Money, Budget, and Shopping in Puerto Rico

Money

Currency

Currency: US dollar (100 cents).

Bills: $1, $2, $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100.

Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, and 50 cents + $1.

Exchange:

Exchange

If you didn’t bring enough dollars with you, you can always exchange your currency (not always at a good rate for euros) at banks or, more simply, use ATMs.

Payment methods

In addition to cash, credit cards are widely accepted, just like in the US, especially in tourist areas and for services. However, watch out for bank fees if you make too many small purchases or withdrawals.

Returning home

Since you’ll be using US dollars during your trip, there’s no issue with exchanging any leftover money later or simply using it on another trip.

Budget

While Puerto Rico is one of the top five most visited destinations in the Caribbean, largely by American tourists, it isn’t the most expensive and actually falls within the mid-range. Unlike other islands in the region (the Virgin Islands, the Caymans, etc.), its economy and infrastructure aren’t solely geared toward luxury tourism or high-budget travelers. If you venture away from the most crowded areas, especially in peak season, and opt for more local spots (though be mindful of safety in certain places), a trip to Puerto Rico can remain affordable on a reasonable budget. Budget travelers can expect to spend around $60 to $80 per day per person (based on two people).

Note that, as with all countries using the US dollar, exchange rate fluctuations—particularly against the euro—can make the destination more or less expensive depending on the time of year and the current rate. Also, like in the US, local taxes (generally between 5% and 10%) are added to displayed prices.

What can be expensive

Peak season and tourist areas.

Local taxes to be added.

What can be affordable

Camping.

Price range

Budget double room: around $50–$60 for a double in guesthouses or small inns (and $15–$20 for a campsite).

Mid-range double room: at least $100–$150 in hotel chains or mid-range establishments.

Snacks or local meals: you can get by for $5 to $10.

Tourist-area meals: around $15.

Budget car rental: $30 to $40 per day for a small model.

One hour of bus/minibus:

Urban taxi:

Urban bus: $0.75 per ticket.

Bargaining and tipping

Bargaining

Tipping

Puerto Rico follows the same customs as the US in this regard, as it does in many others. While tipping isn’t mandatory, it’s deeply ingrained in the culture, particularly for certain professions, starting with bar and restaurant staff. These workers often rely primarily—if not entirely—on tips (which, incidentally, suits many employers just fine). It’s customary to leave 15% to 20% of the bill as a "tip." If paying by card, there’s a designated space on the receipt to specify the amount you’d like to leave. In any case, it’s best not to leave this section blank.

Beyond servers, you might also tip hotel baggage handlers ($2 or $3), valets (same), taxi drivers (5% to 10% of the fare), or even supermarket baggers (around $1).