🌍 Overview
San Juan, Puerto Rico, is a vibrant city that has been gaining popularity among digital nomads in recent years. As a seasoned digital nomad who has spent several months living and working in San Juan, I can attest to its unique charm and attractions. The city offers a perfect blend of rich culture, stunning beaches, and a thriving nightlife, making it an ideal destination for remote workers looking for a Caribbean lifestyle. With its relatively low cost of living, high-speed internet, and friendly locals, San Juan is an excellent choice for digital nomads who want to experience the best of island life without breaking the bank.
As a San Juan digital nomad, you’ll have access to a wide range of amenities and activities, from exploring the historic Old San Juan to enjoying the beautiful beaches in Condado and Ocean Park. The city’s tropical climate means that you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round, and the locals are warm and welcoming to foreigners. Whether you’re looking to immerse yourself in the local culture, try new foods, or simply relax on the beach, San Juan has something for everyone.
🏘️ Best Neighborhoods for Digital Nomads
When it comes to choosing a neighborhood to live in San Juan, there are several options that are popular among digital nomads. Here are three of my favorite areas to consider:
- Old San Juan: This historic neighborhood is a must-visit for anyone interested in history, architecture, and culture. The colorful buildings, narrow streets, and picturesque plazas make it a charming place to live and work. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in Old San Juan for around $800-$1,200 per month (USD), which is approximately 2,500-3,500 Puerto Rican dollars.
- Condado: This upscale neighborhood is located just outside of Old San Juan and offers a more modern and luxurious lifestyle. Condado is known for its beautiful beaches, high-end restaurants, and trendy bars. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in Condado for around $1,000-$1,500 per month (USD), which is approximately 3,000-4,500 Puerto Rican dollars.
- Santurce: This artsy neighborhood is a hub for creatives and digital nomads. Santurce is home to many street art murals, independent coffee shops, and boutique stores. You can find a one-bedroom apartment in Santurce for around $600-$1,000 per month (USD), which is approximately 1,800-3,000 Puerto Rican dollars.
Each of these neighborhoods has its own unique character and advantages, so it’s worth exploring each area to find the one that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Cost of Living Breakdown
The cost of living in San Juan is relatively low compared to other major cities in the United States. Here’s a breakdown of some typical expenses you might incur as a digital nomad in San Juan:
- Rent: $814 per month (USD) for a one-bedroom apartment, which is approximately 2,500 Puerto Rican dollars
- Food: $10-$15 per meal (USD) for mid-range restaurants, which is approximately 30-45 Puerto Rican dollars. Groceries can cost around $50-$75 per week (USD) for basic items, which is approximately 150-225 Puerto Rican dollars.
- Transportation: $2 per ride (USD) for public transportation, which is approximately 6 Puerto Rican dollars. A monthly public transportation pass can cost around $30-$50 (USD), which is approximately 90-150 Puerto Rican dollars.
- Coworking: $100-$200 per month (USD) for a desk at a coworking space, which is approximately 300-600 Puerto Rican dollars.
Overall, the cost of living in San Juan is around 20-30% lower than in major cities in the United States, making it an attractive option for digital nomads who want to stretch their budget.
Internet & Coworking
San Juan has a well-developed internet infrastructure, with average speeds of 43 Mbps. You can find coworking spaces throughout the city, including popular spots like:
- Piloto 151: A modern coworking space in Old San Juan with high-speed internet and a community of entrepreneurs and digital nomads.
- Santurce Es Ley: A coworking space in Santurce that offers a collaborative environment and access to networking events.
- The Lab: A coworking space in Condado that provides a comfortable and productive workspace with high-speed internet.
Cafes with good internet and a welcoming atmosphere include:
- Café Rico: A popular spot in Old San Juan with strong coffee and reliable internet.
- La Parroquia: A charming cafe in Santurce with a cozy atmosphere and fast internet.
- Kokomo: A beachfront cafe in Condado with stunning views and decent internet.
San Juan has a growing digital nomad community, with many events and meetups organized throughout the year. Some popular groups and events include:
- San Juan Digital Nomads: A Facebook group for digital nomads living and working in San Juan, with regular meetups and events.
- Puerto Rico Tech Meetups: A group that organizes meetups and conferences for the tech and startup community in Puerto Rico.
- Nomad List San Juan: A community-driven group that provides resources and information for digital nomads in San Juan.
Culture & Lifestyle
San Juan is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there’s always something to do or explore. The local customs and traditions are a unique blend of Spanish, African, and indigenous influences. Some popular activities and events include:
- Fiestas de la Cruz: A annual festival in Old San Juan that celebrates the city’s patron saint with music, food, and dancing.
- San Sebastián Street Festival: A popular festival in Old San Juan that features live music, street food, and local artisans.
- Beach volleyball: A popular activity in Condado and Ocean Park, with many courts and tournaments throughout the year.
The food scene in San Juan is also worth exploring, with a mix of traditional Puerto Rican cuisine and modern fusion restaurants. Some popular dishes include:
- Mofongo: A traditional Puerto Rican dish made from mashed plantains and filled with meat or seafood.
- Arroz con gandules: A classic Puerto Rican rice dish made with pigeon peas and pork.
- Empanadas: A popular snack in San Juan, with many variations and fillings.
As a digital nomad, you’ll need to consider your visa options for living and working in San Juan. The United States has a special relationship with Puerto Rico, and citizens of the United States do not need a visa to live and work on the island. However, if you’re not a U.S. citizen, you may need to apply for a visa or obtain a work permit.
Puerto Rico offers a Act 60/22 visa program for remote workers and digital nomads, which provides tax incentives and a streamlined application process. The program is designed to attract remote workers and entrepreneurs to the island, and it offers a range of benefits, including:
- Tax exemptions: Exemptions from income tax, property tax, and other taxes for qualified applicants.
- Streamlined application process: A simplified application process for remote workers and entrepreneurs.
- Residency requirements: Flexible residency requirements for qualified applicants.
It’s worth noting that the visa requirements and regulations can change, so it’s essential to check with the Puerto Rican government or a qualified immigration attorney for the latest information.
💡 Practical Tips
Here are some practical tips for digital nomads living and working in San Juan:
- SIM cards: You can purchase a SIM card from a local provider like Claro or T-Mobile, which offers affordable data plans and coverage throughout the island.
- Transportation: Public transportation in San Juan is reliable and affordable, with buses and taxis available throughout the city. You can also rent a car or use ride-sharing services like Uber.
- Safety: San Juan is generally a safe city, but as with any major city, it’s essential to take precautions to protect yourself and your belongings. Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas at night, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
- Weather: San Juan has a tropical climate, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year. Be sure to stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and dress accordingly.
