Yes. The rise of remote work is bringing long-stay digital nomads to towns like Las Terrenas and Cabarete. They’re reshaping local real estate markets by driving year-round rental demand, increasing prices for turnkey condos, and creating new opportunities for smart investors focused on flexibility and passive income.
Why Remote Workers Are Moving to the DR
Remote professionals are increasingly choosing the Dominican Republic as a base — not just for a few weeks, but for months at a time. Why? It’s affordable, has strong fiber internet in most areas, and delivers the lifestyle that mobile professionals are chasing: beach, sun, and community.
What’s fueling this movement? Year-round warm weather, modern housing at a lower cost than Canada or the U.S., and a rising number of coworking spaces and expat networks in coastal towns. Nomads who once booked a two-week stay are now extending to two or three months — and many end up buying.
Digital Nomad Visa Explained
There’s no official “digital nomad visa” yet, but the Dominican Republic already offers flexible pathways for remote professionals. Most enter on a Tourist Card, good for up to 90 days. Others apply for Temporary Residency, an ideal fit for freelancers or passive income earners.
Those investing in real estate can also qualify under the Investor Visa. While there’s no formal digital nomad program today, sources close to immigration policy suggest a dedicated remote worker visa could launch soon — positioning the DR as a top destination for global talent.
Where Nomads Rent & Buy
Nomads are clustering in walkable beach towns with fast Wi-Fi, solid infrastructure, and a built-in international community. Las Terrenas stands out with its mix of French-influenced culture and laid-back coastal living. Cabarete pulls in an active crowd — think kitesurfers, yogis, and remote marketers.
In the capital, Santo Domingo offers urban amenities and coworking chains like WeWork and Regus. Meanwhile, Jarabacoa is gaining traction among nature-loving nomads looking to escape the heat and embrace a mountain lifestyle. Most start with furnished rentals and explore ownership in gated developments or condo-hotels.
How This Trend Impacts Property Prices
The digital nomad wave isn’t just hype — it’s materially changing real estate demand. We’re seeing long-term rental rates rise in nomad-heavy areas. Occupancy stays strong even in slower seasons. Developers are shifting toward live/work spaces, offering condos with fiber internet, dedicated desks, and plug-and-play furnishings.
Investors are taking notice. Nomads are great tenants: they stay longer than tourists, pay for amenities, and treat properties like home. That translates into lower vacancy and better cash flow — exactly what you want in an investment property.
How to Invest in Nomad-Friendly Developments
If you’re investing with nomads in mind, think flexibility first. Look for condos or townhomes with fast Wi-Fi, quality furnishings, and a layout that includes work-from-home space. Proximity to coworking hubs, walkability, and neighborhood safety all factor into appeal.
Strong plays include Las Terrenas and Cabarete, especially within new builds that offer both vacation and long-term rental potential. Bonus points if your unit is part of a professionally managed complex that handles turnover and maintenance. This segment is growing fast — and early movers are already seeing ROI.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the DR have a digital nomad visa?
Not yet. But tourist and temporary residency options are flexible and suitable for remote workers. A formal nomad visa is expected soon.
Where do digital nomads live in the DR?
Las Terrenas, Cabarete, Santo Domingo, and Jarabacoa are top choices. They offer fast Wi-Fi, community, and lifestyle appeal.
How is remote work affecting real estate?
It’s increasing long-term rental demand, boosting off-season occupancy, and inspiring new development formats like live/work units and co-living buildings.
Let’s Talk About Your Next Move
If you’re considering a nomad-focused rental strategy or just want to get into the DR market the right way, we’re here to help. Our team specializes in investment real estate that’s built for performance and lifestyle.
Conclusion
Remote work is here to stay — and the Dominican Republic is positioning itself as a key player in that shift. For investors, this is more than a trend. It’s a real opportunity to own property that attracts premium tenants, performs in every season, and aligns with how the world is changing. Whether you’re looking at beachfront studios or mountain retreats, the nomad wave is worth riding.
