Living in Mexico

"I would say, "Brother, you will not find a more excellent choice for a place to retire here in Mexico". Sure, there are more exciting places with nightclubs, wild bars with loud music and perhaps an ocean to frolic in, but with that comes a lot of undesireable "junk". The weekdays here are very quiet and relaxing, while the weekends are fun filled due to tourists and special functions designed by the Presidencia municipal. The elevation here is about 6,000 feet, which means we do not get hot. Most days are in the 75-80 degree range, though it can get a little chilly at night during the winter. I enjoy a second floor two bedroom apartment right across from the main town plaza. I keep the balcony doors open at all times and revere in the almost constant breeze that keeps my place cool, night & day. Rent? Under $300 US per month. Try and beat that in the US," remarked one expat living in Tequisquiapan, Mexico.

"Be aware, be safe. Learn the language and adapt. Don't expect the same efficient service you get in the US. Enjoy it," wrote one member in Mexico City.

"Mexico offers many attractive benefits for retirees looking for a warm climate and a lower cost of living. Before retiring to Mexico, expats should familiarize themselves with the country's laws, customs, and culture. Additionally, they should investigate the cost of living in their preferred location, as prices and availability vary greatly depending on the region. Expats should also consider enrolling in Mexico’s medical insurance program or purchasing private coverage to ensure they have access to quality medical care. Additionally, expats should be aware that many medicines not available in Mexico can be ordered online or imported. Finally, many retirees in Mexico find it beneficial to learn some conversational Spanish, since the language is widely spoken throughout the country," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico.

"Basically the same way you meet people everywhere. Volunteering somewhere is a great way as is taking an in-person class, a church, and, of course, expat groups," said one expat in Mexico.

"There are lots of activities in San Carlos. In the winter, Club Deportivo hosts an Educational series along with the usual bingo and such. There are several non-profit organizations to join, The Rescate (EMS) thrift store collects and sells items to support ambulance service. The Castaway Kids supports the local orphanage. The Rotary - and more. If you want to be involved there are many avenues. Most of the support groups are run by English speaking people, so there should be no hesitation if you haven't entirely grasped the language," said one expat who made the move to San Carlos.

"It's really no different that meeting people anywhere, with the exception that Mexicans - in general - are more welcoming. Smile, laugh, wave, learn simple greetings. Breathe..," explained one expat living in Mexico.

"Expats in Mexico often join social clubs, language classes, and online forums devoted to helping foreigners adjust to life in Mexico. Additionally, many expats will connect with local expat organizations such as the International Newcomers Network, which coordinates events and activities for expats around the country. Another way for expats to meet people is by becoming involved in social volunteer work, such as helping out at a local soup kitchen or animal shelter. Many cities, particularly touristy destinations, also have local arts and music scenes that expats can become involved in. Finally, Mexico is known for its vibrant nightlife, so expats can often make friends while out at bars, clubs, and cultural events," mentioned one in Mexico.

"If you are working here, start with work colleagues. An organization called MEXPAT also hosts monthly events for expats here," explained one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Generally the expats are retired and their lives revolve around golf, tennis, bridge, socializing, walking or swimming in the ocean, reading, and whatever else they feel like. We have quite a few artists and others willing to share their knowledge. There are charities and animal welfare groups always looking for help," remarked one expat living in Manzanillo, Mexico.

"Renovating old colonial homes, enjoying the beach, learning about the Mayan culture," wrote one member in Yucatan.

"People here love kayaking, fishing, scuba and off-roading. There is a large, modern marina. There are rocky beaches, sandy beaches, public and isolated. There are also many restaurants with excellent food - Italian, Mexican, American, Greek, and even Texas Style BBQ," remarked one expat who made the move to San Carlos.

"Tlaxcala State has one of the lowest crime rates in the country. But there is always petty crime everywhere and a person should always be alert and cautious," wrote one member in Apizaco.

"There is less crime here than where we lived NOB. There is some petty crime.. burglaries and an occasional mugging. But these appear to be no worse than many places up north," remarked one expat who made the move to Ajijic.

"The population here is at least 90% native Mexican, with a small cadre of Americans, Canadians, British, French, Germans & Austrians. The people are very open to anyone who chooses to relocate here. There is no discrimination as far as I can tell. As an American, I feel I am treated just the same as the locals. Even the police are very accepting and never chase after the dreaded "MORDITA" like they do in bigger cities, ie; Mexico City," said one expat who made the move to Tequisquiapan.

"The Mayans are very accepting of all cultures and people. Yucatecans are a very proud people, proud of being different from the rest of Mexico," explained one expat living in Yucatan, Mexico.

"Like most of Mexico, Saltillo is fairly homogeneous, both racially, culturally, and religiously (although at times it feels that there are nearly as many tiny, hole-in-the-wall Protestant churches as there are large Catholic ones). While I fit the mold, I can't really say whether they are accepting of differences. But the prevailing attitude seems to be that of "live and let live"," mentioned one in Saltillo.

"The town is mainly Catholic, with some other Christian thrown in. There are a couple of English services of the non denominational Christian belief. The Mexicans are very accepting of us foreigners and very patient with us," explained one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Tequis is wonderful. I came about 8 mo before the pandemic hit. We went through a bit of a stretch, but it is slowly coming back. Restaurants and tiendas are coming back. The town does get crowded on big holidays - Easter Holiday and Christmas. Normal weekends are 'busy' but doable. We locals just tend to stay home Friday thru Sunday. You do have to watch out for the teenagers on 4 wheelers! As far as diversity, it depends upon what you define as diversity. There is not a large LGBTQ population here. This is a VERY family oriented town. If that is what you are looking for, I suggest San Miguel. The statement about police not chasing for mordidas is true. I personally have had to get help 2 times. Just this past week, I was rear ended at a stop sign and they are just as nice and fair as can be. All have a smile and are caring! Tequis is no where near as congested as San Miguel - very tranquil lifestyle!!!," said one expat living in Tequisquiapan, Mexico.

"Have a lot of money. It cost us $1800.00 usd to send my 2 girls to this school. This cost only covers the Tuition and Transportation. Then every other week they come home and need $20 for this assignment or $40 for the next assignment. I should of been a teacher there. I would make a lot more money than what I am currently doing," said one parent with children at Amercian School Foundation in Mexico City.

"The British School of Monterrey (BSM) is the best international school in Mexico. Located in the north of the country, BSM offers a curriculum based on the UK National curriculum and an education that prepares students for university studies worldwide. Additionally, the school promotes bilingualism in Spanish and English. The school is home to many facilities like art and sports complexes as well as an extensive library. The Monterrey Institute of International Studies (TEC De Monterrey) is another great international school in Mexico, offering a learning environment that promotes the collective communal use and exploration of knowledge, preparing students to become highly educated, bilingual global citizens. This institute offers Dual Degree programs and Exchange of Studies both nationally and internationally, as well as five specialized programs; study abroad, foreign languages, bilingual studies, Pre-University and founding studies. The American School Foundation of Guadalajara is among the best bilingual schools in Mexico. They follow an American-based model of learning, offering both English and Spanish language instruction. The school provides quality education and facilities in an environment where diverse nationalities are valued. It also has Advanced Placements, an International Baccalaureate Program, and an extensive range of clubs and activities. Finally, the American School Foundation of Mexico City is a widely recognized bilingual school. It offers diverse academic programs ranging from Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten to College Preparatory and Advanced Placement (AP) classes. ASF has full bilingual language instruction in Spanish and English, as well as enrichment activities including international exchanges and competitions, robotics, and participation in sports leagues," commented one expat when asked about in Mexico.

"I think that is a very personal question. You CAN find rental houses for about 5000 pesos per month, plus power and water, telephone and satellite. Then it depends on wether you eat the local fruits and vegetables or want something imported. Beer and alchohol are very reasonably priced, walking on the beach is free. I expect that for about 1000.00 US a person could live here comfortably. For 2000.00 you can live VERY well," wrote one member in Manzanillo.

"San Miguel de Allende is now one of the more expensive locations in Mexico with prices recently reported as being higher than many of the beach resorts. The town is promoted by the local politicians as an "up market" destination and it is no longer the ideal destination for ex-pats on limited budgets that it was 20 to 30 years ago. The plans to develop an international airport just outside the city will further drive this type of tourism. Obviously, it is possible to live cheaply if you avoid renting near the historic center and go for one of the more "popular" non-expat colonias. Shopping in local markets and avoiding eating out too much can also minimize expenses. The recent strength of the peso combined with high inflation has also made Mexico more expensive for ex-pats," remarked one expat who made the move to San Miguel de Allende.

"If one buys local or Mexican brands, food is relatively inexpensive. Eating out is 1/2 or less than in the U.S. The cost of living monthly is dependent on: a. If you own a home.
b. your lifestyle. We projected that we will save between $8 -10,000 annually by living here. Gone are the $150/mo. water and sewer bills and the $180 / gas and electricity. Every little bit of savings adds up," explained one expat living in Ajijic, Mexico.

"I live in San Miguel de Allende and this is a tourist and expat destination with a dollar economy. Supermarket and utility prices are on par with the rest of Mexico but rents, wages for staff and service providers are high. A meal in a mid market restaurant will cost $US100 for 2 without going overboard and nearer US200 if you go for expensive cocktails, brandy or tequila. Rents var enormously depending upon location so you can find a 3 bed house in a so so area for US$450 but in a better area will be $900-1200 and in the historic center the sky the limit. Medical costs - a consultation with a general doctor or specialist US$40-50, blood/urine analysis US$100. Excellent medical services but if you need hospitalisation, long term cancer treatment etc you need to budget US$1m+ say for 5 years of chemo, radio, surgery and end of life care. Although private medical care is far less expensive than in developed countries it soon adds up and for me at age 68 in pretty good health, medical expenses insurance premiums and pay as you go represent 30% of my monthly expenditure. For young families you must budget for private education and medical/dental care," said one expat in Mexico.

"That is such a personal question. I recommend that people housesit in the community they are thinking of retiring in so they can gauge costs, safety, reliability of utilities, etc," said one expat who made the move to Lake Chapala.

"You can live in Puerto Penasco on as low as $400 per month, small apartment (not in the tourist area) and utilities and some food. Add more for going out to eat," mentioned an expat living in Puerto Penasco.

"I have found that the cost of living in Playa is much lower than in the States. This makes living on a retiree income and budget very satisfying. Even stores outside of Wal-Mart have lower prices. And because of the currency exchange rate, I am paying less for my rent than when I first moved here," said an expat in Playa del Carmen.

"The rents here are low for now. As more people discover the richness Merida offers, I know that they will increase, but for right now, you can get a very nice apartment or rental home for a fraction of what you'd pay in the USA. My advice is if you like it here, buy sooner rather than later (very carefully). Local food is very cheap and imports are what they are," remarked one expat in Merida.

"Mexico's cost of living is generally very affordable, with the cost of basic necessities such as food, housing, transportation, and entertainment well below many other developed nations. There are, however, regional variations throughout the country with certain areas commanding higher prices. Coastal cities, such as Cancún, Cabo San Lucas and Puerto Vallarta, boast significantly higher rental prices for even basic one-bedroom apartments with prices ranging from $400-$600 USD, depending on the season, while two bedrooms can range anywhere from $550-$800 USD. On the other hand, renting a one-bedroom apartment in a smaller city can cost as little as $200 USD per month, while two-bedrooms can range from $250-$350 USD. Eating out in Mexico can vary in cost depending on the location and type of restaurant, however an average dinner at a moderately priced restaurant is typically around $10 USD," wrote one expat living in Mexico.

"All around Playa del Carmen there are adventure area for zip lining, ATV riding, cave tubing, snorkeling, scuba diving, tours to visit Mayan Ruins and nearby resorts, beaches and islands such as Cozumel, Tulum, Islas Mujeres etc," mentioned one expat inPlaya del Carmen.

"Boating, swimming, fishing, snorkeling, scuba, para sailing, sunset cruises, booze cruises, bird island tours, Jack Nicklaus golf courses and others, tennis, ultralight flying, ziplining, and lots of fine dining with ocean views," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Penasco, Mexico.

"I live farther north on the Sea of Cortez, San Carlos, Sonora. Right now [July] is 96deg and 63% humidity. It has not rained since December. I love it here where the desert meets the sea. You have to be tougher than most to put up with the heat and humidity in the summer. If you want to know temps just put the town in Accuweather and look for yourself. Like everywhere else in the world near the water is humid," remarked one expat in San Carlos.

"There are many night clubs with live music, from Salsa to Blues. There are too many restaurants to mention, from low end to high end. You will not want for a night life or if you are a foodie. I am a nght person, so I am speaking from personal experience," said one expat.

"Bars, restaurants, clubs, live music, DJ's, street food vendors come out at night and lines form. We have sushi, burgers, seafood, oyster farms, hot dogs Sonora style (wrapped in bacon) menudo, birria, cabeza and lengua tacos, Sopas, so much yummy food," commented one expat living in Puerto Penasco, Mexico.

"As stated earlier above, restaurants are plentiful and you have your choice of what type of food you want. There are various nightclubs. Because tourists are constantly coming and going, every night is like a weekend night with bright lights and music and even entertainers along the streets. I especially enjoy the Mariachi bands that travel to the restaurants and play their music. It's all so very lively. I feel like I am living life again, even as a retired single Expat.," remarked one expat living in Playa del Carmen.

"EVERY type of restaurant. At one time, Playa had the largest amount of Italian expats. As a result we have ton of great Italian places. Ironically, there are not many "fine dining" Mexican restaurants. Many great taco carts and very casual places for Mexican. The nightlife scene has expanded in Playa as more and more younger people are visiting here," said one expat living in Playa Del Carmen.

"There is everything in Merida from local street vendors, market stalls, to Super Duper big box markets. There is a Walmart that is a step above what you find in the States, Sears, and a few super duper markets that sell everything from household goods to groceries, all in one place. Several malls have recently opened, so you can shop from high end to low end, and Centro has many streets of unusual and unique shops. You will need to guard your money as these unique shops have lovely hand made items," commented one expat who moved to Merida.

"We have so many large grocery stores in Playa, that I wonder sometimes how they stay in business. We have two Walmarts. Local produce markets are not easy to find. There is one very small one in town once a week," said one expat.

"This should be addressed at the immigration office here in Playa. Many come in on a Tourist Visa that is generally given for 180 days. After that, the person has to leave the country and return to hopefully get another Tourist Visa. However, their requirements for getting a Temporary or Permanent Visa are online and are affordable," mentioned an expat living in Playa del Carmen.

"The main thing to know is that you must start your residency request outside of Mexico, at a Mexican consulate. Then you have 30 days to present yourself to the Mexico immigrations. There are professional groups that will do all of this for you, for a fee, of course," said an expat in Merida.

"This is still a bit of a nightmare. You must apply for your residence from your home country and then there will be a few appointment with immigration. It took us 5 months to get our temp residency and we have to be in Mexico 30 days prior to our 1 year expiration date to renew. Keep you posted on that. At one point we were temp residents but gave it up as we were never in the country longer than 6 months at a time. We travel a lot. But the Mexican govt really wants you to have your residency," remarked one expat in Playa Del Carmen.

"Live here with a temp visa FMM you get at the border when you cross, show your passport and cost is about $25. If you purchase property, same thing. Many people that rent, don't bother with getting a resident card, they stay under the radar. The foreigners like me, that work, must have one, either it's temp or perm resident card. In the old days you may have heard them called FM3 and FM2's," wrote one expat living in Puerto Penasco.

"It has been over 3 years since we went through the process at the Seattle Consulate. They were very specific and they looked at our investment income with social security AND our savings accounts. We provided 2 years of statements downloaded from the brokerage house as well as deposits into our accounts from income. We knew that we would qualify for PR status so it was a breeze. There was no mention about notarization of downloaded documents but we were well organized and made it easier for them. I am unsure about future income from work since we were both retired, but I would think it will be more difficult to convince them that you will have ongoing income from work unless you provide a letter from HR or some other source that shows that you will continue to have income while residing in MX. The best method is to go fully prepared to show your financial qualifications absolutely meet or exceed their requirements," commented one expat who moved to Merida.

"If you are planning on gettin a permanent recidency visa you could look into getting in the public insurance program, I think it is called IMSS, but they have a long list of pre existing conditions and some of those take years to expire, in other words if you do not have the conditions, but get it in a set amout of time, it will not be cover, you do have to pay a yearly fee but it would be cheaper than private. I think your best option would be to live close to the border and cover any minor issues out of pocket and cross to the US for anything major, there are medifvac insurance programs that you can look into," remarked one expat living in Merida.

"I only have Medicare part A. It is pretty much useless stateside or elsewhere. For a time I purchase dental insurance but gave it up because it's cost was higher than the cost of the care I received," said one expat living in Tijuana.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Mexico can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, public healthcare is available at a lower cost than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Private health insurance can be expensive, but it often provides more comprehensive coverage and access to better quality care. Additionally, many employers in Mexico offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of healthcare," mentioned one expat inMexico.

"Ask for receipts as many places don't issue one.....my health insurance would not cover my pedicures even though I went to the hospital for medical pedicures as the person doing it was not the officially accepted PODIATRIST. My massage visits are wonderful and reasonable 500 pesos for 75 minutes! My insurance companies pay those to a limit as long as the receipts show all necessary info... so check with your insurance company what is necessary. Many Mexicans don't or can't write properly, so make sure they spell your name correctly and have all the info correct, even the date as on one of my receipts the girl put 2010 when it was 2017 and my insurance company refused it even though I had submitted many receipts together and it was an obvious error. There are many walk in clinics with doctors, but quality is questionable, so stick to well known ones in your area. Similaries are good and lower cost. I also lived in Mexico for 2 yrs and worked and had the local Seguro Social medical coverage... covers basics. I speak Spanish so it worked out ok, but it was a bit of a drive and a different process... so when I felt stressed I just used the local private clinic and paid 500 pesos to see the doctor," commented one expat who moved to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico.

"Excellent. I have had open heart surgery in the national system, I was diagnosed promptly and the level of care was as good or better as that in the USA, More recently I broke a bone in my foot and was X-Rayed, diagnosed, and treated in less than 90 minutes. Level of service significantly better than in the UK. And all free of charge," remarked one expat living in Monterrey.