Can I use US dollars in Jamaica? Yes—here’s the simple way to avoid overpaying.
If you’re staying in a resort area, you’ll notice something fast: a lot of tourist pricing is quoted in USD. The trick is knowing when USD is easiest and when JMD saves you money. This guide gives you a clean rule you can actually use on day one.
Where is USD accepted in Jamaica?
The easiest way to think about this: in tourist zones, USD is common. In local areas, JMD is king. Resorts, tours, and private transport are often priced in USD because most visitors carry USD.
| What you’re buying | What currency is common | What you should expect |
|---|---|---|
| Taxi / Private driver | Often USD | USD accepted; change may be JMD |
| Tours & excursions | Usually USD | USD accepted; cards often possible |
| Craft markets (tourist areas) | Mixed (USD common) | Small USD bills make life easier |
| Resorts / hotels | USD pricing is common | USD and cards widely used |
| Local shops / local food | Mostly JMD | JMD usually gets better value |
- Carry small USD bills ($1, $5, $10, $20).
- Use JMD for local snacks, small meals, and everyday buys.
- Ask “USD or JMD?” before you pay if it’s not obvious.
- Paying USD with a $50/$100 note and expecting USD change.
- Exchanging a big amount to JMD “just in case” and then shopping in USD areas.
- Converting back and forth more than necessary.
Should I bring Jamaican dollars or US dollars?
Bring USD because it works smoothly in tourist pricing. Then keep some JMD for local spending. Most travelers do best with a mix.
The “double conversion” mistake (real example)
This is how visitors lose money without realizing it: exchanging to JMD and then paying for something priced in USD.
Example scenario
Let’s say the general rate is J$160 = US$1. You exchange US$100, but you receive J$150 per US$1.