Tulum vs Alicante

Cost of living comparison for expats considering Tulum or Alicante, Mexico.

Based on a typical expat lifestyle

Alicante is 32% cheaper than Tulum

Monthly savings

$991

Mexico

Tulum

$3,117

$54,548

Spain

Alicante

$2,126

$37,205

Cheaper option

Category Breakdown

Category
Tulum
Alicante
Difference

Housing (Rent)

$1,725
$1,147
-34%

Utilities

$235
$140
-40%

Groceries

$315
$182
-42%

Dining Out

$180
$120
-33%

Transportation

$240
$210
-12%

Lifestyle & Entertainment

$237
$237

Healthcare

$120
$50
-58%

Phone & Subscriptions

$65
$41
-37%
Monthly Total
$3,117
$2,126
-32%

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

Tulum

Tulum operates without Uber due to taxi union control—negotiate fares before entering. Electricity follows tiered CFE rates—exceeding 800 kWh bimonthly triggers DAC rates that quadruple your bill.

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.

Customize This Comparison

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

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