Your Guide to Living in Acapulco- Rentals, Neighborhoods, Healthcare, and More

Acapulco, once the go-to destination for Hollywood stars, remains a vibrant beach city with plenty to offer for those thinking about moving to Mexico.

Acapulco has something for everyone, whether you’re drawn to the hotter climate, affordable living, or the relaxed coastal lifestyle. In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of rentals, top neighborhoods, available healthcare options, and the best things to do in Acapulco.

With a population of about 900,000 people, Acapulco is a big city with good infrastructure, giving you everything you’d need to live in Mexico– good healthcare, good roads, an airport, good public transportation, affordable living, and plenty of sunshine!

Cost of Rentals in Acapulco

One of the biggest draws to living in Acapulco is its affordability. Compared to other beach destinations like Playa del Carmen or Puerto Vallarta, Acapulco offers competitive rental prices.

• Traditional Area (Zona Tradicional) – Apartments start around 5,000 MXN ($250 USD) per month, with larger homes renting for 10,000 to 15,000 MXN ($500-$750 USD).
• Golden Zone (Zona Dorada) – A mix of affordability and modern conveniences. Rentals range from 8,000 to 20,000 MXN ($400-$1,000 USD) per month.
• Diamond Zone (Zona Diamante) – This is the most exclusive area, with rentals starting at 15,000 MXN ($750 USD) and going up to 30,000 MXN ($1,500 USD) or more, depending on the property’s size and amenities.

Compared to the U.S. or Canada, these prices are incredibly reasonable, making Acapulco an attractive option for retirees, remote workers, and expats looking for an affordable beach lifestyle.

Best Neighborhoods in Acapulco

Acapulco is divided into three main areas, each offering a unique living experience: the Zona Tradicional, Zona Dorada, and Zona Diamante—also known as simply Diamante.

Zona Tradicional (Traditional Area)

This is the old Acapulco, where you’ll find a mix of local culture and affordability. The neighborhood has small apartments, traditional markets, and a strong local community. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option with an authentic Mexican feel, this is a great choice.

Zona Dorada (Golden Zone)

This area offers a mix of older and modern buildings with ocean views. It has a balance between affordability and convenience, with shopping centers, hospitals, and public transportation nearby.

Zona Diamante (Diamond Zone)

This is the most luxurious and modern part of Acapulco, known for its high-end resorts, gated communities, and private beaches. It’s ideal for those who want exclusivity, security, and upscale amenities. Many expats and wealthy Mexicans live here, enjoying private villas, beachfront condos, and access to golf courses.

Healthcare in Acapulco

Acapulco offers a mix of private and public healthcare facilities, making it a viable option for those seeking affordable yet quality medical care. Some of the top hospitals include:

• Hospital del Pacífico – One of the leading private hospitals offering general and specialized medical services.
• Hospital Magallanes – Well-equipped with specialists for a variety of health conditions.
• Hospital Médica Avanzada – A private hospital known for high-quality healthcare services.
• IMSS and ISSSTE Hospitals – Government-run hospitals for those who qualify for Mexico’s public healthcare programs.

For minor medical needs, Farmacias Similares and Farmacias del Ahorro offer affordable medications and doctor consultations for as little as 100 MXN ($5 USD). For more specialized care, Mexico City – which has the best hospitals in Mexico, is a 4 hour drive if you use the Autopista (Mexico’s faster highway) or only an hour’s flight.

Things to Do in Acapulco

Living in Acapulco isn’t just about affordability; the city offers plenty of entertainment and relaxation options.

Visit La Quebrada Cliff Divers

One of Acapulco’s most famous attractions, the cliff divers at La Quebrada put on an incredible show as they leap from heights of over 100 feet into the ocean.

Relax at Acapulco’s Beaches

• Playa Revolcadero – Great for surfing and escaping the crowds.
• Playa Condesa – A lively beach known for restaurants and nightlife.
• Barra Vieja – A more tranquil, relaxing beach outside the main tourist zones.

Explore Historical and Cultural Sites

• Fuerte de San Diego – A historical fort with a museum showcasing Acapulco’s colonial past.
• Zócalo de Acapulco – A central plaza where you can enjoy local food, live music, and traditional Mexican culture.
• Paseo del Pescador – A beautiful waterfront promenade perfect for evening strolls.

Enjoy Acapulco’s Shopping and Dining

For those who enjoy shopping, Acapulco has malls like Galerías Diana and Galerías Acapulco, featuring international brands, movie theaters, and dining options. The city also has local markets such as Mercado Central and Mercado Progreso, where you can buy fresh produce, seafood, and handmade crafts.

Golfing and Outdoor Activities

Acapulco is home to several golf courses, including those at Vidanta and Tres Vidas, which offer stunning views and high-quality courses. There are also options for hiking, boat tours, and deep-sea fishing.

Safety in Acapulco

Acapulco has had safety concerns in the past, particularly related to organized crime.

However, many expats and retirees live comfortably in well-secured areas such as Zona Dorada and Zona Diamante, where gated communities and private security are common. As with any location, staying aware of your surroundings, avoiding certain areas at night, and following local advice can go a long way in ensuring your safety.

The Mexican government has increased law enforcement presence in tourist areas to improve security. The state department’s warnings about traveling to the state of Guerrero don’t make the distinction that Acapulco is a tourist area constantly surveilled by cops and the military.

Acapulco’s Recovery After the Recent Hurricane

Acapulco was recently affected by a major hurricane that caused significant damage to infrastructure, homes, and businesses.

However, recovery efforts are well underway, with government and private sector initiatives working to restore essential services, rebuild homes, and revive the tourism industry.

Many hotels and businesses have reopened, and the local community is resiliently working towards restoring Acapulco’s charm. If you’re considering moving, it’s recommended to visit first and assess how different areas have been impacted and recovered.

Is Acapulco Right for You?

Acapulco offers a more traditional Mexican experience compared to expat-heavy destinations like Ajijic, Los Cabos or expat communities in Mexico. While it has beautiful beaches, great weather, and an affordable cost of living, it also requires a willingness to adapt to local customs, including learning Spanish, as English is not as widely spoken.

If you’re looking for an affordable beach city with a mix of local culture and modern conveniences, Acapulco might be the perfect place for you!

Ready to Make the Move?

If you’re considering relocating to Acapulco or anywhere in Mexico, we can help! Download our free Moving to Mexico Cheat Sheet to learn the important first steps you need to take for moving to Mexico, like how to know if you qualify for Mexican Residency, how to find the best rentals, what to know about healthcare and more.

And once you’re ready to take the next step, we can offer you our COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide. An easy to follow online course giving you all the important basics of moving to Mexico. And because we know Mexican bureaucracy is hard to navigate, we also include our complete directory of vetted professionals across Mexico that will help you make your move a lot less stressful!

We’ve helped thousands move to Mexico the right way, and we can certainly help YOU!