Oaxaca City

Oaxaca City draws artists, writers, expats seeking slower rhythms, and families drawn to its cultural depth and affordability. The capital of Oaxaca state sits in a highland valley surrounded by mountains, its colonial center a maze of narrow streets lined with adobe buildings painted in ochre, terracotta, and deep reds. The city pulses with indigenous Zapotec and Mixtec traditions—visible in markets overflowing with textiles, pottery, and produce, in the Spanish-colonial architecture of the zócalo, and in the calendar of festivals that dominate the year. Mezcal distilleries dot the surrounding region, and the food scene has earned international recognition for its moles, tlayudas, and use of local ingredients like chapulines and hoja santa. Day trips lead to archaeological sites, mountain villages, and craft workshops. The city functions as both a living museum and an active community where locals and newcomers navigate narrow cobblestone streets, browse galleries and bookshops, and gather in cafes. English is spoken in tourist areas but Spanish dominates; many residents learn it as a practical necessity.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance
Get Quote

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.

PassportCard Expat Health Insurance

Never worry about paying your medical bills out of pocket again. The innovative PassportCard allows for a stress-free experience for all expat families, remote travelers, and workers. With a 24/7 customer service and an outstanding customer base of over 2 Million clients, it will feel like medical care at home. Get up to 10% off on your policy now.
Get Quote