Santa Tecla vs Tulum – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Santa Tecla, El Salvador and Tulum, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Santa Tecla has a monthly cost of $2,080, which is 18.4% lower than Tulum's $2,550.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Santa Tecla offers 30 Mbps, while Tulum provides 100 Mbps – making Tulum's connection 233.3% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Santa Tecla is currently 29°C 🌧️, while Tulum is experiencing 32°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Santa Tecla has a safety score of 49.0 , while Tulum scores 60.0 .

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Overall
Tulum wins
Tulum is 6% better
Quality of Life
Tulum wins
Tulum is 11% better
Cost
Santa Tecla wins
Santa Tecla is 16% better
Climate
Tulum wins
Tulum is 25% better
Infrastructure
Santa Tecla wins
Social
Tulum wins
Tulum is 8% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Santa Tecla | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,080 | $2,550 | -18.4% |
Daily Average | $69 | $85 | per day |
Housing
Item | Santa Tecla | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $650.00 per month | -46.2% |
Daily Life
Item | Santa Tecla | Tulum | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $2.50 per cup | -40.0% |
Transportation
Item | Santa Tecla | Tulum | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Santa Tecla | Tulum | Difference |
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Final Verdict: Santa Tecla vs Tulum
Tulum ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 6.0% higher than Santa Tecla overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,080 vs $2,550
- Daily Expenses: $69 vs $85
- Santa Tecla is 18.4% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Tulum leads with 70% faster connection
- Public Transport: Tulum has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Santa Tecla Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
Tulum Wins In:
- Overall Score (6% better)
- Safety (11% better)
- Air Quality (25% better)
- Nightlife (8% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Tulum if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Santa Tecla 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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