Published December 8, 2025

Thinking of Moving Back to Puerto Rico? Here Are 5 Things to Consider First

Written by Eli Torres

Thinking of Moving Back to Puerto Rico? Here Are 5 Things to Consider First header image.

By Eli Torres, Realtor/Broker/Country Leader

If you're Puerto Rican living in the mainland and you've been dreaming about coming back home, you’re not alone.

Every week in my Facebook groups "Moving to Puerto Rico" and "Real Estate in Puerto Rico", I see heartfelt posts from people who left the island five, ten, even thirty years ago—and now feel the island calling them back.

And I get it. There’s something about our mountains, beaches, food, music, and sense of community that can’t be replaced. But as much as my heart wants to say “Come home already!”, I also want to help you make a decision that sets you up for success—not stress.

Here are five key things I always tell people to seriously consider before packing their bags:

1. Define What “Home” Means to You—Today

Before jumping into logistics, take a moment to reflect: is your vision of coming back rooted in nostalgia, or in a realistic understanding of the Puerto Rico of today?

The island has changed—economically, culturally, and socially. The good news? Many things have improved (fiber internet, thriving local entrepreneurship, a growing remote work community). But there are also new challenges (higher cost of living, limited job markets in certain fields).

Ask yourself: What kind of lifestyle do I want? What am I willing to compromise—and what’s non-negotiable?

2. Get Real About Remote Work—or Be Flexible Locally

Many people return hoping to keep a mainland income while living in Puerto Rico. And honestly, that’s often the best-case scenario.

If you’re working remotely, make sure:

Your employer understands you’ll be based in Puerto Rico (tax implications matter).
You’ve tested your Wi-Fi needs (yes, we have fiber—but not everywhere yet).
Your remote setup works for both productivity and life balance here.

If you’re looking for a local job, do some serious research. Wages can be significantly lower. But if you’re open to pivoting industries, entrepreneurship, or contract work—it’s possible to build something meaningful here.

3. Start Your Housing Search Now—Even if You’re Not Ready to Buy

This is a big one.

Since 2020, housing prices and rents have gone up sharply, especially in desirable metro and coastal areas. Inventory is tight, and competition is real. So whether you plan to rent, buy, or build, start the conversation early.

A lot of people think they'll just “figure it out when they get here,” but trust me—that can lead to stress, delays, or worse… having to turn back around.

Talk to other returnees, connect with local real estate professionals, and stay active in housing groups to track pricing and availability.

4. Build or Rebuild Your Community BEFORE You Land

One of the biggest emotional challenges of moving back is feeling like a stranger in your own land.

The best way to ease that? Start building your network now. Reconnect with family and friends, sure—but also make new connections. Engage in Facebook groups, follow local creators, and join island-based virtual events or professional circles.

You’re not just moving back. You’re reintegrating. That takes intentional effort—and having a support system makes all the difference.

5. Visit With Purpose

Before making the big move, come for an “intentional test trip.” Not a vacation, but a scouting mission. Stay where you’d actually live. Drive the routes you’d commute. Check internet speeds, visit supermarkets, explore schools if you have kids.

Ask locals questions you wouldn’t find on Google. You’ll learn more in 5 days of doing this than months of research.

Final Thoughts

If Puerto Rico is calling you home, listen. But also plan.

Thousands of people have made the return successfully—and you can too. Will there be adjustments? Absolutely. But the joy of waking up to el coquí, of raising your kids en la isla, or simply living life where your heart feels most at peace… that joy is real.

And if housing is a concern, I’m here to help. As a real estate professional who’s guided many families through this exact transition, I’d be honored to support your journey home.

Let’s make your move back not just a dream—but a well-executed plan.

Eli Torres is a licensed real estate agent and Realtor with 12 years experience. He currently leads eXp Realty Puerto Rico as the Director and Broker of Record.