The Expat Neighbourhood of Playa del Carmen
Colosio has quietly become one of the most interesting neighbourhoods in Playa del Carmen. Located north of the town centre, it was once a purely residential Mexican neighbourhood with little reason for tourists to visit. Over the past few years, a wave of expats, digital nomads, and small business owners has transformed it into a vibrant community with its own distinct character.
Walking through Colosio today, you will find specialty coffee shops next to traditional Mexican tiendas, yoga studios across the street from taco stands, and co-working spaces in buildings that were family homes five years ago. It is not polished. It is not Instagrammable in the way 5th Avenue is. But it is real, and that is exactly what draws people here.
What Colosio Offers
The restaurant and café scene in Colosio is growing fast. Several of Playa’s best coffee shops are here — the kind of places with excellent beans, fast wifi, and a mix of locals and laptop workers at every table. Restaurants range from budget Mexican eateries serving comida corrida lunches for under 100 pesos to newer spots with international menus and craft cocktails.
A small but growing number of co-working spaces have opened, making Colosio a natural base for remote workers. Gyms, yoga studios, and wellness centres have followed the expat community north, so you will find fitness options that cater to international residents.
The beach is a 15-20 minute walk from most parts of Colosio, or a short taxi ride. It is not a beachfront neighbourhood, and that is one reason the prices stay lower.
Who Colosio Is Best For
Long-term visitors, digital nomads, and expats exploring whether Playa del Carmen could be home. If you are planning to stay for a month or more, Colosio gives you a neighbourhood with community, affordability, and character — things that are harder to find in the tourist centre. Short-term tourists can enjoy Colosio too, especially if they prefer a local atmosphere over a resort feel.
The Trade-Offs
Colosio is not as polished as Centro or Playacar. Some streets are rougher, construction is ongoing in several areas, and the infrastructure is still catching up with the neighbourhood’s popularity. It is further from the beach than the centre, and nightlife options are limited — though many residents simply walk or taxi to 5th Avenue for a night out.
For anyone considering a longer stay, the rental prices in Colosio are significantly lower than Centro — often 30-40% less for comparable apartments. For detailed pricing, check our Cost of Living guide. And for a full look at the rental market, visit our Real Estate & Renting page.