Cost of Living in Dominican Republic 2025: Complete Expat Budget Guide

Why the Dominican Republic Is Affordable for Expats

The Dominican Republic consistently ranks as one of the most affordable Caribbean destinations for expats and retirees. While costs have risen in recent years, a comfortable lifestyle remains achievable at 40-60% less than comparable living in the United States, Canada, or Western Europe.

The north coast—particularly Sosúa, Cabarete, and Puerto Plata—offers the best value for beachfront living, while Santo Domingo provides urban amenities at developing-world prices.

Housing Costs: Rent vs. Own

Monthly Rental Costs (2025)

• Basic 1-bedroom apartment: US$400–$600/month
• Modern 2-bedroom condo (gated community): US$800–$1,200/month
• Luxury beachfront condo: US$1,500–$2,500/month
• 3-bedroom villa with pool: US$2,000–$4,000/month

Purchase Price Ranges

• Entry-level condos: US$120,000–$180,000
• Mid-range ocean-view condos: US$200,000–$350,000
• Luxury villas: US$400,000–$1,500,000+

Owning property eliminates rent and can generate rental income during your absence. See our condo listings for current purchase options.

Utilities and Internet

Monthly utility costs vary based on air conditioning usage:

• Electricity: US$80–$200/month (higher with heavy A/C use)
• Water: US$15–$30/month
• Gas (cooking): US$10–$20/month
• High-speed internet: US$40–$70/month (fiber available in most expat areas)
• Mobile phone: US$20–$40/month (unlimited data plans)

Pro tip: Many modern condos include backup generators and inverters, essential for managing occasional power fluctuations.

Food and Dining Costs

Grocery Shopping

• Local markets: Fresh produce, meats, and staples for US$150–$250/month
• Supermarkets (Nacional, Jumbo): US$300–$500/month for imported goods
• Mixed approach: Most expats spend US$250–$400/month on groceries

Restaurant Dining

• Local "comedor" meal: US$3–$6
• Mid-range restaurant dinner: US$15–$25 per person
• Upscale dining: US$40–$80 per person
• Beer at a bar: US$2–$4
• Coffee at a café: US$1.50–$3

Healthcare Costs

Healthcare is exceptionally affordable compared to the U.S.:

• Doctor's visit: US$30–$60
• Specialist consultation: US$50–$100
• Dental cleaning: US$30–$50
• Private health insurance: US$80–$200/month (depending on age and coverage)
• Emergency room visit: US$100–$300

Private hospitals like HOMS in Santiago and Centro Médico UCE in Santo Domingo offer high-quality care. Many expats maintain international health insurance for major procedures or medical evacuation.

Transportation Costs

• Guagua (public bus): US$0.50–$2 per trip
• Motoconcho (motorcycle taxi): US$1–$3
• Uber/taxi: US$3–$15 depending on distance
• Car rental: US$800–$1,200/month
• Used car purchase: US$8,000–$20,000
• Gasoline: US$4–$5/gallon

In walkable communities like Sosúa, many expats live car-free. Cabarete's main strip is also highly walkable.

Sample Monthly Budgets

Budget Lifestyle: US$1,500–$2,000/month

• Basic apartment rental: $500
• Utilities & internet: $150
• Groceries & dining: $400
• Transportation: $100
• Healthcare: $100
• Entertainment & misc: $250

Comfortable Lifestyle: US$2,500–$3,500/month

• Nice condo rental: $1,000
• Utilities & internet: $200
• Groceries & dining out: $600
• Car or transportation: $300
• Health insurance: $150
• Entertainment & travel: $500

Luxury Lifestyle: US$5,000–$8,000+/month

• Beachfront villa or luxury condo: $2,500
• Utilities & services: $400
• Fine dining & imported groceries: $1,000
• Vehicle & driver: $800
• Premium health coverage: $300
• Golf, travel, entertainment: $1,500

How the DR Compares to Other Destinations

For equivalent quality of life, the Dominican Republic costs approximately:

• 50-60% less than Miami or Southern California
• 40-50% less than Mexico's Riviera Maya
• 30-40% less than Costa Rica
• Similar to Panama and Colombia

The combination of affordability, established expat communities, and proximity to the U.S. makes the north coast particularly attractive for American retirees and remote workers.

Plan Your Dominican Republic Move

Understanding living costs is the first step. The next is finding the right property—whether for full-time residence, a vacation home, or investment income.