I lived in 15 greatest locations to reside in Mexico and this is what I discovered

You’re most likely right here since you are questioning what are the greatest locations to reside in Mexico. Properly, you’re in for a deal with. I’ve known as this nation dwelling since 2018! Learn on and let’s get began.

📬 Reader Mail: Hola Trisha! I’m presently dwelling in Queretaro and though the price of dwelling is cheaper right here than in any main metropolis in Mexico, I really feel just like the neighborhood right here is just not in my age vary. I’m 30 years outdated and haven’t discovered a youthful expat group so I’d respect it for those who can suggest different greatest locations to reside in Mexico which might be match for my age. I do know you’ve made pals from dwelling in several areas in Mexico so possibly I’m simply flawed about Queretaro? If in case you have pals to suggest right here, I’d like to offer it one other strive as a result of the price of dwelling is absolutely low cost. In any other case, I’ll look into your different suggestions. I actually respect your assist!

– Kirsten, San Diego, CA

Mexico is a really various nation and truthfully, at any time when I’m requested the place is the most effective place I lived in Mexico, I can’t actually say as a result of I normally beloved all of them!

I perceive that for those who’ve by no means been to Mexico, it’s onerous to have an insider look and resolve whilst you’re nonetheless again dwelling (wherever that’s proper now). 

The Web will provide you with limitless choices however it might be very unclear so my first tip on your hunt: get insights from somebody who really lives right here. 

As we’re all distinctive people with completely different wants, I discovered that I can’t actually communicate for everybody however I do know the fundamental necessities that you’re on the lookout for when it comes to dwelling situations, prices, security, and so forth.

A bit bit about me – I’m a digital nomad so one among my first issues is Web connection at any time when I’m shifting to a brand new place.

On this publish, I’ll share with you all of my suggestions and tips on the right way to reside in Mexico. You can too test my Mexico blogs to see any content material that’s related to you.

If these should not sufficient, please be happy to succeed in out to me utilizing the contact web page. I’ve helped a number of foreigners transfer to Mexico and who is aware of, I would have the opportunity that can assist you too!

📍 What’s the greatest a part of Mexico to reside in?

We even have very completely different interpretations of the “better part” so my typical recommendation to readers of this weblog is to get to know the states first.

Mexico has 32 states and the very first thing that it’s worthwhile to know is that all of them differ when it comes to climate, value of dwelling, and English-speaking communities

I’ve been requested so much the place People normally reside in Mexico and truthfully, I don’t know anymore. I encounter People in each place I lived in!

The truth is, the US State Division has recorded 1.5 million People presently dwelling in Mexico. That’s not even counting these on a vacationer visa who keep right here long run.

In all my dwelling overseas consults, particularly in Mexico, People really feel extra snug if there are fellow People dwelling within the place they wish to transfer to but it surely’s a case-to-case foundation as a result of a few of my shoppers additionally inform me to not counsel a Mexican metropolis/city with plenty of People.

Determine the dwelling situation you wish to be in and take it from there.

⛔ What’s the most secure place to reside in Mexico?

I at all times say that security is goal and private however on this half, I’ve to say I really feel safer dwelling in small cities like Sayulita and San Pancho.

While you reside in small seaside cities in Mexico, there are a number of familiarities and everybody is aware of everybody. I personally felt safer this fashion however the issue was, that I didn’t have any privateness.

Everybody is aware of what’s taking place in your life and it’s so inconceivable to stroll on the streets with out anybody understanding you. I simply missed the anonymity and privateness though I felt 100% secure in Sayulita.

In the event you like large cities, I contemplate Puerto Vallarta because the most secure metropolis to reside in in Mexico. Though it’s a bit of bit extra American than different large cities like Mexico Metropolis or Oaxaca, the format of the town is tremendous pleasant and you may nonetheless have your privateness no matter being concerned within the expat neighborhood.

In the event you select Mexico Metropolis, it’s not 100% secure but when you’ll reside within the Roma or Condesa areas, it’s positively secure (however costly).

🏆 Merida, San Miguel de Allende, and Queretaro are the highest 3 most secure locations to reside for households.

💵 The place is the most cost effective place to reside in Mexico?

That is the factor – once you see the price of dwelling in Mexico posts on the Web, a number of these posts don’t actually clarify that it varies by space.

After I was looking for the greatest locations to reside in Mexico, I assumed that each one these locations may have the identical lease costs however I used to be actually shocked concerning the large distinction, imagine me!

For instance, I’m dwelling in Puerto Vallarta proper now and am presently getting ready for my subsequent transfer. In my head, Puerto Vallarta value of dwelling is dear as a result of there are various expats dwelling right here however I used to be so shocked how the lease costs in Mexico Metropolis are double!

Since meals is cheaper in Mexico Metropolis, I implied that lease costs will likely be decrease but it surely wasn’t the case. I used to be actually astounded by the large distinction to not point out the homes in Puerto Vallarta are manner greater and have outside house.

Personally, I vote Oaxaca Metropolis as the most cost effective place to reside in Mexico, then La Paz (Baja California Sur). So that you can perceive higher, let’s do the maths.

A one-bedroom house in Oaxaca Metropolis (good space) ranges from US$150 – US$300. In Mexico Metropolis, that will likely be round US$500 – US$650 and in Puerto Vallarta, that’s like US$300 – US$450.

Since all these costs range and I’m constantly looking for locations to reside in Mexico, I discovered that the most effective factor to do is to set your finances and keep it up.

Since I’m dwelling alone, I set a US$500 – US$650 restrict for myself. That’s fairly excessive by Mexican requirements however since I’ve large canine, I must have a patio/terrace. This requirement for a house comes with a worth.

🏆 Aguascalientes, Morelia, and San Cristobal de Las Casas are the highest 3 least expensive areas to reside in.

💲 Can you reside of $1,000 a month in Mexico?

YES AND NO. And it’s completely as much as you. To let you know the reality, your value of dwelling in Mexico will all rely in your way of life and the prices within the vacation spot you selected.

Thus far, on this greatest locations to reside in Mexico record, the bottom lease is round $300 USD (studio, 1 particular person, not within the middle, furnished) so in case you are snug dwelling like this, $1,000 USD monthly in Mexico is feasible.

Your $1,000 USD finances is snug however take observe that the way of life will likely be quite simple and primary. If that is your cup of tea and a life-style you’re keen to push by, it’s positively potential.

Please observe that the $1,000 dwelling finances monthly in Mexico doesn’t apply to all locations. Learn extra on the most effective locations to reside in Mexico record to see which inserts your finances.

💡 Do you know? In keeping with the US state goverment, there are 1.6 million People presently dwelling in Mexico.

👋 Greatest locations to reside in Mexico (scorching spots)

Under are the locations to reside in Mexico that you simply hear from your pals and colleagues from again dwelling. Which means, these areas under have greater American, Canadian, and European expat communities.

I perceive that when you’re shifting to a rustic, a few of you could wish to transfer first to an space the place there’s familiarity. Listed below are the most effective locations to reside in Mexico with extra expats:

1. Puerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta has turn out to be well-liked to American and Canadian expats as a result of it’s nonetheless not as crowded and well-liked as Cancun or the Quintana Roo space.

For the time being, lease in well-liked areas in Puerto Vallarta (like Zona Romantica and 5 de Diciembre) is turning into costly. I lived in Marina Vallarta and paid $3,500 USD for a beachfront condominium.

This isn’t even the middle of Puerto Vallarta and it was already very costly. My present recommendation: search for flats in Versailles as that is nonetheless an inexpensive space in PV.

Puerto Vallarta is a seaside metropolis so no matter you suppose you want from again dwelling, you can see all the things in Puerto Vallarta.

🏡 I do Fly and Purchase Excursions in Puerto Vallarta so in case you are to see some funding properties, come down and I’ll present you round!

2. La Paz

After I selected to name La Paz dwelling, the primary issue I thought of was the climate is unquestionably nice all yr spherical. I imply it’s scorching but it surely’s not as humid as within the south (Cancun, Playa del Carmen, Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, and so forth).

I don’t learn about you however I want dry to humid warmth. There’s additionally little or no rain in La Paz as in comparison with the Pacific Coast the place it rains from June – October.

Life was completely different for me in La Paz since many of the pals I made there have been Latinos and Spanish-speaking. I don’t know why it didn’t occur for me however I didn’t come throughout People or Canadians.

I’m not saying there aren’t any but it surely was simply the chance offered earlier than me. While you come to consider it, Baja California is an American lair so I used to be actually shocked that I used to be not capable of join with any!

Due to Baja California’s shut proximity to the USA, costs are increased within the Peninsula than within the mailand. Anticipate the value of dwelling in La Paz to be dearer than the remainder of the locations on this record.

3. Rosarito and Tijuana

Now, you most likely are satisfied that Tijuana is unsafe however you’d be shocked to know what number of People reside right here and work in the US! Yep, they commute every day.

Rosarito and Tijuana are well-liked to People due to the border dwelling set-up: you earn USD in the US however your prices are Mexican. Win-win! The one difficulty with this set-up is commuting.

The USA-Mexico border in Tijuana and San Diego is a really busy space. After all, for those who reside in Mexico and go by every day, you can be granted a particular categorical go. Some even selected to go on foot because it’s manner quicker!

These two areas in Baja California are nice in case your splendid set-up is to simply go to the US for work.

🏖️ Greatest locations to retire in Mexico

4. Ajijic and Chapala

Presently the preferred and greatest locations to retire in Mexico, Ajijic is dwelling to People and Canadians who’re avoiding the touristy areas.

Situated within the state of Jalisco, Ajijic and Chapala are well-liked to retirees due to the low value of dwelling and the small city way of life. Everybody is aware of everybody in Ajijic!

You may reside simply in Ajijic and Chapala for $1,300 USD monthly (in case you are a single particular person). Retirees rave about not having to commute in Ajijic – everybody walks!

5. San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is an expat’s favourite. That is the town that’s thought of an extension of the US as many American expats reside right here however there’s nonetheless a number of vibrant Mexican tradition that’s seen.

Famously often known as SMA, this metropolis has a European really feel in it due to the outdated buildings. I additionally felt very secure strolling right here even within the wee hours of the morning!

SMA is definitely extra well-liked with retirees due to the environment friendly format. You may stroll all over the place (for those who like strolling long-distance) and the streets are very secure.

This metropolis is stuffed with life and I contemplate this probably the most lovely cities in Mexico. You’ll additionally by no means really feel alone as there are many expat communities right here.

6. El Pescadero

I briefly lived in El Pescadero to strive the small city life in Baja California Sur. I stayed there for one month and rented a one-bedroom house for US$650.

It has an enormous house for canine so I didn’t thoughts the price though I’ve been advised by locals that there are manner cheaper choices than this. I actually simply wanted the yard for my canine!

I lived in a compound filled with American and Canadian expats. I didn’t actually think about that El Pescadero could be as touristy however as at all times, I managed to hang around with locals.

El Pescadero is tremendous quiet and there’s very minimal nightlife. In the event you exit within the night to socialize, the one bar known as Sugar Shack will likely be full of expats. I made pals with the proprietor and his spouse (Alejandro) so I used to be capable of see the native life in El Pescadero as properly.

As a single girl, it was onerous to socialize in El Pescadero particularly in case you are on the lookout for lively nightlife. Nevertheless, in case your purpose is to attach with the outside like browsing and mountain climbing, El Pescadero is a good sleepy city to reside in.

I additionally met many households with kids dwelling right here. It’s simply 10 minutes away from Todos Santos and an hour away from Los Cabos so you may at all times discover exterior of El Pescadero.

You NEED a automobile when dwelling in El Pescadero. I discovered it so onerous to commute round city or the neighboring cities however my American neighbor was tremendous good to lend me her automobile throughout my one-month keep there!

👪 Greatest locations to reside in Mexico for households

7. Queretaro

Queretaro is among the most low-key locations to reside in Mexico. It’s not the primary metropolis you’ll consider when you’re deciding to maneuver to Mexico.

However most expats select this metropolis due to the trendy infrastructures and enterprise alternatives. It’s like a quieter Mexico Metropolis however can also be a contemporary and conducive metropolis for expats.

Many chilangos deal with Queretaro as a spot to reside once they resolve to have children. Town life in Mexico Metropolis may be very hectic so as a way to be nearer to household and pals (whereas elevating a household), folks transfer right here.

The price of dwelling in Queretaro can also be very low cost in comparison with a number of Mexican cities. You may reside right here on lower than US$1,000 monthly – the flats are inexpensive and you too can splurge a bit of for luxurious Mexico dwelling.

8. Merida

Most of my pals who’re dwelling in Merida are households with children. The truth is, many individuals say (even the Web) that it’s the most secure place to reside in Mexico.

I did really feel secure touring to Merida however I additionally didn’t see the distinction from different Mexican cities relating to security. Once more, how we quantify security actually depends upon our dwelling wants.

Children are exterior till late and fogeys should not even frightened about security. Crime charges in Merida are extraordinarily low.

What makes expats snug and assured to maneuver right here is there’s a greater variety of expat households with younger kids dwelling right here. It is going to be really easy to attach with fellow dad and mom who’re foreigners.

9. Los Cabos

I moved to Los Cabos in 2021 and have realized how misplaced I’ve turn out to be as a result of I don’t have children! Each single particular person I met right here has kids (to not point out there’s a large Worldwide college in Los Cabos).

👶🏻 Replace: I simply gave start to a child boy in November 2023 so Cabo appears like dwelling now!!!

As a resort metropolis, households take pleasure in dwelling in Los Cabos as a result of there are various issues to do for youths and it is vitally secure for households. Nevertheless, lease is tremendous onerous to search out and this is among the costliest locations to reside in Mexico.

I presently reside in Quivira Los Cabos, which is a resort and I don’t actually like dwelling right here. I found that the most effective areas to reside in Cabo is in Tezal (extra household neighbors) so I’m planning to maneuver there this season!

💻 Greatest locations to reside in Mexico for nomads

10. Mexico Metropolis

I reside in Mexico Metropolis on and off as a result of that is one among my favourite cities on the earth! Mexico Metropolis’s vibe is excellent for expats and digital nomads like me.

As I advised you, I really feel that typically, Puerto Vallarta will get very American so as a way to have a break from that, I’m going right here for a bit of cultural diversion.

There are lots of digital nomads in Mexico Metropolis and they’re simply not People or Canadians – it’s actually various! A lot of Europeans and Latinos reside right here. It’s simply the variety that I’m on the lookout for.

Many expats keep away from Mexico Metropolis due to the air high quality and the excessive altitude but when these two important ‘cons’ don’t actually trouble you, you’ll positively take pleasure in dwelling in Mexico Metropolis as an expat.

Flats in Mexico Metropolis are inexpensive however since I solely wish to keep within the Roma and Condesa space, it’s at all times onerous to search out lease that’s lower than US$650 (which is my finances). I at all times overdo this finances in Mexico Metropolis!

11. Oaxaca Metropolis

One other low-key Mexican metropolis, dwelling Oaxaca Metropolis can also be on the highest record of least expensive locations in Mexico. You will discover a really respectable house right here for US$300.

Town is tremendous energetic and there are a number of expats you may join with. This yr, the Mexican authorities is constructing a brand new freeway which can let you go to the Oaxacan coast (Puerto Escondido, Huatulco, Mazunte, and so forth) for less than 2 hours as a substitute of 8.

Though the end date is just not actually clear, as soon as that is achieved, I’ll return and reside in Oaxaca Metropolis as a result of this accessibility is an enormous deal once you wish to journey round Mexico.

Oaxacan meals can also be the most effective in Mexico so in case you are after a gastronomic journey, this metropolis has all of it!

Consuming out in Oaxaca Metropolis is absolutely inexpensive and I guess you received’t be capable to end making an attempt all of the eating places, markets, and bars even for those who reside right here for a full yr.

Digital nomads in Oaxaca additionally take pleasure in a high-speed Wifi velocity which is a luxurious in Mexico as a distant employee.

12. Guadalajara

Most individuals suppose Guadalajara is just not secure however after I lived right here, I didn’t actually really feel that Narcos-kind-of-feeling. My mother really freaked out when this was the primary place I selected after I moved to Mexico however I defined to her that it’s not like what she sees within the information.

I’ll by no means stroll alone in Guadalajara at evening although and if I do, I make it possible for I’m with pals.

I’ll at all times come again and contemplate dwelling in Guadalajara as a result of I beloved the vibe, the folks, and the climate! Although it’s only 4 hours away from my present dwelling in Puerto Vallarta, it has cooler climate.

The tradition and way of life in Guadalajara positively match everybody. Nevertheless, like Queretaro, I solely made pals with Spanish-speaking folks right here however I’m certain there are a number of People and Canadians round.

I used to be simply not given the chance to fulfill them as a result of all my pals who reside listed below are Mexicans or Europeans.

👩👨 Greatest locations to reside in Mexico for singles

13. Sayulita

I’ve blended feelings about Sayulita as a result of that is the place I lived the longest. It’s filled with Canadians and People however fortunate for me, I lived in a really Mexican neighborhood so all my pals have been Latinos.

There’s additionally an enormous inhabitants of Argentine expats right here (like all over the place). Talking Spanish frequently and cultural immersion is essential for me and I’m completely happy to have had the most effective of each communities in Sayulita.

Sayulita is the most secure space I’ve lived in in Mexico. Once more, small cities will make you’re feeling safer due to the overfamiliarity.

There are many outside actions – individuals are at all times out and about and that’s what makes it so enjoyable! I must warn you that Sayulita is just not for everybody. Earlier than shifting right here, test the life-style first and see if it suits you.

14. Playa del Carmen

Dwelling in Playa del Carmen is low on this record as a result of I didn’t actually discover it as secure. Because it’s too crowded, crime charges have elevated in Playa within the final yr.

Although I would not have an expertise being harmed, it’s simply the overall feeling and naturally, horror tales I heard from pals. There are many digital nomads in Playa del Carmen whom you may ask about present conditions.

Regardless of all these, Playa remains to be visited by People. It’s one of many overseas hotspots in Mexico so I suppose if you wish to reside right here, simply go and see it for your self!

Nevertheless, Playa del Carmen is so lovely! The truth is, their seashores on the opposite aspect are manner higher than ours right here on the Pacific Coast.

The state of Quintana Roo is absolutely wealthy in outside actions and there are extra locations to see there just like the Cenotes. If that is what you’re after, you’ll positively love Playa as your base.

15. Tulum

Tulum is unquestionably the most effective place to reside in Mexico for singles as a result of you’ll meet a number of younger expats and professionals right here. The Web velocity is slowly growing so anticipate extra distant employees to maneuver to Tulum.

Positive, it’s straightforward to fulfill folks in case you are a single or touring alone however Tulum has the most costly value of dwelling in Mexico. You may positively reside for affordable however you need to have good Spanish expertise. That is your strongest software for affordable leases!

The approach to life in Tulum is unquestionably for younger folks (loud events, busy vacationer spot) however when you get to know Tulum deeply, there are various secret seashores and non-touristic areas which you can take pleasure in by your self.

⁉️ Why reside in Mexico?

Residency visa is simple

The primary cause why I selected to reside in Mexico is that visa is tremendous straightforward. I by no means thought I’d get a 4-year residency visa right here as I used to be solely passing by.

When COVID hit, I obtained caught right here and first utilized for a Mexico digital nomad visa often known as no-lucrativo (non-lucrative). It was solely legitimate for one yr so I assumed I’d solely keep right here for a yr. Really, I assumed that COVID will likely be over after a yr.

2 years handed and COVID remains to be a factor. Dwelling a lifetime of journey and at all times shifting round turned more durable for me. I lately went to Europe after 2 years of not going out of Mexico and it’s actually a ache to journey that far! I used to be horrified!

Irrespective of the place you’re from or no matter passport you maintain, there are a number of uncertainties relating to journey proper now so legally dwelling in Mexico is a good aid for me.

In the event you want help along with your resident visa, simply contact me and I’ll join you to my wonderful lawyer who helped me course of all these shortly.

In case you are not to undergo this course of, Mexico has a really beneficiant 6-month vacationer visa so you may simply go out and in each 6 months.

Price of dwelling is inexpensive

Mexico is usually generalized as an inexpensive nation however that’s not the case. With the variety of foreigners shifting right here yearly, I’m afraid that it’s turning into costly, however in case you are a greenback earner, you may reside right here fairly comfortably.

I can’t say what’s snug for you or not however I’ve articles on this weblog on the price of dwelling in each space I lived in Mexico. Higher but, head to my journal Mexico Insider for detailed value of dwelling guides.

As you understand, I got here from Tel Aviv earlier than dwelling right here and Israel’s value of dwelling is tremendous excessive. After I got here right here, my high quality of life turned higher as all the things is so low cost!

Properly, that’s, in case you are evaluating it to the US, Canada, and Europe. I nonetheless discover dwelling in Southeast Asia the most cost effective however costs in Mexico are fairly low.

Mexico is pet-friendly!

Lastly, as I’ve canine, it is vitally straightforward to journey round right here with pets. A lot of the rental houses settle for pets however I nonetheless had some challenges.

For instance, after I was on the lookout for an house in Mexico Metropolis, there have been solely 2 out of 10 that accepted canine regardless that Mexico Metropolis is a pet metropolis.

With this, I made a decision that we at all times reside in seaside areas as they’re extra accepting of pets. General, I do suppose that Mexico is a canine nation. Even home journey for pets is really easy and low cost!