Masaya vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Masaya, Nicaragua and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Masaya has a monthly cost of $1,515, which is 40.6% lower than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Masaya offers 20 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 400.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Masaya is currently 32°C ⛈️, while Tulum is experiencing 32°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Masaya has a safety score of 50.0 , while Tulum scores 60.0 .
Travel smarter with Revolut Ultra: Top rates & insurance. Lounge access & subscriptions.
Overall
Tulum wins
Tulum is 14% better
Quality of Life
Tulum wins
Tulum is 10% better
Tulum is 25% better
Cost
Masaya wins
Masaya is 16% better
Climate
Tulum wins
Tulum is 20% better
Infrastructure
Tulum wins
Tulum is 10% better
Social
Tulum wins
Tulum is 31% better
Masaya is 8% better
Tulum is 7% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Masaya | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,515 | $2,550 | -40.6% |
| Daily Average | $51 | $85 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Masaya | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $180.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -72.3% |
Daily Life
| Item | Masaya | Tulum | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -52.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Masaya | Tulum | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Masaya | Tulum | Difference |
|---|
Send money abroad up to 8x cheaper than banks. Send money abroad cheaper than banks.
Final Verdict: Masaya vs Tulum
Tulum ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 14.0% higher than Masaya overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,515 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $51 vs $85
- Masaya is 40.6% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 80% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Masaya Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Culture (8% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Overall Score (14% better)
- Safety (10% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Air Quality (20% better)
- Internet Speed (10% better)
- Nightlife (31% better)
- Food Scene (7% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Tulum if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Masaya 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.