Vallarta Living on $1,000 a Month

We were excited to learn that Francine Britton, one of our own here at Puerto Vallarta Villas Real Estate, was being featured on an episode of Living Overseas TV. This video series, hosted by Jim Kellett, provides a glimpse into what is real life for expats all over the world.

This episode was called “$1,000 Monthly Budget in Puerto Vallarta”, and gave us a look into what life is like for Francine as an expat in PV.

Francine, an educator, author and founder of Active Learning Alliance, has been living in Vallarta since 2011. She has found happiness and everything she needs within a four block radius of her rented apartment in the heart of the Romantic Zone, also referred to as Old Town.

Known to locals as Emiliano Zapata, this neighborhood is famous for its beautiful, hacienda-style architecture and its proximity to the beach. Francine describes a busy neighborhood filled with vendors, galleries, small businesses and cobblestone streets.

Francine gives Jim the grand tour by taking him on a day in her wonderful life. Here are some of the big takeaways for anyone considering a move to this amazing city.

A low budget is very realistic

Francine spends about 420 dollars a month on a beautifully appointed, traditionally designed apartment in the heart of one of the most desirable neighborhoods. This includes all of her utilities. She spends about 50 dollars a week on groceries. After that, she feels very comfortable and enjoys some of the luxuries that Vallarta has to offer.

Health insurance is a priority

In the video, Francine talks about the need to investigate the right health insurance for someone wishing to retire in Mexico. The public health insurance is a real option, and private insurance is also available.

A car is not essential

Many neighborhoods in Vallarta are very easily navigated on food. Francine has everything she needs within a four block radius. And, if she wants to get out and explore, she can hop on a bus or call an inexpensive Uber or taxi.

Your community becomes family

In the episode, Francine introduces Jim to the neighborhood and shows us her favorite haunts, such as the book swap cafe with the art gallery attached. On the same walk she purchases her organic vegetables at an open air market and then stops by to pick up her laundry, with each place greeting her like an old friend.

If this sounds like paradise, well it certainly can be! Get in touch with us at Puerto Vallarta Villas Real Estate and we can help make it a reality. Congratulations to Francine on a lovely look into her life in our beloved Vallarta.