My favorite part of the Island is the southwest side. I just moved to Yauco last week after living in Palmas del Mar for 2+ years.

I can't say a lot about Rincon because I don't know but Mayaguez is the most American like city here with the highest rate of english speaking people I have seen.

Living costs on most everything is a little expensive here except for service related items (car repairs, appliance repairs, etc). Expect a 5 - 10% increase in living expenses.

You will need a car to get around unless you live in Palmas del Mar and then you will need a golf cart, there is a car rental on site if you need to go further than the onsite.

Things to like. 1. The weather 2. Simpler Life 3. Tropical Fruits/Nuts everywhere 4. Less regulations on things I care about (homeschooling) 5. Tax system that is not the IRS 6. More community minded people, probably more like the states in the 70/80s. 7. I have a personal swimming pool, tennis court, basketball court and decent sized house for less than the one I left in Atlanta.

How is the crime?

It's not too different than Atlanta, there are places to avoid and places that are OK. The west side of the island from Yauco around to the top center are going to be on par with most suburbs in Atlanta, San Juan and east are a more dicey. On the east side Palmas del Mar is very safe.

I've never had a problem here or felt in danger.

Ben, I think you should write a blog post about your experience. Many of us would love to hear more about it, including me.

If you've got a minute, I'd be very interested in discussing a bit more in depth. {username}.co@gmail works.

I'm in Atlanta now, but have definitely been mulling PR over.

Heard the same thing about east vs west sides of the island.