America’s Most-Popular Expat Destination
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Puerto Vallarta blends natural beauty, mountain-and-ocean scenery, and a vibrant lifestyle with modern amenities and an established expat community. It’s a top choice for those who want turnkey coastal living in Mexico.
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.
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.
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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 63 cents. 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$5.30.
Basic services (electricity, water, garbage) for an 84-square-meter apartment will set you back US$90, and rent for a furnished apartment in central Puerto Vallarta, in a regular zone of Puerto Vallarta costs US$910.
Health care services in Puerto Vallarta are inexpensive. So, a consult with a physician costs US$20 to US$40.
Golf is popular in Puerto Vallarta, and a round costs US$100 to US$210. 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.
| Expense | Monthly Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mortgage | N/A | N/A |
| HOA Fees | US$175 to US$300 | N/A |
| Property Taxes | US$300 to US$500 | Annual charge. US$25 to US$40 per month. |
| Transportation | US$80 | Public transport |
| Gas | US$20 | Cost for one large tank for heating water and cooking that lasts a month. In most condos, this is included with the HOA fees. |
| Electricity | US$230 | Electricity cost including reasonable AC use. |
| Water | US$30 | 20-liter jugs cost US$4 to US$5 each. |
| Cell Phone | US$20 | Two standard cell phone plans. |
| Internet | US$25 | High speed internet at home. |
| Cable TV | US$18 to US$40 | N/A |
| Household Help | US$210 | US$7 per hour. |
| Entertainment | US$400 | Eating out twice a week at a mid-range, local restaurant: US$200 (US$24 to US$32 per meal for a couple).
Local drinks twice a week at a nearby watering hole: US$160 (US$2 to US$2.50 for a beer; US$5 to US$6.50 for a cocktail). Movie theater trip twice a month: US$40 (US$10 per ticket). |
| Groceries | US$500 | Basic items for a couple. |
| Gym Membership | US$60 | N/A |
| Medical Appointment | US$20 | Basic consultation at a private clinic. |
| TOTAL | US$2,088 to US$2,435 |
| Expense | Monthly Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | US$2,000 | Two bedroom apartment |
| HOA Fees | US$175 to US$300 | N/A |
| Property Taxes | US$300 to US$500 | Annual charge. US$25 to US$40 per month. |
| Transportation | US$80 | Public transport |
| Gas | US$20 | Cost for one large tank for heating water and cooking that lasts a month. In most condos, this is included with the HOA fees. |
| Electricity | US$230 | Electricity cost including reasonable AC use. |
| Water | US$30 | 20-liter jugs cost US$4 to US$5 each. |
| Cell Phone | US$20 | Two standard cell phone plans. |
| Internet | US$25 | High speed internet at home. |
| Cable TV | US$18 to US$40 | N/A |
| Household Help | US$210 | US$7 per hour. |
| Entertainment | US$400 | Eating out twice a week at a mid-range, local restaurant: US$200 (US$24 to US$32 per meal for a couple).
Local drinks twice a week at a nearby watering hole: US$160 (US$2 to US$2.50 for a beer; US$5 to US$6.50 for a cocktail). Movie theater trip twice a month: US$40 (US$10 per ticket). |
| Groceries | US$500 | Basic items for a couple. |
| Gym Membership | US$60 | N/A |
| Medical Appointment | US$20 | Basic consultation at a private clinic. |
| TOTAL | US$4,088 to US$4,435 |
| Expense | Monthly Costs | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent | US$400 to US$500 | Cheapest part of town; basic one-bedroom rental. |
| Transportation | US$12 to US$18 | 20 to 30 bus rides at US$0.60 per person per trip. No taxis rides. |
| Gas | N/A | Included in the cost of rent. |
| Electricity | US$60 to US$65 | No AC use. |
| Water | US$30 | N/A |
| Cell Phone | US$8 to US$11 | Cheapest monthly plan with minimal data. |
| Internet | US$25 | N/A |
| Cable TV | N/A | N/A |
| Entertainment | US$175 to US$200 | Eating out: US$95 to US$100 (taco trucks, tortas, menu del dia; usually US$4.75 to US$5.
Local drinks: US$80 to US$100 (local beers and happy hours). |
| Groceries | US$300 to US$310 | Shopping at local markets and avoiding imported goods. |
| TOTAL | US$1,010 to US$1,159 |
Get a clear breakdown of everyday expenses in Mexico—including housing, utilities, groceries, transportation, and healthcare—so you can budget accurately before you make the move.
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 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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Get a practical overview of living in Mexico—including lifestyle considerations, local routines, and what newcomers typically wish they knew before moving.
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.
See what retirement can look like in Mexico—including lifestyle considerations, practical planning tips, and what to expect as you explore your options.
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:
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.
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.
Start Your New Overseas Life Today
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 12 Best Places To Retire Overseas In 2026
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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.
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.
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.
Americans should move to Puerto Vallarta because it has an established population of expats that enjoy this magical destination with its authentic Mexican spirit.
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