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Lake Atitlán vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Lake Atitlán, Guatemala and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Lake Atitlán has a monthly cost of $1,665, which is 34.7% lower than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Lake Atitlán offers 30 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 233.3% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Lake Atitlán is currently 21°C ⛈️, while Tulum is experiencing 34°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Lake Atitlán has a safety score of 58.0 , while Tulum scores 55.0 .
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Overall
Tulum wins
Quality of Life
Tulum wins
Tulum is 11% better
Cost
Lake Atitlán wins
Lake Atitlán is 16% better
Climate
Lake Atitlán wins
Lake Atitlán is 10% better
Infrastructure
Social
Tulum wins
Tulum is 28% better
Lake Atitlán is 13% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Lake Atitlán | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,665 | $2,550 | -34.7% |
| Daily Average | $56 | $85 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -61.5% |
Daily Life
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -40.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Tulum | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Tulum | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Lake Atitlán vs Tulum
Tulum ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 3.0% higher than Lake Atitlán overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,665 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $56 vs $85
- Lake Atitlán is 34.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 70% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Lake Atitlán Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Air Quality (10% better)
- Culture (13% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Healthcare (11% better)
- Nightlife (28% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Tulum if you prioritize better quality of life metrics and Cost of Living. However, Lake Atitlán might be preferable if Cost of Living 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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