Pros & Cons of Living in Puerto Rico
Summary: Planning a potential move to Puerto Rico? Delve into this comprehensive article, which delves into the various pros and cons of calling Puerto Rico home.
Thinking about moving to Puerto Rico? Below we highlight some of the pros and cons of living in Puerto Rico.
When it comes to choosing a place to live, there are many factors to consider. Climate, cost of living, culture, and lifestyle are just a few of the things that can make or break a location. One place that has been gaining popularity among expats and retirees is Puerto Rico. This small town in the Manabí Province of Ecuador offers a unique blend of coastal living, rich culture, and affordable cost of living. However, like any place, it has its pros and cons. Let's delve into what makes Puerto Rico, Ecuador a great place to live, as well as some of the challenges you might face.
Pros of Living in Puerto Rico, Ecuador
One of the biggest draws to Puerto Rico, Ecuador is its climate. Located near the equator, the town enjoys a tropical climate year-round. The average temperature hovers around 25 degrees Celsius (77 degrees Fahrenheit), making it ideal for those who enjoy warm weather. The town is also located near the Pacific Ocean, providing residents with stunning beach views and easy access to water activities like swimming, fishing, and boating.
Another major advantage of living in Puerto Rico, Ecuador is the cost of living. Compared to many Western countries, the cost of living in Ecuador is significantly lower. This means that your money can go a lot further. For example, a meal at a local restaurant can cost as little as $3, while a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be rented for around $300 per month. This makes Puerto Rico, Ecuador an attractive option for retirees or those looking to stretch their dollar.
The culture in Puerto Rico, Ecuador is another major draw. The town is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who are always eager to share their culture and traditions with newcomers. There are also plenty of cultural events and festivals throughout the year, such as the Manabí Carnival and the Festival of the Sea, which offer a glimpse into the local way of life.
For those interested in volunteering, there are several organizations in Puerto Rico, Ecuador that welcome foreign volunteers. For example, the Fundación de Ayuda Social (FAS), a local non-profit organization, offers opportunities for volunteers to help with community development projects, education initiatives, and environmental conservation efforts. This can be a rewarding way to give back to the community and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Cons of Living in Puerto Rico, Ecuador
While there are many advantages to living in Puerto Rico, Ecuador, there are also some challenges that potential residents should be aware of. One of the biggest challenges is the language barrier. While English is spoken by some locals, especially in the tourism industry, Spanish is the dominant language. This can make everyday tasks like shopping, banking, and navigating public transportation difficult for those who do not speak Spanish.
Another challenge is the lack of certain amenities and services that many Westerners are accustomed to. For example, while basic healthcare is available in Puerto Rico, Ecuador, more specialized medical services may require a trip to a larger city. Similarly, while there are local markets and grocery stores, they may not carry all the products and brands that you are used to.
Infrastructure can also be a challenge in Puerto Rico, Ecuador. While the town has made significant strides in recent years, things like roads, public transportation, and internet service can still be unreliable at times. This can make getting around and staying connected more difficult than in more developed areas.
Finally, while the cost of living is low, so are the wages. This means that while your money can go further, earning potential is also lower. This can make Puerto Rico, Ecuador a challenging place for those looking to work and earn a living. However, for retirees or those with a steady source of income from abroad, this may not be a significant issue.
In conclusion, Puerto Rico, Ecuador offers a unique blend of tropical climate, affordable cost of living, and rich culture. However, it also presents challenges in terms of language, amenities, infrastructure, and earning potential. As with any place, it's important to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision. But for those who are willing to embrace the challenges, Puerto Rico, Ecuador can be a rewarding and fulfilling place to live.
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About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.