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Real estate prices in the Dominican Republic vary significantly across different regions and property types, with apartments averaging US$2,200 per square meter nationwide and houses around US$1,760 per square meter as of September 2025.
The Dominican Republic's property market offers diverse options from affordable local neighborhoods to luxury beachfront estates, with prices ranging from US$80,000 for basic apartments to over US$25 million for premium villas in exclusive areas like Cap Cana.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in the Dominican Republic, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
The Dominican Republic real estate market shows strong growth with apartment prices averaging US$2,200/m² and houses at US$1,760/m², while beachfront properties command premium prices up to 35% higher than inland alternatives.
Annual price increases have reached 10.7% for apartments and 11.6% for houses, with rental yields averaging 7.1% nationwide and reaching up to 8.4% in Santo Domingo.
| Location | Apartment Price (US$/m²) | House Price (US$/m²) | One-Bedroom Apartment | Three-Bedroom House |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Santo Domingo | 1,475–2,200 | 1,760 | US$80,000–180,000 | US$300,000–500,000 |
| Punta Cana | 1,980–3,500 | 1,760–2,500+ | US$150,000–350,000 | US$261,000–1,500,000+ |
| Puerto Plata | 1,200 | 1,400–1,600 | US$60,000–120,000 | US$180,000–320,000 |
| Cabarete/Las Terrenas | 2,000–2,700 | 1,825–2,000+ | US$170,000–300,000 | US$400,000–2,500,000+ |
| Rural/Interior | 800–1,200 | 800–1,200 | US$40,000–80,000 | US$120,000–250,000 |
What's the current average price per square meter for real estate in the Dominican Republic?
Real estate prices in the Dominican Republic show clear differences between apartments and houses across the market.
Apartments nationwide average US$2,200 per square meter as of September 2025, while houses typically cost around US$1,760 per square meter. These prices represent the national average across all regions and property types.
Urban areas like Santo Domingo command higher prices, ranging from US$1,700 to US$2,800 per square meter depending on the specific location and property quality. Premium areas in Punta Cana reach US$2,000 to US$3,500 per square meter for apartments, while Puerto Plata offers more affordable options at approximately US$1,200 per square meter.
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These prices reflect the country's diverse real estate landscape, from budget-friendly interior locations to premium beachfront destinations.
How much does a small one-bedroom apartment in Santo Domingo cost?
One-bedroom apartments in Santo Domingo start at US$80,000 in local neighborhoods and can reach US$200,000 in premium areas.
The typical price range for a small one-bedroom apartment falls between US$100,000 and US$180,000 in most sought-after neighborhoods. Entry-level properties in local areas start around US$80,000, while upscale locations command prices up to US$200,000.
Rental prices for one-bedroom apartments average US$950 per month as of July 2025, with variations depending on the specific neighborhood and building amenities. Areas closer to the business district or with modern facilities typically charge higher rents.
Santo Domingo's apartment market offers good value compared to other major Caribbean capitals, with steady rental demand from both locals and expatriates.
What's the typical price for a three-bedroom house in Punta Cana?
Three-bedroom house prices in Punta Cana vary dramatically based on location and proximity to the beach.
Entry-level three-bedroom houses inland start around US$261,000 for approximately 192 square meters. Mid-range villas closer to the beach typically cost US$450,000 to US$600,000 for properties ranging from 300 to 350 square meters.
Beachfront luxury properties command premium prices from US$800,000 to over US$1.5 million in the most exclusive areas. These properties often feature private beach access, high-end finishes, and resort-style amenities.
The wide price range reflects Punta Cana's diverse offerings, from affordable family homes to luxury vacation properties targeting international buyers.
How do property prices compare between Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, and Puerto Plata?
| Location | Apartment Price (US$/m²) | House Price (US$/m²) | Market Characteristics |
|---|---|---|---|
| Santo Domingo | 1,475–2,200 | 1,760 | Urban core premium, suburban discounts |
| Punta Cana | 1,980–3,500 | 1,760–2,500+ | Beachfront dominates pricing |
| Puerto Plata | 1,200 | 1,400–1,600 | Most affordable major market |
| Cabarete | 2,000–2,700 | 1,825–2,000+ | High foreign demand, lifestyle focus |
| Las Terrenas | 2,000–2,700 | 1,825–2,000+ | Surf destination, expat community |
What's the price difference between beachfront and inland properties?
Beachfront properties command significant premiums over inland alternatives across the Dominican Republic.
Beachfront condos in areas like Cabarete and Punta Cana start at US$2,000 to US$2,700 per square meter, with entry-level units requiring minimum investments of US$170,000 to US$200,000. These properties offer direct beach access and ocean views.
Inland properties typically cost 15% to 35% less than comparable beachfront options, depending on the specific region and accessibility. This discount reflects the premium buyers place on ocean proximity and views.
Land prices show even starker differences, with beachfront lots commanding US$300 to US$500+ per square meter, while ocean view lots cost US$100 to US$250 per square meter, and urban residential land averages US$180 to US$300 per square meter.
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How much does residential land cost per square meter in popular areas?
Land prices vary significantly based on proximity to the coast and development potential in the Dominican Republic.
Beachfront lots command the highest prices at US$300 to US$500+ per square meter in prime coastal areas. Ocean view lots, typically located on hills or elevated areas with sea views, cost US$100 to US$250 per square meter.
Urban residential land in cities like Santo Domingo averages US$180 to US$300 per square meter, depending on the specific neighborhood and infrastructure availability. These lots offer good access to utilities and services.
Rural and interior land costs significantly less, often under US$50 per square meter, but may lack infrastructure and face liquidity challenges when reselling.
Land acquisition requires careful due diligence regarding title clarity and development restrictions, especially in coastal zones.
What's the price range for condos in tourist areas versus local neighborhoods?
Condo prices show substantial differences between tourist-focused areas and local residential neighborhoods.
Tourist and beachfront zones typically offer one- to two-bedroom condos priced between US$150,000 and US$350,000. These properties often include resort-style amenities, security services, and proximity to beaches or tourist attractions.
Local neighborhoods away from central areas offer more affordable options, with smaller condo units ranging from US$80,000 to US$130,000. These properties typically have fewer amenities but provide better value for long-term residents.
Tourist zone condos generally appreciate faster and offer higher rental potential, while local neighborhood condos provide more affordable entry points for first-time buyers or those seeking permanent residence.
How much do luxury villas in gated communities cost?
Luxury villa prices vary dramatically based on location and amenities across the Dominican Republic's gated communities.
North Coast gated communities in areas like Sosúa and Cabarete offer luxury villas ranging from US$400,000 to US$2.5 million and higher for high-end homes with pools and premium amenities. These communities often feature golf courses, private beaches, and 24/7 security.
Punta Cana and Cap Cana represent the premium luxury market, with villas priced from US$1.5 million to US$6 million for standard luxury properties. Trophy properties in these exclusive areas can reach US$25 million for exceptional beachfront estates.
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These gated communities provide resort-style living with comprehensive amenities, making them popular among wealthy retirees and vacation home buyers.
What are the cost differences between urban, suburban, and rural properties?
Property costs decrease significantly as you move from urban centers to rural areas in the Dominican Republic.
Urban areas like Santo Domingo feature the densest pricing, with new city apartments and houses commanding premium rates due to infrastructure, employment opportunities, and amenities. These areas offer the best liquidity and rental demand.
Suburban areas such as Punta Cana Village and Bavaro typically cost about 30% less than beachfront properties, with prices ranging from US$1,300 to US$2,100 per square meter. These areas balance affordability with reasonable access to urban amenities.
Rural and interior properties cost US$800 to US$1,200 per square meter, offering the lowest prices but with reduced demand and liquidity challenges. These areas work best for buyers seeking large properties or agricultural potential.
Transportation access and infrastructure quality significantly impact pricing across all three categories.
We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in the Dominican Republic versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.
What additional costs should buyers expect beyond the purchase price?
Property buyers in the Dominican Republic face several mandatory and optional costs beyond the base purchase price.
| Fee/Tax Type | Percentage/Amount | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Property Transfer Tax | 3% of cadastral value | Paid by buyer at closing |
| Annual Property Tax | 1% of value over $166,000 USD | First $166,000 tax-exempt for individuals |
| Notary/Legal Fees | 1–2% + VAT | Varies by attorney and property price |
| Capital Gains Tax | Regular income tax rates | Paid by seller on appreciation |
| HOA Fees (condos/gated) | US$150–1,000+/month | Depends on amenities and property size |
What are the rental yields in major cities?
Rental yields in the Dominican Republic remain attractive compared to many international markets as of September 2025.
Santo Domingo offers gross rental yields between 7.5% and 8.4%, with the city average at 7.9%. One-bedroom apartments typically rent for US$950 to US$1,200 per month, providing steady income for investors.
Punta Cana delivers average gross rental yields of 6.8% to 8%, with two-bedroom apartments commanding up to US$1,800 per month in prime tourist areas. Seasonal variations affect rental income in this tourism-dependent market.
The national gross rental yield averages 7.1%, reflecting strong rental demand across the country. These yields compare favorably to many developed markets while offering potential for capital appreciation.
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How much have property prices increased over the past five years?
The Dominican Republic real estate market has experienced significant price appreciation over the past five years, with acceleration in recent periods.
Annual price increases reached 10.7% for apartments and 11.6% for houses during 2024-2025, representing some of the strongest growth in the region. These increases reflect growing international demand and limited quality inventory.
Historical trends show 5% to 10% annual appreciation in major markets since 2020, with beachfront and tourist-focused areas experiencing higher growth rates up to 12% annually. This appreciation has attracted both local and international investors.
Projected growth for 2025 ranges from 7% to 12% for most urban and tourist zones, supported by continued foreign investment and tourism recovery. However, buyers should consider that rapid price growth may moderate as the market matures.
Conclusion
This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.
The Dominican Republic real estate market offers compelling opportunities for both investors and residents, with prices ranging from affordable local neighborhoods to premium beachfront developments.
While property prices have risen significantly over recent years, rental yields remain attractive and the market continues to benefit from growing international interest and tourism recovery.
Sources
- Global Property Guide - Dominican Republic Price History
- TheLatinvestor - Santo Domingo Price Forecasts
- TheLatinvestor - Dominican Republic Price Forecasts
- Global Property Guide - Dominican Republic Rent
- Properstar - Punta Cana Houses
- TheLatinvestor - Punta Cana Property
- Hidden Gem Estates - Dominican Republic Property Guide
- Real Estate Las Terrenas - Land for Sale
- TheLatinvestor - Dominican Republic Property Taxes
- TheLatinvestor - Punta Cana Real Estate Market