Caribbean
Money, cards and tipping in Puerto Rico
USDDollar
Money in Puerto Rico
Cards almost everywhere US dollars and US-style card use. Cards work almost everywhere; carry small bills for kiosks, beach vendors and some rural spots.
Key facts
- Tipping: Follow US norms: 15–20% in restaurants, check whether service is already added; tip drivers and guides.
- ATMs: Machines are plentiful; foreign cards pay your own bank's fee plus any ATM operator fee.
- Paying by phone: Apple Pay and Google Pay work widely in shops and restaurants.
- Price level: about 78% of US prices (World Bank PPP).
Cash or card, by place
| Place | Cards | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| San Juan | Cards almost everywhere | Cards and contactless work almost everywhere; carry some cash for kiosks, beach vendors, tips and small food stalls. |
| Rincón | Cards almost everywhere | Cards work almost everywhere; carry some cash for farmers' markets, food trucks, tips and beach vendors. |
| Vieques | Mixed: cards and cash | Cards work at most restaurants and hotels; carry cash for tips, públicos, small stands and some guesthouses. ATMs in Isabel II can run out. |
Quick answers
Do you tip in Puerto Rico?
Follow US norms: 15–20% in restaurants, check whether service is already added; tip drivers and guides.
Is Puerto Rico cashless?
Cards almost everywhere. US dollars and US-style card use. Cards work almost everywhere; carry small bills for kiosks, beach vendors and some rural spots.
What currency does Puerto Rico use?
The Dollar (USD).
Sources
- ExchangeRate-API open rates
- US Customs and Border Protection: travel
- Discover Puerto Rico
- World Bank open data
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