San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Pros and Cons of Living in San Miguel de Allende
Last updated on Jul 04, 2024
Summary: The pros of living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico include its beautiful colonial architecture, vibrant culture, and temperate climate. The city is also known for its excellent food, art galleries, and cultural events. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Mexico. On the other hand, the cons of living in San Miguel de Allende include the lack of public transportation, limited job opportunities, and the language barrier. Additionally, the city can be quite touristy, making it difficult to find a sense of community.
What are the pros and cons of living in San Miguel de Allende?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in San Miguel de Allende responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in San Miguel de Allende enjoy the city's vibrant culture, beautiful colonial architecture, and friendly locals. They also appreciate the low cost of living, which allows them to stretch their budget further. On the downside, some expats and digital nomads find the city's limited public transportation system to be inconvenient, and the lack of reliable internet access can be a challenge," explained one expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
"Living in San Miguel de Allende was a hugely positive experience overall. It changed my life for the better. I learned how to live outside my comfort zone, and build a rewarding life in a place where I was a total stranger. Mexico opened my eyes to different ways of thinking, made me more patient and tolerant. I loved the many activities, wonderful food, charm and walkability of SMA. The thriving expat community was a real bonus. But I also immersed myself in Mexican culture by taking continuous Spanish language and culture classes, and making Mexican friends.The great, affordable transportation system within Mexico allowed me to explore some of the many fabulous destinations within this fascinating country. And let's not forget the food! San Miguel has a wonderful array of restaurants, featuring many different cuisines. I also loved the mostly dry, temperate climate of this mountain city. The weather was similar to San Diego, where I live (though nothing beats SD weather!) I will never forget my two years living in Mexico and the many friends I made. Even though California is truly my forever home, I'll be back to SMA for visits after the pandemic. In the meantime, Mexico will always live in my heart," said one in San Miguel de Allende.
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What do expats in San Miguel de Allende appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in San Miguel de Allende are drawn to the city's vibrant culture and friendly, welcoming locals. From the colonial-style architecture and centuries-old churches, to the many festivals and traditions, there is plenty to appreciate. Locals are passionate about life and culture, and they love to share it with visitors. The city is known for its art and artisans, its warm climate, delicious food, and endless musical offerings. Expats also appreciate the slower pace of life and beautiful natural surroundings, as well as the many language schools and learning opportunities in the city," said one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
Relocating abroad soon? Make your move with AGS! AGS Worldwide Movers is a leader in the international moving industry. Our experience and expertise allows us to guarantee our clients the best quality moving services.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in San Miguel de Allende often find the language barrier to be one of the most difficult aspects of living in a new culture. Understanding the local customs and cultural norms can also be a challenge. Additionally, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life and the traditional view of time and obligations that is prevalent in San Miguel de Allende. Finally, the intense heat and arid climate of the region may be difficult for expats used to different weather conditions," said one person in San Miguel de Allende.
"The constant sound of explosives going off IS awful. Not just fireworks but M-80s at 5 am on a Sunday. There is a competition between the Colonia's and their Churches when it comes to fireworks, firecrackers, and mostly M-80's which are NOT firecrackers but sound more like a bomb detonating. This is not just a Mexico thing. San Miguel is way worse than Oaxaca City, Mexico City, Merida, etc. for blowing stuff up. For every Catholic or Cultural holiday be prepared for massive noise and there are TONS of these holidays every month. It's horrible," remarked one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to San Miguel de Allende?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is the average cost of housing in San Miguel de Allende?
- How do I meet people in San Miguel de Allende?
- What do I need to know before retiring in San Miguel de Allende?
- What should I pack when moving to San Miguel de Allende?
- Where should I setup a bank account in San Miguel de Allende?
- Will I be able to find a job in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about San Miguel de Allende?
- What type of social life can someone expect in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is the social scene like in San Miguel de Allende?
- What advice to expats in San Miguel de Allende have about housing?
- What are medical services in San Miguel de Allende like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in San Miguel de Allende?
- Is the cost of living in San Miguel de Allende high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in San Miguel de Allende?
- Why do people move to San Miguel de Allende?
