Wondering what the pros and cons of living in Puerto Vallarta are? After visiting more than 70 countries, I chose Puerto Vallarta as my home base, and it’s been one of the best decisions of my life.
Between the year-round sunshine, ocean sunsets, and welcoming community, life here often feels like paradise. But as much as I love it, living in Puerto Vallarta also comes with its challenges.
In this post, I’ll share my firsthand experience of what it’s really like to live in Puerto Vallarta as an expat and digital nomad – the good, the bad, and everything in between – so you can decide if making the move here is right for you.
Summary: pros and cons of living in Puerto Vallarta
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Year-round warm weather | Rainy and hurricane season |
| Friendly, welcoming community | Rising cost of housing |
| Growing digital nomad scene | It can feel like a small town |
| Access to nature and outdoor adventure | Traffic and limited parking |
| Beautiful beaches and sunsets | Mold from humidity |
| Cost of healthcare and dental care is very affordable | Noise (music, fireworks, roosters, construction) |
| Pet-friendly lifestyle (I adopted Puglo here!) | Tourism crowds in high season |
| International airport with great connections (plus Volaris annual pass) | Expensive for Mexico overall |
| Residency options available | Slow bureaucracy, especially SAT (tax office) |
| Foreigners can buy real estate | Import goods cost more |
| Foreigners can do business (I run an Airbnb) | Limited local job opportunities for non-remote workers |
| LGBTQ+ friendly | Mosquitoes and bugs in rainy season |
| Fresh produce and markets are cheap | Occasional power or water outages |
| Strong expat and retiree networks | Safety concerns exist, mostly petty theft |
Pros of living in Puerto Vallarta
Year-round warm weather
The climate in Puerto Vallarta is warm and tropical, with temperatures that range from 75 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit throughout the year.
If you’re looking for a place to enjoy non-stop sunshine and spend time outdoors, you’ll love living in Puerto Vallarta. The warm weather is perfect for enjoying the many outdoor activities, such as surfing, swimming, and diving.
The best time for weather in Puerto Vallarta is during the dry season, from November to April.
From May through October, things heat up. Temperatures climb, humidity rises, and by late June the rainy season kicks in. It usually rains for just a couple of hours in the afternoon or evening, which actually cools things down, but the constant humidity can feel intense if you’re not used to it.
For me, the weather has been a big reason to stay. I love that I can watch the sunset on the beach almost every night of the year. But if you don’t enjoy heat and humidity, the summer months can be a real adjustment.
Friendly community
For me, the community is hands down my favorite part of living in Puerto Vallarta. The mix of warm-hearted locals, expats, and fellow travelers creates a really special atmosphere that makes it easy to feel at home.
When I first moved here, I quickly found myself surrounded by an incredible group of friends – people from all over the world who were also drawn to Puerto Vallarta’s energy. Whether it’s grabbing tacos at a street stand, volunteering to walk dogs, or attending one of the many social events, it feels like there’s always an opportunity to connect.
What I love most is how genuine the connections are. Puerto Vallarta attracts adventurous, open-minded people, and that makes it easier to build deep friendships than in many other cities I’ve lived in. Even just walking around town, I often bump into people I know, which makes daily life feel more like a community than just a place I live.
Having this kind of supportive, welcoming environment makes a huge difference when living abroad, and it’s a big reason I continue to call Puerto Vallarta my home base.
Growing digital nomad scene
Puerto Vallarta has become an increasingly popular destination for digital nomads in recent years.
While PV first became popular with retirees and expats, many digital nomads are now discovering the magic and moving to Puerto Vallarta.
Aside from its natural beauty, the city has high-speed, reliable internet and plenty of coworking spaces and cafes, making it an ideal place to work and live for those who can work from anywhere.
Regular events for digital nomads are organized in the PV digital nomad Facebook group, making it easy to meet and connect with other nomads.
Read more about living in Puerto Vallarta as a digital nomad
Access to nature and outdoor adventure
One of the best things about living in Puerto Vallarta is how close you are to incredible nature. The city is framed by the Sierra Madre mountains on one side and the Pacific Ocean on the other, so you’re never far from an adventure.
On any given day, I can go hiking through lush jungle trails, swim in hidden waterfalls, or take a boat out to explore secluded beaches. In the winter months, humpback whales return to Banderas Bay, making whale watching a magical part of daily life. If you’re into adrenaline, ziplining through the jungle canopy or snorkeling in Los Arcos are just a short trip away.
And honestly, sometimes the simplest things are the best, like watching a fiery sunset over the bay after a long day of work. Having this kind of easy access to both mountains and ocean is a huge perk of living in Puerto Vallarta and one of the main reasons I fell in love with the city.
Some activities you can do in Puerto Vallarta:
Affordable cost of living (comparatively)
Puerto Vallarta used to be considered a budget destination, but that’s no longer the case. Over the last few years, the cost of living here has risen significantly, especially when it comes to housing.
Apartments in popular neighborhoods like Zona Romántica or Versalles can feel expensive compared to other parts of Mexico, and going out to restaurants or bars adds up quickly. I wouldn’t call Puerto Vallarta cheap anymore, at least not if you’re comparing it to other Mexican towns.
That said, there are still plenty of areas where living here is more affordable than in the U.S. or Canada. Things like fresh produce at local markets, public transportation, vet care, and even private healthcare are a fraction of the cost compared to back home.
Many expats find that they can enjoy a higher quality of life here, eating well, staying active, and getting medical care when needed, without the same financial stress they’d face in North America.
So while Puerto Vallarta isn’t a rock-bottom budget destination, it still offers good value if you’re looking for a comfortable lifestyle by the ocean.
Beautiful beaches
Puerto Vallarta is known for its beautiful beaches, which are some of the most stunning in Mexico. It’s home to one of the most unique beaches in the country – hidden beach, which you can visit on these day tours.
I feel so lucky every day that I can go to the beach after work and watch the sunset directly over the Pacific Ocean. While there are many beaches directly in the city center, they get even better if you go further down the coast to some of the nearby towns.
International airport
Another big advantage of living in Puerto Vallarta is having an international airport (PVR) right in the city. The airport has direct flights to many major cities in the U.S. and Canada, which makes visiting family and friends or escaping the summer heat much more convenient. For example, I can easily fly to Los Angeles and then connect to Asia for cheaper long-haul flights, or head to Toronto in just a few hours.
If you want to explore more of Latin America, it is just as simple. A short flight to Mexico City opens up affordable connections across the region, from Colombia to Argentina.
I use the Volaris annual pass, which lets me book flights around Mexico, Latin America, and even the U.S. throughout the year for a set price.
Having this kind of connectivity right on your doorstep is one of the biggest reasons Puerto Vallarta works so well as a long-term base.
You can get residency
If you fall in love with Puerto Vallarta and want to stay longer, it is possible to obtain residency. While getting temporary residency is no longer as easy as it used to be, it is still very doable if you meet the financial requirements or apply through other qualifying categories.
Temporary residency allows you to stay in Mexico for up to four years, and after that you can apply for permanent residency. Many expats choose this path because it gives them the ability to live here long term without constantly worrying about visa runs.
I went through the process myself and received my temporary residency, which was such a good feeling. It does take some patience and paperwork, but it is worth it if you see Puerto Vallarta as more than just a short-term stop.
LGBTQ+ Friendly
Puerto Vallarta is known as the gay capital of Latin America, with a long history of being a welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travelers.
The city offers a vibrant and inclusive community. Zona Romantica (Old Town) is the official gaybourhood of the city, with many businesses and attractions that are LGBTQ+ friendly.
During May, the city celebrates this community with a week-long gay pride celebration.
Foreigners can do business
One of the advantages of living in Puerto Vallarta is that foreigners are allowed to own property and operate businesses. This is a big draw for expats and digital nomads who want to create income streams while living in Mexico.
For example, I run an Airbnb here and it has been a great way to generate income while also learning the ins and outs of local business regulations. Setting it up took some patience with paperwork, but once everything was in place, managing it became part of my daily life. Many of my friends also own restaurants, bars, or small shops, so there are plenty of examples of foreigners successfully running businesses in Puerto Vallarta.
If you are entrepreneurial, the city offers real opportunities. Just keep in mind that navigating bureaucracy can take time, so it helps to work with professionals who understand local laws and can guide you through the process.
Foreigners Can Buy Real Estate
A huge advantage of living in Puerto Vallarta is that foreigners can legally buy real estate, even though the city is in Mexico’s restricted coastal zone. Most people purchase through a bank trust (fideicomiso), which holds the title on your behalf but still gives you full ownership rights, including the ability to sell, rent, or pass the property on.
I bought my own apartment here and while the process took more time and paperwork than I expected, it was absolutely worth it. Once the fideicomiso was in place, I felt secure knowing the property was mine. Owning a home here has given me stability, a place to come back to between travels, and an investment that continues to grow in value as Puerto Vallarta becomes more popular.
If you are considering buying, just be prepared for extra legal steps and ongoing trust fees. With the right lawyer and realtor, though, it is very possible and a major perk of living in Puerto Vallarta.
Healthcare and Dental Care
One of the biggest advantages of living in Puerto Vallarta is the access to high-quality and affordable healthcare. The city has modern private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and specialists in almost every field. Many expats find that they can get excellent care here at a fraction of what it would cost in the U.S. or Canada.
Dental care is also surprisingly affordable. To give you an example, I recently had my teeth cleaned by a local dentist and it cost me just $10 USD, something that would easily cost ten times as much back home. The quality of care was excellent too.
Between accessible healthcare, affordable prescriptions, and low-cost dental work, Puerto Vallarta makes it easy to take care of your health without breaking the bank. For retirees and long-term residents, this is one of the biggest reasons the city is such an attractive place to live.
Safety in Puerto Vallarta
Safety is one of the biggest concerns people have when moving to Mexico, but in my experience Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities to live in. Of course, like any city, you need to take basic precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being mindful at night, but overall it feels very secure compared to many other destinations.
As a solo female traveler, I’ve always felt comfortable here. I walk my dog in the evenings, go out with friends, and take Ubers alone without worrying. The locals are friendly and helpful, and I’ve never experienced the kind of catcalling or harassment that can make some cities feel uncomfortable.
Petty theft can happen, especially in crowded tourist areas, but violent crime is rare. The strong expat presence and welcoming community also help create an environment where people look out for each other.
Living here has shown me that Puerto Vallarta is not only safe but also a city where I can build a full, independent life with confidence.
Pet-Friendly Lifestyle
One of the reasons Puerto Vallarta feels so special to me is because it’s where I adopted my dog, Puglo. From the very beginning, I noticed how pet-friendly this city is, and living here with a dog has been such a joy.
Many restaurants and cafés welcome pets, often bringing out water bowls without you even asking. There are also several dog-friendly beaches where pups can run off-leash and splash in the ocean. Walking along the Malecón with Puglo or taking him on hikes in the surrounding mountains has become part of our daily routine.
On top of that, vet care is both accessible and affordable. From routine check-ups to emergencies, I’ve always been impressed by the level of care, and it costs just a fraction of what I would pay back in Canada.
Adopting Puglo here has made Puerto Vallarta feel even more like home, and I love how easy it is to share the lifestyle with him.
Cons of living in Puerto Vallarta
Expensive (for Mexico)
Compared to other cities in Mexico, it can be expensive to live in Puerto Vallarta, especially when it comes to apartments and going out.
While the cost of living is still lower than in many cities in the United States or Canada, I’d be lying if I said it was the cheapest place to live in Mexico. There are many luxury accommodations in Puerto Vallarta, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this may be a pro.
There are many places in Mexico with much lower costs of living. However, I believe Puerto Vallarta’s stunning natural beauty and lifestyle are worth the extra cost.
It can feel like a small town
Even though Puerto Vallarta is technically a city, it often feels more like a small town. The expat and local communities are tight-knit, which means you are likely to run into people you know almost every time you go out.
For some, this is a big plus because it makes it easy to build friendships and feel connected. But if you prefer more anonymity or are coming from a larger city, it can feel like everyone knows your business. After a while, the “small town” vibe can be both comforting and limiting, depending on your personality.
Rainy/hurricane season
Puerto Vallarta has a tropical climate, which means summers are hot, humid, and wet. From late June through October, the rainy season brings daily downpours, usually in the late afternoon or evening. On the bright side, the rain cools things off and the mountains turn a vibrant green, but the constant humidity can be tough to live with. Mold in apartments is a common issue during this time, and electricity bills spike if you run air conditioning regularly.
Hurricane season overlaps with the rains, lasting from June to November. Thanks to the protection of Banderas Bay, Puerto Vallarta rarely takes a direct hit, but strong tropical storms and heavy rains are still possible. Roads can flood, power can go out, and you definitely need to be prepared.
While I’ve learned to appreciate the beauty of the rainy season (the dramatic thunderstorms are incredible to watch), it is not the most comfortable time of year to live here, especially if you are new to the tropics.
The tropical climate brings its own issues too. With so much humidity in the summer, mold can become a real problem in apartments if you are not proactive with dehumidifiers or good airflow. It is one of those small but constant maintenance tasks that come with living in the tropics.
It’s always a party
Puerto Vallarta is known for its nightlife, and there’s always something happening in the city. While this can be a pro for those who enjoy a lively social scene, it may also be a con if you prefer a quieter, more relaxed lifestyle.
I love how lively Puerto Vallarta is, but it often feels like there’s always an excuse to go out, which makes getting any work done difficult.
It can be crowded during peak season
Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination in Mexico. During the peak tourist season, the city can become crowded, and traffic can be heavy.
On the other hand, it means the city is lively with many events. Still, you may find the influx of tourists annoying when trying to live day-to-day life.
Language barrier
While many people in Puerto Vallarta speak English, the primary language is Spanish. This can make it challenging for those who do not speak Spanish fluently to communicate and navigate daily life.
However, this can also be a pro as it presents an excellent opportunity to learn Spanish with many language classes and exchanges available. If you plan to live in Mexico, I do recommend learning Spanish.
Safety concerns
Many people have safety concerns when moving to Mexico. However, Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico to live in.
Still, like in any city, there are occasional incidents of theft, robbery, and petty crime. It is important to take precautions, such as avoiding certain areas of the city and not walking alone at night.
Read more: Is is safe to live in Puerto Vallarta?
Infrastructure
While Puerto Vallarta is a rapidly growing city, it is still experiencing some growing pains. The city’s infrastructure, such as roads and public transportation, can be inadequate, especially during peak tourist season.
There may be occasional power outages, water shortages, and slow internet speeds during the rainy season. While these issues are not common, they can be frustrating.
Traffic is another challenge. The roads were not designed for the number of cars the city now has, and during high season it can feel especially congested, particularly in the Hotel Zone, Marina, and downtown. Parking can also be a headache in popular neighborhoods like Zona Romántica.
Public transportation exists in the form of buses, which are cheap and frequent, but they can be hot and crowded. Most expats rely on Ubers, taxis, or their own car to get around.
Slow and Frustrating Bureaucracy
If there is one thing I really dislike about living in Puerto Vallarta, it is the bureaucracy. Whether it is applying for residency, setting up a business, or filing taxes, the process is rarely straightforward and often takes far more time and patience than it should.
My least favorite part is dealing with SAT, the Mexican tax office. Every time I have to go there, it feels like pulling teeth. Long waits, confusing systems, and staff who often give you different answers depending on who you talk to. Even something that should be simple, like getting an appointment, can turn into a stressful ordeal.
This is one of those realities of life in Mexico that you have to accept if you plan to live here long term. Hiring a good lawyer or accountant definitely helps, but you still need to be ready for slow responses, endless paperwork, and the occasional runaround. For me, it is hands down one of the biggest cons of living here.
Daily noise
Puerto Vallarta is a lively city, which means peace and quiet can be hard to come by. Between late-night music from bars, street parties, and festivals, you will often hear noise well into the early hours. Add in fireworks, church bells, barking dogs, roosters, and ongoing construction, and it quickly becomes clear that silence is not one of Puerto Vallarta’s strengths.
For some people, this constant buzz is part of the charm and energy of living here. But if you are sensitive to noise or value a calm environment, it can be one of the more frustrating aspects of daily life. Choosing the right neighborhood and even the right street makes a big difference, but you will still need to get used to the soundtrack of life in Mexico.
As Puerto Vallarta continues to grow and develop, there is a constant stream of new construction projects, especially around areas like Versalles.
While this can be seen as a positive sign of growth, it means there is a lot of noise pollution and traffic disruptions. When choosing where to live in Puerto Vallarta, it’s important to be mindful of construction noise around you.
Rising Cost of Housing
One of the biggest downsides of living in Puerto Vallarta right now is the rapid increase in housing costs. Over the last few years, rents have gone up dramatically, especially in popular neighborhoods like Zona Romántica, Versalles, and Fluvial. What used to be considered affordable by Mexican standards now often feels overpriced.
Short-term rentals play a big role in driving up prices since many landlords prefer renting to tourists at higher nightly rates rather than offering long-term leases. As a result, finding a reasonably priced apartment for an extended stay can be challenging and often requires patience, connections, or moving a little outside the main expat areas.
Even though housing is still cheaper than in many U.S. or Canadian cities, I wouldn’t call it cheap anymore, and it is something anyone considering a move here needs to budget for carefully.
If you’re moving to Puerto Vallarta, it’s important to protect yourself with travel and health insurance. I use and love SafetyWing, which is insurance for remote workers that works on a subscription basis, so you pay monthly and can stop it any time.
FAQ: Living in Puerto Vallarta Pros and Cons
Is Puerto Vallarta a good place to live?
Yes, Puerto Vallarta is one of the most popular places to live in Mexico thanks to its warm climate, friendly community, and access to both beaches and mountains.
Where do most Americans live in Puerto Vallarta?
Most Americans settle in neighborhoods like Zona Romántica, Versalles, Marina Vallarta, and Fluvial, where there are many expat-friendly services and amenities.
How much do you need to live in Puerto Vallarta?
A comfortable lifestyle for one person usually starts around $2,000–$3,000 USD per month, although costs vary depending on housing and lifestyle choices.
Can an American buy a house in Puerto Vallarta?
Yes, Americans can legally buy property in Puerto Vallarta through a bank trust (fideicomiso), which gives them full ownership rights.
Is Puerto Vallarta safe to retire?
Puerto Vallarta is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico and is very popular with retirees, although normal precautions are still recommended.
How is healthcare in Puerto Vallarta?
Healthcare is high quality and affordable, with modern private hospitals, English-speaking doctors, and low-cost dental care.
What is the reputation of Puerto Vallarta?
Puerto Vallarta has a reputation as a welcoming, vibrant, and LGBTQ+ friendly beach city that attracts expats, retirees, and travelers from around the world.
Can US citizens get medical care in Mexico?
Yes, US citizens can access medical care in Mexico and many even travel here specifically for affordable healthcare and dental services.
Does Puerto Vallarta have sewage treatment?
Yes, the city has sewage treatment facilities, but during heavy rains or storms, drainage issues can sometimes cause problems along the coast.
Final thoughts: Pros and cons of Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is not perfect, but for me the pros far outweigh the cons. I love the warm climate, the daily access to the ocean and mountains, and the friendships I’ve built here. Healthcare, dental care, and fresh produce are still very affordable, and the city offers a vibrant community that makes living abroad feel less intimidating.
Of course, there are challenges. Housing costs have risen, the summer heat and humidity can be intense, and dealing with bureaucracy or traffic requires patience. But these are trade-offs I am willing to accept for the quality of life I have here.
After traveling to more than 70 countries, I chose Puerto Vallarta as my home base, and I have never regretted it. If you are considering making the move, weigh the pros and cons carefully, but know that this city has a way of winning people over with its beauty, energy, and community.
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