Famous food in Dominican Republic

Donald Moore

Living in Dominican Republic, from USA

"Expat life in the Dominican Republic isn't just lying under palms all day, as you might think. But InterNations made it worthwhile. "

Jayanti Malhotra

Living in Dominican Republic, from India

"A helpful expat pointed out the international school in Santo Domingo to me when my husband asked me and the kids to join him there."

The Dominican Republic at a Glance

Living in the Dominican Republic can be a great experience for expats: What’s not to love about sunshine, turquoise waters, and friendly, multicultural local people? Read our guide on living in the Dominican Republic for info on healthcare, education, transport, cultural life, and more.

People and Local Customs

Currently, there are about 10.3 million people living in the Dominican Republic, with a median age of only 27 years; the capital, Santo Domingo, is home to almost 3 million people. Family values, religion, and hospitality are the cornerstones of life in the Caribbean country, thus, it is not rare that three generations of the same family live under one and the same roof, with the oldest male making the important decisions affecting the entire family.

Although you are free to choose your own religion, Catholic beliefs influence many aspects of life in the Dominican Republic; 95% of the overall population is, after all, Catholic. Dominicans often go out of their way to treat their guests royally and to make them feel particularly welcome. In return, you should be a respectful guest in order not to upset your hosts while living in the Dominican Republic.