San Juan
San Juan offers digital nomads a perfect blend of Caribbean charm and modern convenience, with its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial architecture, and stunning beaches. Puerto Rico's capital combines American infrastructure with Latin culture, creating an accessible yet exotic environment for remote workers. The city's rich history, vibrant arts scene, and natural beauty provide inspiration beyond the workday. With its status as a US territory (no visa required for Americans), improving digital infrastructure, and new tax incentives, San Juan has emerged as the Caribbean's most practical destination for location-independent professionals.
Overview
San Juan has become a popular destination for remote workers and digital nomads seeking a balance between productivity and natural beauty. With its tropical climate,moderate cost of living, and good internet connectivity, it offers an ideal environment for those looking to combine work with exploration.
Climate
San Juan enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round, typically ranging from 75-85°F (24-30°C). The city experiences a dry season (December-April) and a wet season (May-November), with brief afternoon showers being common during rainy months. Humidity remains high throughout the year, though coastal areas benefit from refreshing trade winds. Hurricane season officially runs from June to November, with September and October seeing the highest risk.
Internet
San Juan offers reliable internet with average speeds of 30-100 Mbps in most areas. Fiber optic connections are available in Condado, Old San Juan, and other popular districts. The city features several coworking spaces with optimized connections, including Piloto 151, Engine-4, and The Landmark. Mobile data is reliable through providers like T-Mobile and AT&T, with US plans working seamlessly as Puerto Rico is a US territory.
Cost of Living
San Juan offers reasonable value compared to mainland US cities. Monthly expenses typically range from $2,000-3,000 USD including accommodation. One-bedroom apartments in popular areas cost $800-1,500/month, while coworking memberships range from $150-300/month. Restaurant meals average $15-30, with local eateries offering more affordable options at $8-15.
Community
San Juan hosts a growing digital nomad community, complemented by its creative and entrepreneurial sectors. Regular meetups, networking events, and startup gatherings provide opportunities to connect with like-minded professionals. Popular gathering spots include coworking spaces like Piloto 151 and Engine-4, as well as cafés in Condado and Old San Juan. Facebook groups like "Digital Nomads Puerto Rico" and "Expats in Puerto Rico" facilitate connections.
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit San Juan is during December to April, when the weather is most favorable and you can enjoy outdoor activities between work sessions. However, depending on your preferences, other times of year may offer lower prices or fewer tourists.
Where to Stay
Accommodation options in San Juan range from colonial apartments in Old San Juan to modern condos in Condado and Isla Verde. Popular neighborhoods for digital nomads include Old San Juan for charm, Condado for beaches and amenities, and Santurce for arts and culture. Monthly rentals typically range from $800-1,800 depending on location and amenities. Airbnb is widely used for short-term stays, while platforms like Clasificados Online and Facebook groups cater to longer arrangements.
Where to Work
San Juan offers a growing selection of workspaces for remote professionals. Coworking spaces include Piloto 151 (multiple locations), Engine-4, and The Landmark, providing reliable internet and community events. The city also features numerous café-workspaces with decent WiFi, particularly in Condado and Old San Juan, such as Café Cuatro Sombras, Café Don Ruiz, and Café Berlin. Monthly coworking memberships range from $150-350 USD.
Getting Around
San Juan offers various transportation options. Public buses serve major routes, though schedules can be unreliable. Taxis are readily available but relatively expensive, with ridesharing services like Uber providing more affordable alternatives. Many digital nomads rent cars for exploring the island, while the compact areas of Old San Juan and Condado are easily walkable. Scooter and bike rentals are also available for short-term use, providing flexible transportation options for getting around the city.
Must-Visit Spots
Old San Juan
Historic colonial district with colorful buildings, cobblestone streets, and impressive fortresses.
Condado Beach
Popular urban beach with clear waters and nearby amenities.
La Placita de Santurce
Vibrant market square that transforms into a lively nightlife hub in the evenings.
