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Tulum, a jewel of the Riviera Maya, has steadily grown into one of the most talked-about destinations for real estate investment in Mexico. With its blend of natural beauty, architectural innovation, and evolving infrastructure, the town continues to attract buyers looking for both lifestyle and financial returns.
Tulum has also earned its spot as one of the best places to live in Mexico.
While the market is maturing and competition among developments has increased, Tulum remains a unique spot - offering a quieter, more design-forward alternative to the large-scale resorts of Cancun or Playa del Carmen. In this article, we will walk you through the real reasons people are investing in Tulum and how to approach the market with eyes wide open.
Reasons to Invest in Tulum
1. Sustainability is Driving New Development
Sustainability in Tulum isn’t just a buzzword - it is increasingly a requirement. In an area defined by its surrounding jungle and proximity to the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve, many new developments are integrating solar energy, water treatment systems, and large preserved green areas into their master plans.
New construction in Tulum prioritizes leaving a resource-rich planet for future generations - a responsibility businesses are taking seriously.
Take our development Mayab Tulum, for example, the project dedicates over 60% of the land to green conservation and uses solar panels for common areas. This doesn’t just reduce the environmental impact, it aligns with growing buyer demand for properties that offer both responsible living and long-term value.
2. Legal Framework Offers a Safer Environment for Investors
Tulum’s real estate market operates within a legal framework regulated by the Real Estate Law of Quintana Roo, and supported by the Mexican Association of Real Estate Professionals (AMPI). While due diligence is still essential, especially in presale projects, the increased oversight offers a more secure environment than in years past. Working with registered professionals is strongly recommended.
3. Appeals to Both Foreign and Local Buyers
Tulum has gained popularity among international buyers, particularly from the U.S. and Canada, many of whom are seeking a second home or a place to retire. Foreign buyers typically purchase through a bank trust (fideicomiso), which is a well-established and safe legal structure.
Many owners choose to buy investment property in Tulum, use it during certain seasons, and rent it out the rest of the year through vacation rental platforms. This allows them to generate passive income and take advantage of the area's strong tourism appeal.
Developments like 525 Tulum, for example, have reported annual returns of 8% to 10% in 2024 and 2023 respectively, with an average occupancy rate of 78%. While these results don’t guarantee future returns, they provide a solid reference for market performance.
4. Tourism Remains a Major Demand Driver
Tulum continues to strengthen its position as one of Mexico’s top tourist destinations in 2024.
In the first quarter of the year, the city welcomed approximately 392,264 visitors, marking a 3.3% increase compared to the same period in 2023.
Hotel occupancy also showed solid performance. During the December holiday season, downtown Tulum reached a 75.9% occupancy rate, while the hotel zone reported 63%.
This steady flow of tourists fuels the vacation rental market and reinforces Tulum’s appeal as a real estate investment destination. Beyond its beaches, Mayan ruins, and cenotes, Tulum offers diverse cuisine, wellness centers, contemporary art, and a curated nightlife scene - all of which enhance its lifestyle value.
In fact, in our article of the best 7 things to do and see in Tulum, you can get an idea of the most favorite activities of tourists who visit the town, or you may want explore the various neighborhoods of Tulum specifically.
5. Improved Infrastructure is Fueling Interest
Tulum’s accessibility has taken a major leap forward. The Tulum International Airport, inaugurated in March 2024, now connects the town to major cities like Miami, New York, Toronto, and several destinations in Europe. This is a game-changer for international visitors who previously had to fly into Cancun and drive two hours south.
Likewise, the Maya Train - a major infrastructure project set to connect Tulum with key destinations across the Yucatán Peninsula - is expected to improve mobility and further boost tourism over time.
While these projects may take time to fully mature, they are solid indicators of Tulum’s long-term potential as a regional hub.
In summary, Tulum offers real opportunities, but it’s no longer the “wild west” of cheap beachfront property. As the market becomes more sophisticated, so must the investor. Returns are still strong for the right product, but thoughtful due diligence, understanding of legal structures, and selecting a well-managed property are now essential.
If you're considering investing in Tulum, we invite you to explore our condos for sale in Tulum, designed with both lifestyle and long-term value in mind. Take time to review guides on how to buy property in Tulum, or learn more about available financing options, especially those offered directly by developers.
With the right strategy, your investment in Tulum can be both financially rewarding and personally fulfilling.
