Casa de Campo vs. Cap Cana: Your Guide to Exclusive DR Retirement
Discover your ideal luxury retirement in the Dominican Republic. This guide compares Casa de Campo's established elegance and Cap Cana's modern exclusivity, helping you choose between world-class golf, stunning beaches, top-tier amenities, and unparalleled security for your Caribbean dream.
The Dominican Republic offers a tempting array of luxury retirement destinations, with Casa de Campo and Cap Cana standing out as premier choices for discerning expats. Both boast stunning Caribbean settings, world-class amenities, and a high level of security. But while they share a commitment to upscale living, their distinct vibes and offerings cater to different preferences. Let's delve into what each exclusive community provides to help you decide your ideal Caribbean haven.
The Vibe: Understated Elegance vs. Modern Exclusivity
Casa de Campo exudes a classic, established, and understated luxury. It feels like a sprawling, private country club with meticulously manicured grounds and a relaxed, pampered pace of life. Imagine traveling everywhere by golf cart, enjoying fine dining by the marina, and watching serene Caribbean sunsets. The atmosphere is tranquil and self-contained, attracting those who appreciate a long-standing elite Caribbean lifestyle.
Cap Cana, on the other hand, offers a more modern, exclusive resort community vibe. Its emphasis is on refined quiet luxury, away from the crowds. This master-planned enclave features pristine white-sand beaches, a picturesque marina, and an award-winning golf course. Life here is meticulously maintained and tranquil, with high-end amenities at every turn. It attracts well-heeled retirees and professionals who value peace, security, and upscale leisure in a beautiful seaside setting.
Cost of Living: A Premium for Paradise
Both Casa de Campo and Cap Cana are among the most expensive places to live in the Dominican Republic, reflecting their upscale nature and amenities.
In Casa de Campo, a comfortable couple's lifestyle can range from approximately $3,200 to $4,000 per month. Rent is a significant factor, with long-term villa rentals typically starting at $2,000+ per month. Groceries can be kept reasonable by shopping in nearby La Romana, but on-site delis are pricier. Utilities, especially electricity with heavy A/C use, can add up in the tropical climate.
For Cap Cana, a retired couple can expect to spend around $3,000 to $4,000+ per month for a comfortable to splurge-inclusive lifestyle. Rent for a two-bedroom condo in prime locations can be around $2,000+ per month. Groceries for a couple typically run about $500 monthly, and imported goods can rival or exceed U.S. prices due to rising supermarket costs. Utilities with A/C usage can range from $150 to $250 per month.
Real Estate: Luxury at Every Turn
Both communities are defined by their high-end real estate offerings.
Casa de Campo is known for luxury properties, from golf-course condos to sprawling oceanfront estates. Two-bedroom condos typically cost around $500K-$800K, while comfortable three-bedroom villas often fall in the $800K-$1M range. Ultra-luxe oceanfront estates can exceed $5-10 million. Popular areas include Las Cañas and Golf Villas for smaller homes, and Barranca Este and Los Lagos for spacious villas.
Cap Cana's real estate market is firmly in the luxury bracket, featuring gated condo communities, modern luxury villas, and upscale golf or marina residences. Two-bedroom condos typically start in the high $200,000s to $300,000s, with prime oceanfront or marina-front units ranging from $400,000-$700,000.Three-bedroom villas often run from the high six figures to over $1 million, with expansive oceanfront properties reaching $5-10 million+. Popular areas for expats include the Marina Cap Cana district, Juanillo Beach area, and the Punta Espada golf community. Ciudad Las Canas, just outside the main gate, offers more budget-friendly options while still providing access to Cap Cana amenities.
Jaycel Nova
