Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico - The concept of moving abroad in retirement is usually associated with adventure, good food and the freedom to explore other parts of the world. Aside from the coveted seaside views, friendly English-speaking community and safety, the main factor that motivates people to spend their later years abroad is often affordability.
"Outside the United States, you can live for far less," says Kathleen Peddicord, the publisher of Live and Invest Overseas, whose annual report ranks cities based on cost of living, weather, options for residency and other factors.
According to Peddicord's 2015 list of the 21 Best Places To Retire Overseas, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico comes in at #2 as the most accommodating city for foreigners.
Algarve, Portugal took the top spot for the second year in a row, thanks to its low cost of living, affordable real estate and pleasant weather. Rounding out the top five are: #3 Cayo, Belize; #4 Languedoc, France; #5 Abruzzo, Italy.
Puerto Vallarta has become home to thousands of North Americans that could afford to live anywhere on the planet and have chosen PV as their retirement destination. While the cost of living here can run as much as $1,950 USD a month and up, you can live comfortably on a lot less - depending on your lifestyle.
No hablas Espaņol? Expats living in this beautiful tourist resort area can get away with doing most of their errands in English, such as shopping, going out to eat or visiting the spa. The Banderas Bay area is well developed, giving retirees options for golfing, shopping and fine dining. Puerto Vallarta is also a safe part of the country with a strong presence of bilingual police officers, as the study points out.
Located at the same latitude as Hawaii, Puerto Vallarta has a perfect climate with an average daily temperature of 73°F from November through May with virtually no chance of rain. Summertime, from June to October, is Vallarta's rainy season with temperatures ranging from the mid 80's to low 90's. Sure, it gets hot and humid, but afternoon rain showers cool things off and a swim in the ocean is just steps away.
As for transportation, retirees don't need a car unless they live outside the town's center. A reliable bus system, along with affordable taxis, makes it easy to get around. For health care, the city has world-class hospitals and medical centers offering the latest in medical technology and English speaking doctors. And, at $1,273 per square meter, real estate is decently affordable.
If you're a baby boomer, either recently retired or about to retire, you owe it to yourself; make PV your next vacation destination and consider all the qualities it has to offer. You'll definitely be impressed, and will probably agree with me... Puerto Vallarta is the best place in the world for expat living or retirement.
Source: Live and Invest Overseas