Bad Bunny's Residency Celebrates Puerto Rican Culture + $200M Impact

When Bad Bunny made decided to stage his career-defining residency in his homeland of Puerto Rico, he didn’t just bring the beats, he made a major economic impact while celebrating the culture of the Carribean island he calls home. The residency, titled No Me Quiero Ir de Aquí held at the iconic José Miguel Agrelot Coliseum (“El Choli”) in San Juan, ran from July through September 2025 and created huge ripples across tourism, local business, media value, and cultural pride.

Tourism & Visitor Spend — Hello Off-Season Boom

Traditionally, Puerto Rico sees a lull in tourism during hurricane season and the summer months. But by centering the residency in this “slow” period, the island grabbed the moment. One report estimated that over 450,000 attendees visited during the initial 15 shows alone, generating an economic impact of about $165 million. 

In total, it's estimated the tour brought over $200 million according to Forbes.

When visitors spend on hotel nights, food, transportation, local crafts, souvenirs and more — that means money stays on island, jobs pop up, vendors bustle. For example, tourism boards counted tens of thousands of hotel nights booked in hotels across Condado, Miramar, and Isla Verde as part of residency-packages. 

Local Business Revival & Cultural Exports

It’s not just concert tickets. Local fashion designers saw demand spike as attendees sought to “dress the part” in Puerto Rican style. The event showcased local brands and boosted the island’s image as a hub of culture + commerce. 

Restaurants, bars, and retail shops around San Juan — especially in tourist-adjacent zones — reported higher foot traffic. The residency basically turned San Juan into the epicenter of Latin-music tourism for those months.

Media value? One estimate pegged the publicity value at around $17 million just from exposure alone.

Why This Matters for Culture, Identity & Entrepreneurship

This isn’t just about dollars. When Bad Bunny chose Puerto Rico instead of doing his usual global tour jaunt through the U.S. and Europe, it was a statement: roots matter. Locals got first access and the residency invited the world to the island, boosting the island’s economy and reminding everyone that Puerto Rico is alive, bold and vibrant.

For local entrepreneurs, creators and businesses, the residency became a platform. From artisans to fashion houses to hospitality, it opened doors. 

Our Take

Latinas know this: when culture is honored, magic happens. When we anchor to our roots and bring innovation, we create waves bigger than ourselves. Bad Bunny’s residency is that kinda magic. It shows that Puerto Ricans and Latinas across the diaspora aren’t just consumers, we drive culture and economy.

Most importantly, remember that when we show up for the culture, the culture shows up for us.