Tamarindo vs Oaxaca – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Tamarindo, Costa Rica and Oaxaca, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Tamarindo has a monthly cost of $2,780, which is 36.9% higher than Oaxaca's $2,030.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Tamarindo offers 25 Mbps, while Oaxaca provides 20 Mbps – making Tamarindo's connection 25.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Tamarindo is currently 29°C ⛈️, while Oaxaca is experiencing 27°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Tamarindo has a safety score of 68.0 , while Oaxaca scores 68.0 .

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Overall
Oaxaca wins
Quality of Life
Oaxaca wins
Oaxaca is 5% better
Cost
Oaxaca wins
Oaxaca is 26% better
Climate
Tamarindo wins
Tamarindo is 12% better
Infrastructure
Oaxaca wins
Oaxaca is 5% better
Social
Oaxaca wins
Oaxaca is 5% better
Oaxaca is 20% better
Oaxaca is 21% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Tamarindo | Oaxaca | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,780 | $2,030 | +36.9% |
Daily Average | $93 | $68 | per day |
Housing
Item | Tamarindo | Oaxaca | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $650.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +85.7% |
Daily Life
Item | Tamarindo | Oaxaca | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | +66.7% |
Transportation
Item | Tamarindo | Oaxaca | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Tamarindo | Oaxaca | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Tamarindo vs Oaxaca
Oaxaca ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 4.0% higher than Tamarindo overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,780 vs $2,030
- Daily Expenses: $93 vs $68
- Oaxaca is 36.9% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tamarindo leads with 25% faster connection
- Public Transport: Oaxaca has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Tamarindo Wins In:
- Air Quality (12% better)
Oaxaca Wins In:
- Healthcare (5% better)
- Cost of Living (26% better)
- Internet Speed (5% better)
- Nightlife (5% better)
- Culture (20% better)
- Food Scene (21% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Oaxaca if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Healthcare. However, Tamarindo might be preferable if Healthcare is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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