Cabo San Lucas’s warm, pristine beaches and waterfront properties characterize its lifestyle, making it a paradise nestled amidst rocks and cacti.
Cabo San Lucas’s unique landscape and almost year-round sunshine make it a desirable destination for tourists and expats. Its vibrant nightlife and proximity to the United States further enhance its appeal, especially among North Americans.
As a hotspot for tourists and professionals, understanding the cost of living in Cabo San Lucas is crucial for anyone considering making this stunning place their next home.
Read on to learn how much it costs to live in Cabo San Lucas and explore the expenses you will likely have if you choose this place as your next forever home!
Housing Costs
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Housing is one of the most significant contributors to the cost of living in Cabo San Lucas. In the second quarter of 2024, house prices in Cabo San Lucas saw a significant upward trend.
The average house price increased by 33.9%, and the median house price surged by 81.7% despite a lower sales volume of 129 houses. This rise is mainly due to high-dollar sales in the $1 million and above range.
Condos are also popular among those relocating to Cabo San Lucas. The average condo price went up by 14.2% in the second quarter of 2024, while the median condo price saw a modest increase of 1.4%.
Homes for sale in Cabo San Lucas often range from around $100,000 to over $10 million, with an average price of $2,237,703 and a median listing price of $1,196,000. Conversely, Condos had an average cost of $718,941 in 2024 and a median listing price of $378,000.
Renting vs. Buying
Purchasing a property in Cabo San Lucas is preferable to renting because of the potential for property value appreciation and the opportunity to customize the home to suit personal preferences. However, renting may be more suitable if you prioritize flexibility or are still determining your long-term plans.
The average weekly rental price in Cabo San Lucas is $7,563, while the average monthly rental is $32,414. However, rental costs will still depend on the area and type of property. Those with waterfront features tend to be more expensive.
Here’s the expected rental rent in Cabo San Lucas, depending on the bedroom count:
| Bedroom Counts | Average Rate |
|---|---|
| 1 Bedroom | $8,873 monthly |
| 2 Bedroom | $11,663 monthly |
| 3 Bedroom | $12,810 monthly |
Utilities and Services
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The average utility bill in Cabo San Lucas is $89.60, according to Numbeo. This covers electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection.
Water and electricity costs will vary depending on your usage. Cabo San Lucas calculates the price of electricity by consumption. However, if you exceed the minimum threshold, the cost per kilowatt hour increases quickly.
Below is the breakdown of Cabo San Lucas’s expected average monthly utility bill:
| Utility/Service | Average Bill |
|---|---|
| Electricity | $50 |
| Gas | $1.32 |
| Cable & Internet | $33 |
| Phone Bill | $24 |
| Water | $20 |
Food and Groceries
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Food expenses are another significant factor of the cost of living in Cabo San Lucas that you must consider. The area offers many dining choices, and grocery stores offer various items and authentic foods, whether you prefer to eat out or cook at home.
Here’s an overview of the approximate costs for dining and grocery items in Cabo San Lucas:
| Grocery Products / Type of Dining | Average Cost |
|---|---|
| Dinner in a Mid-Range Restaurant | $12.40 |
| Fast food Restaurants | $8.86 |
| Rice | $1.46 |
| Bakery Products | $2.49 |
| Dairy Products | $5.54 |
| A dozen of eggs | $2.26 |
| Fruits and Vegetables | $2.68 |
| Meat and Seafood | $11.07 |
| Water | $1.66 |
| Beverages | $10.52 |
Transportation
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Cabo San Lucas is a walkable city with affordable public transport. The best way to get around is on foot or by car, as most sites are clustered downtown. Some vacationers enjoy scenic water taxis from the downtown marina to the best beaches.
Moreover, it is essential to know that you can’t walk between Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, and you must drive or take a taxi along the Corridor. Taxi fares vary based on distance, and rides from the airport to Cabo San Lucas can be expensive.
If you want to go with public transport, public buses, known as Suburcabos, provide transportation from the airport to Los Cabos, making frequent stops along the way.
ABC and Aguila companies also operate a bus service between San Jose del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas. Here’s the average cost of transportation in Cabo San Lucas:
| Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| One Way Ticket | $1 |
| Monthly Pass | $27.68 |
| Taxi Ride | $20 |
| Gasoline (1 Liter) | $1.32 |
Healthcare Expenses
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Medical care is another important factor contributing to the cost of living in Cabo San Lucas.
The area has both public and private healthcare systems, with private clinics and hospitals preferable for tourists and expats due to their high-quality care, though at a higher cost than public healthcare.
Entertainment and Leisure
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Cabo San Lucas is at the southernmost point of the Baja California Peninsula. Due to its numerous resorts and attractions, it is one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations.
From world-class golf courses to fine dining options to five-star resorts, Cabo offers many leisure and entertainment choices.
The average daily cost per person is about $39 for those looking to enjoy various entertainment activities. This covers expenses such as admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing activities.
Fitness enthusiasts will find that a monthly fee for a fitness club membership averages $62.97, ranging between $19.38 and $83.04. Renting a tennis court for an hour will cost approximately $55.36. Whatever your hobbies are, you’ll find something fun in Cabo San Lucas!
Education Costs
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Public schools in Cabo San Lucas are free, although there might be additional costs for books or extracurricular activities. However, for those opting for private education, the tuition fees can add up significantly:
Cost of Living Comparison
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Cabo San Lucas vs. La Paz
Cabo San Lucas is generally more expensive to live in compared to La Paz. It has more expensive housing and dining expenses but compensates for lower grocery costs. La Paz, on the other hand, offers more affordable rent and dining costs but higher grocery prices.
While the average value of homes for sale in Cabo San Lucas is about $2 million, La Paz, on the other hand, has an average home price of $46,000.
Cabo San Lucas’s rent prices are 22.0% higher than La Paz’s. This means that whether you’re looking for an apartment or a house, expect to pay significantly more in Cabo San Lucas.
Dining out in Cabo San Lucas is 12.0% more expensive than La Paz, likely due to its popularity among tourists. However, groceries are 13.0% cheaper in Cabo San Lucas, making cooking at home a more affordable option.
The cost of transportation and utilities is relatively similar in both cities, so you won’t see much difference in your monthly expenses for these categories.
Cabo San Lucas vs. Los Cabos
The cost of living in Cabo San Lucas is generally higher than in Los Cabos. Although part of Los Cabos, Cabo San Lucas is a major tourist destination, attracting many visitors yearly. This high demand drives up housing, dining, and entertainment prices, making it more expensive than other parts of Los Cabos.
The average cost of living in Cabo San Lucas for one person is around $1,633, significantly higher than in Los Cabos, which is approximately $730. A family of four would spend about $3,248 in Cabo San Lucas, compared to $1,600 in Los Cabos. This includes rent, utilities, and food.
The average price for a home in Cabo San Lucas is around $2 million, while homes for sale in Los Cabos average from $1 million to $1.5 million, making them more affordable than those in Cabo San Lucas. Condos in both locations have similar prices, averaging from $2 million to $5 million.
Note: This image may include elements generated by artificial intelligence (AI).
Conclusion
Cabo San Lucas is a popular destination for tourists and expatriates. However, the cost of living is higher than in other parts of Los Cabos and neighboring cities like La Paz.
Understanding the factors contributing to the cost of living is crucial for anyone considering making Cabo San Lucas their home. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, the cost of living here reflects its status as a premier destination.
If you’re ready to experience the unique lifestyle of Cabo San Lucas and would like to speak with a local realtor for detailed insights and assistance, feel free to contact us at +52-624-147-5033. We will gladly guide you with your inquiries and help you find your dream home in the beautiful city.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cabo San Lucas a safe place to live?
Cabo San Lucas is generally considered a safe place to live. The city has robust security measures, particularly in tourist areas. However, it’s always wise to stay aware of your surroundings and take standard safety precautions like in any other city.
What is the average rent cost in Cabo San Lucas?
The average rent cost in Cabo San Lucas varies depending on the size and location of the property. On average, a one-bedroom apartment costs around $8,873 per month, a two-bedroom apartment will cost $11,663, and a three-bedroom apartment costs around $12,810 monthly.
How much do utilities cost on average?
The average monthly utility cost in Cabo San Lucas is around $89.60, typically including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection.
Are healthcare services in Cabo San Lucas reliable
Healthcare services in Cabo San Lucas are reliable. The city has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. Private clinics and hospitals offer high-quality care, though it costs more than public healthcare.
