Living in the Dominican Republic
Last updated on Feb 09, 2024
Summary: The approximate population of the Dominican Republic is 10.7 million people. The largest cities in the Dominican Republic are Santo Domingo, Santiago de los Caballeros, and La Romana. Expats love living in the Dominican Republic for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly people. Life in the Dominican Republic is often described as relaxed and laid-back. Popular foods in the Dominican Republic include rice and beans, plantains, and sancocho (a stew made with meat, vegetables, and spices). The cons of living in the Dominican Republic include a lack of infrastructure, high crime rates, and a lack of job opportunities. The average cost of living for an expat in the Dominican Republic is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, and other expenses.
What do I need to know about living in the Dominican Republic?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to the Dominican Republic, they said:
"I would tell them to first visit, meet people in the Chamber of Commerce to get better acquainted with where to live and how to move around in the city," explained one expat living in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Rep.
"Learn Spanish - Come with some money to get established. Find a way to make money here. It is not very expensive to live here, but at the same time, you won't make a lot of money either. If you have any questions about moving to Santiago, you can email me at jcrew2020@yahoo.com," said one expat in Santiago.
"Be prepared to adjust. Be prepared to be frustrated and to want to smack your head into the wall. But also be prepared to find the small joys here!! The people are remarkably friendly and helpful. There are many many good people but that takes time to get to know who they are. You won't find them in your first few months here!!!!! After 11 years I am still learning so much. I live in a typical middle class Dominican neighborhood! I am the only expat and I love my life here. 11 years of business and consulting and I pretty much know how to get things done..... but every single day I learn something new!!!," said one expat who made the move to Santo Domingo.

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How do I meet people in the Dominican Republic?
When we asked people living in the Dominican Republic about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"First thing I do in any place is look for the Expat hangouts and sit and chat. I also look for a country/area specific website to make acquaintances. Works for me and I now have parties on 4th of July, US Thanksgiving and Easter Sunday to gather all the expats I can. I get from 125 to 175 people at my events 3 times a year. Great place for networking and making friends and getting to know your new country," said one expat who made the move to Sosua.
What is life like in the Dominican Republic?
When we asked people living in the Dominican Republic what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"I found that in the city, most people are just trying to make a living. Family is also very important. The weekends are meant for socializing," explained one expat living in Santo Domingo, Dominican Rep.
"The culture revolves around home and community, it is one of the things I love about this country. It can make living here and getting things done a challenge. Embrace it as much as you can and learn to go with the flow when needed, and learn when to put your foot down!!," said one expat in Santo Domingo.
"Life for expats and digital nomads in the Dominican Republic is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and friendly people. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from exploring the country's colonial cities to taking part in outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and diving. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to budget-friendly apartments. Expats and digital nomads can also benefit from the country's strong internet infrastructure, making it easy to stay connected while living in the Dominican Republic," said one expat who made the move to Dominican Rep.
"Luperon is a small village the boaters come and stay weeks months and some years. The bay is a hurricane whole to wait out bad weather and haul your boat. Several boaters have retired and moved ashore," explained one expat living in Luperon, Dominican Rep.
Is there a lot of crime in the Dominican Republic?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"The Dominican Republic has experienced an increase in crime in recent years, with reports of violent crime, including murder, robbery, and assault, as well as property crime such as burglary and theft. Drug trafficking and organized crime are also a problem in the country. The government has taken steps to address the issue, including increasing police presence in high-crime areas and strengthening the criminal justice system," said one expat in Dominican Rep.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in the Dominican Republic accepting of differences?
"Absolutely diverse, very different from where I am from. While the country is predominantly catholic - that doesn't stop a lot of "other" activity. The DR is racially divided, economically divided and very much a culture of who you know or who you are related to. It can make work and business difficult at the very least. Are they accepting of differences - not really but you learn to work around that," commented one expat who made the move to Santo Domingo.
"People in this town run from the very wealthy to the struggling. Most people get along except the BS Artists," remarked one expat living in Sosua, Dominican Rep.
"People are very accepting, and the community is very friendly and like tourist," wrote one member in Luperon.

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What are the schools in the Dominican Republic like?
"The International School of Santo Domingo (ISSD) is one of the best international schools in the Dominican Republic. It is an independent, co-educational day school offering an American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. ISSD is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Dominican Ministry of Education. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The American School of Santo Domingo (ASSD) is another excellent international school in the Dominican Republic. It is a private, co-educational day school offering an American-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. ASSD is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and the Dominican Ministry of Education. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The British School of Santo Domingo (BSSD) is a top-notch bilingual school in the Dominican Republic. It is an independent, co-educational day school offering a British-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. BSSD is accredited by the British Schools Examination Council and the Dominican Ministry of Education. The school offers a rigorous academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication. The French School of Santo Domingo (FSSD) is another excellent bilingual school in the Dominican Republic. It is a private, co-educational day school offering a French-style curriculum for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. FSSD is accredited by the French Ministry of Education and the Dominican Ministry of Education. The school offers a comprehensive academic program, with a focus on developing critical thinking skills, problem solving, and communication," said one parent with children at in .
Is the cost of living in the Dominican Republic high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in the Dominican Republic, they wrote:
"The cost of living in the Dominican Republic is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries in the region. Additionally, utilities such as electricity and water are also quite affordable. Although the cost of living in the Dominican Republic is lower than in many other countries, it is important to note that wages are also lower, so it is important to budget accordingly," said one expat in Dominican Rep.
"The cost of living in the Dominican Republic is generally considered to be quite affordable. The capital city of Santo Domingo and other major cities such as Santiago and La Romana tend to have a higher cost of living than the rest of the country. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in the Dominican Republic can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in the Dominican Republic can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 USD per person," said one expat.
What type of recreational facilities are in the Dominican Republic?
When we asked people living in the Dominican Republic about recreational activities, they mentioned:
"Residents of the Dominican Republic enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, including beaches, parks, and golf courses. There are also many outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, and horseback riding. Water sports are popular, with opportunities for snorkeling, scuba diving, and sailing. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of spas and resorts to choose from. Shopping and dining are also popular activities, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and markets to explore," said one expat.
What is the weather like in the Dominican Republic?
"The Dominican Republic has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The average temperature is around 25°C (77°F). The rainy season runs from May to November, with the heaviest rainfall occurring in October and November. The dry season runs from December to April, with the hottest months being March and April. The Dominican Republic also experiences hurricanes during the summer months," remarked one expat living in Dominican Rep.
Are there good restaurants in the Dominican Republic?
"One of the most popular restaurants in the Dominican Republic is La Casa de los Tres Potrillos, located in Santo Domingo. This restaurant is known for its traditional Dominican cuisine, such as mofongo, chicharron, and sancocho. The atmosphere is lively and the staff is friendly, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in the Dominican Republic is El Meson de la Cava, located in Puerto Plata. This restaurant is known for its seafood dishes, such as ceviche, grilled fish, and lobster. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steak, chicken, and pork. The atmosphere is relaxed and the staff is attentive, making it a great place to enjoy a meal. Finally, La Boca del Mar is a popular restaurant located in Punta Cana. This restaurant is known for its fresh seafood dishes, such as grilled fish, shrimp, and lobster. The atmosphere is casual and the staff is friendly, making it a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," remarked one expat in Dominican Rep.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in the Dominican Republic?
"People living in the Dominican Republic typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at street vendors and small shops. Additionally, some people may shop online or at larger department stores," mentioned an expat living in Dominican Rep.
What are the visa & residency requirements in the Dominican Republic?
"In order to visit the Dominican Republic, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and the applicable visa fee. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in the Dominican Republic, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and the applicable residency fee. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. The application process also involves an interview with a Dominican immigration official. Once the application is approved, the foreign national will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," mentioned an expat living in Dominican Rep.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in the Dominican Republic?
"Healthcare and health insurance in the Dominican Republic can be expensive, especially for those who do not have access to public health services. Private health insurance plans are available, but they can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the cost of medical care in the Dominican Republic is often higher than in other countries, making it difficult for many people to afford the necessary treatments," commented one expat who moved to Dominican Rep.
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.
Additional Information:
- Dominican Rep Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Dominican Rep
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Dominican Rep
- Best Places to Live in Dominican Rep
- Guide to Real Estate in Dominican Rep
- Pros & Cons of Living in Dominican Rep
- Cost of Living in Dominican Rep
- Health Insurance for Expats in the Dominican Republic
- Best Places to Visit in the Dominican Republic for Christmas Cheer
- Christmas in the Dominican Republic
- Dengue Virus in the Dominican Republic
- Pros and Cons of Living in Dominican Rep 2025
- 2025 Guide to Moving to Dominican Rep