Country guide

Working in Puerto Rico: Job Market Guide 2026

Get the definitive guide to Puerto Rico's job market: essential insights on monthly average salaries (1,800 USD), employment trends and the economic factors that shape your income, plus the country's largest employers such as Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, Triple-S Management, Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority.

  • Population2,860,840
  • Avg. monthly salary$1,800
  • Unemployment5.6%
  • Purchasing power60.2 (US = 100)

Welcome to your guide to the Puerto Rico job market. Finding the right job or candidate requires solid data. Here you will find key figures on employment, salaries and the economy to support your next career step or recruitment decision in Puerto Rico.

Job market overview

Key metricCurrent value
Total population2,860,840 residents
Employment rate38.2%
Unemployment rate5.6%Moderate to higher unemployment – strong, specific skills help you stand out.

With an unemployment rate of 5.6%, Puerto Rico has a more balanced labor market. Candidates should highlight specialized skills and experience.

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Living & working in Puerto Rico: salaries and cost of living

Before relocating or applying for jobs in Puerto Rico, consider these key economic factors:

IndicatorValueCompared with the U.S.
Average monthly salary 1,800 USD 40% of the U.S. averagesignificantly lower
Purchasing power 60.2 weaker (U.S. = 100)

With a purchasing power index of 60.2, the average monthly salary of 1,800 USD supports a budget-conscious lifestyle in Puerto Rico. Always compare an offer with local rents and living costs in the specific city.

Top industries & employers in PR

Leading industryAgriculture
Growth sectorManufacturing
Service sectorServices
Major employersBanco Popular de Puerto Rico, Triple-S Management, Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority

Job seekers will usually find the most openings in Agriculture, while Manufacturing offers growth potential.

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Working in Puerto Rico – FAQ

What's the employment situation in Puerto Rico?

Puerto Rico has a population of about 2,860,840. The employment rate is 38.2%. The unemployment rate currently stands at 5.6%.

Which are the top companies in Puerto Rico?

Large employers in Puerto Rico include Banco Popular de Puerto Rico, Triple-S Management, Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority.

How far does a salary go in Puerto Rico?

The purchasing power index for Puerto Rico is 60.2 (U.S. = 100), which means the cost of living should be weighed carefully when comparing job offers.

How can I find jobs in Puerto Rico?

Browse the latest international openings on Cityjobs and filter by country or remote work. Employers post directly, and you apply with the employer.

Which industries matter most in Puerto Rico?

Agriculture is the leading industry, while Manufacturing is an important growth sector, alongside Services.

Data sources & methodology

The figures in this guide are compiled from these public sources:

We aim to update these figures regularly. Employment rates, exchange rates and salaries can change quickly, so please verify important figures with official local sources before making major decisions.
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