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Rentals in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic

Summary: The most desirable neighborhoods in Santo Domingo, Dominican Rep are Piantini, Naco, and Gazcue. These neighborhoods are known for their upscale restaurants, shopping, and nightlife. When searching for a rental property in Santo Domingo, expats should consider their budget, desired amenities, and location. It is also important to research the area and the landlord before signing a lease. The cost of a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Santo Domingo is around $500-700 USD per month. The cost of a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $700-900 USD per month. Apartments in Santo Domingo typically include basic amenities such as air conditioning, hot water, and a kitchen. Some apartments may also include a balcony, pool, or gym. Expats should be aware that rental properties in Santo Domingo may not be equipped with furniture, appliances, or internet. It is important to ask the landlord about these amenities before signing a lease.

How do I find a place to live in Santo Domingo?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Santo Domingo is to use online resources such as Airbnb, Craigslist, and local real estate websites. Additionally, you can also contact local real estate agents who can help you find a place that meets your needs. Additionally, you can also ask friends and family who live in the area for recommendations. Finally, you can also look for rental postings in local newspapers and on bulletin boards in public places," said one in Santo Domingo.

"I first came to a beach town but then found that for a single older intellectual woman, the capital was best. I took my time, found the pool, the library, the neighborhood I liked best, then the apartment, not the other way around," said a member in Santo Domingo.

"i have lived in various parts of the country. The first place was a tourist resort on the Caribbean sea, where I went as my job as a scuba diving instructor was there. A small studio came with the job and after a month I moved into a rental apartment. Here you just put the word out you are looking and people come to you with their apartments. Now I live in a little Dominican town, chosen as it was far from tourists and hence much safer and much cheaper. Again just put the word out and found the house," explained one foreigner living in Santo Domingo, Dominican Rep.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Santo Domingo?

"I live in a furnished rental. I would certainly say that this is the way for anyone to plan to come here first and stay for a year or so and see if they really like it. There are not a lot of expats yet in the neighborhood but I predict that there will be. It is the older elegant but sort of run down section of town, but one can walk to everything. It is a lot like NYC," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Santo Domingo.

"There are no expats here. I have a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom single storey house with a large garden. It is a typical house for a middle class Dominican," explained one person living in Santo Domingo, Dominican Rep.

"I live in a furnished 2 bedroom apartment. This is typical of the expats I have met. My next door neighnor have lived in their unit for ten years. They are from Canada/Germany," said one expat in Santo Domingo.

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What is the average cost of housing in Santo Domingo?

If you are thinking about moving to Santo Domingo, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Santo Domingo varies depending on the area and type of housing. Generally, the average cost of renting an apartment in Santo Domingo is around $400 to $600 per month, while the average cost of buying a house is around $100,000 to $200,000," commented an expat living in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

"The monthly cost of rent is $550.00 which includes water, gas for cooking, internet and cable tv, with a 30 year old tv supplied by the landlord. I must pay for electric $30.00 a month unless I use the air conditioner which is also very old and will raise my electric bill to over $100.00 a month. There are ceiling fans in every room. i use them in lieu of the air conditioner. I have a land line home phone from Claro for $30.00 a month for 400 minutes. I just signed up for a bundle package of Phone/cable/internet with Claro for $75.00 a month," said one in Santo Domingo.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Santo Domingo?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Santo Domingo, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"Whether you should buy or rent a home in Santo Domingo depends on your individual needs and preferences. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a stable place to live and the potential for appreciation in value. However, it also requires a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Renting a home can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment and no maintenance costs. Additionally, it can provide more flexibility if you are not sure how long you will be living in the area. Ultimately, the decision of whether to buy or rent a home in Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic should be based on your individual needs and preferences," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Santo Domingo.

What are the most popular areas to rent in Santo Domingo?

When we asked expats and digital nomad where people rent in Santo Domingo, they said:

"Santo Domingo is the capital of the Dominican Republic and is home to some of the most popular neighborhoods in the country. The Colonial Zone is one of the most popular areas, with its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and vibrant nightlife. The Malecon is another popular area, with its beautiful waterfront promenade and many restaurants and bars. The Naco neighborhood is also popular, with its upscale shopping and dining options. The Piantini neighborhood is known for its modern architecture and luxury apartments. Finally, the Gazcue neighborhood is known for its art galleries, museums, and cultural attractions," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Santo Domingo.

Are there any special precautions expats should take when renting a property in Santo Domingo?

We asked expats in Santo Domingo what are the most popular neighborhoods in Santo Domingo to live in. They said...

"Before renting a home in Santo Domingo, an expat should be aware of the following: 1. Research the neighborhoods: Santo Domingo has various neighborhoods, each with its own unique characteristics. It is essential to research and visit different areas to find the one that best suits your lifestyle and budget. 2. Consider safety: Some neighborhoods in Santo Domingo may have higher crime rates than others. It is crucial to prioritize safety and choose a secure area to live in. 3. Understand the rental market: The rental market in Santo Domingo can be competitive, so it is essential to be prepared to act quickly when you find a suitable property. It is also helpful to have a local real estate agent to assist you in finding a rental property. 4. Be prepared for language barriers: While many people in Santo Domingo speak English, it is helpful to know some basic Spanish to communicate with landlords and property managers. 5. Inspect the property: Before signing a lease, make sure to inspect the property thoroughly for any damages or maintenance issues. It is also essential to ensure that the property has a reliable water supply and electricity. 6. Understand the lease terms: Leases in Santo Domingo can vary in length, and it is essential to understand the terms and conditions before signing. Make sure to clarify any questions or concerns with the landlord or property manager. 7. Be aware of additional costs: In addition to the monthly rent, you may be responsible for utility bills, maintenance fees, and other expenses. Make sure to budget for these additional costs when considering a rental property. 8. Familiarize yourself with local laws and regulations: It is essential to understand the local laws and regulations regarding renting a property in Santo Domingo, including tenant rights and responsibilities. 9. Prepare necessary documentation: When applying for a rental property, you may be required to provide proof of income, employment, and identification. Make sure to have these documents readily available to streamline the application process. 10. Build a local support network: Establishing connections with locals and other expats can be invaluable when navigating the rental market in Santo Domingo. They can provide advice, recommendations, and support throughout the process," commented an expat living in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

What are typical rental prices for expats in Santo Domingo?

We asked expats in Santo Domingo about any special precautions they should take when renting a property in Santo Domingo. They said....

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Santo Domingo is typically around $500 to $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,200 per month," said one in Santo Domingo.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Santo Domingo what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Santo Domingo, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, microwave, washing machine, and dryer. Additionally, some properties may include air conditioning units, dishwashers, and other appliances," remarked one foreigner who made the move to Santo Domingo.

What should newcomers know about renting in Santo Domingo?

We asked foreigners in Santo Domingo what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included...

"When looking to rent a home in Santo Domingo, it is essential to research the different neighborhoods to find one that suits your lifestyle and budget. Popular areas for expats include Piantini, Naco, and Evaristo Morales, which offer a mix of residential and commercial spaces. It is highly recommended to work with a reputable real estate agent who can help you navigate the rental market and find a suitable property. They can also assist with negotiating rental prices and understanding the terms of the lease agreement. Be prepared to provide proof of income and employment, as well as personal references when applying for a rental property. Landlords may also require a security deposit, typically equivalent to one or two months' rent, to secure the property. Inspect the property thoroughly before signing the lease, checking for any signs of damage or maintenance issues. Ensure that the property has a reliable water supply, electricity, and internet connection, as these can be inconsistent in some areas of Santo Domingo. Familiarize yourself with local rental laws and tenant rights, as they may differ from those in your home country. Be aware that rental agreements are typically written in Spanish, so it may be helpful to have a trusted friend or professional translator review the document before signing. Finally, be prepared to adapt to the local culture and way of life in Santo Domingo. Embrace the vibrant community, learn some basic Spanish phrases, and enjoy the beautiful surroundings that the Dominican Republic has to offer," commented an expat living in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

InsideDR Concierge
InsideDR Concierge

InsideDR Concierge provides comprehensive relocation assistance in the Dominican Republic. We help you and your family secure ideal housing, health insurance, transportation, schools, legal documentation, and more, ensuring a smooth and thoroughly supported transition.
Get Quote

InsideDR ConciergeInsideDR Concierge

InsideDR Concierge provides comprehensive relocation assistance in the Dominican Republic. We help you and your family secure ideal housing, health insurance, transportation, schools, legal documentation, and more, ensuring a smooth and thoroughly supported transition.
Get Quote

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