Tacos and Ocean Views: You're Guide to Puerto Vallarta
If your dream workspace includes ocean views, fresh tacos, and an endless summer, Puerto Vallarta (PV) might just be your perfect digital nomad destination. Perched on Mexico’s Pacific coast, PV blends traditional Mexican culture with modern amenities, making it a hotspot for remote workers. From affordable living to a growing nomad community, here’s everything you need to know before packing your laptop and flip-flops.
Culture & Lifestyle
Puerto Vallarta is a city of contrasts—cobblestone streets meet sleek condos, and old-school taco stands exist alongside hip cafés. The city is divided into distinct areas, each offering a unique vibe:
El Centro (Downtown): Classic Mexico with bustling plazas, street vendors, and a touch of chaos.
Zona Romántica: The heart of PV’s expat and digital nomad community, packed with coffee shops, international cuisine, and a thriving nightlife scene.
Marina Vallarta & Hotel Zone: If high-rise condos, yachts, and beachfront living are your thing, this is the place to be.
Versalles & Fluvial: Up-and-coming foodie hotspots where you’ll find more local vibes and better rental deals.
Why People Love PV
Friendly locals and an inclusive international community.
A food scene that will ruin all other tacos for you.
Thriving nightlife, from beach bars to LGBTQ-friendly clubs.
Endless outdoor adventures—think snorkeling, hiking, and whale watching.
Walkable streets with Uber and cheap public transport for longer trips.
Cost of Living
Puerto Vallarta is affordable by North American standards, but prices fluctuate based on location and lifestyle.
Housing
City center apartments: $700–$1,500/month
Shared housing: $400–$800/month
Beachfront condos: $1,500–$3,000+/month
Food
Street tacos: $3–$7 per meal
Mid-range restaurant: $10–$20 per meal
Fine dining: $30–$50 per meal
Transportation
Public bus: About 50 cents per ride
Uber rides: $3–$8 within the city
Scooter rental: $150–$300/month
Total Monthly Expenses
Budget lifestyle: $1,200–$1,800
Mid-range lifestyle: $1,800–$3,000
Luxury lifestyle: $3,000+
Safety & Accessibility
Puerto Vallarta is one of the safest cities in Mexico, especially for expats and tourists. Petty theft can happen, so use common-sense precautions like not leaving your phone unattended at the beach. Stick to well-populated areas, and you’ll feel at ease.
Getting There
Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) offers direct flights to major U.S., Canadian, and Mexican cities, making it a breeze to get in and out.
Weather
Best time to visit: November–April (warm, dry, and sunny)
Rainy season: June–October (hot, humid, and occasionally stormy)
If you love tropical heat, the summer months are still doable, but expect sweaty keyboards and frizzy hair.
Visa Options
Most nationalities get 180 days visa-free upon arrival, which is one of the most generous tourist visas out there. For longer stays, you’ll need a Temporary Resident Visa, requiring proof of income around $2,600 per month.
Digital Nomad Community & Co-Working Spaces
Puerto Vallarta’s digital nomad scene is growing fast, with regular meetups and an increasing number of work-friendly cafés.
Best Co-Working Spaces
Natureza Cowork: A laid-back, community-driven space.
Vallarta CoWork: Professional and centrally located.
Work It Coworking: Great for networking.
Laptop-Friendly Cafés
A Page in the Sun: Books, coffee, and strong Wi-Fi.
Miscelanea Café: Cozy with a solid menu.
Starbucks: Reliable Wi-Fi, air conditioning, and a familiar vibe.
Internet & Time Zone
Internet speeds: 50–200 Mbps in co-working spaces and high-end apartments.
Mobile data: Reliable 4G with Telcel and AT&T.
Time zone: CST (UTC-6), perfect for remote work with U.S. clients.
Healthcare
Puerto Vallarta has excellent private hospitals, making it a solid choice for medical care.
Doctor visits: $40–$80 without insurance.
Quality hospitals: San Javier, CMQ, and private clinics offer top-tier care.
Affordable dental work and medical procedures compared to the U.S. and Canada.
Is Puerto Vallarta Right for You?
Pros
Affordable compared to the U.S. and Europe.
Beaches, sunshine, and tropical vibes year-round.
Strong digital nomad and expat community.
Phenomenal food and nightlife.
Easy visa options for long-term stays.
Cons
Hot and humid summers: If you can’t handle heat, PV might not be for you.
More expensive than some Mexican cities: Cheaper options include Mérida and Oaxaca.
Gets touristy: High season brings crowds, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Vallarta is the kind of place where you can work from a beachside café, take a midday dip in the ocean, and end the night with tacos and live music. It’s got everything a digital nomad could ask for—affordability, community, and adventure. If you’re looking for a place where work and play blend seamlessly, PV might just be your perfect fit.