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Retire in Mexico City, Mexico | Expat Exchange
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La Roma Neighorhood in Mexico City

Retire in Mexico City

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Oct 03, 2024

Summary: Mexico City, Mexico is an attractive destination for retirees due to its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and affordable cost of living. There are several retirement communities in Mexico City, offering a variety of amenities such as swimming pools, fitness centers, and social activities. The cost of a nice two bedroom home in Mexico City is typically around $100,000 USD, while a nice three bedroom home can cost around $150,000 USD. The weather in Mexico City is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit throughout the year.

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

What is it like to retire in Mexico City?

"Life in Mexico City and its surroundings is an incredibly vibrant experience for retirees. Thanks to its large expat community, retirees can find a sense of companionship and community, as well as a wealth of cultural and recreational activities. There are a wide variety of cultural attractions to enjoy, such as colorful street murals, outdoor markets, and elegant colonial architecture. There is an abundance of recreational activities to partake in such as boating, golfing, and jogging along the scenic waterfront. For a night out, retirees can enjoy live music and delicious cuisine from around the world in the city’s lively restaurants, bars, and clubs. Mexico City and its surroundings offer retirees a great quality of life in a beautiful and vibrant setting," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

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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.

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

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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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What advice do overseas retirees have for others considering retiring abroad?

"Retiring abroad can be an exciting opportunity for people looking for a change of pace, but it also comes with its own unique set of challenges. Retirees in Mexico City recommend researching as much as possible about the culture, language, and healthcare options in the area before making the move. They also emphasize the importance of creating a budget that factored in all the costs associated with relocating and living in the area. Additionally, retirees suggest getting to know the local customs and seeking out activities and organizations that cater to the local expat community can make adjusting to life abroad much easier," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Mexico City?

"One of the most challenging aspects of retiring in Mexico City is the language barrier. While there are many people that speak English, not everyone speaks the language which can make it difficult to communicate effectively. Additionally, the cost of living in Mexico City can be high, which makes it difficult for retirees to live comfortably on a fixed income. The urban landscape of Mexico City can also make it difficult to find quieter, more rural living arrangements. Finally, red tape and bureaucratic procedures can make it difficult to gain legal residency if you are looking to stay in Mexico beyond your initial visit," said a person in Mexico City.

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What are the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Mexico City?

"One of the most rewarding aspects of retiring in Mexico City is the affordability of living. The low cost of living means that retirees can enjoy the same lifestyle they had pre-retirement with less money. Additionally, Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers plenty of opportunities for retirees to explore and enjoy. From ancient ruins to contemporary art galleries and everything in between, there’s something to discover and appreciate for everyone. Additionally, retirees will have access to quality healthcare, as well as medical and retirement benefits. Last but not least, Mexico City is close to the United States border, so retirees can periodically visit family and friends back home," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

What are healthcare services like in Mexico City?

We asked retirees if they have access to good medical care in Mexico City. They wrote:

"Mexico City has a wide range of healthcare services available, providing citizens with access to quality medical care. The city is home to numerous public and private hospitals, clinics, and healthcare centers, staffed by qualified professionals who offer a variety of treatment and prevention services. Mexico City also has several specialized medical centers for specific conditions, such as cancer, heart disease, or diabetes. Additionally, the city features pharmacies throughout where residents can purchase both generic and brand-name medications. The government of Mexico City is committed to providing its citizens with affordable healthcare, and as such provides many of its services free of charge or at discounted rates to those in lower-income brackets," explained a retiree in Mexico City.

How do I meet people in Mexico City?

When we asked people living in Mexico City about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"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," explained one retiree living in 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," said one retiree in living in Mexico City, Mexico.

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What is life like in Mexico City?

When we asked people living in Mexico City what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"People tend to work long hours during the week, not much on the weekends which is generally reserved for families. If you have kids you will be invited to tons of birthday parties, parents are expected to attend, not just drop the kids off. The parties are quite extravagant compared to the US," said a person in 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," remarked one retiree in Mexico City.

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Welcome Home Mexico

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home Mexico

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.

Learn MoreConnect

Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

What do I need to know before retiring in Mexico City?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Mexico City, they said:

"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," said a person in 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 retiree in Mexico City.

"Be aware, be safe. Learn the language and adapt. Don't expect the same efficient service you get in the US. Enjoy it," said a retiree who moved to Mexico City, Mexico.

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What type of recreational activities are there in Mexico City?

"Mexico City offers a variety of recreational facilities for visitors and locals alike. The city is home to a number of parks, including Chapultepec Park, which is the largest city park in Latin America and features a zoo, a lake, and a castle. The city also has a number of museums, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the National Museum of History, and the Museum of Modern Art. For those looking for outdoor activities, Mexico City has a number of bike paths, running trails, and golf courses. The city also has a number of sports stadiums, including the Estadio Azteca, which is the largest stadium in Latin America. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, Mexico City has a number of cafes, restaurants, and bars," remarked one retiree in Mexico City.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Mexico City?

"In Mexico City, expats can find a variety of grocery stores and shopping centers to meet their needs. One popular grocery store chain is Chedraui, which has multiple locations throughout the city. Chedraui offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as a variety of prepared foods. Another popular grocery store chain is Soriana, which also has multiple locations throughout the city. Soriana offers a wide selection of international and local products, as well as a variety of prepared foods. For other shopping needs, expats can visit the Centro Comercial Santa Fe, a large shopping mall located in the Santa Fe district. The mall offers a variety of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Additionally, expats can visit the Mercado de Artesanias La Ciudadela, a large market located in the historic center of the city. The market offers a variety of handmade crafts, jewelry, and other items," wrote one person in Mexico City.

About the Author

Joshua Wood 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.

La Roma Neighorhood in Mexico City

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Welcome Home Mexico helps you find the perfect home in Mexico.
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