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Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Cost of Living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Mar 02, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Puerto Vallarta can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $800 to $1,500 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Puerto Vallarta is usually around $15 to $20 USD per person.

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Is the cost of living in Puerto Vallarta high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Puerto Vallarta, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta can vary greatly depending on lifestyle. For basic necessities and amenities, living in Puerto Vallarta can be relatively affordable with average restaurant meals costing around 80-100 pesos and public transit fares around 8-10 pesos per ride. Rent prices depend on the location and size of the residence but can range from around $300-600 USD for a one bedroom apartment in a more residential area. Utility prices are relatively affordable when compared to other cities," explained one expat.

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Will I save money living in Puerto Vallarta?

"Living in Puerto Vallarta can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of housing, utilities, transportation, and food are all less in Puerto Vallarta than most places in the U.S., making it an ideal location to save money. Along with a lower cost of living, Puerto Vallarta offers a vibrant culture and tourist attractions that can provide entertainment without breaking the bank," said one person in Puerto Vallarta.

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What is the average cost of housing in Puerto Vallarta?

If you are thinking about moving to Puerto Vallarta, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"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," said one expat in Puerto Vallarta.

"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," remarked one in Puerto Vallarta.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Puerto Vallarta?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Puerto Vallarta typically starts around $500 USD per month. The rental price for a nice 2 bedroom apartment in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico typically starts around $700 USD per month," said one expat.

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What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Puerto Vallarta what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In a typical rental property in Puerto Vallarta, renters will find basic kitchen appliances such as a refrigerator, range, and oven, as well as laundry appliances such as a washing machine and clothes dryer. Air conditioning is also a commonly included appliance in Puerto Vallarta rental homes, as well as other amenities such as a television, internet access, and a hot water heater. Many renters also find basic furniture and décor when renting a home in Puerto Vallarta," said an expat in Puerto Vallarta.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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