Mastercard study shows 11% summer spending growth
Puerto Rico recorded an 11% year-over-year increase in gross dollar volume during summer 2025, exceeding market expectations and reflecting gains across multiple sectors, according to data summarized in Mastercard’s “PRiceless” Summer 2025 economic overview.
The report described 2025 as “a year of unprecedented economic impact for Puerto Rico,” noting that the summer results extended beyond entertainment-driven activity and reflected broader consumer and visitor spending trends.
Economic momentum began earlier in the year. Between February and June, growth in flight offers and island stays supported a 6% increase in the lodging sector, driven largely by advance hotel bookings for the summer season. During that same period, overall spending rose 51%, with 96% of the increase attributed to local consumers preparing for the arrival of visitors.
Retail activity also showed sustained strength. Sales in fashion, technology and services rose 21% during the first half of 2025. The report noted that this pattern suggests “the summer boost is not merely a short-term spike but marks the start of an extended economic cycle affecting areas beyond tourism.”
From July through September, growth accelerated. Spending on accommodations increased 25%, entertainment spending rose 41% and retail activity climbed 6%. Entertainment spending alone increased 72% during the summer months.
The report described the period as “A Priceless Summer that rocked the island,” and highlighted that roughly half of total spending growth occurred outside the San Juan metro area, indicating that economic activity was spread across several regions of the island.
More than 29,000 people participated in PRiceless cultural activations during the summer, including concerts, culinary experiences and mobility programs. More than 25 restaurants took part in gastronomic routes aimed at showcasing local cuisine.
Digital payments played an increasing role in visitor activity. Contactless transactions among visitors rose 92%, according to the data. Local residents accounted for 47% of incremental spending ahead of the summer season, while visitors generated 41% of incremental spending during the summer period.
Mobility and small-business engagement also expanded. More than 3,000 users participated in Mastercard mobility circuits designed to facilitate transportation and reduce carbon emissions. In addition, more than 20 small and midsize businesses joined promotional initiatives known as Jangueo Zones to showcase their products and services.
