Cost of living: San Juan, Puerto Rico

Written By Nami Hewitt

Thinking of Living in Puerto Rico? Here's What to Expect


Puerto Rico is La Isla del Encanto, the island of enchantment. It’s a U.S. territory with Caribbean soul, rich history, and undeniable charm. Spanish is the main language here, but don’t be surprised if it sounds different than what you learned in school! We’ve got our own dialect and rhythm.

If you're dreaming about living on this tropical island (even if just for a season), here's a straightforward breakdown of what life and the cost of it actually looks like..

🏠 Housing in Puerto Rico

You can find everything from compact studios to full-size homes. Many apartments come with just the basics — and sometimes not even that.

Rental Price Range:

  • Studios & 1-bedrooms: $550–$1,000/month

  • 2-bedrooms: $850–$1,600+/month

  • 3-bedrooms: $1,600+/month

Types of housing include:

  • Apartment complexes or condos

  • Split-level homes (upstairs/downstairs apartments)

  • Standalone houses

    🛠️ Note: Many rentals don’t include appliances like a fridge, stove, or washer/dryer.
    ❄️ AC isn't standard but if you're lucky, there might be a window unit.
    🌱 Yards are rare in urban areas.

Where to Look:

  • San Juan Metro – most expensive but central

  • Carolina, Trujillo Alto, Toa Baja – suburban and more affordable

  • Loíza, Caguas, Bayamón, Guaynabo – mix of city/suburb life


🍎 Grocery + Food Costs

Groceries:

Expect to spend about $100/week per person.

Stores to Know:

  • Costco & Sam’s Club – bulk deals

  • SuperMax, Pueblo, Walmart, Econo – standard grocery chains

  • Freshmart – more natural/organic options

  • Local Markets – check Facebook groups or pop-ups at Plaza Las Américas, Santurce Market or weekends near El Morro in Viejo San Juan

Dining Out:

  • Casual meals: $10–$20 per plate

  • Coffee: $3-$6

🚗 Transportation

While public transit exists, it's not always reliable. Most locals drive and tourists use Uber.

  • Uber: $10 minimum, can get very expensive even for a short trip

  • Rental Car: $200-$500/week; use only the reputable companies to avoid hidden fees & big deposits

  • Used cars: $1,500–$5,000+

  • Gas: $25 to fill a compact car

  • Oil change: $80


🩺 Healthcare

Healthcare is affordable but you’ll need your own insurance.

  • Basic check-up: $50

  • Types of insurance: Triple‑S Salud (Blue Cross Blue Shield affiliate), MCS, Humana, First Medical, Mennonite, MAPFRE

  • Note: I use SafetyWing when abroad, but it doesn’t cover U.S. citizens living in Puerto Rico full-time.



💡 Utilities

Prices can vary, especially with AC use and internet speed.

  • Electricity: $300/month

  • WiFi: $90/month (for high-speed)

  • Water: Paid every 2 months



🧒 Childcare & Education

If you're moving with little ones, here’s what to know:

  • Babysitters/Nannuy’s: $15–$20/hour

  • Private schools for kids under 5: Usually start at $450/month + additional fees



🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle

You don’t have to spend a lot to enjoy your time here:

  • Gym memberships: $10/month

  • Dance classes (for adults): $20/class

  • Weekend hikes: $5

  • Movie ticket: $5


Final Thoughts

Puerto Rico offers a slower pace, stunning natural beauty, and a deep sense of culture. It’s not always convenient but it is ALWAYS magical.

Whether you're visiting short-term or considering a move, now you’ve got a real sense of what life on the island might cost.




Bookmark this post and share it with someone who needs a little push to say yes to island life 🌴




Nami Hewitt
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A week in Cartagena, Colombia