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Moving to Manzanillo, Mexico | Expat Exchange
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Manzanillo, Mexico

Moving to Manzanillo, Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 20, 2023

Summary: Expatriates are drawn to Manzanillo, Mexico for its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. The city offers a relaxed atmosphere and a laid-back lifestyle, making it an ideal destination for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. Manzanillo also boasts a wide variety of outdoor activities, from fishing and snorkeling to hiking and bird watching. With its warm climate and friendly locals, Manzanillo is an attractive destination for expats looking to enjoy a new culture and experience a different way of life.

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

What do I need to know before moving to Manzanillo?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Manzanillo, they said:

"I am a realtor and very happy to show new people around the city I love. I also make sure they settle in and meet other people. I think of that as part of my job," said one expat in Manzanillo.

"Contact me or someone here about what to bring or not. Choosing a neighborhood and finding a home I would suggest a qualified real estate professional. We have an MLS group in the city. Preferably chose one of those realtors," remarked one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Choosing a neighborhood depends on vehicular freedom. The bus services are excellent but let's face it, we expats prefer to come and go when it pleases us. Needing a car isn't really the issue, however. Maintaining it is. Choose a vehicle that offers dealerships in Manzanillo unless you happen to know a skilled mechanic or your neighbor does. As to the "actual move", including a neighborhood and a specific home, finding a good realtor is probably the best of alternatives. Ask other expats who they trust and talk to a couple of them before jumping in. A good realtor lives across the street from me, but I'm not buying, am I? So if you want a rental, go into the neighborhood and see whether there is a good mix of Mexicans and expats. If it appears to be 99% Mexican with many children, is that where you would feel safe? I live with Mexicans all around me, but as I said about expats buying property on the water side of this peninsula, there are also lots of expats and we help each other find sources for government requirements and services, for locating offices and public services, e.g. supermarkets and other good shopping or movies. We have a very good life here and the expat community extends a helping hand without batting an eye," explained one expat living in Manzanillo, Mexico.

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How do I find a place to live in Manzanillo?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"Manzanillo offers a variety of housing options for those looking to move in. The most popular and widely available option is renting an apartment or house. Renters can look for places through online platforms such as Airbnb and Vrbo, or search for properties on Mexico-specific websites like Inmosiones that list both long-term rental and sales properties throughout the country. Additionally, visitors can also use a real estate agent or contact a local housing agency to find an up-to-date listing of available spaces. For those looking for more traditional housing options, Manzanillo offers multiple public and private condominiums, gated community developments, and beachfront villas at various price points," commented one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Neighborhood --- I had visited at a hotel at the bottom of the peninsula in front of the port so I knew that the Las Brisas area was safe, moderated by nearly daily breezes in summer. To my everlasting joy, I discovered that there are no scorpions in Las Brisas, a pest we had dealt with at Lake Chapala. As to a specific home here, all we needed was a 2B2B and there is a hotel with rentals for long term, including electricity in the rent. It has worked out very well," remarked one expat in Manzanillo, Mexico.

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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Manzanillo?

"The rental I enjoy is not typical for most expats. Expats prefer being across the street, right on the sand where storms batter the walls and often break in. I chose across the main drag where I can cross the street any time but don't often need to since the hotel offers a swimming pool and laundry services, more of a concern for me than the splashy homes that cost a fortune to maintain if a storm breaks through," commented one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"Most expat homes and apartments in Manzanillo offer a spacious and airy living space. Many of the homes and apartments offer stunning ocean views, and feature a large balcony to make the most of the warm weather. Inside, the homes and apartments typically have modern furnishings along with brightly-coloured walls and accents. Fully-equipped kitchens make self-catering a breeze, while the home's air conditioning helps to make the heat of the Mexican sun bearable. Expat homes in Manzanillo provide a comfortable and stylish living environment, perfect for anyone looking to enjoy their time in Mexico," remarked one expat in Manzanillo, Mexico.

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What is the average cost of housing in Manzanillo?

If you are thinking about moving to Manzanillo, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The average 3 bedroom condo on the beach is under 200,000.00 USD at this time. There are houses in gated communities from 140,000.00 USD to 2.5 million, depending on your taste," said one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"The cost of housing in Manzanillo varies depending on the type of housing and location. Generally, apartments and larger homes located close to the beach tend to be more expensive, while smaller homes on the outskirts of town may be available for cheaper prices. The average cost for housing in Manzanillo is usually between $200 and $800 USD per month," explained one expat living in Manzanillo, Mexico.

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Should I buy or rent a home in Manzanillo?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Manzanillo, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"We bought a condo that we lived in for 9 years, then sold it and built our house. I is a very easy process, as long as you have a good realtor," said one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Manzanillo, it is important to think about your current lifestyle and future plans. Buying a home can provide stability and potential appreciation over time, while renting can provide more flexibility and freedom. Considering factors such as cost, quality of property and access to amenities is also important. If you are looking for more of an investment and are willing to stay in Manzanillo, Mexico for a while, then buying a home may be a better option. However, if you prefer more flexibility and want to move more often or stay for shorter periods of time, then renting a home would be more suitable. Ultimately, the decision depends on your lifestyle and needs," explained one expat living in Manzanillo, Mexico.

What should I pack when moving to Manzanillo?

We asked people living in Manzanillo to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Manzanillo, it is important to pack items that can withstand the hot, humid climate. Light, breezy clothing made from breathable fabrics, like cotton and linen, is essential for staying comfortable in the heat. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also essential for protection from the strong year-round sunshine. Depending on the season and activities planned, swimsuits, hats, and sandals can help you make the most of your time in Mexico. If applicable, don’t forget to pack the necessary documents for your residency permit," remarked one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

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Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico
Connect

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Connect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Manzanillo?

We asked people in Manzanillo if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"Depending on the local customs, it is important to be aware of certain cultural faux pas when traveling in Manzanillo. Firstly, it is polite to greet people with 'buenos dias', 'buenas tardes' or 'buenas noches' depending on the time of day. Secondly, it is important to dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious sites. It is also considered impolite to be loud or disruptive in public. Thirdly, shouting and whistling are considered rude forms of communication in Manzanillo and should be avoided. Fourthly, it is important to use appropriate physical space when talking or greeting people, as many Mexicans appreciate personal space. Finally, you should respect the local customs and traditions, including honoring religious figures and festivals," commented one expat who made the move to Manzanillo.

Why do people move to Manzanillo?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Manzanillo, they responded:

"Manzanillo is known for its stunning natural beauty, with its stunning beaches, crystal clear waters and lush tropical vegetation, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle in a natural paradise. In addition to the beautiful environment, Manzanillo offers expats a convenient and affordable cost of living, as well as plenty of opportunity for outdoor activities such as fishing, sailing, surfing, and diving. The city also offers excellent healthcare and a growing job market, making it a great place to live and work. With its idyllic location near the coast, Manzanillo provides easy access to major cities in the area, making it a convenient base for those wanting to explore the region," offered one expat living in Manzanillo.

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How are healthcare services Manzanillo?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Manzanillo, they replied:

"Manzanillo offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. Additionally, Manzanillo has a number of pharmacies that offer both prescription and over-the-counter medications. The city also has a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, including family medicine, internal medicine, and dentistry. Manzanillo also has a number of alternative medicine practitioners, such as acupuncturists, herbalists, and homeopaths. Finally, the city has a number of medical laboratories that offer diagnostic testing services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Manzanillo.

What are medical services in Manzanillo like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Manzanillo, they replied:

"Manzanillo offers a variety of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. The hospitals and clinics are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals, and many offer modern medical equipment and technology. Additionally, Manzanillo has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. For those seeking alternative treatments, Manzanillo also has a number of holistic health centers that offer a variety of treatments, such as acupuncture, massage, and herbal remedies," offered one expat living in Manzanillo.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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