Puerto Rico · tool
How much does San Juan cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your San Juan trip before you book anything.
San Juan, Puerto Rico travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
$75–$140
per day
Hostels, street food, public transit
Accommodation
$25–$45
Hostel dorm bed or a basic Airbnb room outside prime tourist zones.
Food
$20–$35
Street food (pinchos, alcapurrias), casual eateries (panaderias), and groceries.
Transport
$5–$15
Primarily walking, occasional use of public buses (AMA) or shared taxis (públicos) for longer distances.
Activities
$10–$20
Exploring Old San Juan on foot, visiting free beaches like Condado or Isla Verde, enjoying local music in plazas.
Misc
$15–$25
Souvenirs, bottled water, occasional local coffee or pastry.
Mid-range
$190–$380
per day
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Accommodation
$80–$150
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-located Airbnb apartment.
Food
$40–$80
Mix of casual restaurants, cafes, and mid-range dining experiences.
Transport
$20–$50
Taxis, ride-sharing services (Uber is available), or renting a car for a day.
Activities
$30–$60
Entry to historical sites like Castillo San Felipe del Morro, guided walking tours, beach activities.
Misc
$20–$40
Drinks, snacks, small purchases, tips.
Luxury
$450–$1000
per day
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
Accommodation
$200–$450
4-5 star hotel with amenities or a high-end villa rental.
Food
$100–$200
Fine dining restaurants, tasting menus, premium cocktails.
Transport
$50–$150
Private car service, airport transfers, chauffeured tours.
Activities
$50–$100
Private guided tours, exclusive excursions (e.g., catamaran trips), spa treatments.
Misc
$50–$100
Premium shopping, spa services, high-end bar tabs.
Destination-specific money tips
- •Credit cards are widely accepted, but always carry some cash for smaller vendors, street food stalls, and tips.
- •ATMs are plentiful in San Juan, but using one outside a major bank might incur higher fees. Check your bank's international ATM fee policy.
- •Tipping 15-20% is standard in restaurants and for services, similar to the US mainland. Some restaurants may automatically include a gratuity for larger parties.
- •While USD is the local currency, be aware that some tourist-oriented shops might try to price things in Euros; insist on USD prices.
- •Expect to pay a premium for beachfront hotels and restaurants in popular areas like Condado and Isla Verde.
Plan the rest of your San Juan trip
Trip budgets elsewhere