Pros and Cons of Living in Puerto Vallarta
Last updated on Jun 06, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico include the beautiful beaches, the vibrant culture, the delicious cuisine, and the friendly locals. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an attractive destination for retirees and expats. On the other hand, the cons of living in Puerto Vallarta include the lack of reliable public transportation, the high crime rate, and the language barrier. Additionally, the infrastructure is not as developed as in other parts of Mexico, making it difficult to access certain services.
What are the pros and cons of living in Puerto Vallarta?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Puerto Vallarta responded:
"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," remarked one expat 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," explained one expat living in Puerto Vallarta.
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What do expats in Puerto Vallarta appreciate most about the local culture?
"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," remarked one in 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.
What do expats find most challenging?
"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," explained one expat living 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," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Puerto Vallarta?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Puerto Vallarta?
- Will I be able to find a job in Puerto Vallarta?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Puerto Vallarta appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Puerto Vallarta?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Puerto Vallarta accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Puerto Vallarta like?
- How are healthcare services in Puerto Vallarta?
- What are medical services in Puerto Vallarta like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Puerto Vallarta?
- What are emergency services like in Puerto Vallarta?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Puerto Vallarta?
- How are local medical facilities in Puerto Vallarta?
- As a foreigner living in Puerto Vallarta, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?


