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Moving to Guanajuato, Mexico | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Guanajuato, Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on May 09, 2024

Summary: Expats move to Guanajuato, Mexico for its vibrant culture, stunning colonial architecture, and friendly locals. The city is known for its lively festivals, colorful markets, and delicious cuisine. Guanajuato is also a great place to learn Spanish, as the locals are known for speaking the language with a distinct accent. Additionally, the cost of living in Guanajuato is much lower than in other parts of Mexico, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to stretch their budget.

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

What do I need to know before moving to Guanajuato?

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

"Guanajuato is a beautiful colonial city with a rich cultural heritage, offering an exciting and unique lifestyle for expats. It is important to research the cost of living before making your move and to familiarize yourself with local customs and regulations to ensure a smooth transition. Guanajuato has a vibrant nightlife and an array of outdoor activities for year-round enjoyment. Additionally, expats should plan to acquire a Mexican national ID card and residency visa to remain in the country legally. Finally, learning Spanish or some basic phrases will make life easier when communicating with locals," said one expat who made the move to Guanajuato.

How do I find a place to live in Guanajuato?

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

"The easiest way to find a place to live in Guanajuato is to first determine what type of housing you prefer. Guanajuato offers various types of housing, from single family homes to flats and apartments. You can search through listings from local real estate agents, or on websites such as OLX and AirBnB, which feature many homes and rooms in the area. Additionally, you can visit local markets and inquire with local people to see if they have any available housing. With a bit of research and effort, you should be able to find suitable housing in Guanajuato, Mexico," remarked one expat who made the move to Guanajuato.

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.

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 Guanajuato?

"Expat homes and apartments in Guanajuato typically feature traditional Mexican architecture, colorful interiors, and a mixture of old and new accents. Natural light often streams into living spaces thanks to large windows, and many homes and apartments feature olden-style furniture and decor. It is not unusual to find outdoor spaces or balconies with romantic views of the city or surrounding landscape. Expat dwellings in Guanajuato also often feature a mixture of updated appliances, fixtures, and amenities to make life more comfortable," commented one expat who made the move to Guanajuato.

What is the average cost of housing in Guanajuato?

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

"The cost of housing in Guanajuato varies and is largely dependent on the size and location of the property. On average, one-bedroom apartments in the city center tend to be more expensive than homes located in less developed areas outside the center. The average cost of renting a one bedroom apartment in Guanajuato city can range from $400 - $800 USD per month," remarked one expat who made the move to Guanajuato.

Should I buy or rent a home in Guanajuato?

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

"The decision to buy or rent a home in Guanajuato ultimately depends on one's individual circumstance. Consider factors such as your budget, length of stay in the city, and current rental and real estate prices. Renting a home may offer more flexibility and less of a cost commitment, while buying a home may be a more affordable long-term investment. Evaluate the pros and cons of both options to make the most informed decision," said one expat in Guanajuato.

What should I pack when moving to Guanajuato?

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

"When moving to Guanajuato, it is important to remember to pack sunscreen, comfortable clothing for hot weather, and insect repellent, as well as any necessary medications. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring any important documents, such as birth and marriage certificates, for identification purposes. If you wish to enjoy Guanajuato's vibrant nightlife, packing semi-formal attire is suggested. Furthermore, any electronics, such as laptops and cell phones, should be packed to keep you connected. Finally, packing a few Spanish phrasebooks and a dictionary will help you learn the language and understand the local culture," said one expat in Guanajuato.

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 Guanajuato?

We asked people in Guanajuato 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!:

"In Guanajuato, it is important to be mindful of cultural norms and to avoid engaging in certain behaviors seen as offensive. For example, it is important to dress modestly and avoid wearing skimpy or revealing clothing in public. Additionally, it is important to respect public spaces and keep noise levels down. It is also important to honor the local customs, such as taking off one's shoes when entering someone's home. Finally, it is important to be mindful of religious traditions and to avoid making comments or jokes that may be seen as offensive or disrespectful of the local faith," remarked one expat in Guanajuato, Mexico.

Why do people move to Guanajuato?

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

"Guanajuato is a unique and vibrant city with a lot to offer to expats looking for a new life abroad. From its picturesque landscapes to its charming colonial streets and its vibrant culture and nightlife, Guanajuato provides an exciting lifestyle that is sure to please. The cost of living in Guanajuato is considerably lower than in other parts of Mexico and the US, making it an attractive destination for expats looking to stretch their money. The city also boasts a thriving cultural life, with numerous festivals and events offering something to do year-round. Guanajuato's close proximity to the USA and Canada makes traveling back home easier, while its rich history and varied cultures help to create an unforgettable experience," remarked one expat in Guanajuato.

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.

How are healthcare services Guanajuato?

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

"Guanajuato offers a variety of healthcare services to its citizens. The state has a network of public hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical care, including preventive and curative services. These facilities are staffed by qualified medical professionals and offer a range of services, including general medicine, pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, and emergency care. Additionally, the state has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer specialized services, such as cardiology, oncology, and orthopedics. In addition to these services, the state also provides mental health services, including counseling and psychotherapy. Finally, the state has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs," replied one expat when asked about moving to Guanajuato.

What are medical services in Guanajuato like?

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

"Guanajuato offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while private clinics offer more specialized services. In addition, there are a number of pharmacies and medical supply stores throughout the city. Many of these establishments offer discounts for those with a valid Mexican health insurance card. Guanajuato also has a number of medical tourism options, with many international patients coming to the city for specialized treatments," remarked one expat in Guanajuato.

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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Welcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico helps you find the perfect home in Mexico.
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Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico helps you find the perfect home in Mexico.
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