The cost of living in Puerto Rico is, on the whole, significantly lower than that of the US. However, it's still by no means cheap. In Mercer's Cost of Living report for 2019, San Juan ranked 72nd out of 209 countries, placing it on a par with large European cities such as Brussels, Belgium and Frankfurt, Germany.
Cost of accommodation in Puerto Rico
Expats will find that a large portion of their salary will go towards accommodation in Puerto Rico. Apartments are most common and are cheaper than freestanding houses. As with most places, housing is priciest in city centres and tends to be lower in outlying suburbs. In addition, smaller cities outside of San Juan are generally cheaper than living in the capital.
Cost of healthcare in Puerto Rico
Most expats opt to use private healthcare in Puerto Rico. The cost of this is much less than one would expect, however, given that one is properly insured. Health insurance in Puerto Rico is well-known for being low-priced but comprehensive.
Cost of education in Puerto Rico
The cost of education in Puerto Rico will vary greatly depending on whether parents send their child to a public or private school. Public schools are free to attend but the language barrier can be difficult to overcome for non-Spanish-speaking families. Private schools are more likely to teach bilingually or in English. Tuition at these schools is pricey though.
Cost of living in Puerto Rico chart
Prices may vary depending on product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for September 2019.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in city centre |
1,200 - 1,700 USD |
Three-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
700 - 1,000 USD |
One-bedroom apartment in city centre |
500 - 900 USD |
One-bedroom apartment outside of city centre |
400 - 600 USD |
Shopping |
|
Eggs (dozen) |
2.60 USD |
Milk (1 litre) |
1.80 USD |
Rice (1kg) |
2 USD |
Loaf of white bread |
2 USD |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
8.50 USD |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
9.50 USD |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac Meal |
7 USD |
Coca-Cola (330ml) |
1.10 USD |
Cappuccino |
3.50 USD |
Bottle of local beer |
2 USD |
Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant |
50 USD |
Utilities |
|
Mobile-to-mobile call rate (per minute) |
0.25 USD |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
50 USD |
Basic utilities (per month for small apartment) |
250 USD |
Transportation |
|
Taxi rate (per kilometre) |
1.50 USD |
Bus/train fare in the city centre |
1.50 USD |
Petrol/gasoline (per litre) |
0.75 USD |
Are you an expat living in Puerto Rico?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Puerto Rico. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
With 86 million customer relationships in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.