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Puerto Rico (PR)

Puerto Rico is a self-governing US Commonwealth (Estado Libre Asociado) in the northeastern Caribbean, offering a unique blend of vibrant Latin culture, US legal framework, and tropical island living.

Capital: San Juan
Region: Americas
Language: Spanish
Currency: USD ($)
Cost of living: Moderate (index 65)
Emergency: 911
Free
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Currency & Money

Practical money tips for living in Puerto Rico.

$
US Dollar
USD

Denominations

Coins: 1¢, 5¢, 10¢, 25¢, 50¢, $1. Notes: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, $100.

Payment Culture

Puerto Rico is predominantly card-based in urban areas. Visa and Mastercard are accepted nearly everywhere. Cash is still used for small purchases, tipping, and at rural roadside stalls (kioskos). ATMs are widely available.

ATM Tips

Use ATMs from major US banks (Banco Popular, FirstBank, Oriental Bank, Scotiabank) to avoid foreign fees. US bank account holders with fee-free ATM access can withdraw without charges at affiliated ATMs.

Exchange Tips

No exchange needed for USD holders. For other currencies, exchange at a bank or use Wise/Revolut for transfers. Avoid airport currency exchanges. Major US bank transfers to Puerto Rico operate as domestic US transfers.

Pro tip: Best apps for expats

  • • Wise — Send money internationally at near-interbank rates
  • • Revolut — Multi-currency account, free ATM withdrawals (limits apply)
  • • N26 — German IBAN, free account, good for EU residents