Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Feb 10, 2024

Summary: The pros of living in Mexico include the warm climate, the vibrant culture, the delicious cuisine, and the friendly people. Additionally, the cost of living is generally lower than in other countries, making it an attractive option for those looking to stretch their budget. On the other hand, the cons of living in Mexico include the high crime rate in some areas, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the language barrier for those who don't speak Spanish. Additionally, the healthcare system is not as advanced as in other countries, and the infrastructure is often lacking.

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

What are the pros and cons of living in Mexico?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Mexico responded:

"I've never experienced any racism by Mexicans towards white people. But I've seen PLENTY of racist white people treating Mexicans poorly. Maybe try treating them with a little respect and courtesy. In my experience, Mexican people are warm and kind and good. If you go to Mexico and get mad at the locals for not speaking English, you should GO HOME," remarked one expat in Merida.

"Working class Mexicans live in Mazatlán too so there are some cheap accommodations available provided you are OK with such locations and lifestyle, none of which have an ocean view," explained one expat in Mazatlan.

"Expats and digital nomads often appreciate the affordability of living in Mexico, as well as the warm climate and friendly people. They also enjoy the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and the wide variety of activities available. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads may find the language barrier and bureaucracy to be challenging. Additionally, the lack of reliable public transportation and infrastructure can be a source of frustration," said one expat in Mexico.

"San Carlos, Sonora. It is still in the 'free zone' and 3 hours from US at Nogales. Tucson is then close for a larger town. Many gringos leave in the summer but this is a vacation destination for the mid to upper class Mexicans. Weekends and summer is busy here with those on holiday. There are many gift shop who maybe you could sell to until and if you got a status to have a business location. Costco 1 hour away in Hermosillo. Hot and humid in summer like all locations on the water. It is said 70% snowbird north in the summer. I have no problems with the heat. Finding a place that has it all does not exist or everyone would only live there. Prioritize is the key," remarked one expat in San Carlos.

"The high humidity produces the famed "city of flowers" of which the state capital Xalapa, 4 miles away, boasts but also leads to a runny nose. I have found work-arounds and would not trade the beauty of the natural world for anything. It's hard to see children begging. Street repair is ignored. Traffic is heavy at high-use times. Adjusting has been remarkably easy," explained one expat living in Coatepec.

Answer Question & View More Answers

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico
Connect

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.
Connect

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

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.

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

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

Welcome Home MexicoWelcome Home Mexico

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

Contribute to Mexico Network Contribute
Help others in Mexico by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Mexico.

Welcome Home Mexico
Welcome Home Mexico

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal