Jacó vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Jacó, Costa Rica and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Jacó has a monthly cost of $2,830, which is 11.0% higher than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Jacó offers 50 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Jacó is currently 31°C ⛈️, while Tulum is experiencing 32°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Jacó has a safety score of 67.0 , while Tulum scores 57.0 .

Earn rental income and capital gains from luxury Dubai real estate. Invest in Dubai, pocket the gains.
Overall
Quality of Life
Jacó wins
Jacó is 10% better
Cost
Climate
Tulum wins
Tulum is 10% better
Infrastructure
Social
Jacó is 8% better
Tulum is 5% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Jacó | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,830 | $2,550 | +11.0% |
Daily Average | $94 | $85 | per day |
Housing
Item | Jacó | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $550.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -15.4% |
Daily Life
Item | Jacó | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Jacó | Tulum | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Jacó | Tulum | Difference |
---|
Revolut Ultra: Unlimited lounge access & 3GB global data monthly. Premium benefits, global data.
Final Verdict: Jacó vs Tulum
Jacó ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 1.0% higher than Tulum overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,830 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $94 vs $85
- Tulum is 11.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Jacó Wins In:
- Safety (10% better)
- Nightlife (8% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Air Quality (10% better)
- Food Scene (5% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Jacó if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Air Quality. However, Tulum might be preferable if Safety is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
The smart way to send money overseas and save on fees. Send money abroad cheaper than banks.