5 Reasons Expats Are Moving to the DR North Coast

1. The Cost of Living is Lower

A major draw to the Dominican Republic, especially for North Americans, is the vast difference in living expenses. On average, the cost of living in the US is 97.2% higher than in the Dominican Republic (not including rental prices).

Basic expenses like groceries, clothing, public transportation, and utilities can all be found at a much lower price in the Dominican Republic, making it a more affordable place to live for many people. Whether you’re planning to come here solo, with a partner, or the whole family in tow, you won’t have to go far to find affordable housing, shopping, healthcare, and other necessities.

2. Sand and Surf, Hurricane-Free

Did you know that the Dominican Republic’s North Coast is hurricane-free? Not easy to believe, but it’s very true! The Sosua and Cabarete region is protected from the damaging effects of hurricanes due to our proximity to the Mona Passage, storm-blocking reefs, and the temperature and pressure system created by our cool mountain ranges and warm coastline.

While we still get our fair share of tropical storms, you won’t have to worry about battening down the hatches during hurricane season—you can kick back and relax in the sunshine!

3. Life Moves at a Slower Pace

Many North Americans spend decades rushing to and from their 9-5 jobs, with very little time for anything outside of work, commuting, and sleep. If you’ve been wanting a break from the demands of American work culture, then the Dominican Republic is the right place for you. In the DR, we embrace “life tranquilo,” a philosophy that involves taking our time and living day-to-day at a natural pace.

No one is in a rush, and you’ll see plenty of town residents sitting down to daytime drinks and coffees, relaxing by the beach, and visiting with friends (you also have to get used to shops opening and closing at more narrow times).

4. There’s Great Property Investment Opportunities

In addition to the lifestyle benefits the Dominican Republic offers, there are also great financial opportunities for North Americans. Our government heavily encourages and supports foreign investment from Americans and Canadians, so much so that you’re entitled to certain tax benefits when you purchase a property.

Not to mention, our real estate market is much more affordable than many of the options available in your home country. At Casa Linda, our luxury villas start at $219,800 USD, around $200,000 less than the average cost of a house in the United States.

Not Ready to Take the Leap? Consider Co-Ownership

If you’re not sure whether you want to move to the Dominican Republic yet, you can still invest in a DR property with our Co-Ownership program. You get all the benefits of owning a home without the responsibilities that come with solo ownership. Check out our YouTube channel for a full breakdown of how this program works.

5. DR Locals Love to Welcome Newcomers

The best part? You will be warmly welcomed into our community! Sosua, Cabarete, and Puerto Plata have a thriving expat community, with a strong presence from Canada and the United States. DR locals are also very warm and friendly, and love welcoming new people to our corner of the world.

We are excited for you to make a new start within our community! Casa Linda is filled with vacationers and temporary residents who can't get enough of life in the tropics (you can learn more about their experiences by reading our Owner Stories).