Chat with us, powered by LiveChat ;
couple in luxurious living

Luxury Living: What Kind of Lifestyle Can My Income Buy Me?

As a high-income earner living in Puerto Rico, you can access a luxurious and fulfilling lifestyle. Did you know? Puerto Rico has become a hotspot for high-profile individuals seeking a lavish lifestyle, including celebrities, successful entrepreneurs, and athletes who have made this Caribbean island their home. This surge in high-profile residents began around 2012, following the introduction of tax incentives like Act 20 and Act 22, which offer significant tax incentives to new residents.

In this blog, we shall guide you on what you can and must have with your income as a luxurious person. Discover the exclusive communities, fine dining experiences, recreational activities, and more that await you in this tropical climate paradise.

Key Takeaways

  • Puerto Rico offers exclusive luxury communities with beachfront properties and modern amenities.
  • The island's vibrant culinary scene and top-tier recreational activities provide endless opportunities.
  • High-quality health insurance, private schools, and enhanced security ensure a safe and fulfilling family life.
  • Investing in Puerto Rico's luxury lifestyle guarantees a rich blend of convenience, culture, and comfort.

1. Luxurious Residences

In recent years, many of Puerto Rico's residences have been transformed into luxurious properties, particularly in high-demand areas such as Dorado, Old San Juan, and Palmas del Mar. This transformation has been driven by the influx of high-income individuals and favorable tax incentives, leading to the development of upscale gated communities, beachfront estates, and modern high-rise condominiums. As a result, Puerto Rico now boasts a substantial inventory of high-end homes catering to affluent residents seeking an exclusive lifestyle.

What Must You Have?

  • Exclusive Communities: Consider living in exclusive gated communities such as Dorado Beach, Palmas del Mar (Humacao), and San Patricio. These areas offer privacy, security, and upscale amenities.
  • Waterfront Properties: Opt for beachfront or ocean-view properties to enjoy stunning views and direct access to the beach.
  • Architectural Elegance: Choose homes with modern designs, spacious layouts, private pools, and high-end finishes.

Investing in a luxury home allows you to fully enjoy the quality of life in Puerto Rico, with top-notch amenities and privacy. Reach out to a real estate agent who can guide you through this process.

Get the Top Luxury Properties and Houses for Sale

Having a luxury house or property allows you to fully enjoy your high income by providing an exceptional living experience with top-notch amenities, privacy, and comfort. It also serves as a valuable investment, often appreciating over time and offering potential financial benefits.

Let me invite you to check out these exclusive listings and houses for sale that will elevate your living experience to new heights.

Image Source: christiesrealestatepr.com

RIDGETOP DR. #20 HUMACAO PR, 00791

Ridgetop 20, a meticulously renovated four-story estate in the Palmas del Mar resort in Puerto Rico, provides refined living with panoramic Caribbean vistas. Featuring four generous ensuite bedrooms, a gourmet kitchen, a pool with inviting outdoor spaces, and a master suite oasis, the home is elegantly crafted for ultimate comfort and style.

Image Source: christiesrealestatepr.com

Viajera street VIAJERA #85 Guaynabo PR9107022

This unique corner property in Palma Real, Guaynabo, features four bedrooms, a maid's room, 4.5 bathrooms, multiple living areas, a modern open kitchen, an open terrace, a pool, and a covered garage. It also has a diesel generator, water cistern, water softener, irrigation system, and a complete security system.

Image Source: christiesrealestatepr.com

29 PORT RD HUMACAO PR, 00791

This stunning Palmas del Mar, Humacao property offers breathtaking Caribbean Ocean views. It features multiple levels with luxurious amenities, including a state-of-the-art kitchen, five bedrooms, a theater room, an outdoor retreat with a pool and hot tub, eco-friendly solar power, and lush tropical grounds within a prestigious gated community.

Image Source: christiesrealestatepr.com

105 PASEO GILBERTO CONCEPCION DE GRACIA #PH-5 SAN JUAN PR, 00901

This premier penthouse at Harbor Plaza in Old San Juan offers unparalleled luxury with panoramic views of San Juan Bay and the historic cityscape. It features high ceilings, Sienna-toned marble floors, modern and elegant furnishings, four covered parking spaces, and convenient storage, all within a prestigious, refined enclave.

You can find more of our exclusive properties in our Neighborhoods section.

2. Fine Dining and Gourmet Experiences

Who would not want to experience the best cuisines that will give your tongue an adventure? Puerto Rico has a vibrant culinary scene with numerous fine dining establishments offering local and international cuisine. The island's diverse gastronomic landscape includes everything from traditional Puerto Rican cuisine to exquisite international fare crafted by renowned chefs. The fine dining sector has boomed, with restaurants in Condado and other areas earning accolades and attracting food enthusiasts worldwide.

Opt for this Experience

  • World-Class Restaurants: Puerto Rico has a vibrant culinary scene with numerous fine dining establishments offering local and international cuisine. In places like Condado and Miramar, you can find top-tier dining experiences.
  • Private Chefs: Hire private chefs to prepare gourmet meals at home or for special events.

Top 3 World-Class Restaurants in Puerto Rico

Image Source: tripadvisor.com (1919 restaurant)

1919 Restaurant

Price Range: Entrées typically range from $40 to $80.

Located in the luxurious Condado Vanderbilt Hotel, 1919 Restaurant offers an exquisite dining experience. Its menu emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and innovative culinary techniques. The restaurant is known for its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, making it a top choice for fine dining in Puerto Rico.

Marmalade Restaurant & Wine Bar

Price Range: Tasting menus range from $80 to $150 per person.

In the heart of Old San Juan, Marmalade is famous for its creative and contemporary cuisine. Chef Peter Schintler crafts unique tasting menus that blend global flavors with local ingredients. The wine bar offers an extensive selection, complementing the gastronomic journey perfectly.

Santaella

Price Range: Entrées typically range from $30 to $60.

Santaella offers a vibrant and upscale dining experience in the trendy neighborhood of Santurce. Chef José Santaella combines traditional Puerto Rican flavors with modern culinary techniques. The restaurant's chic decor and lively atmosphere make it a popular spot for locals and visitors.

3. Recreational Activities

Whether hiking scenic trail in El Yunque National Forest, golfing in Dorado Beach Resort, or sailing in Fajardo, Puerto Rico offers various luxurious recreational activities. Many luxury properties in Puerto Rico have incorporated top-tier recreational activities, making them world-renowned destinations for affluent individuals. Exclusive communities like Dorado Beach Resort & Club, Palmas del Mar, and others offer access to championship golf courses, luxury marinas, tennis courts, and equestrian centers while embracing the island's tropical climate.

Experience the Best

Golf

Access to top-tier golf courses such as the Dorado Beach Resort & Club.

Note: Over 60% of high-profile residents in luxury communities such as Dorado Beach Resort & Club actively golf. With more than 20 world-class golf courses across the island, Puerto Rico has become a prime destination for golf enthusiasts.

Yachting and Sailing

Enjoy yachting and sailing from luxury marinas like the Yacht Club at Palmas del Mar. Don't forget to check your insurance coverage for recreational activities, including water sports.

Note: Approximately 45% of affluent residents participate in yachting and sailing activities. Luxury marinas like the Yacht Club at Palmas del Mar and the Puerto del Rey Marina attract high-profile yachters from around the globe.

Tennis and Equestrian

Participate in tennis and equestrian activities at exclusive clubs.

Note: Around 35% of high-income earners engage in tennis and equestrian activities. Exclusive clubs like the Palmas Athletic Club and the Dorado Beach Resort & Club offer state-of-the-art facilities and professional coaching.

4. Wellness and Relaxation

Incorporating high-end spas, wellness centers, private trainers, and yoga instructors into their homes and daily routines offers significant efficiency and benefits for busy men. These services help balance a busy lifestyle, whether you're in a metropolitan area or a quieter neighborhood.

Additionally, having these services at home allows for flexible scheduling, ensuring that wellness and fitness are seamlessly integrated into their demanding lifestyles.

Get the Wellness You Deserve

  • Spas and Wellness Centers: Frequent high-end spas and wellness centers for relaxation and rejuvenation.
  • Private Trainers and Yoga Instructors: Engage private trainers and yoga instructors for personalized fitness routines.  Ensure your health insurance covers wellness treatments.

5. Cultural and Social Engagements

Joining cultural events and social clubs helps you connect with Puerto Rico by immersing you in its rich cultural heritage and vibrant social scene. Attending exclusive cultural events, art galleries, and concerts, such as those held by the Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra at the Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport Performing Arts Center, offers a rich cultural experience. Puerto Rico’s official language is Spanish, though English is widely spoken, making it easier for residents from abroad to immerse themselves in the local culture. Social clubs and networks provide platforms for affluent individuals to connect.

Learn More of the Puerto Rican Culture

  • Arts and Entertainment: Attend exclusive cultural events, art galleries, and theaters. Puerto Rico boasts a rich cultural heritage with frequent festivals and performances.
  • Networking and Social Clubs: Join prestigious social clubs and networks to connect with other high-income individuals and professionals.

Top 3 Cultural Events and Clubs in Puerto Rico

Image Source: facebook.com (Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra)

Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra (Orquesta Sinfónica de Puerto Rico)

The Puerto Rico Symphony Orchestra is a premier cultural institution offering world-class classical music performances at the Luis A. Ferré Performing Arts Center. High-profile individuals often attend their concerts, which feature renowned conductors and soloists from around the globe.

San Juan Museum of Art and History (Museo de Arte e Historia de San Juan)

Situated in the historic district of Old San Juan, this museum hosts exclusive art exhibitions and cultural events, attracting art enthusiasts and collectors. It provides a sophisticated venue for networking with other affluent individuals who appreciate fine art and history.

The Puerto Rican Club (El Club Puertorriqueño)

Located in San Juan, the Puerto Rican Club is a prestigious social club catering to Puerto Rico's elite. It offers a range of social and networking events, providing a platform for high-income earners to connect and socialize.

6. Education and Family Life

Investing in the best education and family life for your children provides a foundation for their future success and well-being. A high-quality education equips them with the knowledge, skills, and critical thinking abilities needed to excel personally and professionally.

Puerto Rico offers excellent private schools for families and higher education institutions like the University of Puerto Rico. The island also provides essential family amenities like access to world-class healthcare, kid-friendly parks, and activities, ensuring a great quality of life.

Puerto Rico's education and family life sectors have significantly improved in recent years. The island now boasts several top-tier private schools, such as TASIS Dorado and Saint John's School in San Juan, which offer world-class curriculums and state-of-the-art facilities.

Find the Finest Schools and Amenities

Top Schools

Image Source: dorado.tasis.com

Enroll your children in top private schools in Dorado or Old San Juan, which offer excellent curriculums and extracurricular activities.

  • TASIS Dorado: Located in Dorado, TASIS Dorado is a prestigious private school offering a rigorous American-based curriculum and a strong emphasis on bilingual education.
  • Saint John's School: Situated in San Juan, Saint John's School is renowned for its excellent college preparatory program and diverse extracurricular activities, catering to Pre-K to 12th-grade students.
  • Robinson School: Found in the heart of San Juan, Robinson School is an IB World School known for its innovative educational programs and commitment to developing global citizens through its International Baccalaureate curriculum.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Image Source: discoverpuertorico.com (El Yunque)

Access family-friendly amenities such as private parks, playgrounds, and kid-friendly clubs.

  • El Yunque National Forest: This world-renowned tropical rainforest offers numerous hiking trails, waterfalls, and picnic areas, making it a perfect outdoor adventure for families.
  • Balneario de Boquerón: Balneario de Boquerón is a famous family-friendly beach known for its pristine sands, calm waters, and extensive facilities, including playgrounds, picnic areas, and water sports rentals.
  • Carolina Children's Museum (Museo del Niño de Carolina): The Carolina Children's Museum is an interactive museum designed to engage and educate children through hands-on exhibits and activities, making it a popular destination for families.

7. Health and Security

Puerto Rico's health care system has significantly improved, offering access to top hospitals and private medical services. As a high-income resident, it is advisable to secure comprehensive health insurance with disease prevention and emergency coverage. In terms of security, many luxury communities come with enhanced protection, ensuring peace of mind for residents.

To cover all your expenses while living in Puerto Rico, from groceries to recreational activities, having a bank account with a local or international bank is essential. Internet and communications services are widely available, ensuring you're always connected, whether for business or leisure.

Get More Secure With These Privileges

  • Premium Healthcare: Access to high-quality healthcare facilities and private medical services. Comprehensive health insurance coverage, including disease prevention and emergency medical evacuation provisions, is advisable.
  • Enhanced Security: Benefit from living in secure, gated communities with 24/7 security, reducing the risk of crime and theft in urban areas.

Top 3 Hospitals in Puerto Rico

Hospital Auxilio Mutuo

Located in San Juan, Hospital Auxilio Mutuo is one of the leading medical centers in Puerto Rico, renowned for its comprehensive healthcare services and advanced medical technology.

San Jorge Children's Hospital

Situated in Santurce, San Jorge Children's Hospital is highly regarded for its specialized pediatric care and state-of-the-art facilities dedicated to children's health.

Hospital Pavia Santurce

Hospital Pavia Santurce is located in Santurce and is known for its wide range of medical services, including emergency care, surgical procedures, and specialized treatments.

Conclusion

Embracing the high-income lifestyle in Puerto Rico allows you to enjoy a perfect blend of luxury, convenience, and cultural richness in a stunning Caribbean setting. With access to exclusive communities, fine dining, top-tier recreational activities, and world-class amenities, Puerto Rico offers an unparalleled living experience for affluent residents. Make the most of your income by investing in the best properties, wellness, education, and family-friendly facilities, ensuring a fulfilling and enriching life in this tropical paradise.

At Christie's International Real Estate Puerto Rico, we specialize in helping clients buy, sell, and rent luxurious properties that offer the finest in Caribbean living. Let us guide you through every step of the process, ensuring a seamless and rewarding experience. Contact us today to explore options and elevate your lifestyle in Puerto Rico's most exclusive communities.

FAQs

Where do the wealthy live in Puerto Rico?

Wealthy residents often choose exclusive gated communities like Dorado Beach, Palmas del Mar, and San Patricio for their luxurious amenities and privacy. These areas offer upscale homes, beachfront properties, and top-tier security.

What is the fanciest part of Puerto Rico?

Dorado Beach is considered one of the fanciest parts of Puerto Rico, known for its luxurious resorts, pristine beaches, and exclusive residential communities. It offers world-class amenities, including golf courses, marinas, and fine dining establishments.

Why do rich people buy houses in Puerto Rico?

Wealthy individuals are drawn to Puerto Rico for its favorable tax incentives, luxurious lifestyle, and beautiful tropical setting. The island's high-end properties, excellent healthcare, and top-tier recreational activities make it an attractive destination for affluent buyers.

What is considered rich in Puerto Rico?

In Puerto Rico, a household income significantly higher than the median, often around $200,000 annually, is considered wealthy. This income level allows for a luxurious lifestyle, including access to exclusive communities and high-end amenities.

Is Puerto Rico safe for tourists, and what precautions should be taken?

Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay vigilant, especially in urban areas. Be aware of crime in Puerto Rico, such as pickpocketing and violent crime in certain neighborhoods. Use insect repellent to protect against mosquito-borne illnesses like dengue fever and Zika virus.
 
Avoid drinking water from unreliable sources and stick to bottled water. When swimming, be cautious of rip currents and ensure you're familiar with emergency contacts. The legal drinking age is 18, so monitor your alcohol intake responsibly.
 
Public transport like buses and the Tren Urbano is generally safe but opt for a taxi if traveling late at night.
 

What health precautions should I consider before traveling to Puerto Rico?

Before traveling to Puerto Rico, ensure your passport is valid and consider purchasing travel insurance for coverage, including emergency evacuation. Visit your healthcare provider to discuss necessary vaccines such as hepatitis, measles, tuberculosis, and influenza. Carry medication for common ailments, and stay hydrated to prepare for the heat.
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend vaccinations and precautions against rabies, mosquito bites, and rodent exposure. In a medical emergency, local health professionals are well-trained, but it's advisable to have cash or a credit card for quick payments.

Is Puerto Rico safe for tourists and residents?

Puerto Rico is generally safe for tourists and residents, especially in well-known areas such as San Juan, Dorado, and Palmas del Mar, where security services and gated communities are strong. However, as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, avoid less populated areas after dark, and take common precautions such as using reputable transportation options and safeguarding your belongings. The island's law enforcement and emergency services are well-equipped to handle incidents, making Puerto Rico safe for those who follow standard safety guidelines.

What are the key financial aspects to consider when moving to Puerto Rico?

Knowing the cost of living is important, which can vary depending on where you reside. Additionally, Puerto Rico's tax system is favorable for high-income earners, particularly due to its tax incentives.

What is the immigration process like for foreigners?

Puerto Rico is a U.S. territory, so American citizens do not need a passport or work permit. Non-U.S. citizens may need to undergo immigration processes, depending on their country of origin.

Join a select group

Exclusive off-market listings and news

Join a select group

With one of PR's largest teams, CIRE PR offers more transaction support, global reach, and on-the-ground experience than any other brokerage in San Juan.

Follow us on Instagram