Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

El Salvador

Nicaragua
For digital nomads choosing between El Tunco and San Juan del Sur, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:
Best for Budget
San Juan del Sur
$915/mo
Best Internet
El Tunco
60 Mbps
Best NomadIQ Score
San Juan del Sur
6.7/10
Our Recommendation: San Juan del Sur is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.
When comparing El Tunco and San Juan del Sur for digital nomads, several factors come into play.
Cost of Living: San Juan del Sur is the more budget-friendly option at $915/month versus El Tunco's $1,030/month.
Internet & Remote Work: El Tunco leads with 60 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. San Juan del Sur offers 55 Mbps.
Safety: With a safety score of 7/10, both cities offer similar levels of security.
Overall: Both cities score similarly on our NomadIQ scale at 6.7/10.
San Juan del Sur is 11% cheaper than El Tunco.
Both cities have similar safety ratings.
7/10
El Tunco
7/10
San Juan del Sur
For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. El Tunco offers faster internet at 60 Mbps vs 55 Mbps.
60 Mbps
El Tunco
55 Mbps
San Juan del Sur
Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.
El Tunco: Best for those prioritizing amenities
San Juan del Sur: Best for budget-conscious expats
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