Are you looking for a new place to retire? If so, you should consider Puerto Rico. This beautiful island offers many activities and amenities that make your retirement years the best of your life. Here are a few reasons why living in Puerto Rico should be on your retirement bucket list.
Reasons to live in Puerto Rico when you retire
Let’s look at why living in Puerto Rico should be on your retirement bucket list.
The weather is perfect
If you’re looking for warm weather, Puerto Rico is the place for you. The average temperature is a balmy 84 degrees Fahrenheit. And, even in the winter months, the temperature rarely dips below 70 degrees. Puerto Rico’s climate is hard to beat, whether you enjoy basking in the sun or avoiding frigid temperatures. Some fun activities to do in this weather are:
Laying on the beach- With over 300 miles of coastline, Puerto Rico offers plenty of opportunities to enjoy the sand and surf.
Hiking- Puerto Rico is also home to El Yunque National Forest, the only tropical forest in the US National Forest system.
The food is fantastic
Puerto Rican cuisine is a mouth-watering blend of Spanish, African, and Taíno influences. One of the most popular dishes is mofongo, a dish made with mashed plantains typically served with chicken, beef, or shrimp. Another must-try meal is asopao, a hearty soup made with rice, chicken, and vegetables. Puerto Rican food is sure to please even the most discerning palate.
Puerto rico tax incentives
The most significant benefit of living in this amazing country is the Puerto Rico tax incentives. It can be a considerable saving for retirees on a fixed income. In addition, Puerto Rico also offers many other tax incentives, including:
- A property tax exemption for homes valued up to $60,000.
- A sales tax exemption on certain items, such as prescription drugs and medical equipment.
The cost of living is relatively low
Puerto Rico is a great place to live if you’re looking for an affordable retirement destination. The cost of living is about 20% lower than the US mainland. And, if you’re a US citizen, you can use the dollar as your currency, making budgeting for retirement a lot easier.
This low cost of living extends to housing. There are many affordable retirement communities on the island. In addition, Puerto Rico offers a property tax exemption for homes valued at up to $60,000.
There’s no need for a car
A great thing about retiring in Puerto Rico is that you don’t need a car. The island has an excellent public transportation system, and many retirees find that they can get around just fine without a car, and it can save you much on insurance, gas, and maintenance costs.
The healthcare is good
Puerto Rico offers high-quality healthcare at an affordable price. The island has over 60 hospitals, clinics, and numerous pharmacies. And Puerto Ricans have access to the US Medicare system. It can give you peace of mind knowing that you’ll be able to get the care you need.
There are plenty of things to do
Puerto Rico is a great place to retire if you’re looking for an active lifestyle. The island offers a wide range of activities, from golf and tennis to hiking and fishing. There are many museums and historical sites to explore. And, if you’re a fan of the arts, Puerto Rico has a thriving arts scene.
It’s a great place to meet new people
Puerto Rico is a melting pot of cultures, and retirees will find plenty of opportunities to meet new people. There are many social clubs and organizations on the island, as well as community events and festivals. Puerto Rico is a perfect choice if you’re looking for a place to make new friends.
The scenery is beautiful
Puerto Rico is an island paradise, and it’s no wonder that retirees are drawn to its stunning scenery. From the pristine beaches to the lush rainforests, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. And, with over 300 miles of coastline, you’ll never tire of the incredible views.
It’s safe
Puerto Rico is a relatively safe place to live, and retirees can rest assured knowing that they’ll be able to enjoy their retirement without worry. The crime rate is low, and the island has a vital infrastructure. In addition, Puerto Rico is a US territory, so you’ll have all the benefits of living in the States, including access to social security and Medicare.
How to move to Puerto Rico?
If you’re ready to move to Puerto Rico, there are a few things you need to do. First, you’ll need a Puerto Rican birth certificate or passport, and you can contact the Puerto Rican consulate in your home country. Next, you’ll need to apply for a residency permit, which can be done online through the Puerto Rican Department of State. You need to open a bank account and get a driver’s license.
In conclusion
Puerto Rico is an excellent choice for retirees looking for an affordable and active lifestyle. The island offers various activities, excellent healthcare, and stunning scenery. And Puerto Ricans enjoy all the benefits of living in the United States, including access to social security and Medicare. If you’re considering retiring to Puerto Rico, check out our guide on How to Move to Puerto Rico.