Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

"It is important for expats considering retiring in Puerto Vallarta to understand the local language, Spanish, in order to interact comfortably with their new neighbors. Additionally, it is important to review the laws surrounding residency and retirement visas. It is also critical to familiarize oneself with the local culture, as well as the potential day-to-day costs of living such as food, transportation, and healthcare. Before making a commitment, it is highly recommended that expats visit the city, meet with local organizations and staff, and explore the area. Lastly, expats should arrange for a reliable in-country contact to help them adjust to life in Puerto Vallarta," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"We visited Puerto Vallarta for 15 years before moving here. I would tell my friend to visit at least 6 times, renting in different places each time. The areas of this city/region are quite different, so that person should rent in Centro, Southside, Conchas Chinas, Mismaloya, the Marina, the Hotel Zone, and even in Nuevo and Bucerias before he or she commits to anything long term. Of course, I would also advise my friend to start learning Spanish and start saving money. Most real estate transactions are in cash because interest rates are very high here. There are long term rental opportunities, if one is comfortable living with a certain amount of uncertainty about availability year to year. I would also tell my friend that, after buying our condo, we have never been happier or so free of financial worries. We love living here," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"I would suggest renting in the 5 Diciembre neighborhood. It has excellent food market, Leys, and a short hike to fresh meat and seafood. If you want to try it out, I suggest you first spend a week or more in the exceptionally well run Grand Paramar small hotel on the beach," remarked one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"There are a few neighborhood guides online, including on insidepv.com, with pictures and video of the areas. It's relatively easy to choose where you want to be, because Puerto Vallarta is divided into 5 distinct areas- Marina, Hotel Zone, Centro, Old Town, Mismaloya. The marina is pricey, surrounded by a golf course and yacht slips, fine dining and art galleries. The hotel zone is a strip of resorts and modern shopping centers. These two areas resemble southern California or Florida. Centro is downtown Puerto Vallarta where the famous malecon boardwalk is located- loud, popular with tourists, fast paced Old Town Puerto Vallarta is slower paced, trendy, more traditional with cobblestone streets, residences, bars/clubs- this is also the popular gay area and has become quite stylish. Mismaloya is farthest south with different areas along the way, marked by "the crescent beaches." This area is lush in tropical jungle and lined with villas and luxury condominiums overlooking private beaches and the ocean," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Franvan, Versalles is reasonably priced. Las Gaviotas is reasonably priced. Vallarta Villas (gated condos) maybe comparable with Fluvial pricing. 5 Diciembre (There are some newer gated condo properties in some of this area. Most of Centro/downtown and the Romantic Zone will have electricity and water/flooding problems during the rainy season. Fluvial, a residential area has both homes & condos for rent & sale with some being newer (all electricity underground, including internet/phone with Telmex). The Marina area will have more condos than homes for rent and you'll pay more than all of the above most of the time," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"I suggest you begin by renting in the Versalles neighborhood--it is still affordable, well laid-out, and pleasant, and is central enough to give you good access to a variety of amenities and other neighborhoods. The deciding factor in choosing where to live will be whether or not you plan on owning a car. There are some gorgeous areas with spectacular views that you would probably not choose to live in without either your own transportation, a very nearby bus stop, or a willingness to use Ubers/taxis pretty much every time you go anywhere," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"I am currently happily settled in Puerto Vallarta, where I find there are more activities that I am comfortable joining than I found in Mazatlán. Though Vallarta is more "verticle" than Mazatlán (which is one of the features that appeals to former Vancouverites), there are also plenty of flat areas with nice homes and amenities and, personally, I rent 4 blocks from the beach (the last block before the hill)," remarked one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"The 5 Diciembre neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta is charming and has many good restaurants. I stay in a 4th floor apartment in the Paramar Hotel, great breakfast, wonderful staff," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"I live in an apartment/condo. This is typical housing when living in town. Condos were built around the older homes of the locals which are usually very poor, built for convenience rather than for comfort. If living out of town, or up on the hills surrounding Puerto Vallarta, villas and luxury condos are common and frequent. Some of latin America's most famous architects have designed villas in these areas," remarked one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Much lower. I moved here from New York where my rent was close to 3,000 USD for a loft. My rent now is around 700 USD for a very nice 1 bedroom. Inland, apartments start at $100-$300 USD for decent apartments. To be near the beach however, expect to pay no less than $600 for something decent, and around $1000 for something really nice. Utilities are unpredictable but inexpensive for the most part. I work for InsidePV.com so I have at least 2 computers running all day, and occasionally run the air conditioner. This runs me about $35 USD per month. If I run the air conditioner regularly, the bill can easily jump to double or triple," wrote a member in Puerto Vallarta.

"The cost of housing in Puerto Vallarta varies greatly depending on several factors, such as location, size of the home, and amenities. A basic one-bedroom apartment in the city center may range from 750 to 1,200 US dollars per month, while larger homes in more upscale areas may cost up to 5,000 US dollars or more. Additionally, renting a villa in the area can range from several thousand US dollars to over 10,000 US dollars per month depending on size and amenities," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Stroll the malecón in the evening, hang out at Captain Don's bar in 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, and at probably lots of bars in Old Town ("Zona Romantica")," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Go to a restaurant and talk to the people at the table beside you - talk to a anyone. It is natural and almost expected here in PV. Something I would never do in my original home of Vancouver," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"I wish I had brought more electronics, books, and computer software. All are easily double or triple the price in the US. This includes computers and pc accessories, cell phones, stereos, tv's, books, and magazines, etc. I also wish I would have brought a dehumidifier- they are impossible to find here but absolutely essential. Quality cosmetics, beauty products, and health products are not available here and what is, is limited or made with locals in mind- for example, products for dark hair and skin tones or health shakes made from a local cactus. Linens here are often not as soft and comfortable as we are used to in the states and Egyptian cotton is impossible to come by. Comfortable furniture- beds, sofas, and chairs are usually hard as rocks here with rough fabrics. What I could have left are most of my designer clothing and high heels- cobblestone streets ruin shoes and humidity eats fine fabrics. It's not uncommon to go to your closet and pull out a shirt with mildew on it after even a week. If you're not too attached, there's no need to bring decor items- the art scene here is great and plenty of international decor shopping and boutiques," wrote one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"I wish I had brought modern a/c units with dehumidifiers built in, but electricity is outrageously priced and on a tier system," remarked one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats should research healthcare options in Puerto Vallarta before retiring to ensure they will have access to the medical care they need. They should look into the cost of living, to get an accurate sense of the items and services they will need and be able to afford. It can also be beneficial to learn about the local culture so that one can have a better understanding of the area and more easily blend in. Additionally, it is a good idea to research local and national laws that may affect retirement, such as income or tax regulations. Lastly, expats should consider the options for communication when they are away from home, such as internet or phone services, so they can stay connected with their family and friends," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"The main industry here is tourism. That is probably followed by construction. I am retired, so I don't know how one goes about getting a work visa or finds a job. I do know there are opportunities for those fluent in Spanish in real estate," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Foreigners often have jobs in the hospitality industry including working as bartenders, servers, tour guides, and activity instructors. Other common jobs for foreigners include property management and maintenance, software development, and sales and marketing. Some foreigners also work as English and German teachers, as well as freelance web designers and writers. Additionally, some foreigners find occasional labor jobs in construction and agriculture," remarked one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads in Puerto Vallarta can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. The city also offers a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a lively nightlife. Additionally, Puerto Vallarta is home to a diverse expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a new home," remarked one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"For Mexicans, it is all about family. Many expats here are retired and spend their time golfing, socializing, enjoying the beaches, painting, or writing. Other expats are working in real estate or own businesses like restaurants or art galleries," wrote one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats in Puerto Vallarta appreciate the vibrant and diverse culture that greets them upon arrival. They are drawn to the warm and welcoming nature of the people, the array of delicious cuisine, the colorful streets bustling with life and the stunning selection of art and local crafts. The relaxed pace and openness of the community are also cherished by expats, allowing them to truly settle into the lifestyle and experience all the city has to offer. Aside from savoring the local flavor, the city and its beaches provide ample opportunities for adventure and exploration," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"I loved seeing how immaterial material things were. I became friends with a woman who lived in a 2 room dirt floored house. She and her family were happy and content. She had 4 children with her and they all slept in one room. It made me realize that in the US we have so much materially but it really doesn't help us be happier. I felt sorry for her in the beginning and yet ended up a little envious after getting to know her and her family," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"The way there is nothing set when dealing with police. Or at least, what I experienced a few times. I got pulled over over something but there was an unsaid dictum that all I had to do was give the policeman some money and drive away," wrote one member in Puerto Vallarta.

"One of the major challenges for expats in Puerto Vallarta is the language barrier. Most people in the city speak Spanish, and although many also speak English, it can be difficult to find locals who are fluent in it. Additionally, the cultural norms and values can be jarring to those from different countries, as the city has its own unique customs and traditions. The climate can also be difficult to adjust to, with hot and humid temperatures year-round, and the cost of living is higher than in some other parts of the country," remarked one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"Puerto Vallarta has generally been considered a safe place to visit. However, petty crime is common and visitors should always take precautions to ensure their personal safety. Although violent offences are rare, visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take sensible precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime. Additionally, travelers should take extra care to avoid involvement with drugs of any kind," remarked one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"People here are very accepting of differences. The dominant religion is Catholic. There are a few storefront nondenominational or Protestant options in our area. There are few people of African descent here. This is an international city, however, with expats from the US, Canada, Germany, England, Italy, and other countries in Central and South America. It is a gay friendly area, offering many bars, clubs, and even resorts that cater to same sex weddings and events. People here are warm and welcoming, managing to cross any language barriers with smiles and laughter," wrote a member in Puerto Vallarta.

"Puerto Vallarta is made up of a diverse population of people from many different backgrounds. This local cultural richness is reflected in the city's food, music, art, and architecture. People in Puerto Vallarta are generally accepting of differences in culture and beliefs, as well as gender and sexual orientation. The city is particularly known as a safe and welcoming destination for LGBT travelers," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Vallarta.

"We had a very mixed experience. We wanted our daughter to experience another culture and learn Spanish. In this respect, we were very successful. Our daughter speaks Spanish fluently and with a Mexican accent. And, exposure to a new and different culture has left her a more mature person. Further, Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful place to live. On the down side, this success did not come without a cost. Mexican children are very class oriented, they are good at treating people (and often teachers) as 2nd class citizens. New students are treated as 2nd class. Our daughter reacted to this with righteous indignation. This brought down a tidal wave of pressure and isolation. Other new students seem to be better at figuring our the power hierarchy and moving with it, instead of against it - and they seem to have a somewhat easier time. But this is not an easy school to be "new" at. Finally, the school is behind the USA academically. The school tests their students against MAP scores. MAP scores seem to use the USA public school students as a base. Our daughter scores in the 90th percentile in MAP. However, when we tested her in ISEE (Independent Schools Entrance Exams) comparing her against U.S.A. private school students, she scored in the 40th percentile. So, the school would count as a very good U.S.A. public school, but significantly below average as a U.S.A. private school. However, in fairness, most of the children in the school are not native English speakers, so you must make some allowances when comparing them against NYC private schools," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta with children at American School of Puerto Vallarta.

"There are several excellent international schools and bilingual schools located in Puerto Vallarta, including: The American School of Puerto Vallarta (ASPV), which offers a bilingual and bicultural educational program for students from pre-kindergarten to 12th grade; Vista Vallarta, an international school with cutting-edge curriculum and technology; and Lyceum International School Puerto Vallarta, which provides a comprehensive, international and innovative education. Additionally, Centro de Enseñanza Técnica y Superior, a higher education facility with international accreditation, offers its students linguistic, scientific and technological training. All of these institutions are committed to helping students develop the skills they need to succeed in the modern world," remarked one parent with kids at in Puerto Vallarta.

"The culture shock has taken two years to acclimatize to, and it's not over yet for me. However, people here laugh more, smile more, and sing more than in the United States. The narco violence reported in the news is completely overblown. Private medical services, which is why we moved here, are superior to the US and are 1/20 the cost," wrote one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Puerto Vallarta often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and warm climate. They also enjoy the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and lack of reliable public transportation to be challenging. Additionally, the city's high humidity can be uncomfortable for some," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Puerto Vallarta typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through activities such as beach volleyball, salsa dancing, and yoga classes. There are also plenty of bars, restaurants, and cafes to explore, as well as a vibrant nightlife. Additionally, there are many expat and digital nomad groups that organize regular meetups and events, providing a great way to make friends and explore the city," said one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.

"The possibilities for social interaction in PV are just about anything you might prefer. There are socially interactive activities and venues everywhere. Physical, culinary, educational, exploratory, etc., opportunities are constant," mentioned one expat inPuerto Vallarta.

"There's a large North American expat community in Vallarta, especially in winter. We have many ways of communicating and keeping in touch, so knowing Spanish is very helpful but not absolutely required. Many Mexican nationals here speak at least some English, which makes things easier even in the off-season," said one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.

"Puerto Vallarta is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural events and activities. The city is known for its friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere, making it easy to meet new people and make friends. Whether you're looking for a night out on the town or a more relaxed evening, Puerto Vallarta has something for everyone," mentioned one expat inPuerto Vallarta.

"PV is a boomtown. Consequently, rental prices and purchase prices are higher here than most places in Mexico, with no corresponding rise in quality," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Vallarta.

"Expats in Puerto Vallarta recommend researching the neighborhood thoroughly before signing a lease or buying a property to ensure that it is safe and well situated. Additionally, they advise visiting several apartments in the area before making a decision, as well as making sure to have a written agreement in both English and Spanish, as well as a clear understanding of all rules, regulations, and expenses associated with living at the property. Expats also suggest talking to locals for advice about the best areas to live that fit their budget, as many locals have extensive knowledge about areas in Puerto Vallarta," said one expat.

"Puerto Vallarta offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality care and services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. Many of the hospitals and clinics are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals, and they offer a variety of treatments and procedures. Additionally, Puerto Vallarta has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. For those seeking alternative treatments, Puerto Vallarta also has a number of holistic health centers that offer a variety of services, such as acupuncture, massage, and yoga," mentioned one expat inPuerto Vallarta.

"As cash customers of healthcare services in both the US and Mexico, we have found that private system medical costs all across Mexico are 1/20 of what it used to cost us back in California. We have also found the quality of care to be better," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Puerto Vallarta can be relatively affordable compared to other countries. Many hospitals and clinics offer competitive prices for medical services, and there are a variety of health insurance plans available to suit different budgets. The cost of health insurance in Puerto Vallarta is typically lower than in the United States, and the quality of care is generally good. Additionally, many hospitals and clinics offer discounts for cash payments, making healthcare even more affordable," wrote one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.

"Ask for receipts as many places don't issue one.....my health insurance would not cover my pedicures even though I went to the hospital for medical pedicures as the person doing it was not the officially accepted PODIATRIST. My massage visits are wonderful and reasonable 500 pesos for 75 minutes! My insurance companies pay those to a limit as long as the receipts show all necessary info... so check with your insurance company what is necessary. Many Mexicans don't or can't write properly, so make sure they spell your name correctly and have all the info correct, even the date as on one of my receipts the girl put 2010 when it was 2017 and my insurance company refused it even though I had submitted many receipts together and it was an obvious error. There are many walk in clinics with doctors, but quality is questionable, so stick to well known ones in your area. Similaries are good and lower cost. I also lived in Mexico for 2 yrs and worked and had the local Seguro Social medical coverage... covers basics. I speak Spanish so it worked out ok, but it was a bit of a drive and a different process... so when I felt stressed I just used the local private clinic and paid 500 pesos to see the doctor," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Vallarta.

"The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta is fairly low compared to other cities in the world. The rental price for a nice one bedroom apartment in Puerto Vallarta is typically around $500-600 USD per month while a two bedroom apartment is usually anywhere from $800-1000 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Puerto Vallarta would typically cost around $10-15 USD per person," remarked one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"In order to visit Puerto Vallarta, visitors must obtain a visa from the Mexican consulate in their country of origin prior to entering the country. The application process for a visa in Mexico requires providing personal information, such as passport data and proof of means to support one's stay. Supporting documentation may include financial details and current medical records, depending on the type of visa. When applying for residency in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, individuals must be legally admitted to the country and properly register at the National Registry of Foreigners. Along with a valid passport, applicants will need to provide evidence of financial stability, proof of income and a valid local address. Furthermore, they must also show proof of valid health insurance, among other documents. Once all the necessary paperwork is submitted, a residence card is issued and must be renewed on a regular basis," remarked one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"Puerto Vallarta offers a high quality of life, with a pleasant climate and plenty of activities available. Its colonial charm makes it a popular destination for expats. Its location on Mexico's Pacific coast also gives it a great deal of natural beauty, making it the perfect spot to relax and take in the scenery. The moderate cost of living and the availability of modern amenities and conveniences is an added plus. In addition, Puerto Vallarta has an expatriate-friendly environment, as it offers a strong expatriate community that provides a great platform for networking and finding new opportunities," wrote one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.