Mexico
Cost of Living in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta runs pricier than non-beach Mexican cities—you're paying for ocean access and established infrastructure. The critical electricity warning: exceeding 850-1,000 kWh monthly average triggers DAC rates.
Monthly Total
$2,117
$37,048
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$1,035
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$36
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/19/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$1,035
$18,113
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$235
$4,113
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$245
$4,288
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$96
$1,680
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$150
$2,625
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$204
$3,570
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$100
$1,750
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$52
$910
Monthly Total
$2,117
$37,048
Recommended PartnerDon't skip health insurance
Cost estimates are great for budgeting, but real coverage protects you when something goes wrong.
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Living in Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta has higher costs than interior Mexico due to tourism, but offers excellent value compared to US beach towns. The Romantic Zone is priciest; outlying areas offer savings. AC drives up electric bills significantly.
Complete Guide to Living in Puerto Vallarta
Mexico's most LGBTQ+-friendly destination with stunning Pacific sunsets
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Puerto Vallarta expensive compared to other Mexican cities?▼
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