Budget & Costs
The Dominican Republic is one of the most affordable Caribbean travel destinations — especially if you venture beyond the all-inclusive resorts. The local economy is based on the Peso (DOP), but US Dollars are accepted almost everywhere.
Daily budget per person (outside all-inclusive)
| Style | USD/Day | Accommodation | Food | Transport |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Backpacker | 25–40 USD | Hostel/Guesthouse | Comedor + Street food | Guagua (Minibus) |
| Budget | 40–70 USD | Casa/Guesthouse | Comedores + 1× Restaurant | Shared Guagua/Taxi |
| Mid-range | 70–130 USD | 3★ Hotel/Boutique | Restaurants | Rental Car/Uber |
| All-Inclusive | 120–250 USD | 4–5★ Resort | All-Inclusive | Shuttle/Transfer |
| Luxury | 300+ USD | 5★ Resort/Villa | Fine Dining | Private Transfers |
Typical Prices (2025)
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| Lunch at Comedor (La Bandera) | 3–5 USD |
| Dinner at Restaurant | 12–25 USD |
| Presidente Beer (grande) | 1.50–3 USD |
| Rum (Brugal/Barceló, 750ml) | 6–12 USD |
| Taxi within city | 3–8 USD |
| Guagua (Intercity bus) | 2–8 USD |
| Whale watching Samaná | 50–70 USD |
| 27 Charcos Damajagua | 10–15 USD |
| Excursion Isla Saona | 60–90 USD |
| Rental Car/Day | 35–70 USD |
💡 Tipp
Pay in Pesos (DOP) instead of US Dollars — you'll get a better price everywhere. In Colmados, Comedores, and with street vendors, the Peso price is 10–20% cheaper than the Dollar price.