Relocating to Puerto Rico for higher studies is an exciting opportunity, but understanding the cost of living in Puerto Rico is crucial to managing your finances effectively. By gaining a clear understanding of these costs, students can plan their budgets wisely, ensuring a smooth transition to life on the island.
This blog will explore the various aspects of the cost of living in Puerto Rico, including housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and education. With this detailed information, students can better prepare themselves for life in Puerto Rico and fully enjoy the island’s vibrant culture without facing financial strain. Let’s dive in and take a closer look at the key expenses!
Table of contents
- Overview of the Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
- Costs of Accommodation in Puerto Rico
- Costs of Utilities in Puerto Rico
- Costs of Groceries and Food in Puerto Rico
- Transportation Cost in Puerto Rico
- Miscellaneous Costs in Puerto Rico
- Cost of Studying in Puerto Rico
- Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Other States of the US
- FAQS on Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
Overview of the Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
For international students, the average cost of living in Puerto Rico is approximately USD 1,519 per month, covering expenses like food and rent. This makes Puerto Rico 1.46 times more affordable than the average cost of living in the United States. However, the cost of living in Puerto Rico can vary based on factors such as location, lifestyle, and individual spending habits.
The primary expenses that contribute to the cost of living in Puerto Rico include accommodation, transportation, groceries, utilities, and other miscellaneous costs. Below, we provide an overview of the average monthly expenses in Puerto Rico, giving you a detailed insight into what to expect as you plan your budget.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost |
| Cost of Living with Rent | USD 1,519 |
| 1 bedroom Rent | USD 757 |
| Utilities | USD 138 |
| Food | USD 552 |
| Transport | USD 67 |
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Costs of Accommodation in Puerto Rico
Accommodation in the USA region is typically the largest expense for international students, especially in Puerto Rico. The rental market can vary greatly depending on the location and type of property. By understanding these costs, students can make informed decisions about where to live, which can have a significant impact on their overall cost of living in Puerto Rico. Here is an overview of the approx cost of accommodation in Puerto Rico:
| Accommodation Type | Size of apartment | Approx. Cost |
| 1 bedroom apartment in city center | 40 m² or 430 ft² | USD 757 |
| Cheap 1 bedroom apartment | 40 m² or 430 ft² | USD 544 |
Costs of Utilities in Puerto Rico
Utilities are an essential part of housing costs that residents in Puerto Rico must account for. Monthly utility expenses can vary depending on the size of the property and individual usage. Utilities in Puerto Rico typically include electricity, water, heating, cooling, and garbage collection.
Being aware of standard utility costs is crucial for budgeting effectively when planning for the cost of living in Puerto Rico. Below is an overview of the typical utility expenses in Puerto Rico, which can help you plan your monthly budget.
| Utility Type | Cost |
| Utility bill for one person (electricity, heating, water, etc.) | USD 138 |
| Internet plan (50 Mbps+, 1-month unlimited) | USD 63 |
Costs of Groceries and Food in Puerto Rico
Grocery prices in Puerto Rico tend to be higher due to the island’s reliance on imported goods. Basic items like milk, bread, and other everyday essentials may cost more than similar products on the mainland U.S. Additionally, grocery expenses can vary depending on individual dietary preferences and shopping habits.
Understanding the costs of groceries is crucial for budgeting and managing the overall cost of living in Puerto Rico. Below is a table providing an overview of common grocery costs in Puerto Rico.
| Item | Quantity | Approx Price |
| Milk | 1 L or 1 qt | USD 2.01 |
| Bread | 0.5 kg or 1.1 lb | USD 3.06 |
| Rice | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 2.31 |
| Eggs | x12 | USD 4.76 |
| Cheese | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 9.42 |
| Apples | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 4.48 |
| Banana | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 2.41 |
| Oranges | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 3.35 |
| Tomato | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 4.65 |
| Potato | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 3.37 |
| Onion | 1 kg or 2.2 lb | USD 2.71 |
| Water | 1 L or 1 qt | USD 1.17 |
Dining out in Puerto Rico is relatively affordable, with an inexpensive restaurant meal averaging around USD 16.3. A dinner for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around USD 75. On the other hand, a fast food meal, such as at McDonald’s, will cost approximately USD 9.58. These prices make it easier to enjoy local cuisine and dining experiences without breaking the bank.
Transportation Cost in Puerto Rico
Transportation costs play a significant role when considering the overall cost of living in Puerto Rico. Depending on the mode of travel, expenses can vary, so understanding these options will help you budget effectively.
- Public Buses: Public buses, especially in San Juan, are an economical option, with fares of around USD 0.75 per ride. However, service can be irregular, so it’s best to be patient.
- Metro: The San Juan metro system offers a cost-effective way to navigate the city, with one-way tickets priced at approximately USD 1.50. Frequent travellers can benefit from daily or monthly passes.
- Taxis: Taxis are widely available in larger cities. Since fares are not metered, it’s important to agree on the price before starting your trip. Short trips within San Juan typically cost between USD 15-25.
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Miscellaneous Costs in Puerto Rico
In addition to the major expenses like housing, food, and transportation, miscellaneous costs can also impact the overall cost of living in Puerto Rico. These smaller, often overlooked expenses can add up and should be factored into your Puerto Rico budget to ensure a more accurate financial plan. Below is a table providing an overview of common miscellaneous costs in Puerto Rico.
| Miscellaneous | Approx Cost |
| Movie Ticket | USD 10.7 |
| Fitness Club | USD 33.3 |
| Brand Jeans | USD 42.4 |
| Brand Sneakers | USD 82.8 |
| Doctor’s visit | USD 59.7 |
Cost of Studying in Puerto Rico
Puerto Rico offers a diverse range of educational opportunities, with over 152 accredited universities and colleges. These institutions follow the U.S. education system, granting four-year bachelor’s degrees, Master of Arts (MA), Master of Science (MSc) degrees, and occasionally PhDs.
The cost of studying in Puerto Rico varies based on factors such as university type, program, and residency status. Here’s a breakdown of what prospective international students should consider for the cost of studying in Puerto Rico.
| University Name | Type of University | Tuition Fees (International Students) |
| Universidad de Puerto Rico | Public | USD 5,000 to USD 7,000 per year |
| Universidad Interamericana de Puerto Rico | Private, Non-profit | USD 2,500 to USD 5,000 per year |
| Universidad Politécnica de Puerto Rico | Private, Non-profit | USD 8,040 per year |
| Universidad del Sagrado Corazón | Private | USD 5,780 per year |
Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Other States of the US
By comparing the cost of living in Puerto Rico with other U.S. states, students can better understand the budget they should expect for living expenses. Below, we compare the cost of living in Puerto Rico with the U.S. overall, as well as with specific states like Texas, Ohio, and Florida.
Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Texas
When comparing the Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Texas, Puerto Rico generally offers lower housing and healthcare costs. Rent and property prices in Puerto Rico are significantly more affordable, especially in comparison to major cities in Texas like Austin or Houston. The cost of living in Texas is around USD 2,141, which is generally higher than in Puerto Rico.
While grocery prices can be slightly higher in Puerto Rico due to the reliance on imports, transportation costs are similar in both regions. However, Puerto Rico’s limited public transit options may increase transportation expenses. Overall, Puerto Rico can be 10-20% less expensive than living in Texas.
Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Ohio
When comparing the Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Ohio, Puerto Rico generally offers lower housing and healthcare costs. Rent and property prices in Puerto Rico are significantly more affordable compared to cities in Ohio like Columbus or Cleveland. The cost of living in Ohio is approximately USD 1,914, which is typically higher than in Puerto Rico for a single person.
While groceries tend to be more expensive in Puerto Rico due to import costs, transportation expenses are relatively similar. Puerto Rico’s limited public transportation options can increase overall transportation costs. Overall, Puerto Rico is typically 15-25% less expensive than living in Ohio.
Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Florida
When comparing the Cost of Living in Puerto Rico vs Florida, Puerto Rico generally offers lower housing and healthcare costs. Rent and property prices in Puerto Rico are much more affordable compared to major cities in Florida like Miami or Orlando. The cost of living in Florida is around USD 2,518, which is typically higher than in Puerto Rico.
While grocery prices are more affordable in Florida due to local agriculture, Puerto Rico experiences slightly higher grocery costs due to importation. Transportation costs are similar in both regions, although Puerto Rico’s limited public transit options may result in higher expenses. Overall, Puerto Rico can be 10-20% less expensive than living in Florida.
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FAQS on Cost of Living in Puerto Rico
The average cost of living in Puerto Rico is approximately USD 1,519 per month, excluding rent. However, this figure can vary depending on the specific location, lifestyle, and individual spending habits.
The average living cost for international students in Puerto Rico is around USD 1,519, which is around 1.46 times less expensive than the United States average. Because of this, Puerto Rico offers an excellent lifestyle, particularly for students.
To live comfortably in Puerto Rico, a student would need about USD 1,519 per month, including rent and food. This figure represents the general cost of living in Puerto Rico for an individual in the region.
Puerto Rico is generally considered to be an affordable place to live in the U.S. region because the average cost of living for a single person is around USD 1,519 per month (including rent), which is higher than the national average.
The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Puerto Rico’s city centre is around USD 757 per month. However, outside the city area, the rent can be as low as USD 544 per month.
On average, utility costs in Puerto Rico amount to around USD 138 per month for an individual. The utility costs in this can vary depending on the size of your accommodation and the time of year.
Dining out in Puerto Rico can vary, with fast food meals typically costing around USD 9.58 per person, while meals at more casual restaurants can be around USD 74.4 for two people.
The cost of groceries in Puerto Rico varies depending on your dietary preferences. For example, milk costs about USD 2.01 per litre, bread costs USD 3.06 for 0.5 kg, and fruits cost around USD 2.5 to USD 4.5 per kilogram.
A one-way fare for a public transportation ticket in Puerto Rico typically costs around USD 1.72. Monthly passes are available for around USD 52.8.
A taxi ride in Puerto Rico for 5 km typically costs around USD 22. However, the fare can vary depending on the region.
A monthly gym membership in Puerto Rico costs approximately USD 33.3. However, the membership cost can vary depending on the region.
A cinema ticket for one person in Puerto Rico typically costs USD 11. However, the cost of a cinema ticket can vary depending on the region.
No, Puerto Rico is cheaper to live in than the US. The average cost of living in Puerto Rico is USD 1,519, which is notably lower than the average cost of living in the US, which is USD 2,454.
Puerto Rico is cheaper to live in than Texas because the average cost of living in Puerto Rico is USD 1,519, which is notably lower than the average cost of living in Texas, which is USD 2,141.
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