Moving to the Dominican Republic: The Complete Guide

Moving to the Dominican Republic from the United States is one of the most rewarding decisions I have made, and also one of the most chaotic. The logistics are manageable if you know what to expect. Here is the practical guide I wish I had before my move.

Should You Ship Your Belongings?

Short answer: ship less than you think. A 20-foot container from Miami to Santo Domingo costs $2,500 to $4,000 depending on the shipping company and season. Customs duties add 20 to 40 percent of declared value on most items. Electronics, appliances, and furniture are cheaper to buy locally or on the Dominican market than to ship and pay import taxes. Ship sentimental items, specialty tools, and anything you cannot replace. Buy everything else here.

How Do You Find an Apartment?

Facebook Marketplace and local groups like “Apartamentos en Alquiler Santo Domingo” are where most rentals are listed. Corotos.com is the local classifieds site. In Santo Domingo, the expat neighborhoods are Piantini, Naco, Evaristo Morales, and Bella Vista. A modern one-bedroom in these areas runs $500 to $800 per month. Do not sign a lease without visiting in person. Photos lie more here than they do on US rental sites.

Setting Up Utilities and Internet

Electricity is the biggest adjustment. Power outages are common outside gated communities and modern buildings. Look for apartments with an inverter (backup battery system) or a generator. Internet is surprisingly good in Santo Domingo. Altice and Claro offer fiber connections up to 300 Mbps for about $30 to $50 per month. Cell phone plans with unlimited data cost $15 to $25 per month.

Cultural Adjustments Nobody Warns You About

Dominican time is real. If someone says “ahora” (now), that means within the next hour. “Ahorita” (right now) means within the next two hours. “Manana” could mean literally any day in the future. Adjust your expectations and your blood pressure will thank you. Noise levels are higher than anything you experienced in the US. Music, traffic, roosters, neighbors. Bring earplugs or learn to love it. The food is incredible once you learn to navigate it. Comedores (local eateries) serve the best meals in the country for $3 to $5.