Where do most Americans live in Puerto Rico?

Relocating to Puerto Rico
Most expats settle in Puerto Rico's capital, San Juan, or in the south in Ponce, its second-largest city. Carros Públicos (public cars) allow you to travel all over the island and reach even remote areas.


What is the safest area in Puerto Rico to live?

10 Safest Cities in Puerto Rico
  1. Ponce (The Bucana Barrio) ...
  2. Juana Diaz (The Rio Canas Abajo Section) ...
  3. Dorado. ...
  4. San Juan Neighborhoods. ...
  5. Cabo Rajo. ...
  6. Puerto Real (A Cabo Rajo Barrio, NOT The City!) ...
  7. Fajardo (Safe for Swimming and Water Sports) ...
  8. Santa Isabel.


Is Puerto Rico a good place to live for Americans?

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.


Where do Puerto Rican Americans live?

Although, over 41 percent of Stateside Puerto Ricans live in just two states, namely New York and Florida, large numbers can also be found in the states of New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Connecticut.

Where do Americans retire in Puerto Rico?

Expats in Puerto Rico

Most retirees settle around San Juan and the beach neighborhoods east of the city, though pockets of expats can be found around the island.


Living in Puerto Rico: 17 Things You Should Know



Can a US citizen just move to Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico has been a U.S. territory since 1898 when the U.S. acquired it at the end of the Spanish-American war. (It also happens to be the most populated U.S. territory!) If you're a U.S. citizen, this means an easy transition for you. No need for work permits or visas if you decide to relocate.

What are the disadvantages of living in Puerto Rico?

Cons of Living in Puerto Rico
  • Poor Economy. Unfortunately, Puerto Rico has a somewhat poor economy. ...
  • Cars are More Expensive. Cars are much more expensive in Puerto Rico than on the mainland. ...
  • Private Schools are Necessary. ...
  • Cultural Differences. ...
  • Difficulty Shopping Online. ...
  • Dangerous Hurricane Season. ...
  • Poor Public Transportation.


Why are people moving out of Puerto Rico?

It's the economy

“The economic factor is the main factor pushing people towards leaving Puerto Rico,” demographer Raul Figueroa, who works as an independent consultant, told CNN. Unemployment, the lack of opportunities, especially for the youth, and quality of life are major factors, he said.


How long can a US citizen stay in Puerto Rico?

The ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), is the online visa with which you can travel to Puerto Rico or any other state of the United States. This visa allows multiple entries within 2 years, with a maximum stay of 90 days per entry.

What are Puerto Rican American called?

They don't usually call themselves Americans or "Americanos", but "Puertorriqueños" or "Boricuas." To most Puerto Ricans, "my country" means "Puerto Rico", not the United States. Boricua, derived from the Taíno word Boriken is used to affirm Puerto Ricans devotion to the island's Taíno heritage.

Do you pay taxes if you live in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rican residents are taxed in Puerto Rico on their worldwide income, no matter where the income is sourced. Puerto Rican non-residents are only taxed in Puerto Rico on their Puerto Rico-source income.


What is the nicest place to live in Puerto Rico?

The Top 4 Places to Live in Puerto Rico
  • Dorado, Puerto Rico. Quick Tidbits to Help You Choose a Place in Puerto Rico. ...
  • Isla Verde in Puerto Rico. Isla Verde: Life on the Water in PR. ...
  • Dorado, Puerto Rico. Dorado: Accessible, Upscale, and Safe. ...
  • Ponce, Puerto Rico. Ponce: Historic, Walkable, and always Entertaining.


What is the cheapest US territory to live in?

Mississippi is the cheapest place to live in the United States, with a cost of living 16.7% lower than the national average. It also has the cheapest transportation on our countdown. Now, 4.5% unemployment was an all-time low for Mississippi in early 2022, but it's pretty high compared to the national average.

What areas to avoid in Puerto Rico?

Dangerous places in Puerto Rico include parts of cities like Carolina, Bayamon, Vega Baja and some San Juan areas like Santurce, La Perla, Parque de la Palomas, and Puerta de Tierra.


What neighborhoods to avoid in Puerto Rico?

Other spots to avoid at night are the neighborhoods of La Perla (next to Old City) and parts of Puerta de Tierra. Stick to the neighborhoods of Old San Juan, Isla Verde, Miramar and Condado at night, where there are regular police patrols. Should you have an emergency, call 911 as you would in the US.

How much is the average house in Puerto Rico?

The median listing home price in San Juan, PR was $390K in November 2022, trending down -3.1% year-over-year. The median listing home price per square foot was $312.

Can you drink tap water in Puerto Rico?

The food and drink standards in Puerto Rico are comparable to those of mainland United States. The tap water is safe to drink as it is filtered and treated at the source.


Can a US citizen buy property in Puerto Rico?

Because Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States, there are no restrictions on Americans acquiring property on the island. Another advantage is that U.S. citizens don't have to go through customs when traveling between Puerto Rico and the U.S. mainland—this can be a big time saver.

What is the problem in Puerto Rico?

The debate over Puerto Rico's statehood remains as relevant as ever, as the island struggles with the combined effects of economic depression, shrinking population, debt crisis and bankruptcy, natural disasters, the COVID-19 pandemic, and government mismanagement.

Does Puerto Rico have Walmart?

Walmart Supercenter in San Juan, PR | Grocery, Electronics, Toys | Serving 00907 | Store 5803.


Is Retiring in Puerto Rico a good idea?

It's easy to see why so many Americans choose to retire in Puerto Rico. The cheap cost of living combined with beautiful landscapes and a tropical climate are a dream come true for many. You'll also have easy access to affordable healthcare, English is widely spoken and there are generous tax incentives.

Can I collect Social Security if I move to Puerto Rico?

No matter where in the United States you live, your Social Security retirement, disability, family or survivor benefits do not change. Along with the 50 states, that includes the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, Guam, the U.S. Virgin Islands, American Samoa and the Northern Mariana Islands.

What should I worry about in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico is somewhat safe but you should take precautions on the streets of major cities, and after dark. Be wary of pickpockets and bag snatching and keep your valuables safe by your side. Never carry all your money in one place or leave your valuables in plain sight in a car or at a beach when swimming.


Is Social Security taxed in Puerto Rico?

More In Help

Employers in Puerto Rico are subject to the taxes imposed by the Federal Insurance Contributions Act (FICA) (Social Security and Medicare taxes) and the Federal Unemployment Tax Act (FUTA). An employer is a person or organization for whom a worker performs services as an employee.