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Retire in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico | Expat Exchange
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Playa las Animas near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

Retire in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 04, 2024

Summary: Puerto Vallarta, Mexico is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in Puerto Vallarta, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Puerto Vallarta is typically around $150,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $200,000 USD. The weather in Puerto Vallarta is generally warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-60s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit.

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Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

What is it like to retire in Puerto Vallarta?

"Puerto Vallarta and its surrounds are a great spot for retirees due to its temperate climate, stunning scenery and plethora of activities. There is a strong expat community and many cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries and historic sites. An active nightlife and numerous recreational activities entice many retirees, such as golf, tennis, beachfront hikes, day trips to the Marietas Islands, whale watching expeditions and fishing trips. There are plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy, which makes Puerto Vallarta a great place to settle down and enjoy a relaxed lifestyle," said a retiree who moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad is an exciting prospect, and if Puerto Vallarta is your chosen destination, retirees in the region have some advice for you: explore your options for healthcare and long-term care, research Mexican residency and visa requirements, secure a good lawyer and trustworthy financial advisors, familiarize yourself with the culture and language, and don’t forget to experience as much of the area as possible. Lastly, be prepared to meet some wonderful people and make lasting friendships," explained one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Puerto Vallarta?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Puerto Vallarta is adjusting to the language barrier. Although most people in Puerto Vallarta speak some English, communication can be difficult for those who don't speak fluent Spanish. Additionally, navigating the different laws and regulations regarding taxes and health insurance can be particularly challenging for those who are unfamiliar with the local laws. Furthermore, finding a reliable and secure home can be difficult for non-locals as there are many scams targeting foreign retirees. Finally, the culture shock of living in a new environment with unfamiliar customs and behaviors can be daunting and difficult to adjust to," said a person in Puerto Vallarta.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Puerto Vallarta?

"Retiring in Puerto Vallarta is a great way to enjoy a relaxed, sunny lifestyle. The moderate climate makes it ideal for outdoor activities all year round, while the friendly locals, stunning beaches and amenities provide a great retirement experience. Puerto Vallarta is a colorful location, with an amazing array of culture, cuisine, entertainment and activities to explore. Those retired in Puerto Vallarta can enjoy delicious local cuisine, breathtaking sunsets, excellent shopping, and a vibrant nightlife. The relaxed pace of life is also a huge draw, with plenty of opportunities to lounge around, take strolls, or explore the fascinating and beautiful city," said a retiree who moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

What are healthcare services like in Puerto Vallarta?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Puerto Vallarta. They wrote:

"Puerto Vallarta has a variety of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics offering specialized medical treatments. Puerto Vallarta has both public and private hospitals, as well as several clinics, which are available. The public hospitals provide free or low-cost care to those who are uninsured and are authorized to treat foreign patients. Moreover, the private healthcare services offer a wide range of treatments and procedures, ranging from oncology treatments to preventive health care and family care services. Puerto Vallarta's private hospitals are well equipped with up-to-date and modern equipment, as well as experienced and qualified staff. Furthermore, Puerto Vallarta is also home to a number of private health centers providing services including diagnostics, therapies, nutrition consultation, massage, and gym programs," said a retiree who moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

How do I meet people in Puerto Vallarta?

When we asked people living in Puerto Vallarta about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Puerto Vallarta often join clubs and activities geared toward their specific interests. These include book clubs, cycling groups, wine tasting groups, church groups, expat social clubs, yoga classes, cooking classes, and salsa dancing classes. Other ways that expats in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico can meet people and socialize include going to the beach, attending art galleries and theater performances, visiting local farmers markets, and frequenting local English-speaking bars and cafes," said one retiree in Puerto Vallarta.

"Stroll the malecón in the evening, hang out at Captain Don's bar in 5 de Diciembre neighborhood, and at probably lots of bars in Old Town ("Zona Romantica")," commented one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Expats Vallarta is active and easily found on the Internet. They offer monthly get-togethers and other social events. Although mostly geared to people who vacation here every year, there is also a group that meets at Pour Favor every Tuesday evening. We have found, however, that going to the pool in our condo building is the best way to make new friends," explained one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta.

"Take a look at Incanto: https://www.incantovallarta.com/ I've attended several events there and have made friends in this environment via Bingo & Theater. The owner is a great and friendly host. Stroll within the calendar, as well, since you teach Improv. The current calendar looks like its still within the high season. This and many other options are available in Puerto Vallarta," said one retiree in living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Go to a restaurant and talk to the people at the table beside you - talk to a anyone. It is natural and almost expected here in PV. Something I would never do in my original home of Vancouver," explained a retiree in Puerto Vallarta.

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What is life like in Puerto Vallarta?

When we asked people living in Puerto Vallarta what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Puerto Vallarta is a popular destination for expats and digital nomads due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads in Puerto Vallarta can enjoy a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of outdoor activities, such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. The city also offers a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and cafes, as well as a lively nightlife. Additionally, Puerto Vallarta is home to a diverse expat community, making it easy to make friends and find support. With its warm climate, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Puerto Vallarta is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a new home," said one retiree in Puerto Vallarta.

"For Mexicans, it is all about family. Many expats here are retired and spend their time golfing, socializing, enjoying the beaches, painting, or writing. Other expats are working in real estate or own businesses like restaurants or art galleries," commented one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

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What do I need to know before retiring in Puerto Vallarta?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Puerto Vallarta, they said:

"It is important for expats considering retiring in Puerto Vallarta to understand the local language, Spanish, in order to interact comfortably with their new neighbors. Additionally, it is important to review the laws surrounding residency and retirement visas. It is also critical to familiarize oneself with the local culture, as well as the potential day-to-day costs of living such as food, transportation, and healthcare. Before making a commitment, it is highly recommended that expats visit the city, meet with local organizations and staff, and explore the area. Lastly, expats should arrange for a reliable in-country contact to help them adjust to life in Puerto Vallarta," explained a retiree in Puerto Vallarta.

"We visited Puerto Vallarta for 15 years before moving here. I would tell my friend to visit at least 6 times, renting in different places each time. The areas of this city/region are quite different, so that person should rent in Centro, Southside, Conchas Chinas, Mismaloya, the Marina, the Hotel Zone, and even in Nuevo and Bucerias before he or she commits to anything long term. Of course, I would also advise my friend to start learning Spanish and start saving money. Most real estate transactions are in cash because interest rates are very high here. There are long term rental opportunities, if one is comfortable living with a certain amount of uncertainty about availability year to year. I would also tell my friend that, after buying our condo, we have never been happier or so free of financial worries. We love living here," explained one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta.

What type of recreational activities are there in Puerto Vallarta?

"Puerto Vallarta offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. The beaches are a popular destination, with miles of white sand and crystal clear waters. There are also several golf courses, including the Marina Vallarta Golf Club, which offers a challenging 18-hole course. For those looking for a more active experience, there are plenty of water sports to choose from, such as kayaking, snorkeling, and scuba diving. For a more relaxed experience, visitors can take a boat tour of the bay or explore the city's many art galleries and museums. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars to enjoy, as well as a vibrant nightlife," remarked one retiree in Puerto Vallarta.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Puerto Vallarta?

"Puerto Vallarta is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. One of the most popular places to shop is Mega Comercial Mexicana, which is a large supermarket chain with several locations throughout the city. Here, expats can find a wide variety of international and Mexican products, including fresh produce, meats, and other groceries. Another popular option is Walmart, which is also located throughout the city and offers a wide selection of products at competitive prices. For more specialized items, expats can visit the local markets, such as the Mercado Municipal, where they can find fresh produce, meats, and other items at great prices. Additionally, there are several shopping malls in the city, such as Plaza Galerias, where expats can find a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options," explained one retiree living in Puerto Vallarta.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Playa las Animas near Puerto Vallarta, Mexico

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