Cancún vs Puerto Vallarta – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Cancún, Mexico and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Cancún has a monthly cost of $2,600, which is 0.8% higher than Puerto Vallarta's $2,580.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Cancún offers 50 Mbps, while Puerto Vallarta provides 50 Mbps – making Puerto Vallarta's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Cancún is currently 32°C 🌤️, while Puerto Vallarta is experiencing 31°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Cancún has a safety score of 54.0 , while Puerto Vallarta scores 61.0 .
Travel smarter with Revolut Ultra: Top rates & insurance. Premium benefits, global data.
Overall
Puerto Vallarta wins
Puerto Vallarta is 5% better
Quality of Life
Puerto Vallarta wins
Puerto Vallarta is 7% better
Cost
Puerto Vallarta wins
Puerto Vallarta is 7% better
Climate
Cancún wins
Infrastructure
Social
Puerto Vallarta wins
Puerto Vallarta is 8% better
Puerto Vallarta is 5% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Cancún | Puerto Vallarta | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,600 | $2,580 | +0.8% |
| Daily Average | $87 | $86 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Cancún | Puerto Vallarta | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $550.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -15.4% |
Daily Life
| Item | Cancún | Puerto Vallarta | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.80 per cup | $1.80 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Cancún | Puerto Vallarta | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Cancún | Puerto Vallarta | Difference |
|---|
Simple, easy-to-understand health insurance for world residents. Health insurance for travelers.
Final Verdict: Cancún vs Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 5.0% higher than Cancún overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,600 vs $2,580
- Daily Expenses: $87 vs $86
- Puerto Vallarta is 0.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Puerto Vallarta leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Puerto Vallarta has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Cancún Wins In:
- No significant advantages found
Puerto Vallarta Wins In:
- Overall Score (5% better)
- Safety (7% better)
- Cost of Living (7% better)
- Culture (8% better)
- Food Scene (5% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Puerto Vallarta if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Cancún 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.
The smart way to send money overseas and save on fees. Save on international money transfers.