Living in Mexico: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Mexico

Summary: People often describe life in Mexico as vibrant, colorful, and full of life. Expats love the warm climate, friendly people, and the affordability of living in Mexico. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month, depending on the city and lifestyle. Mexico has a population of approximately 129 million people, and the largest cities are Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Puebla, and Tijuana. The cons of living in Mexico include the high crime rate in some areas, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the language barrier. Additionally, the cost of living can be higher in some areas, and the infrastructure is not always up to par with other countries.

What do I need to know about living in Mexico?

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

"Come and visit and rent for a few months so you get a feel for the place before you buy-- good advice anywhere. Find some groups to join to make new friends, lots of options to fit your hobbies or interests. Subscribe to weekly on-line newsletter, Whatsupsancarlos.com or check out their website for photos, activities, upcoming events, etc," remarked one expat living in San Carlos (Nuevo Guaymas), Mexico.

"We visited Puerto Vallarta for 15 years before moving here. I would tell my friend to visit at least 6 times, renting in different places each time. The areas of this city/region are quite different, so that person should rent in Centro, Southside, Conchas Chinas, Mismaloya, the Marina, the Hotel Zone, and even in Nuevo and Bucerias before he or she commits to anything long term. Of course, I would also advise my friend to start learning Spanish and start saving money. Most real estate transactions are in cash because interest rates are very high here. There are long term rental opportunities, if one is comfortable living with a certain amount of uncertainty about availability year to year. I would also tell my friend that, after buying our condo, we have never been happier or so free of financial worries. We love living here," wrote one member in Puerto Vallarta.

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How do I meet people in Mexico?

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

"If you are working here, start with work colleagues. An organization called MEXPAT also hosts monthly events for expats here," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Definitely seek out the Circle of Friends expat organization when you arrive. Although English is used as the main language of conversation, members come from other parts of Mexico and other countries around the world. There is also a group of French speakers in town and some of their members are in contact with Circle of Friends so you can find them that way," explained one expat living in Torreon, Mexico.

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What is life like in Mexico?

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

"In this country, a social life is important. Have friends from your native country, but also befriend the people from your host country. The people here are lovely, warm, and affectionate," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"For expats, Mazatlan is a very small town in a large city! It is easy to meet other expats, and we look out for one another. Walk through Centro, the tourist zone, or down the Malecon and odds are good that you'll see someone you know! Most of us are involved in at least one volunteer effort, trying to help make the lives of our gracious hosts just a little better. The citizens of Mazatlan are great people! Family is the most important thing, but people are very involved in earning a living, watching our baseball team (Venados), and enjoying life by the ocean," remarked one expat living in Mazatlan, Mexico.

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Is there a lot of crime in Mexico?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"There is less crime here than where we lived NOB. There is some petty crime.. burglaries and an occasional mugging. But these appear to be no worse than many places up north," remarked one expat living in Ajijic, Mexico.

"No. We have a little petty crime, which is new for us, but it is much safer here than any Us city . We all walk around at night and do not worry," wrote one member in Manzanillo.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Mexico accepting of differences?

"Like most of Mexico, Saltillo is fairly homogeneous, both racially, culturally, and religiously (although at times it feels that there are nearly as many tiny, hole-in-the-wall Protestant churches as there are large Catholic ones). While I fit the mold, I can't really say whether they are accepting of differences. But the prevailing attitude seems to be that of "live and let live"," remarked one expat living in Saltillo, Mexico.

"People are not too diverse, there are mostly folks of Mayan descent, as well as others from Mexico who have relocated to the area. Expats are mostly Brits, Canadians, and US, and are a growing population. The area is incredibly accepting of foreigners, gay, free thinking, and many diverse groups. The people are very welcoming and friendly," wrote one member in Chelem.

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What are the schools in Mexico like?

"Contact them as soon as you can as places are limited. They are a new school and some year groups are almost full. Calls and emails are always returned," commented one expat when asked about The Wingate School in Mexico City.

"Even though my children are happy here, I do not recommend this school. Too rigid, too old school. Not good teachers," explained one expat in Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico with kids at Ciudad de Mexico.

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Is the cost of living in Mexico high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Mexico, they wrote:

"I live in San Miguel de Allende and this is a tourist and expat destination with a dollar economy. Supermarket and utility prices are on par with the rest of Mexico but rents, wages for staff and service providers are high. A meal in a mid market restaurant will cost $US100 for 2 without going overboard and nearer US200 if you go for expensive cocktails, brandy or tequila. Rents var enormously depending upon location so you can find a 3 bed house in a so so area for US$450 but in a better area will be $900-1200 and in the historic center the sky the limit. Medical costs - a consultation with a general doctor or specialist US$40-50, blood/urine analysis US$100. Excellent medical services but if you need hospitalisation, long term cancer treatment etc you need to budget US$1m+ say for 5 years of chemo, radio, surgery and end of life care. Although private medical care is far less expensive than in developed countries it soon adds up and for me at age 68 in pretty good health, medical expenses insurance premiums and pay as you go represent 30% of my monthly expenditure. For young families you must budget for private education and medical/dental care," remarked one expat living in Mexico.

"The cost of living in Mexico can vary widely depending on the particular city, but generally speaking, it tends to be more affordable than in the United States. Food, housing, transportation, and many other everyday items are all significantly less expensive in Mexico than in the US. Groceries, in particular, are often much cheaper than their American counterparts. Additionally, the cost of entertainment, such as going to the movies or out to eat, is also much more affordable. Mexico is a great destination for travelers interested in stretching their travel budget further," wrote one member in Mexico.

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"It is still quite reasonable to live in Playa del Carmen, but prices have increased for restaurants significantly over the past few years. We used to eat on 5th Ave all the time. But now we tend to eat off the main tourist drag because the price and overall value of the food is better found outside," said one expat.

"You can live in Puerto Penasco on as low as $400 per month, small apartment (not in the tourist area) and utilities and some food. Add more for going out to eat," commented one expat living in Puerto Penasco, Mexico.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Mexico?

When we asked people living in Mexico about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Mexico, recreational facilities include a variety of outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and rafting due to its varied terrain. Mexico also has beautiful beaches, which provide opportunities for swimming, surfing, and snorkeling. Additionally, Mexico’s warm climate allows for plenty of open air parks, providing ample areas for activities like picnics, soccer, volleyball, and just hours of relaxation. Furthermore, art lovers have plenty of options with multiple galleries, concerts, and events such as opera and theatre performances. Shopping enthusiasts can enjoy the marketplace experience of visiting a fresh fruit market or bargaining with street vendors to find great souvenirs. Finally, Mexico offers plenty of traditional cuisine to sample in its many restaurants, ranging from inexpensive street food to exquisite fine dining," mentioned one expat inMexico.

"There is a large sport club here for tennis and golf. Every Sunday the streets are closed for bikeathons for the entire family to participate in. And any time you want to hike, go visit a ruin. Most of the cenotes allow swimming and are wonderfully cool and magical," commented one expat who moved to Merida, Mexico.

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What is the weather like in Mexico?

"The climate is tropical. Right now, it is their cool season, so, the temperatures may get down to the sixties at night and in the morning, but, during the day the sun comes out and it gets warmer. The beach water is usually warm. By March the weather will be really warm and will get somewhat humid soon after," said an expat in Playa del Carmen.

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Are there good restaurants in Mexico?

"As stated earlier above, restaurants are plentiful and you have your choice of what type of food you want. There are various nightclubs. Because tourists are constantly coming and going, every night is like a weekend night with bright lights and music and even entertainers along the streets. I especially enjoy the Mariachi bands that travel to the restaurants and play their music. It's all so very lively. I feel like I am living life again, even as a retired single Expat.," remarked one expat living in Playa del Carmen.

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

"There is everything in Merida from local street vendors, market stalls, to Super Duper big box markets. There is a Walmart that is a step above what you find in the States, Sears, and a few super duper markets that sell everything from household goods to groceries, all in one place. Several malls have recently opened, so you can shop from high end to low end, and Centro has many streets of unusual and unique shops. You will need to guard your money as these unique shops have lovely hand made items," mentioned one expat inMerida.

"We have so many grocery stores that I always wonder how they all stay in businesses. Most of them in the expat area are located on the same road. We have Walmart and Sams, as well as many others. We have small organic market once a week," commented one expat who moved to Playa Del Carmen, Mexico.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Mexico?

"The process of applying for a visa in Mexico depends on the type of visa you require. Generally speaking, you will need to submit a visa application form, photographs, your passport, a valid return ticket, and the required visa fee to the Mexican consulate. Additionally, depending on the type of visa you are applying for, you may have to provide additional documentation such as a proof of address, a medical certificate, documentation of sufficient funds, employment records, and proof of relationship to a Mexican citizen. The process of applying for Mexico residency is slightly more involved and documented evidence will often be required from you. In most cases, an application will be required that contains your personal information, orientation for the request, and a copy of your passport. Additionally, you will need to submit evidence of sufficient financial resources, proof of accommodation in Mexico, a medical certificate, a criminal background check, and proof that you have been a resident of Mexico for at least two years. After submitting the application and the required documentation, you will be called for an interview and your documents will be verified. Finally, after being approved, you can collect your residency card," commented one expat who moved to Mexico.

"It has been over 3 years since we went through the process at the Seattle Consulate. They were very specific and they looked at our investment income with social security AND our savings accounts. We provided 2 years of statements downloaded from the brokerage house as well as deposits into our accounts from income. We knew that we would qualify for PR status so it was a breeze. There was no mention about notarization of downloaded documents but we were well organized and made it easier for them. I am unsure about future income from work since we were both retired, but I would think it will be more difficult to convince them that you will have ongoing income from work unless you provide a letter from HR or some other source that shows that you will continue to have income while residing in MX. The best method is to go fully prepared to show your financial qualifications absolutely meet or exceed their requirements," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Mexico?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Mexico can be expensive, depending on what type of services or coverage you require. Health insurance is typically more expensive for expatriates living in Mexico than it is for citizens. Generally, Doctor's visits and treatments cost less than they do in other countries and prescription medications are relatively inexpensive; however, the fees for specialized treatments and procedures can be quite high. Additionally, even if you are insured under a Mexican health insurance policy, you may still be required to pay a portion of the cost for certain treatments, procedures and medications," commented one expat living in Mexico.

"I do not have medical insurance here in Mexico. And, most of my Dr's do not accept insurance anyway. Office visits, and hospital care are 1/5th the cost of USA and much better. In office appointments are usually an hour long instead of the 15 minute flyby of USA. Few Specialist have nurses. They do their own scheduling," remarked one expat living in Queretaro City and Tequisquiapan.

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