Retire in Manzanillo, Mexico
Last updated on Apr 12, 2023
Summary: Manzanillo, Mexico is a popular destination for retirees due to its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in Manzanillo, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, and golf courses. These communities also provide a safe and secure environment for retirees. The average cost of a nice 2 bedroom home in Manzanillo is around $100,000 USD, while a nice 3 bedroom home can cost around $150,000 USD. The weather in Manzanillo is typically warm and sunny, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to the mid-90s Fahrenheit.
What is it like to retire in Manzanillo?
"Manzanillo is a charming and vibrant coastal town located in the state of Colima in Mexico. Retirees in this area enjoy a quiet and laidback lifestyle surrounded by lush vegetation, beautiful beaches, and a friendly atmosphere. Expats in Manzanillo can enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities such as swimming, snorkeling, fishing, and sailing. There are also active cultural attractions such as the local Archeological Museum and Plaza de Toros de Manzanillo, which hosts bullfights and other events. During the evening, retirees can visit restaurants that offer Mexican specialties and international cuisines, or nightlife options such as bars, clubs, and live entertainment venues. Manzanillo also hosts many festivals throughout the year, providing expats and retirees with an opportunity to experience the local culture and customs," remarked one retiree in Manzanillo.
"We have a small but active ex-pat community. We have a ladies lunch group once a month to hear speakers on local issues and meet other expats, plus keep up on what is happening in town. We have a couples group that has dinners every Thursday at different restaurants also to meet the other ex-pats. We have golf groups, tennis, bridge, cards, a church service or two in English. We also have a new Gold's gym. The university of Colima has a great music department that has brought us some classical music concerts the last few years, this year we are having Romeo and Juliet. We have many great restaurants and most have live music and dancing," said a retiree who moved to Manzanillo, Mexico.
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What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?
"What are you waiting for? Don't let the news scare you. They want you to be trapped up there in your homes. Come down and see what paradise is all about," said one retiree in Manzanillo.
"Retirees in Manzanillo advise that it is important to research the city and the culture thoroughly to make sure it is the right fit for you; making sure the food, climate, cost of living, and any language requirements are something that you are comfortable with. Additionally, looking into what medical facilities and resources are available is a crucial part of the process. Connecting with expats and other locals within the community can be a very helpful resource and provide valuable insight into the day-to-day life there. Finally, it is important to keep in mind that while this can be a wonderful experience and a chance to explore new places, that it is also a big change and could require some adjusting," commented one retiree living in Manzanillo, Mexico.
What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Manzanillo?
"The US and Canadian news reports scaring everyone about coming down to paradise," said one retiree in living in Manzanillo, Mexico.
"Retiring in Manzanillo can be a challenging endeavor, especially for those who are not already familiar with the local customs and language. The cost of living may also be higher than accustomed for many, as prices can be comparatively inflated due to the tourism industry. Those used to a certain level of convenience in their daily life may find managing day-to-day activities difficult, due to a lack of infrastructure in some places and a lack of reliable public transport. Additionally, Manzanillo can be subject to periodic outbreaks of tropical disease, as well as hurricanes during hurricane season. Lastly, the availability of quality healthcare services may be limited in more remote parts of the region," explained a retiree in Manzanillo.
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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Manzanillo?
"We are living the "american dream" in Mexico. We have a wonderful life. We are pampered, have time to pursue whatever we want, have time for our friends, the weather allows us to go outside almost every day to play. I am selling real estate, so not retired, but my husband is," said one retiree in Manzanillo.
"Retiring in Manzanillo offers a range of rewarding experiences, from breathtaking beaches to rich cultural exploration. Retirees can take advantage of the year-round warm weather and plenty of outdoor activities, including fishing, golfing, and swimming. There is also a vibrant artistic and cultural scene, with many cultural festivals, art galleries, and theater. The city's central location makes it a great starting point to explore other attractions in the region, such as Colima and Jalisco’s cities and villages. Manzanillo also boasts a low cost of living, with affordable housing, groceries, and other necessities. Finally, the friendly locals add to the appeal of Manzanillo, creating a welcoming atmosphere for retirees to settle down in," commented one retiree living in Manzanillo, Mexico.
What are healthcare services like in Manzanillo?
We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Manzanillo. They wrote:
"We have several hospitals here and are only 3 and a half hours from Guadalajara which has as good medical care as anywhere in the world. We had a friend who spent 3 weeks in intensive care in Guadalajara and the total cost was 35,000.00 dollars. Think of that in the US.. and she is well now," said a person in Manzanillo.
"Manzanillo offers a range of healthcare services with a focus on preventative care and wellness. Manzanillo has a growing network of both public and private hospitals, clinics, and medical centers offering general medical care. The public healthcare sector is provided free-of-charge to all registered citizens, while private hospitals and clinics cater to those with health insurance or who can afford to pay out of pocket. Manzanillo's public healthcare services typically feature general medical care, family medicine, and specialist care. Private medical clinics and hospitals in Manzanillo generally offer more specialty services and treatments, as well as international medical centers that are increasingly popular among the expat community. Additionally, Manzanillo is home to several pharmacies, offering an extensive range of prescription medications and non-prescription drugs to meet patient needs," remarked one retiree in Manzanillo.
How do I meet people in Manzanillo?
When we asked people living in Manzanillo about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Manzanillo can join a variety of clubs and activities, such as golf, tennis, swimming, fishing, and diving. Manzanillo also has a relatively large expat community, so meeting people for social activities is not difficult. Expats can join a variety of informal groups, such as walking groups, movie-viewing groups, pub crawls, lunch groups, and more. Additionally, many expats make use of the city's bustling nightlife scene to meet people, take in the local culture, and have a good time. It is also possible to join organizations such as Facebook expat groups or expat meetups in order to meet other expats and discuss relevant topics," said a person in Manzanillo.
"We have two groups to meet other ex-pats. One is for couples, they meet weekly and go to dinner. Their name is Thirsty Thursdays. The other is a ladies lunch group. we meet once a month at the restaurant El Tablau, at 1 pm. Everyone is welcome and we generally have a speaker. From these two groups you can learn about the charities and opportunities in Manzanillo," remarked one retiree in Manzanillo.
What is life like in Manzanillo?
When we asked people living in Manzanillo what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Manzanillo is a great destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a laid-back lifestyle. The city offers a variety of activities, from swimming and snorkeling in the crystal-clear waters of the Pacific Ocean to exploring the nearby colonial towns. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. The city is also home to a vibrant expat community, with plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. The climate is warm and sunny year-round, making it a great place to work remotely. With its stunning beaches, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living, Manzanillo is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," said one retiree in living in Manzanillo, Mexico.
"Generally the expats are retired and their lives revolve around golf, tennis, bridge, socializing, walking or swimming in the ocean, reading, and whatever else they feel like. We have quite a few artists and others willing to share their knowledge. There are charities and animal welfare groups always looking for help," explained a retiree in Manzanillo.
What do I need to know before retiring in Manzanillo?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Manzanillo, they said:
"Before retiring in Manzanillo, it is important to understand the culture and local language. Additionally, expats should consider their budget and whether they can afford to live in Manzanillo. It is also important to obtain the necessary visas and residency permits in order to retire in Manzanillo, Mexico. It is also wise to research potential healthcare services and develop a plan to stay healthy. Lastly, it is important to be aware of safety concerns in Manzanillo and take steps to secure housing and belongings," said one retiree in living in Manzanillo, Mexico.
What type of recreational activities are there in Manzanillo?
"Manzanillo offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors to enjoy. One of the most popular is the Manzanillo Beach Club, which features a large pool, a beachfront restaurant, and a variety of water sports activities. For those looking for a more active experience, the city also has several golf courses, tennis courts, and a variety of hiking trails. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are several spas and massage centers, as well as a variety of shopping and dining options. Additionally, Manzanillo is home to a number of cultural attractions, such as the Manzanillo Museum of Art and the Manzanillo Aquarium," wrote one person in Manzanillo.
Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Manzanillo?
"Manzanillo is a great place for expats to buy groceries and do other shopping. There are several supermarkets in the area, including Super Ley, Mega Comercial Mexicana, and Chedraui. Super Ley is a popular grocery store that offers a wide selection of fresh produce, meats, and other food items. Mega Comercial Mexicana is a large chain store that offers a variety of products, from clothing to electronics. Chedraui is a department store that offers a wide selection of items, from clothing to home goods. Additionally, there are several smaller stores and markets in the area, such as El Bazar, which offers a variety of Mexican products. For those looking for a more unique shopping experience, there are also several local markets, such as the Mercado de Artesanias, which offers handmade crafts and souvenirs," explained one retiree living in Manzanillo.
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 Manzanillo?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Manzanillo?
- What is the average cost of housing in Manzanillo?
- How do I meet people in Manzanillo?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Manzanillo?
- What should I pack when moving to Manzanillo?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Manzanillo?
- Will I be able to find a job in Manzanillo?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Manzanillo?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Manzanillo?
- What is the social scene like in Manzanillo?
- What advice to expats in Manzanillo have about housing?
- What are medical services in Manzanillo like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Manzanillo?
- Is the cost of living in Manzanillo high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Manzanillo?
- Why do people move to Manzanillo?