take precautions to protect yourself from crime.
9. Pro: Low Cost of Living
Puerto Rico has a lower cost of living than many other islands in the Caribbean.
For example, groceries and dining out are relatively affordable.
You can also find good deals on housing, especially if you’re willing to live outside of the major cities.
It’s significantly cheaper to live in Puerto Rico than to live in the US.
10. Con: Expensive Imported Goods
Although the cost of living is relatively low, Puerto Rico is an island, which means that imported goods can be expensive.
For example, basic items like toothpaste and toilet paper are often more expensive than they are in the mainland US.
You’ll also find that cars and gasoline are more expensive in Puerto Rico than they are in the States.
Considering Moving Abroad? Find Out Which Country is Right for You!
11. Pro: Lower Taxes
Puerto Rico has a lower tax burden than the mainland US, which means you’ll have more money to spend on other things.
There is no state or federal income tax in Puerto Rico, and the sales tax is only 4%.
Property taxes are also lower than they are in most US states.
Local taxes are one of the main attractions for retirees and digital nomads.
Corporate tax rates are also lower than they are in the US, which has led to an influx of businesses to the island.
There are tax incentives for businesses that relocate to Puerto Rico, so keep that in mind if you’re thinking of starting your own company.
12. Con: Limited Job Opportunities
Puerto Rico has a limited job market, especially for non-Spanish speakers.
The jobs that are available tend to be low-paying and require little skills or experience.
If you’re moving to Puerto Rico, it’s important to have a job lined up before you go.
The lack of jobs is in large part due to the economic crisis of recent years.
However, the situation is slowly improving, and there are more opportunities now than there were a few years ago.
I recommend this platform to find jobs as a foreigner.
13. Pro: Affordable Housing
Housing is one of the biggest expenses in Puerto Rico, but it’s still cheaper than in most US states.
Rent prices are lower than they are in the mainland US, and you can find good deals on houses if you’re willing to live outside of the major cities.
Puerto Rico also has a number of government-subsidized housing options for low-income families.
Rural areas tend to be the most affordable, but you can also find good deals in urban areas if you’re willing to live in a less desirable neighborhood.
You will need access to a car to get around this way though.
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14. Con: High Poverty Rates
Puerto Rico has a higher poverty rate than the US mainland, and this is especially true in rural areas.
One-third of Puerto Ricans live below the poverty line, and many families rely on government assistance to make ends meet.
Poverty is a serious problem on the island.
If you’re moving to Puerto Rico, be aware of the poverty situation and take steps to protect yourself from crime.
15. Pro: Puerto Ricans are Friendly People
Puerto Ricans are generally friendly and welcoming to visitors.
They’re also known for their hospitality, and it’s not uncommon for strangers to be invited into people’s homes.
Puerto Ricans are also proud of their culture and heritage, and they’re always happy to share it with visitors.
The unique culture of Puerto Rico is one of the things that makes it such a great place to live.
16. Con: Language Barrier
Although Puerto Ricans are generally friendly, there is a language barrier that can be difficult to overcome.
Spanish is the official language of Puerto Rico.
Most Puerto Ricans speak Spanish, and very few speak English.
This can make it difficult to communicate with locals and navigate your way around the island.
If you don’t speak Spanish, it’s important to learn at least some basic phrases before you move to Puerto Rico.
Need help learning a new language? I recommend iTalki! I’ve tried ALL the apps, but iTalki is the only way I’ve managed to learn as much as living in the local country.
17. Pro: Excellent Private Education
Puerto Rico has a number of excellent private schools that offer a high-quality education.
If you’re moving to Puerto Rico with children, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of schools that offer different educational philosophies and curriculum.
Private schools in Puerto Rico are generally more expensive than public schools, but they’re still affordable compared to private schools in the mainland US.
You’ll get a better quality education for your children by investing in private school.
18. Con: Poor Public Transportation
Public transportation in Puerto Rico is poor compared to the rest of the US.
Most people get around by car, and there are very few public buses or trains.
This can make it difficult to get around if you don’t have a car.
In San Juan, there are some forms of public transportation, but they’re not very reliable.
If you’re planning on relying on public transportation, it’s important to do your research beforehand and have a backup plan.
It’s best to buy a car if you plan to move to Puerto Rico.
Looking to get around via car? Find the cheapest car rentals here!
19. Pro: US-Quality Healthcare
Puerto Rico has high-quality healthcare that is on par with the US mainland.
There are a number of hospitals and clinics on the island, and Puerto Ricans have access to excellent medical care.
Puerto Rico also has a number of world-class doctors and surgeons.
If you need medical treatment, you’ll be able to get the care you need in Puerto Rico.
Invest in private health insurance if you don’t have Medicaid (which is accepted, as PR is part of the United States).
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20. Con: Unreliable Internet
Internet service in Puerto Rico is unreliable and often slow.
This can be frustrating if you’re trying to work from home or stay connected with friends and family on the mainland.
There are some areas of Puerto Rico that have good internet, but it’s not always reliable.
Digital nomads may find this frustrating if they need to get work done.
21. Pro: Puerto Rican Food is Delicious
Puerto Rican food is delicious, and you’ll never get tired of it.
Puerto Rican cuisine is a unique blend of Spanish, African, and Taíno influences.
There are a variety of Puerto Rican dishes to choose from, and each one is more delicious than the last.
You’ll never go hungry in Puerto Rico, and you’ll always have something new to try.
22. Pro: Amazing Coffee
Puerto Rico is home to some of the best coffee in the world.
Puerto Rican coffee is known for its rich flavor and unique aroma.
There are a number of Puerto Rican coffee brands, and each one has its own distinct flavor.
You’ll never run out of new coffees to try in Puerto Rico.
23. Pro: Close to the US
Puerto Rico is a US territory, so it’s close to the mainland US.
This means that you can easily travel back and forth between Puerto Rico and the US.
You won’t need a passport to travel to Puerto Rico, and you’ll be able to use US currency.
Puerto Ricans are also US citizens, so you’ll have all the rights and privileges of US citizenship.
This makes it easier to visit family and friends.
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Best Places to Live in Puerto Rico
1. San Juan
2. Condado
3. Isla Verde
4. Old San Juan
5. Rincon
6. Luquillo
7. Fajardo
8. Vieques
9. Culebra
10. Aguadilla
Things to Do in Puerto Rico
1. Take a hike in El Yunque National Forest
2. Watch the sunrise from Punta Torrecilla
3. Swim in La Parguera Lagoon
4. Visit the Bacardi Distillery
5. Go horseback riding on the beach
6. Explore Old San Juan
7. See the Arecibo Observatory
8. Climb up to Fortaleza San Cristóbal
9. Relax at Flamenco Beach
10. Sample local cuisine
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Closing Thoughts: Living in Puerto Rico Pros and Cons
So, what have we learned? Puerto Rico is a beautiful place to live with plenty of pros, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.
Before making the decision to move here, be sure to weigh the pros and cons carefully. If you decide that PR is right for you, do your research on where in the island to settle – each area has its own unique personality and set of benefits and drawbacks.
And finally, don’t forget to enjoy those amazing beaches!
Do you have any other pros or cons to add to the list? Let me know by emailing nina[at]ninaoutandabout.ca!
Book cheap airline tickets and accommodations withBooking.com to save money when you’re moving abroad!
FAQs:
Does Puerto Rico Tax Social Security?
No, Puerto Rico does not tax Social Security benefits.
Can I use Medicare in Puerto Rico?
Yes, you can use Medicare in Puerto Rico.
Can You Live on $1,000 per Month in Puerto Rico?
Yes, it is possible to live on $1,000 per month in Puerto Rico. However, your lifestyle will be quite basic and you may have to share housing or live in a rural area.
It is more realistic live on $1,500 to $2,000 a month.
Is it expensive to live in Puerto Rico?
The cost of living in Puerto Rico is relatively low compared to other developed countries. However, it is more expensive than in many other Latin American countries.
You will not find it very expensive if you are coming from the mainland United States.
Pros and Cons of Retiring in Puerto Rico
There are many pros to retiring in Puerto Rico, such as the low cost of living, beautiful weather, and friendly people. However, there are also some cons to consider, such as the high crime rate and lack of infrastructure. Overall, Puerto Rico is a great place to retire if you are looking for an affordable and tropical lifestyle.
Should I move to Puerto Rico?
This is a decision that you will need to make based on your own individual circumstances. Consider the pros and cons of living in Puerto Rico before making your decision.
You should move to Puerto Rico if you are looking for an affordable and tropical paradise. However, you should be aware of the high crime rate and lack of infrastructure.
What is life like in Puerto Rico?
Life in Puerto Rico is relaxed and laid-back. The people are friendly and the weather is beautiful. However, the crime rate is high and the infrastructure is not well developed.
If you are looking for an affordable and Spanish influence on the lifestyle, Puerto Rico is a great place to live. Just be sure to be aware of the drawbacks before making a decision to move.
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You can find work abroad via local job boards or temp agencies. My favourite way to work is remotely, so I always look for jobs on FlexJobs.com when I live abroad. They hire for 100% remote roles only.
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Wise.com offers free global accounts, and the cheapest money transfers. Since it can be a headache to open bank accounts in different countries (it took me 2 months in the UK!), Wise.com is a great solution.
I actually use it as my primary bank now worldwide due to the multi-currency debit card. (Read more)
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Meetup.com – Meet likeminded people who share a similar hobby with Meetup! It’s free to join, but some activities may cost money, like if you go to a cafe and get a coffee.
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This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here.
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To find cheap flights, I recommendSkyscanner. (Read more)
🏨What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?
To find cheap hotels, I recommendBooking.com. (Read more)
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🚗What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?
To find cheap rental cars, I recommendDiscover Cars.
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To find epic tours, I recommendViator.
FAQs
23 Living in Puerto Rico Pros and Cons: Should You Move to PR? ›
Moving to Puerto Rico to avoid taxes is just one of countless good reasons to be here. Besides an overall cost of living that is lower than on the mainland, you can enjoy picture-perfect beaches and nature trails, tasty Caribbean treats, convenient shopping, and so much more.
Is it a good idea to move to Puerto Rico? ›Moving to Puerto Rico to avoid taxes is just one of countless good reasons to be here. Besides an overall cost of living that is lower than on the mainland, you can enjoy picture-perfect beaches and nature trails, tasty Caribbean treats, convenient shopping, and so much more.
Would Puerto Rico be a good place to live? ›Pro: High Quality of Life
The island has a relatively low cost of living, and there are plenty of amenities and services available. For example, Puerto Rico has some of the best hospitals in Latin America. It also boasts an excellent education system, with many private and public schools to choose from.
Total monthly expenses should typically be about four times your monthly rent, so you can expect to retire comfortably in Puerto Rico on about $2,000 per month. Even the more expensive parts of the island are still less expensive than most major U.S. cities.
Why are people moving out of Puerto Rico? ›“The population was declining, that reduced the tax base for the public sector, which then was unable to provide adequate public amenities. And then this reduction in the quality of public services contributed to further frustration and out-migration.