Varadero vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Varadero, Cuba and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Varadero has a monthly cost of $1,685, which is 33.9% lower than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Varadero offers 5 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 1,900.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Varadero is currently 29°C 🌤️, while Tulum is experiencing 31°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Varadero has a safety score of 75.0 , while Tulum scores 57.0 .

Earn rental income and capital gains from luxury Dubai real estate. Invest in Dubai, pocket the gains.
Overall
Tulum wins
Tulum is 16% better
Quality of Life
Varadero wins
Varadero is 18% better
Tulum is 12% better
Cost
Varadero wins
Varadero is 10% better
Climate
Tulum wins
Tulum is 5% better
Infrastructure
Tulum wins
Tulum is 37% better
Social
Tulum wins
Tulum is 5% better
Varadero is 6% better
Tulum is 17% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Varadero | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,685 | $2,550 | -33.9% |
Daily Average | $56 | $85 | per day |
Housing
Item | Varadero | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -46.2% |
Daily Life
Item | Varadero | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -52.0% |
Transportation
Item | Varadero | Tulum | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Varadero | Tulum | Difference |
---|

Own a piece of Dubai property without the hassle of full ownership. Real estate without the hassle.
Final Verdict: Varadero vs Tulum
Tulum ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 16.0% higher than Varadero overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,685 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $56 vs $85
- Varadero is 33.9% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 95% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Varadero Wins In:
- Safety (18% better)
- Cost of Living (10% better)
- Culture (6% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Overall Score (16% better)
- Healthcare (12% better)
- Air Quality (5% better)
- Internet Speed (37% better)
- Nightlife (5% better)
- Food Scene (17% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Tulum if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Varadero might be preferable if Overall Score is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
Move money internationally with low fees and great exchange rates. Smart money transfers worldwide.