Dominican Republic
Cost of living in Santo Domingo
Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic, on the Caribbean coast. It has a two-line metro, and the hot climate makes electricity a larger share of utility bills when air conditioning is used.
What it costs to live in Santo Domingo
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Santo Domingo comes to an estimated $1,117 a month: the 11th lowest of 19 cities and 4% above the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 50% of the total. Compared with the median city, you would spend more on transport, utilities and internet.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $513 | $768 | $1,143 |
| Average | $842 | $1,117 | $1,572 |
| Comfortable | $1,213 | $1,583 | $2,138 |
Every figure is a modeled estimate in US dollars, not an individually observed price. Q1–Q2 2026 data, not re-verified since. Methodology
Your budget in Santo Domingo
Adjust the household, lifestyle and any category.
Monthly breakdown by category
One person, 1-bed apartment, average lifestyle. Median = the middle city of all 19.
| Category | Santo Domingo | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $560 | 50% | $540 |
| Groceries | $210 | 19% | $200 |
| Transport | $50 | 4% | $40 |
| Utilities | $65 | 6% | $58 |
| Internet | $32 | 3% | $28 |
| Coworking | $100 | 9% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $100 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $1,117 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Santo Domingo
Before signing, always ask about the deposit, any rent paid in advance, whether a guarantor is required and who pays utilities and building fees. These terms vary between landlords and are not fixed legal requirements.
Moving to Santo Domingo
Visa and residency rules in Dominican Republic depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Dominican Republic's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.