The best neighborhoods for Expats in Santo Domingo

Santo Domingo, the capital of the Dominican Republic, offers expats and retirees an alternative to those who prefer the city over the beach. Unlike the beach locales that draw many to the island, Santo Domingo provides a lively, cosmopolitan lifestyle with the added benefits of diverse culinary offerings from street food to high-end restaurants, nightclubs, casinos, access to major shopping malls, and comprehensive healthcare facilities.
Plus, you’ve got the colonial zone featuring UNESCO historical sites, museums, and the Malecón—the scenic waterfront walkway stretching along the Caribbean Sea.

For expats with young kids, the city has neighborhood options for you, with access to good schools.

With that, here are the best neighborhoods in Santo Domingo for expats and retirees.

Piantini

Known for its high-end shops and vibrant nightlife, Piantini exudes luxury and opulence. It’s home to ultra-modern apartments loaded with amenities. Its bustling streets are lined with chic boutiques and gourmet restaurants, making it a prime location for expats and retirees looking for more upscale living.

Seralles

The Seralles neighborhood borders major shopping centers, top-rated international schools, and social centers, making it ideal for expats with families or retirees. This upscale area is characterized by its lush greenery and quiet streets lined with attractive homes and luxury apartment buildings.

Naco

Naco, a residential area with a lot of commercial activity, is an option for expats who enjoy a cosmopolitan vibe. The area features modern gyms, shopping malls, and a variety of restaurants ranging from local eateries to international cuisine.

Bella Vista

Due to its proximity to several embassies, Bella Vista offers international appeal to expats. The neighborhood is known for its green spaces and parks, which are popular for walking, cycling, and outdoor activities. The area is close to shopping centers, supermarkets, and several international schools making it favorable for expats with children.

Evaristo Morales

Evaristo Morales is the ideal place to stay for expats looking to balance cost and convenience. In comparison to the areas mentioned above, Evaristo Morales offers more affordable living options. The area is close to upscale areas like Piantini and Bella Vista, allowing residents to enjoy access to similar amenities—including fine dining, parks, schools, and shopping options—at a lower cost.

Each neighborhood presents its unique charm and conveniences. Whether it’s the lively streets of Piantini, the tranquility of Seralles, or the affordability of Evaristo Morales, there’s a perfect spot for every expat and retiree, depending on your family situation and tastes.
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Maria Abreu is the CEO and Managing Attorney of Abreu & Associates, a law firm practicing exclusively in Dominican Republic Immigration and Nationality law. She is also the founder of Retire and Invest DR. This organization hosts conference events for foreigners interested in living, retiring, and investing in the DR. You can contact Maria at: mabreu@abreuimmigration.com.