15 min read
Living in the Dominican Republic means embracing year-round sunshine, turquoise beaches, and a laid-back lifestyle. From vibrant Santo Domingo to peaceful mountain towns like Jarabacoa, expats are drawn to the Dominican Republic for its warmth, affordability, and tropical freedom.
……………………………..
Deciding where to live in the Dominican Republic isn’t just about picking a city or beach—it’s about matching your lifestyle to the island’s unique regions. Whether you crave urban convenience, beach-side community, mountain serenity, or off-the-grid adventure, the Dominican Republic offers a home for every type of expat.
Instead of getting overwhelmed by options, think about your daily life:
- Do you want fast internet and coworking spaces for remote work?
- Do schools and healthcare access matter for your family?
- Or are you chasing peace, nature, and slower days away from tourist crowds?
Your answers will naturally point you toward the regions that fit your goals.
Living in the Dominican Republic also means embracing flexibility.
Infrastructure, services, and even internet speed can vary widely from one town to the next, so understanding what’s essential—and what you can compromise on—is key.
Anyone considering living in the Dominican Republic should know the reality. While tourism keeps the economy humming and resorts sparkle in brochures, daily life presents challenges: visible poverty, infrastructure gaps, and the need to adapt to island rhythms. Power cuts, traffic, and bureaucracy are part of everyday living here.
With the right approach, you can build a life that balances comfort, freedom, and adventure, all while enjoying the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and welcoming communities that make living in the Dominican Republic so appealing.
In short: living in the Dominican Republic isn’t one-size-fits-all, but with a clear sense of priorities, it’s easy to find a place that feels like home. In this guide, we’ll map it all out—from urban centers, beach towns, mountain retreats, and off-grid escapes—plus practical details to consider before living in the Dominican Republic.
Table of Contents
Calle El Conde captures the pulse of city life for those living in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
Major Urban Hub — Santo Domingo
If city life appeals to you, Santo Domingo is one of the top choices for living in the Dominican Republic. As the capital and the country’s financial and cultural hub, it combines modern conveniences, historic charm, and international amenities that smaller towns can’t match.
Located on the southern coast along the Caribbean Sea, Santo Domingo gives residents quick access to nearby beach escapes like Boca Chica (about 30 minutes) and Juan Dolio (around 45 minutes).
Its proximity to Las Américas International Airport also makes domestic and international travel easy, which is a big plus for expats.
What Santo Domingo Offers Expats
| At A Glance | Snapshot |
| Neighborhoods to Know | Zona Colonial – historic heart, walkable streets, cafes, museums. Piantini – modern high-rise apartments, business-friendly. Naco – mix of residential and commercial, close to malls and schools. Gazcue – quieter, older charm, tree-lined streets. |
| Who It’s For | Entrepreneurs, families needing schools and hospitals, professionals who want fast internet and coworking spaces, and culture lovers. |
| Pros | Top hospitals and clinics, international schools, nightlife, restaurants, malls, coworking spaces, and reliable internet. |
| Cons | Traffic, noise, occasional air pollution, higher rent than smaller towns, and safety that varies by neighborhood. Less “island vibe” than coastal towns. |
| Lifestyle | Fast-paced, urban, highly connected to business and culture. |
- Zona Colonial: Perfect for expats who enjoy historic architecture, walkable streets, and cultural immersion. Plazas, museums, and boutique shops create a European-style feel while staying authentically Dominican.
- Piantini & Naco: Modern and convenient, with access to malls, international schools, hospitals, and upscale restaurants—ideal for professionals and families.
- Gazcue: Offers a quieter, residential experience with leafy streets, local markets, and historic charm. Many expat families appreciate its slower pace and sense of community.
Life in Santo Domingo blends urban convenience with cultural richness. Expats enjoy:
- Healthcare: Private hospitals like Hospiten and Centro Médico Moderno provide international-quality care.
- Education: Options include bilingual programs, international schools, and universities.
- Transport: Public buses and metro lines exist, though many rely on cars or ride-hailing apps.
- Dining & Leisure: From fine dining in Piantini to local Dominican eateries in Gazcue, plus museums, theaters, and festivals.
- Safety: Varies by neighborhood; gated communities and expat areas are generally safer.
Expat Takeaways: For anyone living in the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo is practical, well-connected, and full of opportunities. Families, entrepreneurs, and professionals will appreciate the access to healthcare, schools, coworking spaces, and cultural activities. While it isn’t a laid-back beach town, its urban energy and conveniences make it the ideal starting point for expats seeking a city lifestyle in the Dominican Republic.
Punta Cana’s beaches deliver the ultimate resort-style living in the Dominican Republic.
Curious what everyday life in the Caribbean is really like? See the pros and cons before making the move.
Resort & Expat Infrastructure Cluster — Punta Cana / Bávaro / Cap Cana
When most people think of the Dominican Republic’s east coast, images of sun-soaked resorts come to mind. But for expats living in the Dominican Republic, areas like Punta Cana, Bávaro, and Cap Cana offer more than vacation vibes—they provide some of the best infrastructure, gated communities, and modern conveniences on the island.
Punta Cana is home to the country’s largest international airport, with direct flights to North America and Europe, making it highly convenient for frequent travelers or remote workers.
The Dominican Republic’s infrastructure translates to good roads, reliable electricity (especially in gated communities), and private healthcare clinics that meet international standards.
Supermarkets and specialty stores carry imported goods, and English is widely spoken in expat and resort areas, which eases the transition for newcomers.
For expats, living on the Dominican Republic’s east coast often means a smoother adaptation compared to more rural regions.
While Punta Cana and Cap Cana are attractive for short-term visits, expat life comes with unique considerations:
- Cost: Gated communities, imported groceries, and international schools make this one of the pricier areas for expats living in the Dominican Republic.
- Tourist season: Peak seasons bring higher prices, crowded beaches, and bustling streets, which can affect daily life.
- Infrastructure outside resorts: Roads, internet speed, and public services may lag slightly in non-gated areas, so choosing the right neighborhood is key.
Understanding these differences is essential for expats looking to balance comfort, cost, and lifestyle.
The east coast offers distinct vibes depending on where you settle:
- Punta Cana / Bávaro: Ideal for families, retirees, and remote workers seeking comfort, safety, and accessibility. The area has several coworking spaces, international schools, and recreational facilities. Beaches are pristine, and community events often cater to expats.
- Cap Cana: A luxury enclave featuring golf courses, marinas, high-end villas, and exclusive services. Cap Cana attracts wealthier retirees, investors, and those looking for a highly curated lifestyle.
- Overall vibe: Resort-style living, gated security, and reliable conveniences dominate this region. It’s perfect for expats who prioritize comfort and amenities, though it is less “Dominican Republic” culture compared to smaller towns or mountain areas.
Expat Takeaways: For those living in the Dominican Republic and considering the east coast, Punta Cana, Bávaro, and Cap Cana offer a safe, convenient, and upscale lifestyle. Families and remote professionals’ benefit from schools, coworking spaces, and reliable services, while retirees may prefer the luxury and security of Cap Cana. The trade-off is that the region is more expensive than many other parts of the country and less culturally immersive, but for many expats, the ease and comfort outweigh these compromises.
Samaná offers breathtaking oceanfront living for adventurous expats.
Beach Towns with Big Expat Scenes— Las Terrenas / Cabarete / Sosúa & Puerto Plata / Bayahibe / La Romana
For many expats, smaller beach towns in the Dominican Republic offer the perfect balance of community, culture, and coastal living. These towns attract people living in the Dominican Republic who want walkable streets, slower rhythms, and opportunities to immerse themselves in local life, while still enjoying the comforts and services expats expect.
Located on the beautiful Samaná Peninsula, Las Terrenas has become a favorite among French, European, and North American expats.
- Lifestyle & Community: Walkable beaches, local cafés, boutique shops, and weekend markets make daily life enjoyable. A mix of locals and expats creates a multicultural atmosphere without feeling overly touristy.
- Practicalities: International schools and small clinics serve expat families well, while supermarkets carry imported goods for convenience. English is spoken in most expat-frequented areas, which eases adaptation.
- Why Expats Love It: Las Terrenas allows people living in the Dominican Republic to enjoy a relaxed, European-flavored beach lifestyle while still being connected to modern conveniences.
Cabarete is a coastal hub famous for wind and water sports, attracting young, active expats and digital nomads.
- Lifestyle & Community: Kite-surfing, windsurfing, and surfing dominate weekends, while the town has gyms, yoga studios, and a social, outdoor-focused expat scene. Nightlife and cafés cater for both locals and expats.
- Practicalities: Reliable internet, coworking spaces, and short-term rentals make remote work feasible. Housing ranges from beachfront condos to small apartments in town.
- Why Expats Love It: Cabarete is perfect for those living in the Dominican Republic who want an active, adventurous lifestyle in a social community with like-minded expats.
Further west along the north coast, Sosúa and Puerto Plata offer a mix of affordability and urban convenience.
- Sosúa: Known for affordable housing, local shops, international schools, and basic medical clinics. Its established expat community provides social connections and practical support for newcomers.
- Puerto Plata: The larger city offers expanded infrastructure—shopping, hospitals, and banks while staying close to the beaches. Cultural events, historical sites, and local festivals add flavor to daily life.
- Why Expats Love It: These towns are ideal for people living in the Dominican Republic who want a balance between affordability, beach access, and a degree of city conveniences without the heavy tourist traffic of Punta Cana.
On the southeast coast, Bayahibe and La Romana appeal to expats seeking calm seas, slower rhythms, and a more relaxed lifestyle.
- Lifestyle & Community: Quiet, picturesque beaches, local restaurants, and a tight-knit expat community create a peaceful environment.
- Practicalities: Housing is generally more affordable, but fewer international conveniences exist compared to northern towns or resort areas. Grocery shopping and medical care require planning.
- Why Expats Love It: For retirees and those looking to settle down, living in the Dominican Republic in Bayahibe or La Romana offers tranquility, slower days, and the chance to enjoy authentic coastal life away from crowds.
Expat Takeaways: Beach towns in the Dominican Republic offer a wide spectrum of lifestyles. From the European charm of Las Terrenas, to the active, youthful vibe of Cabarete, and the quieter, slower pace of Bayahibe and La Romana, expats can find a community and pace that matches their priorities. For anyone living in the Dominican Republic, these towns provide a strong sense of place, access to beaches, and opportunities to integrate into both local and expat communities.
Discover Constanza’s lush mountain retreats for peaceful living in the Dominican Republic.
Curious how easy it is to live in the Dominican Republic? See if you qualify for residency and start planning your move.
Mountain & Cooler-Climate Options — Jarabacoa / Constanza
For expats seeking relief from the tropical heat or looking for adventure off the beaten path, the central mountains of the Dominican Republic offer fresh air, scenic beauty, and a slower pace of life. These towns are perfect for those who value nature, privacy, and a lifestyle that balances tranquility with opportunity.
Known as the “City of Everlasting Spring,” Jarabacoa is nestled in the lush mountains of the central Dominican Republic, offering cooler temperatures and breathtaking landscapes.
- Lifestyle & Community: Rivers, waterfalls, hiking trails, and outdoor sports dominate life here. Paragliding, rafting, and horseback riding are popular weekend activities. The small expat community is friendly and nature-oriented, making it ideal for people who want to connect with like-minded residents.
- Practicalities: While slower than coastal towns, Jarabacoa has supermarkets, medical clinics, schools, and basic services sufficient for most expats. Internet and cell coverage are generally reliable, though slower in some mountain areas.
- Why Expats Love It: Many people living in the Dominican Republic choose Jarabacoa for its mild climate, slower pace, and proximity to natural adventures, offering a refreshing alternative to city or beach life.
A short Dominican Republicive from Jarabacoa, Constanza sits in a fertile valley known for agriculture, cooler temperatures, and wide-open spaces.
- Life in Constanza is quiet and rural. Expats here enjoy farmland surroundings, fresh produce, and small-town Dominican culture. It’s ideal for people seeking peace, space, and immersion in authentic local life.
- Practicalities: Services are limited compared to Santo Domingo or Punta Cana. Expats should plan for less frequent shopping trips, and while there are small clinics, major medical needs require travel to larger cities. Roads can be winding, but the scenery makes up for it.
- Constanza attracts those living in the Dominican Republic who want a slower, nature-focused lifestyle, cooler weather, and a break from tropical heat or tourist-heavy areas.
Expat Takeaways: For expats prioritizing cooler climates, outdoor adventure, and a slower pace, the central mountains are hard to beat. Jarabacoa appeals to those who want activity and community, while Constanza is perfect for privacy, farmland life, and immersion in authentic Dominican culture. Both towns demonstrate that living in the Dominican Republic doesn’t have to mean beaches or cities—there’s a rich, scenic alternative in the mountains.
Palm-lined beaches capture the tropical beauty that makes living in the Dominican Republic irresistible.
Southwest Escape: Tranquil Towns & Coastal Life — Barahona / Pedernales / Monte Cristi / Luperón
If you’re drawn to quieter coastlines, raw natural beauty, and towns where life still moves at a relaxed pace, the Dominican Republic’s southwest delivers. Barahona, Pedernales, Monte Cristi, and Luperón offer a mix of affordable living, untouched beaches, and low-key communities that appeal to freedom-seekers who want ocean access without the resort crowds.
Located on the rugged southwest coast, Barahona is known for its wild beaches, dramatic cliffs, and slow pace of life.
- Lifestyle & Community: Life here is quiet and unhurried. Expats enjoy walking along empty beaches, exploring nearby national parks, and connecting with a small but tight-knit local community. Outdoor adventure is abundant, from hiking mountains to snorkeling along coral reefs.
- Practicalities: Infrastructure is limited. Roads can be rough, and healthcare options are basic, requiring travel to larger cities for specialized care. Small markets serve daily needs, but imported goods are harder to find.
- Why Expats Love It: For those seeking living in the Dominican Republic with maximum privacy, affordability, and natural beauty, Barahona offers a unique, untamed coastal lifestyle.
Near the Haitian border, Pedernales is one of the most remote areas in the Dominican Republic.
- Lifestyle & Community: The beaches here are pristine, and the landscape is raw and dramatic. The community is very small, and life moves at a deliberately slow pace. Ecotourism is emerging, offering opportunities for adventurous expats.
- Practicalities: Services are minimal—expect limited groceries, clinics, and schools. Expats must be comfortable with self-sufficiency, occasional travel for essentials, and basic infrastructure.
- Why Expats Love It: Pedernales is perfect for those living in the Dominican Republic who value remoteness, natural beauty, and a truly off-grid lifestyle.
Further north and west, towns like Monte Cristi and Luperón, as well as other small western towns, appeal to expats seeking quiet, authentic experiences.
- Lifestyle & Community: These towns are slower, more affordable, and provide a sense of true Dominican daily life. Expats often become part of the local community, attending festivals, markets, and community events.
- Practicalities: Healthcare is limited and basic, and infrastructure may not meet international standards. Internet and transportation options vary by town, so flexibility is important.
- Why Expats Love It: These locations offer a combination of affordability, quiet living, and cultural immersion. For expats living in the Dominican Republic, they represent an opportunity to escape the tourist trail while enjoying local connections and a simpler lifestyle.
Expat Takeaways: The southwest and western regions of the Dominican Republic are ideal for adventurous expats who prioritize privacy, affordability, and authentic cultural experiences over convenience. From Barahona’s rugged coastline to Pedernales’ remote beaches and Monte Cristi’s small-town charm, these areas show that living in the Dominican Republic can mean discovering hidden corners that few visitors ever see—but doing so requires flexibility, self-sufficiency, and a love of authentic, off-the-beaten-path life.
Quick Guide: Who Should Live Where
| Who You Are / What You Want | Best Places to Live in the Dominican Republic | Why It Works for You |
| Remote Workers & Digital Nomads | Cabarete, Las Terrenas, Punta Cana | Reliable internet, coworking spaces, active expat networks, walkable beaches, or resort hubs with modern amenities. |
| Families with Kids | Santo Domingo, Santiago, Las Terrenas | Access to international schools, hospitals, family-friendly neighborhoods, and community resources. |
| Retirees & Early Retirees | La Romana, Bayahibe, Cap Cana, Jarabacoa | Quiet, relaxed pace, safer communities, scenic views, good healthcare access, and a slower lifestyle with nature and leisure options. |
| Adventure & Nature Lovers | Jarabacoa, Pedernales, Barahona | Outdoor adventure, mountain or remote beach living, hiking, surfing, rafting; smaller, close-knit expat communities. |
| Budget-Conscious Expats | Sosúa, Monte Cristi, Luperón | Lower cost of living, affordable housing, simpler lifestyle, and an authentic Dominican Republic experience. |
| Luxury & Resort Lifestyle Seekers | Punta Cana, Bávaro, Cap Cana | Gated communities, high-end villas, beaches, security, and resort-style convenience. |
Barahona’s wild, untamed coastline attracts expats seeking off-the-grid living in the Dominican Republic.
Thinking about freedom, sun, and adventure in the Caribbean? Find out what life is truly like for expats and families.
Practical Concerns for Expats Living in the Dominican Republic
- Safety: Tourist zones and gated communities are well-patrolled, but petty theft exists. Choosing secure housing and staying aware of local hotspots is essential.
- Healthcare: Private hospitals in Santo Domingo and Santiago provide high-quality care, while rural areas have limited facilities. Most expats rely on private insurance.
- Internet & Connectivity: Fiber-optic internet is common in urban and beach hubs; smaller towns and mountains may have slower speeds or occasional outages.
- Transportation: Dominican Republic living can be chaotic. Many expats combine a personal car with buses or domestic flights for intercity travel.
- Cash: Using cash is common outside urban centers. Credit cards work in cities and resorts. Many expats open local bank accounts.
- Taxes: Residents pay progressive income tax on worldwide income; property taxes are low for homes under ~$130k USD.
- Real Estate: Punta Cana/Bávaro condos are modern and turnkey; Jarabacoa/Constanza homes offer land and cooler climates; beachfront homes in Las Terrenas/Cabarete are higher cost due to expat demand.
Tropical Climate:
Dry season: December–April
Wet season: May–November
Hurricane season: June–November
Temporary and permanent residency, and investment visas are available. Many expats hire lawyers to help with applications.
👉 Quickly check if you qualify for residency in the Dominican Republic using our Free Latin America Residency Map.
Making Your Move: Deciding Where to Live in the Dominican Republic
Choosing where to live in the Dominican Republic is about matching your priorities to the island’s diverse regions.
Think about your daily life: work, family, lifestyle, climate, and community. Are you chasing comfort and convenience, beachside social life, mountain adventure, or remote solitude? Understanding your priorities will help you find a location that supports your expat life in the Dominican Republic.
Every region offers a distinct experience—from bustling cities to laid-back beaches, cool mountains, and hidden corners of the island.
By identifying what matters most, you can create a fulfilling life in the Dominican Republic that balances freedom, community, and adventure, making the country truly feel like home.
Want a fresh start in the Caribbean? Find out how to get Dominican Republic residency with our Residency Map.