Living in puerto rico 2022: Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
Should You Move to PR?
Nina Out and About contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
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.
Save money on moving abroad by booking cheap airline tickets and accommodations with this platform!
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.
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.
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.
Get a homestay with Vrbo!
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).
👉 Find out how much it costs to protect your trip today with World Nomads travel insurance.
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.
Save money on moving abroad by booking cheap airline tickets and accommodations with this platform!
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
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!
Save money on moving abroad by booking cheap airline tickets and accommodations with this platform!
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.
Related Posts:
- 33 Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico
- 29 Pros and Cons of Living in Georgia, USA: Is Georgia a Good Place to Live?
- 29 Pros and Cons of Living in Hawaii
- 28 Pros and Cons of Living Abroad: Why You Should Move to Another Country
- 15 Challenges of Moving to a New Country (& How to Overcome Them)
Pin this for later!
Save this post for later!
Living Abroad Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy expat travel insurance?
100% YES! — With basic coverage averaging just $5-10 USD per day, enjoy peace of mind with a plan from World Nomads!
🌎 What is the best country to live in as an expat?
It depends – the best country to live in as an expat will depend on your unique needs.
I developed this free quiz to help you figure out where is right for you!
📍 How do I pick a country to live abroad?
It depends – picking a country to live in is hard. That’s why I developed this $7 course to share all of the steps I’ve taken when deciding to move to 20+ different countries, and how I handle homesickness when I get there.
Ultimately, making the choice of where to move is going to be hard. But the hardest thing is deciding to move abroad at all!
💼 How do I get a job as an expat?
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.
If you’re looking to teach English abroad, Premier TEFL has the best online course to get you great work!
💰 How do I open a bank account abroad?
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)
👯♀️ How do you make friends abroad?
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.
🙀 I don’t speak the language. Can I still live abroad?
Learn languages in no time with iTalki! Moving abroad is an opportunity to learn the language. You don’t need to know it before you leave home.
💻 Do I need a VPN?
Yes! – VPNs allow you to access more of the internet. From US Netflix in the UK to social media sites banned in Asia.
It’s a really helpful and cheap thing to ensure your online activities aren’t restricted.
🧳 What’s the best luggage for living abroad?
This is my favourite luggage set for long term travel. You can read more about my review of types of suitcases for travel here.
🏡 How do I tell my friends and family I want to live abroad?
Take this $7 course and learn the exact script I used to tell my family I was moving abroad … and then when I did it again. I even include tips for prepping your family, and for how to handle family who aren’t supportive.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy cheap flights?
To find cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner. (Read more)
🏨 What’s the best site to find cheap hotels?
To find cheap hotels, I recommend Booking.com. (Read more)
Or stay for free with Trusted Housesitters!
🚗 What’s the best site to rent cars abroad?
To find cheap rental cars, I recommend Discover Cars.
🚗 What’s the best site to find tours?
To find epic tours, I recommend Viator.
15 Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Rico (2023 Updated)
Puerto Rico is a mostly Spanish-influenced country that is a territory of the United States.
That means you do not need a passport or a visa to live in or visit the country.
This area is home to many US military families and individuals from the mainland of the United States.
There are many excellent pros associated with living in Puerto Rico.
However, there are some significant cons to consider as well.
Knowing what to expect and the benefits and downsides of living in this island paradise are essential to determine if it is the right environment for a new home.
San Juan, Puerto Rico
Contents
- Pros of Living in Puerto Rico
- 1. Warm Tropical Weather
- 2. Festive Holiday Seasons
- 3. Bilingual Residents
- 4.
Friendly Residents - 5. Incredible Food
- 6. Casual Dress
- 7. Familiar Companies
- 8. Plentiful Foods
- Cons of Living in Puerto Rico
- 1. Poor Economy
- 2. Cars are More Expensive
- 3. Private Schools are Necessary
- 4. Cultural Differences
- 5. Difficulty Shopping Online
- 6. Dangerous Hurricane Season
- 7. Poor Public Transportation
- Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Rico – Summary Table
- Puerto Rico Safety Overview
- Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the highest elevation in Puerto Rico?
- What is the average annual rainfall in Puerto Rico?
- What area of Puerto Rico has the highest level of criminal activity?
- What is the most densely populated city in Puerto Rico?
- Is it expensive to live in Puerto Rico?
Friendly ResidentsPros of Living in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico is a beautiful country filled with friendly people and scenic landscapes.
However, there are plenty of other Pros to look forward to before moving to this island nation.
1. Warm Tropical Weather
Puerto Rico is located very close to the equator and in a tropical Caribbean area.
That means this country has very mild winters and hot conditions most of the year.
In fact, during the summer, Puerto Rico can be very hot and humid.
This warm weather lends to the tropical atmosphere and encourages plenty of outdoor activities to beat the heat or enjoy fun in the sun.
2. Festive Holiday Seasons
Puerto Rico is known for its festive holiday seasons.
Although they may not celebrate the same holidays as the mainland United States, the ones they do honor are filled with festive decorations, festivals, and unique cuisines.
For example, Christmas is celebrated in Puerto Rico for much longer than in the United States, with much more fanfare.
3. Bilingual Residents
Most people on the island of Puerto Rico speak both Spanish and English.
However, there may be instances where some residents only speak Spanish, but the majority of American natives will have an easy time navigating the island and communicating with the locals.
Before moving to Puerto Rico, it is encouraged to learn some Spanish to help navigate some areas or to communicate with individuals who do not speak English, because it will make your time there much more manageable.
4. Friendly Residents
The people of Puerto Rico are generally very friendly and welcoming to tourists and new residents.
They have a strong sense of community and a warm, inviting spirit.
Most people who move to Puerto Rico feel at home and quickly become part of the community where they decide to settle.
It is a great place to raise a family and spend quality time with them during downtime or after work.
5. Incredible Food
Puerto Rican food has unique flavors that are a blend of many cultures.
It is a mix of traditional Latin cuisine, Spanish influences, and native Caribbean inspirations.
Puerto Rican food is full of flavors and spices and is world-renowned for being delicious and versatile.
Anyone who is a food connoisseur who enjoys eating food with many flavors and wide diversity will love the cuisine of Puerto Rico.
6. Casual Dress
Most individuals living in Puerto Rico dress casually every day, even when they go to work.
Whether they are professionals or working-class, most people tend to dress for the warm climate by wearing loose-fitting clothing and sandals or flip-flops.
It is rare to encounter individuals dressed in suits or business attire.
That means it is more acceptable to be comfortable year-round in this relaxed island nation.
7. Familiar Companies
Because Puerto Rico is a US territory, many companies firmly settled into the US infrastructure are also found commonly across Puerto Rico.
This helps individuals settle in and feel more comfortable in their new homes.
These companies can provide familiar consumer products and services that make life easier.
8. Plentiful Foods
Because Puerto Rico is located in a warm climate and has rich volcanic soil, plenty of crops are grown directly on the island.
Year-round, residents and visitors can find staple vegetables and special items for preparing both local and international dishes.
It is easy to purchase and find food regardless of the season, if you live in Puerto Rico.
Puerto Rico can also import products from the United States quickly so that many familiar food items will be available on the island.
Cons of Living in Puerto Rico
There are many benefits for individuals who decide to locate in Puerto Rico.
However, there are several downsides to consider before making a decision.
It is important to consider all aspects of living in an area to understand what to expect and prepare for them.
1. Poor Economy
Unfortunately, Puerto Rico has a somewhat poor economy.
There are many impoverished residents with little income and few job prospects.
There is a lower pay rate and fewer luxury products and services available in certain areas.
It is something to be mindful of as a visitor or new resident to the country.
The individuals of Puerto Rico have a less wasteful mindset and strive to make the most of what they have.
2. Cars are More Expensive
Cars are much more expensive in Puerto Rico than on the mainland.
One reason there is a price difference is that cars must be imported and maintained according to factory standards, requiring special mechanics trained in the brand’s protocol.
Anyone considering moving to the Island of Puerto Rico without a car or truck may want to consider purchasing one on the mainland and having it shipped to the island to save money on a new vehicle purchase.
Keep in mind that the island’s transportation in terms of buses and other public transit may not be available in some areas, so those who want access to all parts of the island will need their own vehicle.
3. Private Schools are Necessary
Unfortunately, getting a good public education in Puerto Rico may be very difficult.
Individuals with children living on the island are recommended to check out their local private school options to get the best possible education.
While this may be an extra expense, the affordable way of life on the island makes budgeting for private schools much easier than it would be in the mainland United States.
4. Cultural Differences
Before settling in Puerto Rico, you must understand the potential cultural differences you may encounter.
Please make a point to learn as much about the area and its people and cultures as possible and be considerate and kind concerning those cultural differences.
Learning more about any culture helps create a better connection and understanding of how people live their lives in other areas, including Puerto Rico.
5. Difficulty Shopping Online
There are a few reasons why shopping online and in Puerto Rico may be difficult.
There may not be a steady internet connection in some areas, and even if it is possible to place orders, you may have trouble receiving delivery on the island.
It may take some time to figure out how to get any online shopping done, but many retail stores on the island are likely to carry most of the items people may want.
6. Dangerous Hurricane Season
Since Puerto Rico is located in the Caribbean, it is exposed to frequent and sometimes very intense hurricanes.
In fact, Puerto Rico is hit by multiple hurricanes during some seasons.
Anyone planning to move to the island should prepare themselves for hurricane encounters and learn how to take the proper precautions.
7. Poor Public Transportation
Unfortunately, Puerto Rico has poor public transportation in many areas.
While there may be a network of buses or taxis in the urban areas, some towns throughout the island do not offer convenient options.
It is best to have a vehicle of your own but keep in mind that purchasing a vehicle on the island is quite expensive, so shipping a vehicle from the mainland may be a good alternative.
Humacao, Puerto Rico
Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Rico – Summary Table
| Pros of Living in Puerto Rico | Cons of Living in Puerto Rico |
|---|---|
| 1. Warm Tropical Weather | 1. Poor Economy |
| 2. Festive Holiday Seasons | 2. Cars are More Expensive |
| 3. Bilingual Residents | 3. Private Schools are Necessary |
| 4. Friendly Residents | 4. Cultural Differences |
| 5. Incredible Food | 5. Difficulty Shopping Online |
| 6. Casual Dress | 6. Dangerous Hurricane Season |
| 7. Familiar Companies | 7. Poor Public Transportation |
| 8. Plentiful Foods |
Puerto Rico Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Puerto Rico Safety Review
Safety Index:
- OVERALL RISK : MEDIUM
- TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK : MEDIUM
- PICKPOCKETS RISK : MEDIUM
- NATURAL DISASTERS RISK : MEDIUM
- MUGGING RISK : MEDIUM
- TERRORISM RISK : LOW
- SCAMS RISK : MEDIUM
- WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK : LOW
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the highest elevation in Puerto Rico?
The Municipality of Ponce is Cerro Punta, which is the highest peak in the Cordillera Central.
This peak rises 4,390 ft above sea level.
One exciting fact about this mountainous area is that you can drive through most of it to get fantastic views of Puerto Rico.
The island is well known for having many landscapes, including plenty of mountainous terrains, which are ideal for hiking and other outdoor activities.
What is the average annual rainfall in Puerto Rico?
The average annual rainfall in Puerto Rico is 31.3 inches.
However, due to weather systems or tropical activity, Puerto Rico may have extreme rainfall events.
There tends to be more rainfall in certain areas as opposed to others due to the terrain, such as mountains.
What area of Puerto Rico has the highest level of criminal activity?
The areas in Puerto Rico with the highest crime rate include some areas of San Juan, Carolina, Vega Baja, and Bayamon.
Before moving to Puerto Rico, research crime rates in particular areas and try to avoid frequenting or settling in those areas.
Many sections of Puerto Rico are relatively safe and offer a high quality of living.
What is the most densely populated city in Puerto Rico?
San Juan, Puerto Rico, is the most populated area of the island, with over 395,000 people residing within the city itself.
However, there are other densely populated areas sprinkled across the island.
San Juan is a hub of almost every industry in the country.
There is plenty to do and see with great shopping and most of the luxuries and commodities that individuals in the U.S. are used to having at their disposal.
The great thing about Puerto Rico is that the island is relatively small, so you can get to San Juan in a short time, no matter where you live.
Is it expensive to live in Puerto Rico?
Puerto Rico is very affordable compared to almost anywhere in the United States.
The statistics show that individuals can live comfortably on about $2,000 per month.
The Tragedy of Puerto Rico Yesterday and Today
Puerto Rico recently held its first public hearing on a bill aimed at restricting abortion in the country. The text of the bill had already been approved by a Senate committee at the end of March and was due to be passed by the Upper House at the beginning of the month. However, instead, the bill was sent back due to the fact that public hearings were not organized.
Puerto Rico Abortion Law
The proposed bill would impose restrictions on abortions that do not currently exist. The territory of Puerto Rico is subject to the laws of the United States of America, to which the country decided to join as a federal state on the basis of a popular referendum in 2012, confirmed by the political status referendum in 2017. The US accession process is expected to be completed by 2025. Meanwhile, planned abortions in Puerto Rico are legal at any time.
New bill
The new bill, if passed, would ban abortion after the 22nd week of a baby’s life in the womb or when a doctor determines «fetal viability», unless the woman’s life is at risk.
Of course, the passage of the law will not mean victory in the war against the culture of death, but it will be a point in favor of life, albeit a small one. Appear to save at least a few children’s lives.
«Hearing, says abortion right stemming from 1973 Roe v. Wade » and the fact that several states have introduced thresholds for the duration of abortion
Sen. , stated that the government has a special responsibility for the lives of all children and rejects the objections of critics who have questioned the value of children conceived without desire or as a result of an act of violence. “These kids will find other hands to carry, protect and love them,” Rodriguez said.
The new law has been resisted by pro-abortion activists who do not want any restrictions on the Caribbean island; at the same time, some supporters of the pro-life movement also oppose the bill because they would like abortion to be banned altogether in court order .
The Tragedy of the Past: «Operation»
In the past, Puerto Rico has experienced a particular history of violence against women and their children.
Or, rather, against children who could not be born. At 19In 37, the island adopted Law 116 , officially allowing sterilization based on eugenic ideas.
Succumbing to a neo-Malthusian impulse, believing the population to be too large compared to the country’s meager economic resources, the government of Puerto Rico, subsidized by the United States, promoted hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) and tubal ligation among the poorest, mostly black women. Employers encouraged female employees to have the operation, and medical workers went from house to house to convince mothers who already had two children to have it.
About two decades later, by 1953, almost a fifth of Puerto Rican women were sterilized free of charge, and by the 1970s, they were already a third of all women on the island. Many of these women did not know what was ahead of them, did not know that the operation was irreversible. There is a documentary film made in 1982 about this horrific chapter of Puerto Rican history called «Operation» .
During the «Operation» years, Puerto Rican women also played the sad role of test subjects in experiments to create the first contraceptive pill. In fact, many of the island’s underprivileged women have been entered into contraceptive clinical trial programs without warning or consent, like human «guinea pigs». They did not suspect that, among other things, these pills entailed significant risks to their health.
Yesterday — sterilization and forced contraception, today — a law completely open to abortion, which not only has not been repealed, but may not even be limited. No peace for the women of Puerto Rico and their children.
Tags: abortionchild protectionprotection of womenlife protectionlegalization of abortionright to lifePuerto RicosterilizationUSA
Rico | Where is good? View from Krizistan
Prices
CrizistanComment on How much does a potato cost in other countries and how many kg can you buy with an average salary in Kanal, Poland, Norway and Russia
I show how much potatoes cost in other countries, where the most expensive and cheapest, who is the leader in the cheapness of a delicious root crop in …
Read article
Taxes
CrizistanComment on An example for Russia: 68 countries where the rich fork out so that all the people live better
— Pay your taxes and sleep well! Do you remember such social advertising? While our wealthy fellow citizens have been running from taxation, my fellow economists …
Read article
Miscellaneous
CrizistanComment on 14 countries where people manage to live without working: one of them is a former Soviet republic and 2 BRICS members at once
Employment rate is an excellent indicator of a country’s economic success. People shouldn’t hang around doing nothing, right? Initially it was thought that the higher …
Read article
Miscellaneous
CrizistanComment on Living standards in Russia and Puerto Rico: 6 differences
Checked the indexes of cost and quality of life in Russia and Puerto Rico and compared our places in the world in profile ratings. Someone …
Read article
Miscellaneous
CrizistanComment on A burden on the budget. Why is Puerto Rico not included in the US?
What did Russia do when Yermak conquered Siberia? And when Crimea voted for joining? Adopted new lands as part of the empire.