Cost Of Living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico: What are the Expected Expenses?

Puerto Vallarta is a dream destination on the west coast of the State of Jalisco, Mexico. What used to be a quiet fishing village has grown into one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations. Puerto Vallarta is naturally beautiful, surrounded by green jungle hills, lovely beaches, stunning sunsets, rich culture, and the friendliest people. It is no surprise that it attracts many foreign visitors and ends up retiring in the beautiful paradise. It offers a great diversity of lifestyle choices and caters to most needs and budgets. The current population of Puerto Vallarta is around 250,000 in the metro area. A good number of those people are full-time, or part-time expats, mainly from the U.S. and Canada. As a vacation destination popular with visitors from around the world, there is no shortage of restaurants with every type of cuisine. Everything from street corner taco stands to fine gourmet dining is available. Shopping malls, local markets, banks, and all modern amenities are open in the city. What makes Puerto Vallarta stand out from other Mexico’s prominent cities is its mix of modern and laid-back living. Living a good life doesn’t have to be expensive, which is what Puerto Vallarta offers.

Puerto Vallarta’s cost of living is lower than other top U.S. cities. The usual price range for renting an apartment per day in Puerto Vallarta is around $40 to $1900. The price still depends on the location and the property size. Casual dining costs around $15 to $45, while fine dining is around $65 to $80. Three tacos, and two soft drinks, cost around $5 to $10 in street foods. A basic two-bedroom and two-bathroom 2500 square feet (232 square meters) house for sale in a safe neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta starts at around $250,000. A high-speed internet connection costs $25 per month. A single mobile phone with a large data package, including free unlimited social media app access and unlimited calls through Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, costs an average of $25 per month. Medical and dental care services in Puerto Vallarta are cost-effective and high-quality. Aside from its lovely beaches, the locals are among the many reasons Puerto Vallarta is an ideal place to retire. Mexicans are among the friendliest people in the world. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Tourism is among the top sectors that provide many job opportunities for locals. Puerto Vallarta is an excellent place to live economically. Luxuriously living for less is what makes Puerto Vallarta special.       

The cost of living is lower than that of the US, Canada, and Europe. Puerto Vallarta is a tourist spot, but less expensive than other tourist hotspots like Cancun. Generally, a couple lives comfortably for around $2,000.00 or less a month in Puerto Vallarta. This includes rent for a furnished two-bedroom apartment, utilities, health insurance, and a decent standard of living. Compared to the cost of living in the US, this has become an affordable alternative. Money stretches further while offering a comfortable lifestyle. An example breakdown of a month’s cost of living for two people. One month of accommodation is $800 outside the city center, the budget for food and drink is $765, transportation allowance $31, entertainment costs about $66, and miscellaneous (laundry, pharmacy, phone, etc.) costs approximately $223. The total monthly expenses are $1,885. Each person lives differently, depending on one’s preferences and needs. In Puerto Vallarta, living quality is much cheaper than in top tourist destinations. Living every day in a beautiful place like Puerto Vallarta is priceless. 

Listed below are the Expected Expenses when Living in Puerto Vallarta.

1. Food and Drinks: A typical fast food meal costs around $23, suitable for two people in Puerto Vallarta. A decent meal in an ordinary restaurant costs around $19.50. Food prices in supermarkets are lower compared to the United States. A bottle of 1.5 liters of water is $0.84. A carton of milk costs 21mxn, and a sausage or cold cut is worth 193mxn.
2. Transportation: There are several means of transportation available in Puerto Vallarta. The best way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus, which costs 50 cents for a one-way ride. A taxi ride usually costs around $26 when traveling from the airport to the Hotel Zone. The minimum taxi fare typically is about $2.10 to $3.70 for a short distance around town.  
3. Utility Bills: The cost of electricity for two-bedroom-condo units is approximately around $100 to $150 per month. About $15 to $20 per month covers the gas bills for a couple. Water utilities cost roughly $12 per month for a couple. Water is typically included in the Homeowners Association maintenance fees in condo buildings. 
4. Clothing and Other Necessities: A pair of jeans costs around $42, one summer dress is $23, and a pair of running shoes costs around $64.  
5. Buying a House: A basic two-bedroom, two bathrooms, 2500 square feet (ca. 232 square meters) house in a safe neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta starts at around $250,000.
6. Renting an Apartment: The usual price range for the Puerto Vallarta apartment for rent per day is around $40 to $1900. Renting an apartment for a week is around $700 to $1800. The rent price always depends on the property’s location and the apartment’s size. Monthly rate for an apartment rent ranges from $2500 to $15000.
7. Laundry: Laundry shops are prominent in Puerto Vallarta. Having freshly cleaned clothes is easy when living in Puerto Vallarta. Most laundry shops in the area charge for the laundry based on their weight. Clothes are washed, folded, and put in a plastic bag.

Mexico is known for its delicious cuisines worldwide. Food is always part of every country’s rich culture. As a vacation destination popular with visitors from around the world, there is no shortage of restaurants with every type of cuisine. Food is definitely how an individual spends the most significant part of their money. Surprisingly, food is relatively inexpensive in Puerto Vallarta. People are able to eat tacos on the streets for less than a dollar. A loaf of fresh white bread costs $1.60, a dozen eggs is $1.40, and local cheese is worth $6.50. Fruits are relatively cheap. One kilogram of apples costs $1.80, and one kilo of oranges costs $1.10. One kilogram of rice is worth $1.70, and one kilo of potatoes costs $1.30. Puerto Vallarta is home to numerous restaurants. Casual dining, including two appetizers, two main courses, and four beers, costs around $30 to $45. Fine dining, including two appetizers, two main courses, and two glasses of wine, costs around $65 to $80. Street food, like a serving of three tacos, and two soft drinks, costs around $7 to $10.

Getting around Puerto Vallarta is relatively easy. There are different modes of transportation in the area. The best way to get around Puerto Vallarta is by bus. A bus ride is the cheapest option. Puerto Vallarta bus service is available for the Hotel Zone, El Malecon, Romantic Zone, and Marina Vallarta. There are several bus stops, and the fares are cheap. A one-way fare starts at about 50 cents. For a less crowded and bumpy ride, take a taxi or an Uber. Another option is renting a car. However, it is pretty expensive. Almost all travelers arrive via airplane or cruise ship. The cruise ship terminal is about 3 miles (4.83 km) north of downtown Puerto Vallarta.

On the other hand, the nearest airport is about 3 miles (4.83 km) south of downtown. A taxi ride from the airport to the Hotel Zone costs around $26. Rental vehicles provide access to all the main tourist attractions of Puerto Vallarta. However, rates are pricey. Mexico recognizes U.S. driver’s licenses, so that travelers won’t need an international driving permit unless they plan to drive more than 300 miles (ca. 483 km) in Mexico during their stay. Taxis are an excellent and affordable way to get around the city. Fare charges are by zone, not meter. Ask the driver for a rate sheet to keep track. The minimum taxi fare usually is around $2.10 to $3.70 around town. Traveling is a breeze because Puerto Vallarta transportation  has a very good public system, covering the whole city and beyond.   

Utility bills are among the principal expenses one must pay regularly. The cost of electricity for two-bedroom-condo units is around $100 to $150 per month, with higher usage during the summer. During the winter, the average electricity cost is between $35 to $50. However, the prices still depend on the appliances in a particular home and the frequency of use. Most homes in PV use gas stoves. Water heaters and clothes dryers use gas too. Around $15 to $35 per month covers the gas bills for two people. Water utilities cost about $12 per month for a couple. Often, water is among the Homeowners Association maintenance fees in condo buildings. A high-speed internet connection costs about $25 per month. The internet connection provides multiple screens to stream simultaneously without lag. One cellphone with a large data package, including free unlimited social media app access, and unlimited calls through Mexico, U.S., and Canada, costs an average of $25 per month.   

Clothing and other necessities are a person’s regular expenses. There are many exceptional selections of reasonably priced lightweight clothes in Puerto Vallarta. A simple dress and a comfortable top are typically what people wear on the beach. Depending on the type of clothes one is looking for, Puerto Vallarta has several malls and local shops to choose from. One pair of jeans costs around $42, one summer dress is $23, and a pair of running shoes costs around $64. Generally, prices in Puerto Vallarta are a lot cheaper. People get to shop in groceries like Walmart, Costco, and Home Depot. Almost everything is available in these well-known shops.

Houses for sale in Puerto Vallarta vary depending on the house’s location, utilities, and the age of the property. Puerto Vallarta homes come in a variety of sizes and styles. A two-bedroom, two-bathroom, 2500 square feet (ca. 232 square meters) house in a safe neighborhood in Puerto Vallarta starts at around $250,000. Most properties for sale in Mexico are located in top cities frequented by foreigners. Most Puerto Vallarta homes for sale[1]  feature top amenities, and some are within walking distance of the beach. The housing market is one of Puerto Vallarta’s most essential and stable markets. Mexico’s land costs are lower, building and maintenance are less expensive, and the total cost of ownership is affordable. The prices for places near the beachfront start from  $800,000 to $1,500,000. Many people who choose Puerto Vallarta as their home are retirees.

The price of each apartment depends on the accommodation and the apartment’s location.  Puerto Vallarta apartment for rent per day is around $40 to $1900. Renting an apartment for a week is around $700 to $1800. The rent price always depends on the property’s location and the apartment’s size. Monthly rate for an apartment rent ranges from $2500 to $15000.

Places on or near the beachfront start from $500,000 to $1,500,000. The housing becomes more expensive when it includes equipment in the kitchen, the number, and sizes of bedrooms, and the quality of the pool and bathroom. Parking spaces, flat screen TVs, air-conditioned units, and the Wi-Fi connection add to the additional charges. Lastly, the view outside the apartment is one of the most significant factors in the price range of an apartment in Puerto Vallarta. It is more likely to be expensive in areas with gorgeous views. The cheapest apartments in Puerto Vallarta[1]  have less beautiful views, smaller bedrooms with substandard interior design, the outside area doesn’t have an intricate landscape, and just a regular pool. However, regardless of the apartment’s quality, the customers’ budget suits their needs, and they enjoy where they are staying.

Laundry service is prominent in Puerto Vallarta, especially in most resorts and hotels. Prices, though, are higher when availing of these services. However, there are several laundry shops in Puerto Vallarta, where the laundry is weighed and charged by kilo. The price of laundry per kilo is around $0.62 to $0.83. Customers usually drop off their laundry in the morning, and pick them up by 5 pm folded, and wrapped in plastic. The hassle of doing the laundry is never a problem in Puerto Vallarta, as most “lavanderias” are available in the city. 

Puerto Vallarta is among the prime holiday destinations in the world. Puerto Vallarta is a paradise that offers numerous beauty to its visitors. It is a famous resort city in Banderas Bay on the Pacific coast in Mexico’s Jalisco State. Puerto Vallarta’s contrasting terrain makes for a paradise defined by crystal-clear bays and lush jungle-covered mountains. Puerto Vallarta consists of diverse neighborhoods that offer everything a visitor needs. Beaches in Puerto Vallarta range from the most secluded and easily accessible ones. The best part about Puerto Vallarta is that it suits any budget. One is able to find apartments, homes, and other accommodations for a very small amount, or pay thousands of dollars. Street tacos are always available for less than $3. One doesn’t need a car in Puerto Vallarta because there are public buses with routes all over the Bay, plus there are numerous taxis, and Uber is around. However, if one has a car, there are enough parking spaces, and the traffic isn’t too bad. Puerto Vallarta is well-connected with main highways running from the USA and other parts of Central America. It’s an accessible city by land, sea, and air, and it has added to the allure and growth of PV in recent years. A person never runs out of things to do in Puerto Vallarta. Water sports are almost available on beaches. There are plenty of options to suit a person’s hobbies, such as surfing, boating, yachting, golfing, and hiking. People who love golf surely enjoy the large marina and golf course in Marina Vallarta. Modern shopping malls, small shops, and local markets are available in the area. Mostly everything is within walking distance or easily accessible with any mode of transportation. Entertainment is never short in Puerto Vallarta. There are always concerts or bands playing live at the seaside. People who have experienced living, working, and retirement in Puerto Vallarta have a lot of improvement. Not only do they get to wake up every day in a beautiful place, they even get to enjoy the quality of life a person deserves.  

No, learning Spanish is not required when planning to live in Puerto Vallarta. Planning to move down, many people know a few words or phrases and kid themselves that they speak Spanish. Learning basic Spanish phrases is a big help, especially when talking to locals. Especially those who work in the tourism industry, are capable of speaking good English. Many expats live in Puerto Vallarta, so finding someone who speaks English is easy. Learning the language is the key to happiness here. One has a richer life, meets more people, gets things done faster, and pays less, as a person is able to network with the locals and, over time, fits in better and understands the culture. One quickly learns the language just by listening and practicing in due time. It proves that a person does not need school but drive and determination. It is better if one learns Spanish before moving. Learning Spanish is not a requirement however, if a person wants to live in another country, learning the language is the highest form of respect for the culture one is trying to integrate into.

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is an expensive place to live in. However, living in such a beautiful paradise is worth every penny. Compared to many holiday destinations in the world, living in Puerto Vallarta is quite reasonable. The Romantic Zone, known as Old Vallarta, is one of the best locations to stay in Puerto Vallarta. Romantic Zone is the oldest neighboring community in the city and is known to be among the prime places in Puerto Vallarta to visit and live. The people in Puerto Vallarta are warm, and the area is very safe. It is renowned for its restaurants, cafes, bars, and art galleries. Puerto Vallarta is home to many of the most gorgeous beaches in Mexico. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is always pleasant. Rainy days are few, and beach activities are always excellent. Puerto Vallarta has an exciting mix of locals and tourists, traditional Mexican architecture homes clashing with new buildings with a more contemporary design. Food, drinks, entertainment, shopping, massages, and almost everything is available in Puerto Vallarta. The area is on Banderas Bay, which offers some of the world’s most stunning beaches. Puerto Vallarta’s location provides a fantastic view of the sea, and even the sight of the Sierra Madre Mountains is to be appreciated. The city has various international stores that offer everything needed for day-to-day life. Living in Puerto Vallarta includes all modern services, including high-speed internet and satellite TV. Hospitals and dental clinics in Puerto Vallarta have top-of-the-line equipment and U.S.-trained medical professionals. Puerto Vallarta is situated right in the center of the Mexican Riviera. It is only a few hours away from any major American or Canadian airport. The cost of living is average in Puerto Vallarta, but much lower than in similar destinations in the U.S.

Yes, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal retirement plan for the elderly. Puerto Vallarta is an excellent place to retire for an affordable yet high quality of life. Its contrasting terrain creates a paradise defined by crystal-clear bays and lush jungle-covered mountains. Puerto Vallarta consists of diverse neighborhoods that offer everything a visitor needs. Puerto Vallarta’s climate is among the many reasons it is so popular. It has a pleasant atmosphere all year round and has fewer rain showers. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is tropical, sunny, pleasant, and warm most of the year. Puerto Vallarta enjoys a consistent subtropical climate all year round. Puerto Vallarta’s strategic location is one reason hurricanes are not hitting the area. The Sierra Madre Mountain range protects Puerto Vallarta from storms. It is very safe to travel to Puerto Vallarta compared to other neighboring Mexican cities, and the crime rate is relatively low. Puerto Vallarta is ideal for everyone, regardless of gender. Puerto Vallarta is a conducive place for people who plan to retire or want to enjoy a vacation. Even the healthcare system is excellent. Puerto Vallarta is famous in Mexico for providing cost-effective, high-quality medical and dental care services. Aside from its lovely beaches, the locals are among the many reasons Puerto Vallarta is an ideal place to retire. Mexicans are known to be warm and welcoming. Major U.S. magazines often named Mexican cities the friendliest in the world. Condé Nast Traveler magazine once awarded Puerto Vallarta as the friendliest global destination. The Mexican government offers a retiree discount card for people of any citizen over the age of 60. One has to apply in person and present proof of residency and eligibility.     

Yes, it is easy to find a job in Puerto Vallarta. Most jobs available in Puerto Vallarta are hospitality jobs in the tourism industry. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Among Puerto Vallarta’s job opportunities[1]  is a career in the real estate industry. Puerto Vallarta is known to be a sought-after resort town for tourism. Tourism is among the top sectors that provide many job opportunities. The real estate industry is another option for jobseekers in Puerto Vallarta. Properties in Puerto Vallarta are among the sought-after in the world. Some companies hire through the corporate or U.S. office, some through individual hotels, and some through job posting websites. Foreigners who want to work in Puerto Vallarta need a temporary residency with work permissions. A foreigner must have a valid job offer, and the employer must apply first for a work permit for the foreign worker.