Playa del Carmen continues to be one of the strongest real estate markets in Mexico, attracting investors with its booming tourism, stable rental demand, and growing expatriate community. Whether you’re looking for Airbnb income, long-term rentals, or future appreciation, these are the top neighborhoods to consider in 2025.
1. Centro (Downtown Playa del Carmen)
Best for: Short-term rentals, Airbnb, walk-to-the-beach properties
Why invest:
- Steps from 5th Avenue, restaurants, nightlife, and the beach
- Highest occupancy rates for vacation rentals
- Strong appreciation due to limited remaining inventory
- Ideal for investors wanting turnkey condos
Typical prices:
- Studios: $140,000–$200,000 USD
- 1-bedroom condos: $180,000–$300,000 USD
- 2-bedroom condos: $250,000–$450,000 USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Investors who want consistent Airbnb income and high occupancy all year.
2. Zazil-Ha / Coco Beach
Best for: High-end vacation rentals, luxury condos
Why invest:
- Trendy “north end” of Playa with newer developments
- Quiet, upscale vibe only minutes from the beach
- Homes here command higher nightly Airbnb rates
- Popular with remote workers and long-term renters
Typical prices:
- 1-bedroom: $200,000–$350,000 USD
- 2-bedroom: $350,000–$550,000+ USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Buyers looking for modern luxury properties with excellent ROI potential.
3. Playacar Phase 1 & 2
Best for: Families, long-term rentals, secure gated living
Why invest:
- The most established gated community in Playa
- Tree-lined streets, golf course, private security
- Phase 1 offers beachfront homes; Phase 2 has villas and condos
- High demand from digital nomads and families staying 6–12 months
Typical prices:
- Condos: $250,000–$450,000 USD
- Villas: $450,000–$1M+ USD
- Beachfront homes: $1.5M+ USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Investors wanting stability, security, and long-term rental clients.
4. Gonzalo Guerrero
Best for: Balanced short-term and long-term rental strategies
Why invest:
- Centrally located between Centro and Coco Beach
- Strong demand from both tourists & full-time residents
- Good mix of mid-range and luxury developments
- Excellent rental occupancy
Typical prices:
- 1-bedroom condos: $160,000–$250,000 USD
- 2-bedroom condos: $250,000–$400,000 USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Investors wanting flexibility: Airbnb or long-term rentals both work well here.
5. El Cielo / Selvamar
Best for: Long-term rentals, families, quieter lifestyle
Why invest:
- Gated, peaceful, residential—and still 10 minutes from the beach
- Larger living spaces vs. central Playa
- Popular with expats relocating permanently
- Growing commercial activity nearby
Typical prices:
- Condos: $160,000–$240,000 USD
- Townhomes: $240,000–$350,000 USD
- Homes: $350,000–$600,000 USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Investors looking for stable, long-term tenants with lower turnover.
6. 38th Street Corridor
Best for: Boutique luxury investments
Why invest:
- One of the most beautiful pedestrian streets in Playa
- Trendy restaurants + lush greenery create a high-end vibe
- Limited inventory = strong appreciation
- Top choice for couples and wellness travelers
Typical prices:
- 1-bedroom: $220,000–$350,000 USD
- 2-bedroom: $350,000–$600,000 USD
Who this area is perfect for:
Investors who want a premium location with upscale rental demand.
Which Neighborhood Has the Highest ROI?
For Airbnb, the top returns come from:
- Centro
- Coco Beach
- 38th Street Corridor
For long-term rentals, the top performers are:
- Playacar
- El Cielo / Selvamar
For luxury appreciation, look at:
- Coco Beach
- 38th Street Corridor
View Playa del Carmen Properties for Sale
Please feel free to check out our list of Playa del Carmen properties for sale: https://www.playadelcarmenhomesforsale.com/properties
About the Author
Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.
From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.
Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.
North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
📊 Ventas: buy@nasplaya.com 🏘 Property Management: bookings@nasplaya.com
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