Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico City
Last updated on Mar 11, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Mexico City, Mexico include the vibrant culture, the delicious cuisine, and the affordable cost of living. Additionally, the city is home to many world-class museums, galleries, and other attractions. On the other hand, the cons of living in Mexico City include the high levels of air pollution, the traffic congestion, and the crime rate. Additionally, the city is prone to earthquakes and other natural disasters.
What are the pros and cons of living in Mexico City?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Mexico City responded:
"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," said one in Mexico City.
"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," explained one expat in Mexico City.

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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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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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What do expats in Mexico City appreciate most about the local culture?
"Having to conceal the fact when and if you dislike someone. Not being able to throw temper tantrums in public without facing possible legal problems. Being able to enjoy the moment without being paralyzed by thoughts of what you have to do in an hour or tomorrow! Being obligated to greet each and every person who you come into verbal contact with, saying 'buenos' or 'buenas', which would be unheard of in the U.S," said one expat in Mexico City.
"Expatriates in Mexico City appreciate the vibrant culture, rich history, and friendly people of the city. They enjoy the colorful culture and traditions they experience, such as sharing good food and conversation at local restaurants and markets, trips to ancient Aztec ruins, the many festivals and public holidays where towns and cities come alive, and the vibrant street art and cultural events taking place around the city. The people of Mexico City are known for their warmth and hospitality, and expats in the city find that there is always something new to explore and enjoy, making it an exciting place to live," said a person living in 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," explained one expat living in Mexico City.

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 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.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expat life in Mexico City can often be quite challenging, as there is a big difference between the culture of a developed nation and the culture of Mexico. The language barrier is certainly one of the biggest challenges to overcome, as many people in the city do not speak English and communicating can be difficult. Mexico City is a bustling metropolis with a very fast pace of life, and this can be a difficult transition for those used to more relaxed cultures. Additionally, the often unpredictable traffic and limited public transportation can be trying for many expats living in the city. Finally, the intense heat and humidity during the summer can be difficult to cope with for those not used to such conditions," explained one expat.
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 should I pack when moving to Mexico City?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Mexico City?
- Will I be able to find a job in Mexico City?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Mexico City appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Mexico City?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Mexico City accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Mexico City like?
- How are healthcare services in Mexico City?
- What are medical services in Mexico City like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico City?
- What are emergency services like in Mexico City?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Mexico City?
- How are local medical facilities in Mexico City?
- As a foreigner living in Mexico City, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?