Playa del Carmen vs Alicante

Cost of living comparison for expats considering Playa del Carmen or Alicante, Mexico.

Based on a typical expat lifestyle

Playa del Carmen is 3% cheaper than Alicante

Monthly savings

$67

Mexico

Playa del Carmen

$2,059

$36,033

Cheaper option

Spain

Alicante

$2,126

$37,205

Category Breakdown

Category
Playa del Carmen
Alicante
Difference

Housing (Rent)

$1,035
$1,147
+11%

Utilities

$177
$140
-21%

Groceries

$245
$182
-26%

Dining Out

$96
$120
+25%

Transportation

$150
$210
+40%

Lifestyle & Entertainment

$204
$237
+16%

Healthcare

$100
$50
-50%

Phone & Subscriptions

$52
$41
-21%
Monthly Total
$2,059
$2,126
3%

Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment, basic health insurance.

City Insights

Playa del Carmen

Playa del Carmen operates on stark seasonal pricing—high season (December-April) commands 30-40% premiums over low season. Spanish listings on Inmuebles24 run 15-25% cheaper.

Cost breakdown Destination guide

Alicante

El Centro, Playa San Juan, and Cabo de las Huertas popular neighborhoods. Monthly budget: Frugal single $1,400-1,600, Comfortable single $1,800-2,100, Couple $2,500-3,000.

Cost breakdown

Customize This Comparison

These estimates use a typical expat profile. Adjust housing, dining, and lifestyle preferences to match your actual situation.

Personalize Your Estimate

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