The Dominican Republic is absolutely the best bargain in the region figuring the cost of lodging, food and entertainment. Transportation costs can run a little high as the cost of car rentals is higher than most other popular destinations and driving is certainly more dangerous compared with St. Maarten, Aruba, etc. but their lodging costs are more than double what we pay in the D.R. for equivalent accommodation.
The airfare is just about the same as those other locations mentioned from most Metropolitan US cities despite the fact that it's a shorter flight but it's still not more expensive.
Jamaica is the cheapest destination but then many tourists don't feel comfortable moving about JA island alone, day and night the way that I do so I can't really call it the best bargain. The AI's in Jamaica are more expensive than their Dominican counterparts but hotel rooms and resort stays without the AI is very inexpensive in JA island. Ackee and salt fish for breakfast suits me just fine but it's an aquired taste. Cheapest price is not necessarily the best value.