Living in Puerto Rico: the ultimate expat guide

Relocating to Puerto Rico involves unique administrative considerations due to its U.S. territory status. Requirements vary significantly depending on nationality and circumstances, but the primary advantage lies in standard U.S. immigration rules applying. For citizens of many countries, including the UK, Canada, and Australia, travel agreements significantly facilitate entry.

Puerto Rico's unique status

As a U.S. territory, Puerto Rico applies standard U.S. immigration rules. For American citizens, traveling to Puerto Rico is considered domestic: no passport is required, just valid identification. Direct flights from mainland United States require no customs or immigration checks upon arrival. For foreign nationals, however, the same requirements as entering mainland United States apply.

Real ID requirement for U.S. citizens

Since May 7, 2025, all domestic flights to Puerto Rico require a Real ID. This enhanced identification card features a star in the upper right corner. Acceptable alternatives include a U.S. passport, passport card, military ID, or Global Entry card. This enhanced security measure now applies to all domestic air travel within the U.S., including Puerto Rico.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

Citizens of 41 countries, including the UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations, benefit from visa exemption for tourist or business stays up to 90 days. This convenience requires obtaining an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) in advance, costing $21 and valid for two years. A valid e-passport, valid at least six months beyond the planned return date, is also mandatory. ESTA should be requested at least 72 hours before departure, though applying several weeks in advance is strongly recommended.

Visas for non-VWP nationals

Over 140 countries don't benefit from the visa waiver program and must obtain a standard U.S. visa. The most common are B-1 for business travel and B-2 for tourism. The process involves completing the DS-160 form mandatory two business days before the embassy interview. An in-person interview is systematically required. Given processing times, applying three to four months before intended travel is advisable.

Work visas

Working in Puerto Rico requires an appropriate U.S. work visa. The H-1B visa addresses specialty occupations and requires employer sponsorship. The L-1 visa allows intra-company transfers for companies with offices in both the U.S. and Puerto Rico. The O-1 visa is for individuals with extraordinary abilities in their field. Puerto Rico doesn't offer a specific digital nomad visa, unlike some other Caribbean territories.

Act 60 and tax residency

The Act 60, consolidating former Acts 20 and 22 in 2019, represents Puerto Rico's primary tax attraction. Extended through 2055, it offers substantial tax advantages. To qualify, you must establish bona fide residence, requiring a minimum of 183 days per year in Puerto Rico, or 549 days over three years with at least 60 days annually. You must not maintain a tax home outside Puerto Rico and demonstrate stronger ties to the island than elsewhere. An additional condition stipulates you must not have been a Puerto Rico resident during the preceding ten years (six years for new applicants since 2025).

Obligations to maintain this status include purchasing a primary residence property within two years, an annual donation of $10,000 (50% to organizations fighting child poverty), an annual report with $5,000 fees, and detailed documentation of all travel. The IRS conducts frequent audits on Act 60 residents, making rigorous documentation essential.

Major 2025 tax change

A significant change took effect regarding Act 60. New beneficiaries relocating after December 31, 2025, will be subject to 4% tax on passive income, compared to 0% currently. Existing beneficiaries maintain their 0% advantage. This modification makes relocation before end of 2025 particularly attractive for maximizing long-term tax benefits.

Puerto Rico's job market presents interesting opportunities, particularly in key growth sectors. With declining unemployment and favorable tax incentives for entrepreneurs, the island attracts increasing numbers of skilled professionals. However, salaries generally remain lower than mainland United States, which influences overall cost of living.

Job market situation

In August 2025, the unemployment rate stood at 6.4%, a historically low level for Puerto Rico. The rate had reached 5.3% in March 2025, reflecting notable job market improvement. Average salary after taxes ranges between $2,025 and $2,228 per month. Median household income is $25,096 annually, while per capita income reaches $22,079 per year. Notably, the poverty rate remains elevated at 41.55%, reflecting significant economic disparities across the island.

Employment data in Puerto Rico shows an economy in transition, with salaries lower than major cities like London, Toronto, or Sydney, but offset by more affordable cost of living and potential tax advantages.

Sources: Trading Economics, Numbeo

Key growth sectors

The pharmaceutical and medical equipment industry represents approximately one-third of Puerto Rico's tax base and constitutes the most dynamic sector. The technology and IT services sector experiences sustained growth, attracting numerous skilled professionals. Tourism generates $9.8 billion in revenue with over 6.1 million visitors arriving by air in 2024. Financial services, real estate and construction also offer opportunities, particularly due to the influx of Act 60 investors. Finally, export services eligible for Act 60 (consulting, marketing, IT) attract entrepreneurs worldwide.

Work permits for foreign nationals

The same rules as mainland United States apply. U.S. citizens can work freely without any permit. Foreign nationals must obtain a U.S. work visa (H-1B, L-1, etc.), and employers must sponsor the application through USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services). The process can take several months and requires a firm job offer before departure.

Starting a business with Act 60 Chapter 3

Act 60 offers exceptional conditions for entrepreneurs. The corporate tax rate is only 4% on net income (2% for the first five years for businesses with less than $3 million volume). Puerto Rico-sourced dividends benefit from 100% exemption, and municipal and property taxes are reduced by 75 to 90%. To qualify, the business must maintain a bona fide office in Puerto Rico, provide export services (clients located outside Puerto Rico), have no direct connection to local economic activities, and employ at least one full-time resident. Eligible activities include consulting, IT, marketing, finance, research and development, and advertising.

Puerto Rico's tax system constitutes one of the island's primary attractions for expatriates, particularly through its status as a separate tax jurisdiction from the United States. This particularity offers unique tax optimization opportunities, especially via Act 60. Understanding this complex system is essential for any Puerto Rico relocation project.

Puerto Rico's unique tax system

Puerto Rico functions as a separate tax jurisdiction from the United States, despite being a U.S. territory. Puerto Rico residents are exempt from U.S. federal taxes on Puerto Rico-sourced income through Section 933 of the Internal Revenue Code. Puerto Rico's tax code (PR Code) is distinct from the U.S. federal code, allowing the island to define its own tax policy. This fiscal autonomy is central to Puerto Rico's attractiveness for international investors and entrepreneurs.

Resident income tax

Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income under a progressive system similar to the U.S., with brackets ranging from 10% to 37%. However, a substantial automatic reduction applies: 92% of total tax amount is reduced for income up to $100,000, and 95% for higher income. This dramatic reduction makes the effective tax burden much lower than mainland United States or most developed countries. An Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) applies to high-income taxpayers to prevent abuse.

Non-resident income tax

Non-residents are only taxed on Puerto Rico-sourced income. A de minimis rule provides that no tax is due if income is below $3,000 and the person spends fewer than 90 days on the island during the tax year. This provision facilitates short professional stays without creating complex tax obligations.

Sales and use tax (IVU)

Puerto Rico applies a sales and use tax called IVU (Impuesto sobre Ventas y Uso) at a standard rate of 10.5%. This tax, increased from 7% to 11.5% in 2015, ranks among the highest in the U.S. and associated territories. Since October 2015, an additional 4% tax applies to business-to-business (B2B) transactions. These elevated rates partially finance public services and local administration.

Act 60 for individual investors (Chapter 2)

Act 60 Chapter 2 represents Puerto Rico's most spectacular tax advantage. Capital gains accumulated after establishing residence are taxed at 0% for beneficiaries applying before December 31, 2025. Starting January 1, 2026, new applicants will be taxed at 4% on these gains. Puerto Rico-sourced interest and dividends are also taxed at 0% or 4% depending on enrollment date. Understanding the 10-year rule is crucial: gains accumulated before establishing residence remain taxable in the U.S. under federal rules. The initial exemption period is 15 years, renewable for an additional 15 years.

Social security contributions

Puerto Rico applies a social security contribution system similar to the United States. Medicare and Social Security programs apply normally. Employees contribute approximately 7.65% of salary (Social Security + Medicare), and employers pay an equivalent rate of 7.65%. These contributions establish rights to U.S. retirement benefits and Medicare health insurance.

International tax treaties

Tax treaties concluded by the United States also apply to Puerto Rico, including conventions with the UK, Canada, and Australia. Over 60 countries have signed double taxation agreements with the U.S. UK nationals benefit from the UK-US tax treaty, which provides mechanisms for eliminating double taxation and specific rules concerning pensions and property income. U.S. citizens should note that FATCA (Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act) reporting requirements continue to apply even as Puerto Rico residents.

Local taxes and property tax

Puerto Rico's property tax is particularly advantageous, with an average rate of 0.5% of estimated property value, well below the U.S. average. For residential properties, tax varies between 8.03% and 11.83% of the 1957 cadastral value, representing approximately 40 to 50% of current cost. Commercial properties are taxed between 5.80% and 9.83% depending on municipality. A municipal business volume tax also applies, with rates varying by municipality.

Important dates and 2025 tax obligations

The individual income tax return deadline for 2024 is set for April 15, 2025. An automatic extension until October 15, 2025 can be requested. Quarterly estimated payments must be made on the following dates: April 15, June 15, September 15, and January 15. Meeting these deadlines is crucial to avoid penalties, particularly for Act 60 beneficiaries who are closely monitored.

2025 tax reform

In June 2025, 13 tax measures were approved to modernize Puerto Rico's tax system. The reduction of taxes on capital gains, interest, and dividends to 4% for all residents (excluding existing Act 60 beneficiaries) constitutes the flagship measure. IRA deduction was increased from $5,000 to $7,000, and education savings deduction doubled from $500 to $1,000. Administrative simplification via the SURI portal now facilitates online tax returns.

Puerto Rico's healthcare system combines American-quality infrastructure with significantly reduced costs, offering excellent value for expatriates. While the island has modern facilities concentrated in urban areas, care quality can vary by region. Understanding different health insurance options is essential for obtaining appropriate coverage.

Healthcare system organization

Puerto Rico operates a mixed public-private system similar to the United States. Care quality ranks among the Caribbean's best, with particularly modern infrastructure in San Juan and Ponce. Over 90 hospitals are distributed across the island. Medical staff generally speak English, especially doctors and dentists, while nurses may be less comfortable in English. Private facilities generally offer better service levels than public structures, with multilingual staff and state-of-the-art equipment.

Vital public system (Puerto Rico Medicaid)

Approximately 50% of the population, about 1.5 million people, benefit from the Vital program, Puerto Rico's Medicaid equivalent. This program offers free or very low-cost services, but only in public facilities. Eligibility criteria are based on local poverty income levels, different from federal U.S. thresholds. Four managed care plans are contracted with the government. Main disadvantages include often long waiting times and less modern facilities in rural areas.

Private health insurance

Major private insurers in Puerto Rico are Triple-S, MCS, and Humana. Private insurance costs are approximately 50% lower than mainland United States, and medical care costs overall 30% less. Insurers generally accept coverage of pre-existing conditions. For 2025, several 5-star Medicare Advantage plans are available, offering comprehensive coverage to eligible residents. Expatriates should budget approximately $150 to $300 monthly for quality individual private insurance.

Consultation and routine care costs

A general practitioner consultation costs approximately $100, comparable to private consultation rates in many countries. A specialist charges approximately $150. A basic blood test costs around $50, and a physiotherapy session costs about $80. These rates remain significantly lower than those practiced in mainland United States while maintaining equivalent care quality in private structures.

Healthcare professional shortage

Puerto Rico faces a significant shortage of medical professionals, partly due to lower salaries than the mainland. A general practitioner earns an average of $170,000 in Puerto Rico versus $265,000 in the United States. A specialist earns $285,000 versus $382,000 on the mainland. Nurses earn approximately $35,000 in Puerto Rico versus $81,000 in the United States. This salary disparity drives a professional exodus to the mainland, creating tensions in the local healthcare system.

Recommendations for expatriates

International insurance is strongly recommended for coverage outside the island and for medical evacuations if necessary. Concierge medicine services represent a premium option for those seeking privileged access to care. Telemedicine is available through most international insurance plans, facilitating remote consultations. Residents who have contributed to the U.S. system remain eligible for Medicare in Puerto Rico. For UK nationals, maintaining NHS coverage or comprehensive international health insurance is advisable. Australian and Canadian expatriates should verify their home country health coverage status and consider comprehensive international insurance.

Education in Puerto Rico offers several options for expatriate families, from the local public system to quality international schools. The San Juan metropolitan area concentrates most international establishments, while other cities have interesting alternatives. School choice depends on your linguistic, academic, and budgetary priorities.

Local public school system

The Puerto Rican public system provides instruction primarily in Spanish, with English taught as a second language. Academic quality varies considerably between establishments. Public education is free for all residents, but few expatriates choose this option due to language barriers and academic levels considered below international standards.

International schools in the metropolitan area

The San Juan region hosts the most reputable international establishments. Baldwin School in Guaynabo offers Puerto Rico's only complete International Baccalaureate (IB) program, covering levels from kindergarten to high school (Pre-K to 12th grade). Tuition fees amount to approximately $15,600 for elementary and $17,000 for middle and high school. Instruction is conducted entirely in English, preparing students for international universities.

Saint John's School in Condado is one of the island's oldest and most prestigious institutions, founded in 1915. This non-sectarian, co-educational establishment welcomes over 800 students from toddler to high school level (12th grade). The curriculum follows the American university preparation model, and the school regularly ranks among Puerto Rico's best academically. Instruction is in English, except for foreign language courses.

Robinson School in Condado is also highly ranked and offers an English immersion program. Tuition fees are estimated between $12,000 and $17,000 annually. Commonwealth-Parkville School has two campuses: Guaynabo for elementary and Hato Rey for middle and high school. This school emphasizes quality English education, with annual fees around $14,000.

Academia Maria Reina, located near San Ignacio, is a Catholic girls-only establishment, covering levels from 7th to 4th year of high school. Tuition fees are approximately $12,500 annually. The school offers optional French and Italian courses in addition to the standard curriculum. TASIS Dorado, affiliated with the American School of Switzerland, offers English immersion education in the Sabanera community. This non-sectarian, co-educational establishment charges approximately $15,000 annually.

Schools in other regions

Outside San Juan, some options exist for expatriate families. Washburn School in Ponce, in the island's south, offers an English immersion curriculum with French as a third language. SESO (Southwestern Educational Society) in Mayagüez, in the west, also offers English immersion education, with French and Italian courses at high school level.

International school costs

International school tuition fees generally range between $12,000 and $17,000 annually. These amounts are comparable to international school fees in major cities like London, Sydney, or Toronto. Private kindergarten costs an average of $470 monthly, while an international primary school costs approximately $10,400 annually. These costs must be integrated into the family budget, representing a significant expense for families with multiple children.

Higher education

For university studies, Puerto Rico offers affordable options. Average annual cost amounts to $4,136 for Puerto Rico residents and $8,875 for non-residents in public universities. Private institutions charge an average of $9,414 annually for an undergraduate program. Universidad Ana G. Méndez and Universidad Interamericana are among the main institutions. These rates are significantly lower than mainland U.S. universities while offering U.S.-recognized degrees.

Puerto Rico's real estate market has undergone a spectacular transformation since 2024, with price explosions fueled by foreign investor influx and the island's growing popularity. This dynamic creates both opportunities and challenges for expatriates seeking accommodation. Understanding current trends and available options is essential for successful relocation.

2025 real estate market explosion

Median home prices in Puerto Rico reached $290,000 in Q1 2025, representing a spectacular 32% year-over-year increase, and up to 71% according to some sources. This dramatic surge follows an 11.6% increase in Q1 2025, itself following a 22% progression in Q4 2024. Despite this spike, prices remain generally affordable compared to mainland United States, where the national median stands at $398,000. Total Puerto Rican real estate market value is estimated at $346.11 billion, of which $265.54 billion is residential, with projections reaching $389.68 billion by 2029.

Factors driving price increases

Several elements contribute to this surge. Act 60 attracts a massive influx of wealthy investors seeking tax advantages, creating demand pressure. Short-term rentals via Airbnb and Vrbo experience explosive demand, encouraging property owners to convert residential housing into tourist rentals. High construction costs, ranging from $300 to $500 per square foot, limit new housing supply. Limited land availability in desirable areas and improved employment market (historically low unemployment) also stimulate demand.

Rental market in San Juan

Rents in San Juan vary considerably by location. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center costs an average of $1,258 monthly, while similar accommodation outside the center costs $765 monthly. For a three-bedroom apartment, expect $2,183 monthly in the city center and $1,393 outside the center. This data comes from Numbeo in July 2025.

Other sources indicate higher rents for Q1 2025: $2,600 for one bedroom, $3,800 for two bedrooms, $4,500 for three bedrooms, and $6,500 and up for four or more bedrooms. These gaps reflect differences between neighborhoods and property types (standard, amenities, proximity to conveniences).

Rental market in secondary cities

Cities outside San Juan offer significantly more affordable rents. In Arecibo, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $1,050 and $675 outside the center. In Bayamón, rents are $900 in the center and $850 outside the center for the same size. Ponce, in the island's south, shows prices approximately 40% lower than San Juan, offering an interesting alternative for tighter budgets.

Property purchase

Price per square foot in downtown San Juan amounts to $445.57, versus $258.06 outside the center. New construction shows an average price of $351,407. Luxury properties in prime neighborhoods like Condado or Dorado Beach regularly exceed one million dollars. Conversely, fixer-uppers in less developed areas can be found for under $100,000, attracting investors ready to undertake renovations.

Rental yields and investment

Gross rental yields vary by sector. In San Juan, apartments generate between 2.65% and 7.75% gross return, averaging 5.27%. The Isla Verde neighborhood offers yields from 5.92% to 7.05%, averaging 6.34%. Short-term rentals in tourist areas can reach up to 12% gross return. Current vacancy rate stands at 12.3%, versus 10% in 2010 and 7.4% in 2000, reflecting ongoing population loss despite expatriate arrivals.

Neighborhoods popular with expatriates

In San Juan, Condado attracts an affluent clientele with luxury beachfront properties, upscale restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. Old San Juan appeals for its historic colonial charm and tourist atmosphere. Isla Verde pleases beach lovers with its casinos and luxury hotels. Miramar is appreciated by families for its affluent residential character and proximity to good schools.

Outside San Juan, Dorado Beach is an ultra-luxury gated community, while Bahía Beach offers golf, luxury, and security. Guaynabo attracts families thanks to good schools and proximity to San Juan. Río Grande appeals for its surrounding nature and access to El Yunque forest. Rincón is a paradise for surfers and digital nomads, while Aguadilla and Isabela experience strong growth thanks to coastal tourism.

Property financing

Mortgage rates are around 6.04% for a 20-year fixed loan. Bank pre-approval is strongly recommended before beginning property searches. Mainland buyers often pay cash or arrive with pre-approval, creating fierce competition in prime areas. Local banks offer specialized options for Act 60 residents.

Relocating to Puerto Rico requires meticulous preparation, particularly if you plan to benefit from Act 60 tax advantages. Beyond transporting your belongings, you'll need to complete numerous administrative procedures and anticipate challenges related to local infrastructure. Good organization will greatly facilitate your installation and allow you to fully enjoy your new life in the tropics.

Essential procedure checklist

1. Establish bona fide residence: If targeting Act 60, exhaustively document your island presence (183-day minimum annually). Keep all flight tickets, receipts, local bank statements, and proof of physical presence. The IRS conducts frequent audits and documentation must be impeccable.
2. Obtain Real ID: If you're a U.S. citizen, Real ID is now mandatory for all domestic flights since May 7, 2025. Begin the process upon arrival.
3. Change your insurance: Switch health, auto, and home insurance to local providers. Mainland insurers generally don't cover Puerto Rico or apply significant surcharges.
4. Transfer bank accounts: Open accounts with local banks. For Act 60, having Puerto Rican accounts strengthens your bona fide resident status.
5. Register your vehicle: If importing a car, register it with Puerto Rican authorities. Beware of import taxes which can be substantial.
6. Update your addresses: Change your address with all essential services, banks, insurances, and administrations.
7. Declare your tax change: Complete appropriate IRS forms the first year of residence, notably Form 8898 to declare your bona fide resident status.
8. Enroll children in school: Contact international schools several months in advance, as some have waiting lists. Budget $12,000 to $17,000 annually per child.
9. Prepare for hurricane season: The season runs from June to November. Take out appropriate home insurance covering hurricane damage and build emergency reserves (water, food, generator).
10. Anticipate energy costs: Electricity is expensive in Puerto Rico. Consider installing solar panels to reduce long-term bills. Budget approximately $485 monthly for an 85 m² dwelling.

Transporting your belongings

Transporting your belongings from Europe, Australia, or Canada is generally done by sea container, with delivery times of 4 to 8 weeks. Compare several quotes from specialized international movers. For vehicles, importation involves customs fees and taxes. No cars are manufactured in Puerto Rico, making new vehicles more expensive than mainland United States. Gasoline costs approximately $3.65 per gallon, slightly more expensive than the U.S. but comparable to Canadian prices.

Infrastructure challenges to anticipate

Puerto Rico's electrical grid remains fragile, particularly after hurricanes. Outages are more frequent than on the mainland, and a backup generator can prove wise. Internet quality is gradually improving but remains variable by area. Rural zones often have limited connectivity. Road conditions vary considerably, and San Juan experiences significant traffic during rush hours. Drinking water is generally safe, but many residents use filtration systems as a precaution.

Puerto Rico offers exceptional cultural and sporting richness, combining Spanish colonial heritage, lush tropical nature, and Caribbean dynamism. Whether you're a culture enthusiast, water sports passionate, or simply seeking relaxation on paradise beaches, the island offers activities for all tastes. The thriving tourist scene testifies to this unique destination's growing attractiveness.

Cultural activities

Old San Juan is essential with its preserved colonial architecture, colorful cobblestone streets, and historic fortifications. The El Morro and San Cristóbal forts, UNESCO World Heritage sites, offer spectacular Atlantic Ocean views. The Museo de Arte de Puerto Rico exhibits a remarkable collection of Puerto Rican art spanning several centuries. Calle del Cristo is filled with artisan shops and art galleries.

Public squares regularly host cultural events, concerts, and traditional dance performances, notably salsa, bomba, and plena. Festivals animate almost every weekend somewhere on the island, celebrating music, gastronomy, or local traditions. Rum enthusiasts will appreciate distillery tours, including Casa Bacardí, the world's largest rum distillery, and Ron del Barrilito, producing a renowned artisanal rum.

Sports and outdoor activities

Surfing reigns on the northwest coast, with world-renowned spots in Isabela and Rincón, attracting surfers worldwide. Diving and snorkeling are practiced in crystal-clear waters, notably at Escambrón Marine Park. Windsurfing is particularly popular at Las Marías near San Juan. Kayaking in bioluminescent bays constitutes a unique experience: Mosquito Bay in Vieques, Laguna Grande in Fajardo, and La Parguera offer this magical natural spectacle where water illuminates at paddle contact.

Hiking is practiced in El Yunque tropical forest, the only tropical forest in the U.S. national park system, hosting over 100 bird species and magnificent waterfalls. Thrill-seekers will appreciate Toro Verde Adventure Park in Orocovis, featuring the world's longest zip line (over 1,000 feet elevation change), as well as via ferrata courses and the ToroRoller. Golf is played on spectacular courses like Royal Isabela Golf Course, perched on cliffs overlooking the sea.

Major tourist sites

El Yunque National Forest offers total immersion in tropical nature, with its hiking trails, waterfalls, and exceptional biodiversity. Puerto Rico hosts three of the planet's five bioluminescent bays: Vieques, Fajardo, and La Parguera. The island counts over 300 beaches, including Luquillo, Flamenco in Culebra (regularly ranked among the world's most beautiful beaches), and Playa Sucia.

Cueva Ventana offers spectacular guided tours of a natural cave providing breathtaking panoramic views. Cueva del Indio displays pre-Columbian rock art along the Atlantic coast. The islands of Vieques and Culebra represent preserved paradises, accessible by ferry or plane, with deserted beaches and nearly virgin nature.

Nightlife and gastronomy

San Juan offers vibrant nightlife with its bars, clubs, and casinos concentrated in Condado and Isla Verde. The live music scene is dynamic, with salsa, reggaeton, and jazz clubs. Puerto Rican gastronomy fuses Creole, Spanish, and Caribbean influences, creating unique cuisine. Restaurants also offer quality international gastronomy. Cocktail and rum culture is particularly developed, with creative cocktail bars throughout the capital.

Tourism figures 2024-2025

Puerto Rico welcomed over 6.1 million visitors arriving by air in 2024, plus 1.3 million cruise passengers in 2023. Tourism generates $9.8 billion in revenue for the local economy. Main reasons for visiting cited are nightlife (91.5%), beaches (78.5%), and shopping (60.8%), testifying to the island's diverse attractions.

Leisure costs

A cinema ticket costs approximately $12.50. A monthly gym membership costs $41.66 on average (range $20 to $80). Weekend tennis court rental costs approximately $35 per hour. A meal in an economical restaurant costs $20, while a meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costs approximately $85. Kayak rental varies between $20 and $50 per hour depending on location and season.

Want to know what life in Puerto Rico is really like? Here's a taste: explore the country, find tips to use transportation, to set up internet and phone services, and everything you need to live like a local.

Puerto Rico presents an overall cost of living 9.7% lower than mainland United States, with rents up to 50.8% lower. However, the San Juan-Bayamón-Caguas metropolitan area is slightly more expensive than the average U.S. urban area. Prices vary considerably by city and neighborhood, offering options for different budgets. The following data, primarily from Numbeo in July 2025, allows precise estimation of your monthly budget.

Monthly budget for a single person in San Juan

Here's a detailed estimate of monthly expenses for a single person living in San Juan. This budget includes rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center and current expenses. Energy costs are particularly high in Puerto Rico due to an aging electrical grid dependent on imported fossil fuels.

Source: Numbeo San Juan, July 2025

Monthly budget for a family of four

A family with two children enrolled in international schools must budget substantially higher. The most significant expense concerns education, with annual tuition fees between $12,000 and $17,000 per child. This budget assumes a three-bedroom accommodation outside the city center, generally necessary for a family.

Source: Numbeo San Juan, July 2025

Food prices

Food products are generally more expensive than many developed countries, as most are imported. A gallon of milk (3.78 liters) costs $8.97, a pound of bread $3.09, and a pound of rice $1.05. A dozen eggs costs $6.42, a pound of chicken $3.85, and a pound of beef $5.02. Fruits and vegetables show variable prices: bananas at $1.09 per pound, tomatoes at $1.84 per pound. A 1.5-liter bottle of water costs $1.94, and a mid-range bottle of wine approximately $17.

Restaurants and dining

A meal in an economical restaurant costs approximately $20. A meal for two in a mid-range restaurant costs $85. A typical fast-food meal (McMeal) costs $11.58. A pint of local beer costs $3, and a cappuccino approximately $3.73. These prices remain reasonable compared to American standards and comparable to major cities like London or Sydney.

Transportation and vehicle

A single bus ticket costs $1.50, and a monthly public transport pass $30, making public transportation very affordable. Gasoline costs approximately $3.65 per gallon, slightly above the U.S. average. A new car equivalent to a VW Golf costs approximately $36,000, and a new Toyota Corolla $26,625. Auto insurance varies between $400 and $1,000 annually depending on driver profile and vehicle.

Variations by city

Living in Arecibo saves approximately $800 to $1,000 monthly compared to San Juan. Bayamón is slightly cheaper than the capital. Ponce, in the south, shows costs 30 to 40% lower than San Juan for housing and services. Hatillo is considered the island's most affordable city, with a cost of living estimated at $779 per person monthly excluding rent.