Money, cards and ATMs in Jamaica

Two currencies, one of which you should use

The Jamaican dollar (J$) is the currency. US dollars circulate freely in tourist areas, and using them costs you.

• The Bank of Jamaica rate was around J$ 157 to J$ 160 to the US dollar in early August 2026. Hotels and shops quoting their own rate will be well short of that.
• Pay in Jamaican dollars wherever you have the choice. The convenience of paying in USD is charged for, every time.
• Prices are often quoted in USD in resort areas and in J$ everywhere else. Ask which currency a price is in before agreeing to it. This is the source of a great many misunderstandings.
• Change money at a cambio or a bank, not at the airport and never on the street.
• ATMs dispense Jamaican dollars and are widespread in towns. Use ones attached to bank branches.

Tax on your bill

• Hotel rooms currently carry a reduced 10 percent rate. That concession ends on 1 April 2027, when accommodation moves to the standard 15 percent. If you are planning a 2027 trip, that is a real difference in the total.
• Many hotels and restaurants add a service charge of around 10 percent on top. Read the bill before adding more.

Tipping and cards

• Tip 10 to 15 percent in restaurants where no service charge has been added.
• All-inclusive resorts often say tipping is not required, and staff still appreciate small US or Jamaican notes. Bring small denominations.
• Cards are accepted in hotels, established restaurants and supermarkets, and not much else.
• Carry cash for route taxis, roadside vendors, craft markets, jerk stands and small shops.
• Tell your bank you are travelling to avoid a block, and always choose to be billed in Jamaican dollars rather than your home currency at a terminal.