San Juan del Sur vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between San Juan del Sur, Nicaragua and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
San Juan del Sur has a monthly cost of $1,950, which is 23.5% lower than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, San Juan del Sur offers 25 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 300.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in San Juan del Sur is currently 32°C 🌧️, while Tulum is experiencing 32°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
San Juan del Sur has a safety score of 63.0 , while Tulum scores 60.0 .

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Overall
Tulum wins
Tulum is 7% better
Quality of Life
Tulum wins
Tulum is 9% better
Cost
San Juan del Sur wins
San Juan del Sur is 16% better
Climate
Infrastructure
Social
Tulum wins
Tulum is 11% better
Tulum is 10% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | San Juan del Sur | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,950 | $2,550 | -23.5% |
Daily Average | $65 | $85 | per day |
Housing
Item | San Juan del Sur | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -46.2% |
Daily Life
Item | San Juan del Sur | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -40.0% |
Transportation
Item | San Juan del Sur | Tulum | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | San Juan del Sur | Tulum | Difference |
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Final Verdict: San Juan del Sur vs Tulum
Tulum ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than San Juan del Sur overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,950 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $65 vs $85
- San Juan del Sur is 23.5% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 75% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
San Juan del Sur Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Overall Score (7% better)
- Healthcare (9% better)
- Nightlife (11% better)
- Food Scene (10% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Tulum if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, San Juan del Sur 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.
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