Mexico City

"Expat retirees who plan to retire in Mexico City should ensure they understand and comply with all the immigration requirements, including obtaining a permanent residency status if they plan to stay for more than six months. Additionally, because Mexico City is a large, busy urban hub, research into the different neighbourhoods is recommended to find a desirable living environment. Knowing the local language is also very useful in order to communicate, so investing in language classes or hiring a tutor may be worthwhile. Expats should also familiarise themselves with the local customs, as this will not only make living in the country more harmonious, but also make the process of assimilation course smoother. Lastly, expats should be aware of their travel options around the city, from taxis and Ubers to buses and the underground metro system," remarked one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Look for the charm, enjoy the warmth of the people, travel in the country, visit traditional restaurants, visit museums, and enjoy having a unique life experience," wrote one member in Mexico City.

"Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting place to live, but expats should prepare themselves for living in a lower-cost of living than other popular expat destinations. Familiarizing yourself with the local language (Spanish) and culture is essential for a smooth transition to expat life. It's important to research the different neighbourhoods and understand the security situation so you can find the safest place to live. In addition, it's essential to look into reliable banking and medical resources to ensure you're well taken care of for the entirety of your stay. Additionally, it's wise to build a social circle of other expats to provide support and advice throughout your relocation," wrote a member in Mexico City.

"If you are lucky enough to have your company pay for a Relocation company you wont have any problems since they know very well were you should live. But if this is not the case, I recommend you get advice from someone in your company to recommend areas close to work that meet your budget. Once you know the names of the areas you can then serach on the local newspapers for apartments," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"The first step in finding a place to live in Mexico City is to decide on the type of accommodation that you prefer. Are you looking for a single rental unit, a room in a shared house or apartment, or a fully furnished flat or house? You can search for rental listings online by searching for websites such as VivaStreet Mexico and EasyRoommate Mexico. You can also consult with a local real estate agency and speak with a realtor who knows the area and can show you a variety of options. Additionally, you can join local expat Facebook groups or browse the classifieds section of local expat websites to get an idea of what’s available. Once you’ve identified potential properties, you should visit each in person to get a better feel for them before you make a final decision," wrote one member in Mexico City.

"My company assisted us by hiring a Relocation company. In Mexico City it is very important to know where you will work in order to find your home. Commuting time can be terrible if you do not consider this important issues," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Apartments are the most recommended housing for expats. One reason is security, and also you can make friends easier on the social areas like swiming pools, tennis courts, etc," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Most expat homes or apartments in Mexico City are typically modern and comfortable, with amenities such as high-end appliances, high-speed internet, and cable TV. The size of the home or apartment varies, but most provide spacious living areas and bedrooms. Some homes are also equipped with private terraces or balconies and a garden area where expats can take in the endless views of Mexico City's breathtaking skyline. Many buildings also provide access to a gym, a pool and other modern amenities, so expats can pursue an active lifestyle without ever leaving the comfort of their home," said one expat in Mexico City.

"Mexico City is an expensive city to live in. I am lucky to have my company pay for it, but to give an idea: A three bedroom apartment can go from US$2,500 - 5,000 per month plus utilities," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"The cost of housing in Mexico City varies depending on the neighborhood and size of accommodation, but the average price for a mid-range apartment is likely to be around 45,000 to 55,000 Mexican Pesos a month," remarked one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Expats living in Mexico City can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as participating in language exchanges, salsa clubs, and international film clubs, among others. Expats can also find community by attending local taco nights, going out to local bars and breweries, or signing up for activities like biking, cooking classes and board game nights. Moreover, they can get involved with local charities and churches, and meet people through expat-focused networking events and meetup groups," said one expat in Mexico City.

"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.

"I suggest asking the American Embassy for the names of clubs and organizations in your área. Apart from that, I recommend you buy the english-speaking newspaper, join the local english-speaking churches that are gateways to clubs and organizations," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"It is important to pack clothing suitable for Mexico City's climate and terrain, especially for the warm months; sturdy shoes for walking and plenty of water is no less important. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect from the sun. Depending on your individual lifestyle and needs, other essential items may include a lock for your suitcase, a flashlight (preferably rechargeable), and any necessary medication. Don’t forget to bring power adapters compatible with Mexico City's electricity outlets. Documents such as valid proof of identification and insurance information should also be brought. It is beneficial to have a small travel guide or Spanish phrase book to help navigate the city. Additionally, a first aid kit can be helpful to have on hand," wrote one member in Mexico City.

"I wish I had brought with me all family & friends photo albums. They are of great help whenever you are crossing through the cultural shock. It helps by reminding you of friends and family. I also wish I had brought my stereo, dvd, etc since Mexico has the same electric outlet as USA. The last but not less important thing I wish I had brought with me is literature about Mexico (touristic sites, etc). since you can find them in Mexico but they are very expensive," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Before retiring in Mexico City, expats should familiarize themselves with the language and culture. Knowing basic Spanish is definitely helpful when communicating with locals. Expats should also research the quality of healthcare in Mexico City, as well as any visa requirements they must meet to legally retire there. It is also important to understand the local housing market and choose a neighborhood that best suits their needs. Finally, expats should keep in mind that the cost of living in Mexico City is considerably lower than in many other cities around the world, which can make retirement more affordable," said one expat in Mexico City.

"Mostly corporate headquarters, all major international companies have offices here. Having a network and connections is very important. It is often that one will get a call from a friend who knows about a position at his or her company and will "invite" you to apply," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Mexico City is vibrant and exciting. The city is full of culture, art, and history, and there are plenty of opportunities to explore and experience the local culture. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live and work abroad. The city is also well-connected, with excellent public transportation and a wide range of international flights. There are plenty of coworking spaces, cafes, and restaurants to choose from, making it easy to stay connected and productive. The city is also home to a diverse and welcoming expat community, making it easy to make friends and build a social network," wrote one member in Mexico City.

"In this country, a social life is important. Have friends from your native country, but also befriend the people from your host country. The people here are lovely, warm, and affectionate," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"The history is amazing, and you have the pyramids on one side, the beautiful beaches on another, the perfect climate, the warm and affectionate people, and the food tastes great," remarked one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"The frequency of the crime is never easy to adjust to. It's much better now, but when I moved to Mexico for the first time, smog was a big problem. There seems to be a lack of organization in the way the country functions. But if you look at it with a sense of humor, it's almost charming. No one likes corruption, and it's a problem here," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Not reading newspaper editorials that dare to criticize any Mexican political officials. Plus, very few people say what is on their minds, sort of the opposite of African-Americans, West Indians, or Jews in the United States. It is a xenophobic culture, for the most part, sort of like the Chinese culture. Mexicans are far, far more relaxed when and if they are amongst their own kind, although there are occasional and definite exceptions," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Yes, there is a significant level of crime in Mexico City. The Mexican capital has seen an increase in violent crime in recent years, such as murders, robberies and kidnappings, as well as an increase in drug-related activities. The local police have responded by increasing security measures, such as deploying more officers in high-crime areas and implementing detailed plans to combat criminal activity. Despite this, Mexico City still has one of the highest crime rates in Latin America," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Mexico City is the most populous city in the country, and its population is extremely diverse. People from many different parts of Mexico and from many different cultural backgrounds come together to live in this vibrant metropolis. In addition to having a diverse population, Mexico City is also a socially tolerant community that celebrates its differences. People of all backgrounds, ethnicities, religions, and creeds are welcomed and respected in the city," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"The people that I've met who are Mexican are usually Catholic. They take their religión and traditions pretty seriously. The Americans I've met here are often Protestant, and also kind of religious and try to maintain their home traditions like Thanksgiving. Americans here, however, welcome the traditions of their host country, and adapt their traditions with those of Mexico. There is a little bit of tension between Mexicans and others towards Americans. There is respect, but a little bit of tensión. You're bound to meet someone who says something negative about your country. Don't argue. All you have to do is know better, and that's enough. To argue about it will only fan the flame. Choose to stay dignified and calm if you're faced with that situation. When they see you react so politely, they usually become more respectful about your country. If not, just let it go. It's not worth upsetting yourself over ignorance," said one expat in Mexico City.

"Look at other schools. It is worth it. 38 teachers left in 2013, the administration is hidden in an office. The headmaster, jonathan Robins has no qualification what so ever for the job. The new teachers do not work as a team, and it does not help when your child is in 11grade or 12 grade. It is way too expensive for what it is. We are not sure the kids are happy now/," said one expat in Mexico City with children at Greengates School.

"The Washington Post and US News have named two excellent international schools in Mexico City: Emery/Weiner School and The American School Foundation of Mexico. Both of these schools offer high-level bilingual education. Emery/Weiner School offers dual language instruction in Hebrew and English, with a strong focus on developing students' critical thinking skills. The American School Foundation of Mexico provides a rigorous college-prep curriculum conducted in English, along with extra-curricular activities such as athletics, music, and art. Additionally, the school offers classes in Spanish and French, as well as experiential learning in the community. Both schools pride themselves on fostering a diverse and nurturing atmosphere, providing an excellent education and ample learning opportunities for every student," remarked one parent with kids at in Mexico City.

"This is a very intense school with lots of homework. The best thing is the mandatory spanish for non spanish speakers. My child is fluent in spanish and is continuing back home to study this language. The school is expensive and very large. Not much individual attention with classes of 25 kids even in the lower school. The new IB program seems to be very interesting. The school is mostly Mexican and some of the ex-pat kids experience a lot of prejudice and it can be hard for kids who do not have a lot of money," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"I have lived in 8 US states and four foreign countries - 29 addresses in all. No where has the cultural and historical offerings while still be as affordable as Mexico City. The city has a near-perfect climate and is visually stunning," commented one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Expats and digital nomads in Mexico City often appreciate the city's vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and affordable cost of living. They also enjoy the city's vibrant nightlife, art scene, and friendly locals. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the city's traffic and air pollution to be a challenge. Additionally, the city's high crime rate can be a concern for some," remarked one expat living in Mexico City.

"Expatriates, retirees and digital nomads living in Mexico City typically have an active social life. There are many opportunities to meet people from all over the world, as well as locals, through language exchanges, meet-ups, and social events. Expats often join local clubs and organizations, such as book clubs, sports teams, and volunteer groups, to meet like-minded people and make new friends. Digital nomads often find a community of other digital nomads in the city, and many coworking spaces offer networking events and social activities. Retirees often find a sense of community in the city's many parks, plazas, and cafes, where they can meet other retirees and locals," mentioned an expat living in Mexico City.

"Mexico City is great when you're young and can party because meeting other young expats in this age group will be easy. The older you get the harder it can be to meet other expats of your age," said an expat in Mexico City.

"Mexico City is a vibrant and bustling city with a vibrant 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 also home to a diverse range of people, from students to professionals, making it easy to find people to socialize with. Mexico City is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars and clubs to explore. Whether you're looking for a casual night out or a more formal affair, there's something for everyone in Mexico City," remarked one expat in Mexico City.

"When looking for housing in Mexico City, it is important to research the neighborhood and the building thoroughly. Research the building’s past to make sure that there are no potential issues with structural integrity, security, or other issues. If possible, try to find a place that has various forms of transportation nearby, such as a bus or metro stop. Additionally, consider the proximity to amenities such as supermarkets, parks, and grocery stores as well as safety and noise. In general, it is a good idea to connect with the local expat community in Mexico City and gather information from their personal experiences," remarked one expat living in Mexico City.

"Traditional medicine is widely available and accessible in Mexico city. However, eastern and homeopathic medicine isn't as common and therefore not as reliable," wrote one expat living in Mexico City.

"Mexico City 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 the private hospitals offer more specialized services and often have shorter wait times. Mexico City also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and pediatric centers. Additionally, Mexico City is home to a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments," commented one expat who moved to Mexico City.

"Healthcare and health insurance in Mexico City 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 higher quality care. Additionally, many employers in Mexico City offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost of coverage," wrote one expat living in Mexico City.

"The cost of living in Mexico City is overall moderate. Rent prices for a nice one bedroom apartment range between 800 and 1,200 US Dollars per month, while rent prices for a nice two bedroom apartment range from 1,500 to 2,000 US Dollars per month. The cost of a dinner for two at a moderately priced restaurant averages at around 25 US Dollars," mentioned one expat inMexico City.

"In order to obtain a visa for travel to Mexico City, one must complete an online application form and provide relevant supporting documents such as a valid passport, proof of financial ability to support travel costs, and a valid return ticket. Other requirements may vary depending on the purpose of the trip. The application must be submitted to a Mexican consulate or embassy in the visitor's home country or to the Immigration Authorities upon arrival in Mexico City. To apply for residency in Mexico City, one must obtain a Mexican national ID, known as the INM form. This is a two step process; first a signed application form needs to be presented to the local immigration office. The application must include proof of identity and proof of the migrant’s nationality. It will then be approved or denied by the immigration officer, who may request additional documents. Once approved, the applicant will receive a stamped version of their INM form and will then be able to apply for a Mexican residency permit," said one expat.

"Mexico City offers an eclectic blend of cultures, art, and entertainment, making it an appealing destination for expats seeking a vibrant and lively environment. The city boasts an excellent array of educational and employment opportunities, allowing expats to take advantage of the city’s bustling economy. The comparatively low costs of living, in comparison to other major cities, is another great motivator for expats looking to move to Mexico City. Added to this, the city's warm climate, friendly locals and wide selection of shopping, dining and nightlife options appeal to many expats looking for a rewarding and vibrant lifestyle. Mexico City also regularly tops lists for having one of the most liveable cities in the world for expats," said one expat living in Mexico City.