Merida, Mexico

"Before deciding to retire in Merida it is important for expats to consider the cost of living, safety, healthcare options, language level, cultural norms, and the need for a visa. Additionally, it pays to get to know the city prior to settling in, as well as researching the availability of quality housing and neighborhoods. As with any move to a new location, understanding the local customs and laws can help expats better integrate into the city. Finally, it is important to note that Merida is a very affordable place to live which makes it an attractive spot for retirees, but it pays to keep a watchful eye on the exchange rate of the Mexican Peso," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

"One thing is very important if you are thinking of renting. When you pay the first and last months rent, they also ask for payment to a lawyer. You will need to meet with a lawyer (our realtor was with us) and the forms that you have to sign are in Spanish. We had been told that most homes that are rented also need a co-signer, a person who will go with you to the lawyer to vouch that if you do not finish paying the year of rent, that they will pay the remainder of what is owed. Luckily for us, the owner of our home waived the need for a co-signer, so it worked out well for us, but it's really hard moving to a new country, not knowing anyone and then finding out that you need to find a co-signer to rent a property!!! Be aware," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Inalambrica is a nice area, close to a lot of parks and easy access to centro and the main market, there is a huge sports facility nearby too (Complejo deportivo Inalámbrica). Would not assume that because it is not near a main road means that it is quiet, all neighborhoods have bus routes that run through them and some streets are heavily used for short cuts or in this case to get to the Deportiva. There is no zoning laws like the US so the house could be next to a restaurant or business. I would recommend at least renting for 6 months to get a real feel for the place," said one expat in Merida.

"Bring as little as you need to, because moving is expensive. And you can get most things here. All the appliances work the same, etc. I would suggest renting for a few months while you look for a home, even though its a hassle to move. But that way you get to know the neighborhoods a little and will make a wiser choice. We love where we live but we just got lucky," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

"Moving to Merida can be an exciting adventure, but there are a few things expats should consider before relocating. Knowing the language is essential for expats who want to settle in Merida, so it is recommended to start learning Spanish before arrival. As the city is located in a tropical climate, expats should be prepared for hot and humid weather. Security is also an important topic for people relocating to Merida, so researching safety policies and guidelines can be beneficial. It is also helpful to find out the quality of healthcare available before arriving and bring along any necessary medications," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Merida is made up of the Centro area (downtown) and then many different neighborhoods which are called colonies and Fracc's. We were told by a realtor that many expats move to the North Merida area, which is nice and very safe with many stores and restaurants. He said anything above Calle 59 is good. We ended up finding a place in a small neighborhood called San Pedro Uxmal. I don't think there are many expats there, but the home had everything we wanted and the price was good. We are very happy there," said one expat in Merida.

"Use spanish in your seaches. Casa y depas en PV, departamentos para rentar, etc. It is still better if you rent an airbnb and walk around the area that you are interested in just looking for places that are available. The ones that are real cheap tend not to be listed on the web. NEVER send money as a deposit. Don't hand over any money until you are actually inside of the apartment with the owner or an agent that you are 100% sure is authorized to be acting for the owner," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

"After studyinng the market here for 2 1/2 years and debating renting or buying, we learned a lot about neighborhoods. And we learned the best way to figure out where you want to be is to come down and go airbnb for a while in different neighborhoods to figure out what you want. For those of us on a budget, Norte and Santiago are much too expensive and the father you go from Centro prices fall dramatically. We just bought a house and it was only after looking at very many and being ready to pounce on one that was significantly reduced in price and in excellent condition. Those go very quickly. Even renting, remember if you don't like the neighborhood, you're stuck for a year usually," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"I live in a large furnished studio with good sized kitchen with pantry (full size appliances), true dining area (room for 6-8) living area with sofa, coffee table and 2 chairs and nice sized bedroom area. It has a yard with parking and outside dining and is fully air conditioned. It's actually the ground floor of a 2 story house so it's larger than most studios IME. Including my power, water, garbage, gas and WIFI, it's under $400 USD per month. Outside my front door is a park and 2 more parks are within 3 blocks in opposite directions. It's a great neighborhood away from downtown but still has every kind of business within a 5 minute walk. A really nice mall is 2.4 miles away and it's dog-friendly! I've lived in 3 different neighborhoods in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico including Centro and this is by far my favorite! FYI, my AC runs 24/7/365. It's clean, quite, walkable and has green spaces," mentioned one in Merida.

"A renovated colonial stone house, about 100 years old. And it's very typical of the expats around here," wrote one member in Merida.

"We rented a 3 BR/3 Bath home. It is very modern and has a small front yard and a beautiful back yard with a pool. It is 2 stories. We also have a terrace overlooking the back yard and a sunny roof top overlooking the front of the house. The house has a large wall around it and an electric gate in the front which is very nice for our 2 dogs and 2 cats. They can go in and out as they please," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"A typical expat home or apartment in Merida is typically modern and stylish with a mix of traditional Mexican design mixed with contemporary design. The architecture of the homes and apartments usually features large windows and balconies, giving a nice open feeling. Many have floor tiles and white walls, giving it a distinctive Mexican look. The furniture is typically comfortable, yet simple and modern. Expats in Merida can also enjoy outdoor living spaces with outdoor dining areas, pool areas and landscaped gardens," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"The cost of housing in Merida can vary depending on size, location and amenities. Generally, rent for an average one-bedroom apartment will range from about $300 to $500 USD a month, and three-bedroom apartments can start at around $500 USD a month. Prices for more upscale, luxurious housing can be higher," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"My husband found a two bedroom one bath house in Pensiones neighborhood in Merida Yucatan for about $35,000 USD. It needs another $10k in upgrades or remodeling but it is a cute home and would be great. The rents here are all over the place. But a huge home with a lot of amenities unfurnished in my neighborhood (4 bedrooms or 5 with three bathrooms and so on? Goes for $14,000 Mexican pesos a month. About $675 or $700 USD give or take," wrote one member in Mexico.

"Definitely look up the two Merida Expat groups on Facebook before you come. Get acquainted with what goes on, advice for newcomers, how to find things, and, most importantly, introduce yourself and tell when you are coming. There is a breakfast club here, a monthly meet and greet, a bowling league, etc. FB has an activities calendar. I immediately went to several events within my 2nd week here," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"There are numerous clubs and activities which expats in Merida can join. For example, they can join running groups and meet with other expats who run around the city, or they can join book clubs, photography clubs and art clubs. Other activities that expats can participate in include language exchanges, team sports, annual music and film festivals, salsa dancing and wine-tasting nights. Additionally, there are cultural events such as visiting the city's many plazas and markets, where expats can meet people and connect with the local community. Expats can also make new friends through joining online forums, attending language classes and even visiting local industry leaders in the area. Finally, networking events, such as tech and startup events, are a great way for expats to connect with the local business community," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Three things I wish I had brought: Trader Joe's grocery store anything organic (food) Three things I wish I'd left at home: Can't think of anything," wrote a member in Merida.

"My husband and I were told by the shipper that once we have a Merida address that our items will be shipped to our door within a few days. We have been here for almost a month and we have found that our items are still in Miami!! We were also told that our items cannot be sent from Miami until my husband gets his Temporary Resident card (which he applied for, but we have been told that it will take approximately a month to get it). Once he has the card, then they will schedule the items to be sent and it takes 10 days to go across the Gulf of Mexico and then a few days to go through Customs. So at this rate, we will be lucky if we have our items for the New Year and we have been in Mexico since October 27th. Please be warned about this and make sure that you get everything in writing. We did and we are still having issues. We wish we would have all our items that we shipped and have not found anything that we had wished we left yet," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

"When moving to Merida, it's important to pack comfortable clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts for warm weather as well as some warmer clothing for the cooler spring months and occasional cool nights. Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and other UV protective gear to help protect you from the sun. Bring some lightweight rain gear, such as a poncho and waterproof shoes, in case of a tropical rain shower. Pack your favorite books, music, and other forms of entertainment to help you settle in and get to know Merida. Consider bringing kitchen supplies such as pots, pans, and tableware, to help you fill your new home with the comforts of your own cooking. Finally, don't forget to bring along an open mind and sense of adventure to help you get the most out of your experience in Merida," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"As far as I know, there is no "expat-focused" bank here. Banamex is owned by Citibank, and many of the other banks are owned by US banks. We have accounts at Banamex and Inbursa (a Mexican bank owned by Carlos Slim, the richest man in Mexico and the owner of Telmex, among other things). We used to have an account at Scotiabank but found them too old-fashioned and slow. Even so, Banamex's online banking can be terrifically confusing. But at least its there," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

"Before retiring in Merida, expats should be aware that the city is very different from many other places popular with retirees. It is important to ensure that one's current passport and visa are in order, as the Mexican government sets strict requirements for expats. Additionally, healthcare in Merida is different than that found in more developed countries, so expats should research and familiarize themselves with their medical care options in their new home. An average budget should also be created before the move to cover relocation expenses, rent and the cost of living. Finally, it is important to learn the basics of Spanish, both to communicate more easily with the locals and also to be able to read warning signs, understand directions, and access local services in the language," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Manufacturing, construction and power are the main industries of Merida. Of course, it is the capital of the Yucatan region, so tourism is very active here as well. I am a retiree so am not in the job market. I will say that you can work here as a foreigner but need special permission on your visa, as most countries protect their jobs for their citizens. A great way to work is invest in opening a business," wrote one member in Merida.

"Foreigners living in Merida often find work in positions such as teaching English, working in hotels or resorts, doing digital marketing, working in or opening a store or cafe, or providing administrative support. Other types of jobs that expats may find in Merida include construction, taxi driving, blogging, conducting tours, or working in the real estate market," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Merida is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, such as its colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and numerous outdoor activities. The city also offers a wide range of international cuisine, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to find food that suits their tastes. Additionally, the city is well-connected to other parts of Mexico and the world, making it easy to travel to and from Merida. All in all, Merida is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a vibrant and affordable place to live," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"That is a broad question to answer. I have lived in 2 other Central American countries and will say they focus a lot more on family than we do in the USA. Merida is by far more sophisticated than where I've lived before, is a wealthier city than I've lived in before. I would expect the proximity to the US has affected values, although the Yucatan retains much Mayan culture, different than the rest of Mexico," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Expatriates in Merida appreciate the warmth of the locals and the strong sense of community that exists in the city. They are also drawn to the city's rich cultural heritage, vibrant art and music scenes, and the abundance of colorful markets and traditional festivals. Merida is also known for its delicious regional cuisine, from street food to award-winning restaurants. Its mild climate and easy access to the nearby coast and Yucatan Peninsula make Merida a great place to live, work and explore," wrote one member in Merida.

"Most people that we have met have been very friendly. Some going out of their way to help us, Merida is a very historical city and very rich in Mayan and Mexican culture. We have not had any time yet to check out all the history and culture, but are really looking forward to finding all about it," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"They are family oriented, like inviting you places to do fun activities and they like to celebrate dates with a lot of joy. Also the laid back lifestyle compared to big cities in the states. I also love to see the traditions being kept up and honored. And I like seeing my son speak Spanish beautifully. I like everything. The architecture, the art, the music, the dancing and the literature and the people telling me their life stories," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"I hate the slowness of the bureaucracy. I don't like the bank fees and exhorbitant fees associated with Mexican banks and US foreign banks in Mexico. I don't like the need to negotiate with others not used to fixed prices because it means I got to figure out what the reasonable price for an item is and then negotiate down. I never liked shopping much so it is not fun to do that for me. But I love buying artistic things that bring me joy to look at it at home. I don't like men ignoring me and asking my husband the question or giving my husband the answer. It is impolite," wrote a member in Merida.

"Expats in Merida may find that the local culture and customs can be quite different from those of the West. They may struggle to adjust to the slower pace of life and high levels of bureaucracy, a marked distinction from the much faster pace of western countries. Additionally, developing trust with the locals can be difficult since strong relationships are a cornerstone of Mexican culture. Language barriers can be an issue as well, both in terms of verbal communication and understanding Spanish-language media and literature. Additionally, learning the religious customs and traditions may be a challenge for those unfamiliar with Catholicism. Finally, adjusting to the climate and local seasons can be a challenge; summers are incredibly hot and the heat and humidity often continue through the winter season," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

"I think language is the main challenge. Originally, we were going to move to Playa del Carmen where many of the Mexicans speak English as it is a tourist town. We changed plans and moved to Merida and have found that the majority of Mexicans do not speak English, so it is definitely a challenge daily!," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Merida is generally considered to be a safe city. However, like many other large cities, there are reports of petty theft and other crime. The areas most susceptible to crime are often tourist destinations, so it is important to always use caution when visiting and familiarize yourself with safety tips. It also advisable to not carry large sums of money or valuable items, and to exercise extra caution during the evening and late-night hours. Overall, Merida remains a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Merida is a culturally-rich city full of diversity. There is a wide variety of people's backgrounds and nationalities living in Merida, including indigenous people, descendants of Spanish settlers, immigrants from other Latin American countries, and Europeans. People living in Merida are generally respectful of others and accept people of different backgrounds, customs, and beliefs. People from diverse cultures support each other and collaborate in achieving meaningful goals," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

"This city is huge and very diverse. It's kind of a melting pot of different peoples and lifestyles. For example, the north part of town is completely modern, with buildings and homes that look very stark with linear architecture. The newer malls are also there. Other colonias range from old, historic structures to a mixture. I live in Campestre, which is one of the more quiet, residential parts but still has plenty of stores and shops and is only 6 miles from Centro (downtown). There is also Uptown, which has its own vibe. So, depending on what you like and how much noise and people you like to be around, there is a colonia for everyone and all get along and are friendly and welcoming," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"Merida is home to some of the best international schools and bilingual schools in theworld. Colegio Americano de Merida is one of the top international schools in Merida, and it focuses on providing a rigorous academic program with a wide range of extra-curricular activities and sports, as well as a range of different languages and cultures. The bilingual school Perspectiva School provides a bilingual education and is widely known for its excellent academic programs and for providing students with knowledge and understanding of different cultures. The Lionbridge School of Merida is renowned for its top quality language teaching and its emphasis on international understanding and collaboration. Finally, Elisabeth y Honorato International School is known for its commitment to developing bilingual and multicultural global citizens. All of these schools provide a high level of education, with a wide range of enrichment activities and resources," remarked one parent with kids at in Merida.

"The only thing I do not like about anywhere in Mexico is the racism toward white people. I deal with it every day. However, it is the poor, uneducated, unsophisticated people, who are ignorant who do this. Racism is not that much of a problem in Central America like it is in Mexico. Or any other countries I have traveled to. But Mexico is the worst for it," said one expat living in Merida.

"Expats and digital nomads living in Merida often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. They also enjoy the city's colonial architecture, delicious food, and easy access to the beach. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the heat and humidity of the city to be oppressive, and the lack of reliable public transportation can be a challenge," mentioned one expat inMerida.

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Merida typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people and make friends, such as joining local clubs and organizations, attending cultural events, and exploring the city's vibrant nightlife. Additionally, there are many expat-run businesses and organizations that offer social activities and events, such as language classes, cooking classes, and outdoor activities. With its friendly locals and vibrant culture, Merida is a great place to make new friends and build a social network," said an expat in Merida.

"I have wonderful Expat friends from the US and Canada, and Mexican friends. I am no longer seeking a relationship with a man as I like traveling and living alone," remarked one expat in Merida.

"Merida is a wonderful place to live. It is hot from spring to winter, and it does get wind and rain and some flooding in some parts from tropical storms, but it is a very safe place to live. And the people are wonderful," commented one expat who moved to Merida.

"Merida is a vibrant city with a lively social scene. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore, as well as a variety of cultural activities and events. The city is known for its lively nightlife, with many bars and clubs offering live music and dancing. During the day, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as exploring the city's many parks and plazas. Merida is also home to a number of festivals throughout the year, such as the Day of the Dead and the Yucatan International Film Festival. With its vibrant culture and friendly locals, Merida is a great place to meet new people and make lasting memories," said one expat.

"When looking for housing in Merida it is important to research the area beforehand to make sure the location is suitable for your needs. Renting or buying in Merida can be beneficial since rents and real estate prices are still very low. Be sure to negotiate on the best possible price since landlords tend to overprice. It is also important to discuss the maintenance of the property with the landlord or owners and review the contract for additional fees. Additionally, utilize the help of locals to get the best possible deals," remarked one expat living in Merida.

"Many expats own lovely houses in Merida, Mexico. I always rent a room for cheap or a cheap apartment as quiet is important to me as I am writing. I do not want to own property at this time in any country," said one expat living in Merida.

"I had two routine check up procedures at Clinica Merida, and they were done very professionally and excellent at a low cost. Merida has two medical schools for doctors so health care in Merida is excellent," said one expat living in Merida.

"Merida offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of hospitals and clinics that provide quality care and services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized treatments. Many of the hospitals and clinics are equipped with modern medical technology and staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals. Additionally, Merida has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are also a number of holistic health centers and spas that offer a range of services, such as massage, acupuncture, and yoga," mentioned one expat inMerida.

"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," remarked one expat in Merida.

"The cost of living in Merida is considerably lower than in the United States. Living expenses, such as rent, food, and recreation, are much less expensive in Merida. Rent for a nice one bedroom apartment in Merida is typically around 300-400 USD per month, while rent for a nice two bedroom apartment often costs around 500-600 USD per month. Eating out in Merida can be quite affordable; a dinner at a moderately priced restaurant may cost around 10-15 USD per person," remarked one expat in Merida.

"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," wrote one expat living in Merida.

"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," remarked one expat in Merida.

"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," wrote one expat living in Merida.

"In order to get a visa to visit Merida, visitors must apply for a visa with the Mexican Embassy or Consulate serving their home country or place of residence. The visa must be obtained before arriving in Mexico and is required in order to enter the country. To apply for a visa, travelers must provide a valid passport, complete a visa application form, provide two passport-size photographs, and pay the applicable visa fee. In order to be eligible for legal residency in Mexico, you must first obtain a temporary residence visa, which is renewable each year. To apply for a temporary residence visa, you must provide proof of your identity and nationality, a valid passport and two passport-size photographs, copies of all your documents, paperwork proving that you have enough funds to sustain yourself during your stay, and documents proving that you have family or business ties in Mexico. Once you have submitted these documents, you must wait for approval before traveling to Mexico. Once you arrive in Mexico, you must register with the National Immigration Institute before you can obtain your residency permit. This permit is renewable every two years," commented one expat who moved to Merida.

"Oh, my, where do I start? This is my 4th country and I am here to stay! Merida has surpassed my expectations- it is a large city, with many different neighborhoods to choose from, each with their own separate, distinct vibe. Activities are everywhere- every night a park holds a free event. Centro is hopping on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The shopping is first class, many very nice new malls, and restaurants are everywhere, for every price range. Most of all for me is the culture- there are so many fine museums and homes to tour that I have made a list so that I don't forget any. And then there's the cenotes to swim or dive in, found nowhere else but the Yucatan, and the Mayan ruins nearby," wrote one expat living in Merida.

"Merida is an attractive destination for expats due to its affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, and year-round warm climate. The city is known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and picturesque plazas, providing a quaint atmosphere to explore. Additionally, locals are incredibly welcoming, offering expats the opportunity to form lasting friendships. Merida's proximity to the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and a wealth of Mayan sites further add to its appeal. With its charming atmosphere, an array of activities to take part in, and a laid-back way of life, Merida is a great choice for ex-pats looking to experience something new," commented one expat who moved to Merida.