Parts of Puerto Rico to Live: A Detailed Guide on the Best Neighborhoods

By Steve Dez •  Updated: 01/16/24 •  8 min read

Table of Contents



Are you considering a move to Puerto Rico and wondering which part might suit your lifestyle best? From the bustling city life in San Juan, the vibrant capital city, to the serene backdrop of Culebra, an island gem – Puerto Rico is replete with diverse living options that cater to different tastes.

The southern city of Ponce known as the Pearl of the South offers colonial charm alongside modern amenities. For those seeking luxury, there’s no better place than dynamic and posh neighborhood of Condado in San Juan. If you’re a nature lover, consider living in Rincon, famously referred to as ‘the town of beautiful sunsets’, or enjoy beach-side living at its finest in the breathtaking coastal town of Isabela.

Each one offers a unique blend of Puerto Rican culture and lifestyle—a vivid tapestry that makes any part a great place to live in Puerto Rico.


parts of puerto rico to live
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Exploring San Juan: The Vibrant Capital City

Living in Puerto Rico, and specifically the capital city San Juan, is like diving headfirst into a dazzling display of culture, history, and the quintessential Caribbean charm. Now that I think about it, browsing Puerto Rico real estate listings in this bustling city is akin to thumbing through a thrilling novel packed with stories waiting to be written.

A Blend of Modern and Historical Living in San Juan

San Juan, you see, is the beating heart of Puerto Rico. It offers a unique blend of modern convenience with centuries-old history making it one of the best places to live in Puerto Rico. Here, brightly colored colonial architecture stands shoulder-to-shoulder with sleek high-rises, creating an extraordinary skyline that reflects the diverse lifestyles in Puerto Rico.

Living in Ponce: The Pearl of the South

Ponce has earned its nickname as ‘The Pearl of the South’ for good reason. With its grand neoclassical buildings and vibrant art scene – not to mention affordable housing in Puerto Rico – it truly lives up to its moniker.

Finding Your Home Sweet Home in Ponce

All things considered, if you were thinking about relocating to Puerto Rico for tranquility coupled with cultural richness, then checking out residential areas in Ponce should be top on your list.

Experiencing Luxurious Life in Condado, San Juan

Condado is often compared to Miami – and rightfully so! This neighborhood located within San Juan boasts some of the most luxurious beachfront properties in Puerto Rico and a high-end lifestyle to match.

Retirement in Condado: A Luxurious Proposition

In any case, if you’re contemplating retirement in Puerto Rico, Condado offers a sophisticated yet relaxing environment. The costs of living in Puerto Rico can vary, but here you’ll find that every dollar spent provides a priceless return in comfort and quality of life.

Embracing Nature in Rincon: The Town of Beautiful Sunsets

Ah, Rincon – the town of beautiful sunsets indeed! This charming coastal town is a paradise for nature lovers and those seeking to escape the hustle and bustle.

Relish the Rustic Charm of Living in Rincon

Rincon effortlessly blends the serenity of untouched beaches with an active community spirit, perfect for expat life in Puerto Rico. If peace, tranquility, and nature are what you yearn for, then living here might just be your dream come true.

The Charms of Living in Isabela: A Beach Paradise

Isabela takes beach living to another level. From dawn until dusk, this town showcases mesmerizing views that embody the true essence of Caribbean beauty.

Pursue Your Beach Front Dream at Isabela

By the way, if residing by endless stretches of sandy beaches has always been your dream, then Isabela could be your perfect fit within this tropical paradise called Puerto Rico.

The Tranquil Life in Culebra: An Island Gem

Culebra is amongst the safest neighborhoods in Puerto Rico—and it goes beyond physical safety. It includes safety from the stressful fast-paced life of bigger cities.

Experience Tranquility in Culebra

Living on this island is akin to being on an extended vacation, making it a popular spot for those seeking tranquility or retirement in Puerto Rico.
In conclusion, selecting the right part of Puerto Rico to live is as diverse and exciting a journey as the island itself. Whether you’re looking for vibrant city life, cultural richness, luxurious beachfront living or serene sunsets, Puerto Rico will surely enchant you with its offerings.

parts of puerto rico to live


Choosing where to reside in Puerto Rico can be exciting, especially when you consider the numerous attractions and activities available on the island. For instance, one of the most magical experiences you can have is embarking on the best bioluminescent tour in Vieques. This nighttime adventure offers an unforgettable view of glowing marine life, a must-see if you plan to live in or near Vieques.

If you have a taste for fine spirits and are considering parts of Puerto Rico known for their rich culture and history, don’t miss the best rum tour the island has to offer. On this journey, learn about the rum-making process and indulge in tasting some of the finest Caribbean rums. It’s a captivating experience that combines education with leisure, ideal for those residing near San Juan or Ponce.

Living close to nature is one of many reasons people choose Puerto Rico as their home. With Puerto Rico’s rainforests being some of the most stunning globally, considering residence near these natural wonders might be appealing. And what better way to explore these surroundings than with the best rainforest tour? This tour gives an intriguing insight into local flora and fauna – perfect if you want your new dwelling close to areas like El Yunque National Forest.

Lastly, if beachfront living catches your interest or if snorkeling is a hobby you’d like to pursue while living in Puerto Rico, stay close to areas offering exceptional underwater experiences such as Vieques or Culebra. Check out

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Frequently Asked Questions about Parts of Puerto Rico to live

Before you go…

Takeaway 1: Rio Mar – Affordable, Walkable, and Relaxed

Looking for a place to call home in Puerto Rico? Well, look no further than Rio Mar! This little gem consistently tops the charts when it comes to ratings and reviews. And why is that? Three simple words: affordable, walkable, and relaxed. Affordable: Let’s face it, living in paradise can sometimes come with a hefty price tag. But not in Rio Mar! This place knows how to give you the best bang for your buck. So you can enjoy all that Puerto Rico has to offer without breaking the bank. Walkable: Who needs a car when everything is just a stone’s throw away? In Rio Mar, you’ll find everything within walking distance. Whether it’s restaurants, shops, or beautiful beaches – you name it, and it’s right there at your fingertips. Relaxed: Life can be stressful enough as it is. That’s why finding a place where you can truly relax is essential. And let me tell you, Rio Mar has got relaxation down to an art form. Picture yourself sipping on a piña colada while lounging on the beach – pure bliss! So if affordable living, convenience, and unwinding are high on your priority list – Rio Mar is the place for you!

Takeaway 2: San Juan – Urban Vibes with Beach Life

If you’re someone who craves the best of both worlds – urban hustle and bustle combined with serene beach vibes – then San Juan should be on top of your list. With its status as the capital city of Puerto Rico and being the largest city on the island, San Juan offers more than just picturesque beaches. It boasts a robust infrastructure and abundant job opportunities that make living here a dream come true. Whether you’re strolling through the colorful streets of Old San Juan or catching some waves at one of its stunning beaches, there’s never a dull moment in this vibrant city. So if you’re looking for a place that seamlessly blends city living with beach life, San Juan has got your back!

Takeaway 3: Personal Preferences Matter

While Rio Mar and San Juan are undoubtedly fantastic options, it’s important to remember that finding the perfect place to live in Puerto Rico ultimately comes down to personal preferences
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Steve Dez

Also known as Richport, is a Puerto Rican creator and writer. He grew up in the island and always had a passion for writing, he wrote his first play at the age of 12 and has been creating content ever since. He's now a well-known blogger and creative who writes posts, songs and poetry that showcase his love for his roots, blending traditional stories with modern themes always with some adobo and boricua flavors in the mix.