Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Is Mexico Your Dream Destination?


Learn more about Mexico and other countries in our free, daily Overseas Opportunity Letter. Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you our FREE REPORT - The 10 Best Places To Retire In

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | Everything You Need To Know

Reviewed by Kathleen Peddicord

Kathleen is the Live and Invest Overseas Founding Publisher. She has more than 30 years of hands-on experience traveling, living, and buying property around the world.


Puerto Vallarta, Mexico aerial view
Adobe Stock/miguelnaranjomx

Puerto Vallarta is one of the most beautiful locations on the Pacific. This sunny side of Mexico is bursting with amazing natural landscapes.

What started as a fishing village in the state of Jalisco is now a colorful resort town with world-class spas, a vibrant lifestyle, and picturesque beaches.

Most importantly, Puerto Vallarta is bordered to the east by the Sierra Madre mountains. As a result, PV is described as an enchanting destination. Plus, it is an unrivaled coastal town with rich traditions and warm, hospitable locals.

Retire In Puerto Vallarta

As a retiree destination, Puerto Vallarta offers wellness centers, many American stores, communities with all-inclusive amenities, convenient communications with the United States, and plenty of English-speakers for socializing.

Outstanding medical facilities and plenty of pharmacies make Puerto Vallarta perfect for retirees looking for cost-effective, quality health care.

Fresh fruits and vegetables at a local outdoor farmers market in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Adobe Stock/Martin Szczepaniak

Cost Of Living In Puerto Vallarta

The best way to move around Puerto Vallarta is by using public transportation. Buses work from 5:00 a.m. until 11:00 p.m.

A one-way ticket goes for 53 cents, and a monthly pass is US$35. Click here for currency conversions at today’s exchange rates.

Also, Uber and Lyft services are available, and tourism buses are best for sightseeing. One gallon of gasoline goes for US$4.90.

Basic services (electricity, water, garbage) for an 84-square-meter apartment will set you back US$70, and rent for a furnished apartment in central Puerto Vallarta, in a regular zone of Puerto Vallarta costs US$861.

Health care services in Puerto Vallarta are inexpensive. So, a consult with a physician costs US$28 to US$40.

Golf is popular in Puerto Vallarta, and a round costs US$95 to US$180. Therefore, most courses provide discounts or special packages if you ask for them.

The location where you choose to settle will impact your cost of living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. So, you must decide if you want to rent or buy waterfront property, or if you’d rather live farther from the shoreline. Real estate prices waterfront being the most expensive.

Apartment Or House Ownership Budget (For A Couple) In Puerto Vallarta

ExpenseMonthly CostsNotes
MortgageN/AN/A
HOA FeesMXN$3,000 to MXN$4,000N/A
Property TaxesMXN$3,500 to MXN$4,000Annual charge. MXN$275 to MXN$325 per month.
TransportationMXN$1,200 to MXN$1,500Local bus: MXN$10 per person per trip.
Taxis: MXN$60 to MXN$100 per trip.
GasMXN$500Cost for one large tank for heating water and cooking that lasts a month. In most condos, this is included with the HOA fees.
ElectricityMXN$600 to MXN$700Electricity cost including reasonable AC use. Using no AC, electricity costs MXN$150 to MXN$200 a month.
WaterMXN$200 to MXN$25020-liter jugs cost MXN$30 to MXN$35 each.
Cell PhoneMXN$300 to MXN$400N/A
InternetMXN$400 to MXN$700N/A
Cable TVMXN$300 to MXN$700N/A
Household HelpMXN$1,200 to MXN$2,000MXN$40 to MXN$70 per hour.
EntertainmentMXN$5,000 to MXN$6,100Eating out twice a week at a mid-range, local restaurant: MXN$2,500 to MXN$3,000 (MXN$300 to MXN$400 per meal for a couple).

Local drinks twice a week at a nearby watering hole: MXN$2,000 to MXN$2,500 (MXN$35 to MXN$40 for a beer; MXN$80 to MXN$100 for a cocktail).

Movie theater trip twice a month: MXN$500 to MXN$600 (MXN$100 to MXN$150 per ticket).

GroceriesMXN$8,000 to MXN$10,000Including a Costco or Sam’s Club trip.
Gym MembershipMXN$1,000 to MXN$1,200N/A
Medical AppointmentMXN$40 to MXN$50MXN$40 to MXN$50 for a visit with a local doctor; MXN$750 at English-speaking clinic.
TOTALMXN$25,240 to MXN$32,100

Apartment Or House Rental Budget (For A Couple)

ExpenseMonthly CostsNotes
RentMXN$15,000 to MXN$20,000For a furnished two-bedroom apartment in a desirable location.
TransportationMXN$1,200 to MXN$1,500Local bus: MXN$10 per person per trip.

Taxis: MXN$60 to MXN$100 per trip.

GasMXN$500Cost for one large tank for heating water and cooking that lasts a month. In most condos, this is included with the HOA fees.
ElectricityMXN$600 to MXN$700Electricity cost including reasonable AC use. Using no AC, electricity costs MXN$150 to MXN$200 a month.
WaterMXN$200 to MXN$25020-liter jugs cost MXN$30 to MXN$35 each.
Cell PhoneMXN$300 to MXN$400N/A
InternetMXN$400 to MXN$700N/A
Cable TVMXN$300 to MXN$700N/A
Household HelpMXN$1,200 to MXN$2,000MXN$40 to MXN$70 per hour.
EntertainmentMXN$5,000 to MXN$6,100Eating out twice a week at a mid-range, local restaurant: MXN$2,500 to MXN$3,000 (MXN$300 to MXN$400 per meal for a couple).

Local drinks twice a week at a nearby watering hole: MXN$2,000 to MXN$2,500 (MXN$35 to MXN$40 for a beer; MXN$80 to MXN$100 for a cocktail).

Movie theater trip twice a month: MXN$500 to MXN$600 (MXN$100 to MXN$150 per ticket).

GroceriesMXN$8,000 to MXN$10,000Including a Costco or Sam’s Club trip.
Gym MembershipMXN$1,000 to MXN$1,200N/A
Medical AppointmentMXN$40 to MXN$50MXN$40 to MXN$50 for a visit with a local doctor; MXN$750 at English-speaking clinic.
TOTALMXN$33,740 to MXN$44,100

Penny-Pincher’s Budget (Bare Minimum Costs, For A Couple)

ExpenseMonthly CostsNotes
RentMXN$4,000 to MXN$6,000Cheapest part of town; basic one-bedroom rental.
TransportationMXN$400 to MXN$60020 to 30 bus rides at MXN$10 per person per trip. No taxis rides.
GasN/AIncluded in the cost of rent.
ElectricityMXN$150 to MXN$200No AC use.
WaterMXN$200 to MXN$250N/A
Cell PhoneMXN$200 to MXN$300Cheapest monthly plan with minimal data.
InternetMXN$300 to MXN$400N/A
Cable TVN/AN/A
EntertainmentMXN$2,200 to MXN$3,000Eating out: MXN$1,200 to MXN$1,500 (taco trucks, tortas, menu del dia; usually MXN$60 to MXN$80.

Local drinks: MXN$1,000 to MXN$1,500 (local beers and happy hours).

GroceriesMXN$5,000 to MXN$6,000Shopping at local markets and avoiding imported goods.
TOTALMXN$12,450 to MXN$16,750

Start Your New Life Today, Overseas

A world full of fun, adventure, and profit awaits! Sign up for our free daily e-letter, Overseas Opportunity Letter, and we'll send you a FREE report on the 10 Best Places To Retire In Style Overseas In

Things to do in Puerto Vallarta Mexico

What To Do In Puerto Vallarta

Charm is everywhere in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Want a fast escape? In short, just head to downtown PV to enjoy restaurants with a down-to-earth vibe.

Smoking is forbidden in outdoor areas throughout Mexico: Most importantly, this applies to beaches, parks, and where minors are present. Meals, drinks, and entertainment are not allowed in smoking areas.

Marina Vallarta

Marina Vallarta is a thriving luxury residential and resort community south of the Puerto Vallarta International Airport. And, here you’ll find the Maritime Terminal where you can see multi-million-dollar yachts, play golf, or hang out at the Malecón board walk and El Faro (the lighthouse).

Old Vallarta

Old Vallarta is full of cobblestone streets and is one of the oldest districts of Puerto Vallarta. Known as the Romantic Zone, it’s separated from El Centro by the Cuale River.

Head to Old Vallarta for an assortment of seafood restaurants, historical landmarks, and a farmer’s market. Above all, evenings in the Romantic Zone mean bar hopping through the best bars in Puerto Vallarta.

Best Beer In Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has a dynamic craft beer scene. So, you can also find local tours to breweries that produce Mexican Lager, Amber Ale, Grapefruit IPA, Oatmeal Stout, and even a Margarita Sour.

Don’t forget to ask for samples. For instance, most brewers offer them, and you can discover your new favorite beer while in Puerto Vallarta.

Hiking And Biking In Puerto Vallarta

If you’re after more daring experiences, you can hike to El Salto waterfall or go on an ATV tour. So, stop by Jorullo Bridge—a 1,550-foot-long suspension bridge over the Cuale River.

Cyclist culture is strong in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, thanks to great scenery, popular pathways, and perfect weather year-round. Also, book a guided bike tour to explore the city.

Vallarta Botanical Garden

The Vallarta Botanical Garden is known for its hiking trails, forest reserve, and plant nursery. Plus, this Winner of the Garden of Excellence Prize is a favorite backdrop for wedding receptions.

A restaurant serves appetizers, burgers, pizza, local dishes, and drinks, so there is no need to bring your own food to the Vallarta Botanical Garden.

You should bring sunscreen, insect repellent, long pants, footwear suitable for hikes, a swimsuit, and a towel.

Los Arcos Marine Park

Banderas Bay and its Los Arcos Marine Park are on the Pacific coast of Mexico. Both are excellent places to explore tunnels, reefs, and caves.

Scuba diving and snorkeling are best in the morning as the waters tend to be calmer.

Main square and Our Lady of Guadalupe church - Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Adobe Stock/diegograndi

Safety Information

Puerto Vallarta has a low crime rate. However, the farther you go inland, the more likely you are to encounter dangerous activities.

Some general safety tips for Puerto Vallarta:

  • Avoid back streets or less busy areas, especially at night.
  • Don’t take unmarked taxis.
  • Ask the resort or restaurant staff if there are any local areas you should avoid.
  • Watch out for scams.
  • Don’t accept drinks from strangers.
  • Stick to bottled water.

Start Your New Life Today, Overseas

A world full of fun, adventure, and profit awaits! Sign up for our free daily e-letter, Overseas Opportunity Letter, and we'll send you a FREE report on the 10 Best Places To Retire In Style Overseas In

Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Blue suitcase with label at airport.
Adobe Stock/Zerophoto

Mexico: Moving And Visas

U.S. and Canadian nationals and permanent residents do not need a visa to enter Mexico.

Mexico is the easiest retire-overseas option for North Americans. For example, the retirement visa lasts up to four years, and you can qualify by purchasing a Mexican property worth more than US$215,000.

But, you can also qualify by proving a monthly income of more than US$1,600. You’ll need to show proof of a bank account with a balance of more than US$24,000 over the past 12 months.

A standard travel visa is free and valid for six months. If you plan to stay longer, you’ll need to apply for a new permit.

Average min and max temperatures in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Graph by Weather & Climate

Weather In Puerto Vallarta

The best time to visit Puerto Vallarta is from December until March.

This time of the year, daily average highs are around 29°C (84°F) and lows are around 16°C (61°F).

For instance. you can even spot migrating whales offshore.

The hottest months in Puerto Vallarta are August and September. But, you can count on the sea breeze to take the edge off the heat.

Puerto Vallarta - FAQs

Is Puerto Vallarta Worth Visiting?

Puerto Vallarta is worth visiting because it’s been one of Mexico’s most popular resorts since the 1960s. While visiting Puerto Vallarta you’ll find that it is home to stunning natural landscapes full of beauty and biodiversity.

What Is Puerto Vallarta Known For?

Puerto Vallarta is known for poster-worthy ocean views and because it’s a favorite spot for weddings and honeymoons. This is a major cruise ship destination, and ships arrive almost daily to the Marina Vallarta Maritime Terminal.

Is Puerto Vallarta A Good Place To Retire?

Puerto Vallarta is your best choice for retirement if you seek adventure overseas with all the comforts of home. As a retiree destination, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, offers world-class spas and wellness centers, top-notch shopping, fine dining, convenient communications with the United States, and plenty of English-speakers for socializing.

Why Should Americans Move To Puerto Vallarta?

Americans should move to Puerto Vallarta because it has an established population of expats that enjoy this magical destination with its authentic Mexican spirit.

Is Mexico Your Dream Destination?


Learn more about Mexico and other countries in our free, daily Overseas Opportunity Letter. Simply enter your email address below and we’ll send you our FREE REPORT - The 10 Best Places To Retire In

Sign up to receive the FREE daily e-letter, Overseas Opportunity Letter and we’ll immediately email you our editors’ latest research report…

RETIRE OVERSEAS AND LIVE LIKE ROYALTY