Living in Mexico

"I suggest you never secure a 6 mo lease until you see and feel the property. Committing to 6 month online is not recommended whether you get a 180 day visa or not. Get a hotel when you arrive and make that your base camp to find longer arrangements. Don't think what you see online is what is actually there. Bait and switch happens in Mexico....and don't forget it. Once they have your money you are behind the curve," remarked one expat living in San Carlos, 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," wrote one member in Tequisquiapan.

"Learn basic phrases in Spanish, be patient and kind. Remember Mexico is a foreign country and nothing like the United States. If you are an arts and crafts person and are retired or have your own income, I think you would like it here," remarked one expat who made the move to Patzcuaro.

"Read www.yucatanliving.com and www.meridainsider.com for information on living here," explained one expat living in Yucatan, Mexico.

"Saltillo appears to be a much friendlier city than others I have lived in (Puebla, Cuernavaca, Toluca). However, it was not easy to get to know people until I got connected with the Saltillo International Church (www.saltillointerationalchurch.com). They have bilingual services on Sundays, and for those who may not be "church-y" (or, like me, prefer the neighborhood church) have book studies for adults, men, and women throughout the week. Also, if your Spanish is decent www.desaltillo.com is helpful to find out events that are going on in town. If you friend them on facebook, they'll send daily updates--so helpful for me, as we don't regularly buy the newspaper," remarked one expat who made the move to Saltillo.

"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," explained one expat living in Mexico.

"Meeting people in this relatively is not a problem; there are no clubs to join as far as I know. Simply not necessary," said one expat in Tequisquiapan.

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

"It depends on who you want to meet. There is an English library inside the restaurant, Lupita's, a few steps from the Bascilica on Arciga Street. A volunteer group has their meetings there. English is spoken. They would welcome volunteers. If you want to meet Indigenous Purepecha, Mulle (dock) San Pedrito is run by them and it is a beautiful park next to the lake. Also they sell their art on the street and in the mercado in Centro ( open every day-even Christmas.) They also sell fruits and vegetables, clothes, shoes, socks, anything you need. To become friends with local people, it is necessary to speak Spanish and they are friendly. There are usually English speakers sitting outdoors at a cafe on Plaza Grande. One can take Spanish lessons as well," explained one expat living in Patzcuaro, Mexico.

"People tend to work long hours during the week, not much on the weekends which is generally reserved for families. If you have kids you will be invited to tons of birthday parties, parents are expected to attend, not just drop the kids off. The parties are quite extravagant compared to the US," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Mexico often find that life there is full of opportunities for relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Mexico's mild climate, friendly locals and vibrant cities make it a desirable place for many expats and digital nomads looking to settle down in a new country. The country also offers a variety of activities and locations for expats, ranging from its stunning beaches, old-world colonial cities, and incredible nature preserves. Expats and digital nomads in Mexico enjoy a low cost of living, and they are able to find affordable housing, transportation, and food. Although learning the local language can be challenging due to the lack of English-speaking facilities and programs, the country is known for its welcoming culture and its legal system that aids expats in obtaining visas and permanency. Overall, Mexico is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads, who can enjoy the warm weather, low cost of living, and vibrant culture while continuing their work abroad," said one expat in Mexico.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Saltillo is a small city/large town, so it's relatively quiet here. People here seem more respectful of their neighbors than in other areas of Mexico. For example, in general people don't blare their music from their homes or use their car horns as doorbells. People work hard and enjoy their families. While social stratification runs the gamut here, in general people are friendly and laid-back. While soccer is still a huge pastime, baseball appears to be just as popular, if not more popular, than soccer. Saltillo's professional baseball team won the 2009 national championship, and I always hear my neighbor kids hitting a ball around. Saltillenses are good runners, too. Every June, the city hosts a half-marathon, and throughout the year there are a variety of 5K and 10K races. Saltillo also boasts a plethora of good public parks--great for picnics, enjoying some green spaces, or playgrounds for kids," explained one expat living in Saltillo, Mexico.

"People here, like other cities, love fiestas of which their are many. Family and socializing are the priorities for my friends. Men are macho and kind to women and children. People sit outdoors and love to talk. Of course, they must make a living. Couples marry young here and the young women and their beautiful children are often the only ones on the little buses during the day. People like to follow soccer on t.v," mentioned one in Patzcuaro.

"No. We have a little petty crime, which is new for us, but it is much safer here than any Us city . We all walk around at night and do not worry," said one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Crime is a major problem in Mexico. Drug-related violence and organized crime are especially prevalent, and citizens in many parts of the country face increased threats of kidnapping and extortion. Mexico has some of the highest rates of homicide in the world, with high levels of gang and cartel activity driving much of the crime. Robbery and carjacking are also common in Mexico," explained one expat living in Mexico.

"This town is the perfect blend of the local community and expats. Although one would recommend learning the language of any country where you live, English speakers can get by very well in San Carlos without it. So many expats have made San Carlos their home, that it is a well known "English" community. If you are looking for total immersion in the Mexican culture this may not be the place," explained one expat living in San Carlos, 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," remarked one expat living in Mexico City with children attending Amercian School Foundation.

"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," said one expat in with children at .

"This school is a properly run school in that it requires the students to comply properly with discipline - unlike most other private schools here. The teachers are excellent and the school has a good, varied curriculum strong in sciences. It offers a two-year prepa. Most importantly it is a LAY school - not religious - so there is none of the time-wasting religious ritual found at some other schools," remarked one parent with kids at St Patricks School in Monterrey.

"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," said one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"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.

"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," mentioned one in San Miguel de Allende.

"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," explained one expat who made the move to 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 living in Lake Chapala, Mexico.

"It is still quite reasonable to live in Playa del Carmen, but prices have increased for restaurants significantly over the past few years. We used to eat on 5th Ave all the time. But now we tend to eat off the main tourist drag because the price and overall value of the food is better found outside," commented one expat living in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico.

"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," remarked one expat living in Mexico.

"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," said one expat living in Merida.

"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 one expat inPuerto 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," commented one expat who moved to Playa del Carmen, Mexico.

"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," remarked one expat in Puerto Penasco.

"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," wrote one expat living in Playa del Carmen.

"The climate is tropical. Right now, it is their cool season, so, the temperatures may get down to the sixties at night and in the morning, but, during the day the sun comes out and it gets warmer. The beach water is usually warm. By March the weather will be really warm and will get somewhat humid soon after," said one expat.

"It is hot, 95/100 is the norm for this time of year [June]. If you live in North Merida you can be in Progreso in 20 min. all highway, they have a full service marina there. Progreso is about 5 - 10 degrees cooler most days and seems like there is always wind from the water, we have breeze here too but when it is 115 heat index it doesn't help much. Mornings and evenings are beautiful though," commented one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Mexico is full of good restaurants. Oaxaxa, in particular, is celebrated for its excellent cuisine. You can purchase a book on the city in the book store on Calle Alcala," remarked one expat in Mexico.

"One of Mexico's most beloved restaurants is Pujol, located in Mexico City. Pujol is renowned for its modern Mexican cuisine, which is prepared with traditional ingredients and techniques. The restaurant has been praised for its creative dishes, which are often served with a side of Mexican culture. Another popular restaurant in Mexico is El Bajio, located in Guadalajara. El Bajio is known for its traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. The restaurant also offers a variety of regional specialties, such as mole poblano and chiles en nogada. In addition, El Bajio is known for its lively atmosphere and friendly staff. Finally, La Fisheria, located in Cancun, is a seafood restaurant that is beloved by locals and tourists alike. The restaurant serves a variety of fresh seafood dishes, such as ceviche, fish tacos, and grilled octopus. La Fisheria is also known for its vibrant atmosphere and stunning views of the Caribbean Sea," wrote one expat living in 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.," commented one expat who moved to Playa del Carmen.

"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.

"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," commented one expat living in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico.

"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.

"Super mercado Leys grocery store in the center of the 5 de Diciembre neighborhood of Puerto Vallarta has most everything and more than many U.S. supermarkets. La Comer, a large gourmet grocery store, puts Whole Foods to shame. It has quality wines, liquor, all cuts of meat, vegetables, canned goods and specialty gourmet items," commented one expat living in Mexico.

"We have Super Ley, Ley Express, Bodega Aurrera (Walmart) Sam's Club, Local vegetable and meat markets, Oxxo convenience stores, and a local store that brings special U.S. food here for our convenience (salami, bacon, sausage, bagels, english muffins, diet sodas, cheeses, spices, pies, etc) and special orders," remarked one expat living in Puerto Penasco.

"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," mentioned one expat inPuerto Penasco.

"The process of applying for a visa in Mexico depends on the type of visa you require. Generally speaking, you will need to submit a visa application form, photographs, your passport, a valid return ticket, and the required visa fee to the Mexican consulate. Additionally, depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may have to provide additional documentation such as a proof of address, a medical certificate, documentation of sufficient funds, employment records, and proof of relationship to a Mexican citizen. The process of applying for Mexico residency is slightly more involved and documented evidence will often be required from you. In most cases, an application will be required that contains your personal information, orientation for the request, and a copy of your passport. Additionally, you will need to submit evidence of sufficient financial resources, proof of accommodation in Mexico, a medical certificate, a criminal background check, and proof that you have been a resident of Mexico for at least two years. After submitting the application and the required documentation, you will be called for an interview and your documents will be verified. Finally, after being approved, you can collect your residency card," commented one expat who moved to Mexico.

"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," remarked one expat in Mexico.

"Medicare and supplements are only of use within the US except for certain life threatening emergencies when traveling. If you have substantial financial resources and a high respect for the health services in major cities you can pay for private care. Most insurance in MX will not cover preexisting conditions and the premiums are out of reach, especially for people over 70 or so. Staying connected with doctors and hospitals in the US is the most logical thing for us, we make several trips a year to see our doctors but are prepared to pay for care here in MX as needed," wrote one expat living in Merida.

"I do not have medical insurance here in Mexico. And, most of my Dr's do not accept insurance anyway. Office visits, and hospital care are 1/5th the cost of USA and much better. In office appointments are usually an hour long instead of the 15 minute flyby of USA. Few Specialist have nurses. They do their own scheduling," commented one expat who moved to Queretaro City and Tequisquiapan.

"Unfortunately, when I moved abroad I was hit by a taxi. I was taken to a public hospital. That experience was life changing... I had never seen the conditions that I saw there - bathrooms with no soap or tp - group recovery rooms - disorder. I immediately realized the importance of have PRIVATE health insurance, and went on a mission to find suitable insurance for my family. As we love to travel I found insurance that allows us to be covered ANYWHERE in the WORLD including the US - at a fraction of the price we were paying when living in the US. We can choose ANY HOSPITAL OR DOCTOR that we wish. The policy is in English, the office is located in Playa Del Carmen with courtesy translation service, and there is an in-claims department, finally they are partnered with an international law firm. I felt that was soooo important to myself and my expat friends, that I asked for a job selling this insurance. I have been retired for 15 years, but got into this business because it is something that I feel passionate about and know that all my expat friends need," said one expat.

"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," commented one expat living in Merida, Mexico.