Moving to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
Last updated on Feb 11, 2024
Summary: Expats move to San Miguel de Allende, Mexico for its vibrant culture, stunning colonial architecture, and year-round temperate climate. The city is known for its vibrant art and music scene, as well as its many festivals and cultural events. San Miguel de Allende is also a popular destination for retirees, due to its low cost of living and its proximity to the United States. Additionally, the city is home to a large expat community, making it easy for newcomers to make friends and find support.
What do I need to know before moving to San Miguel de Allende?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to San Miguel de Allende, they said:
"Expats should be aware of the language barrier before moving to San Miguel de Allende. Although the locals are friendly and welcoming, knowing at least some Spanish is essential. Expats should also be aware of the high altitude in San Miguel de Allende; at 6,988 feet above sea level, it is especially important to hydrate frequently. Additionally, San Miguel de Allende experiences extreme temperature variations between day and night, so proper clothing to combat the cold nights is necessary. Lastly, be aware that often electrical power and water are unreliable, so it is important to be prepared with back up plans," remarked one expat who made the move to San Miguel de Allende.
"Six months out visit the town have a realtor show you around and see some properties. Learn as much as you can about the various neighborhoods before making a selection," explained one expat living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
How do I find a place to live in San Miguel de Allende?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"There are a few ways to find a place to live in San Miguel de Allende. You can contact a real estate agent to help you find the right place for you. You can search online listings to find available areas and view photos of potential homes. Additionally, you can visit potential homes in person and make sure that they match what you're looking for. You can also ask friends or resources in the area to see if they can point you in the right direction or refer you to someone who can help. Lastly, you can connect with local landlords who have properties available for rent and work out details of a month-to-month or longer lease with them," said one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Miguel de Allende?
"Expat homes in San Miguel de Allende tend to be luxurious, comfortable, and possess all the amenities one needs to live a high quality of life. Many expats choose to purchase homes in this city due to its breathtaking landscape and convenient proximity to nearby cities, providing easy access to all kinds of entertainment, eclectic cuisines, and cultural events. Most homes are equipped with contemporary architecture and many of them boast spacious terraces that overlook the surrounding mountains and cityscape. Expats can also rent beautiful apartments, usually built in colonial-style, that each have a unique character and charm. San Miguel de Allende is also home to many high quality condo developments that provide luxurious living spaces and top-tier infrastructure," said one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
What is the average cost of housing in San Miguel de Allende?
If you are thinking about moving to San Miguel de Allende, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in San Miguel de Allende is generally considered to be relatively high, with prices varying depending on the size and location of the property. However, there are still a variety of housing options available for those with a variety of budgets, from modest apartments starting in the low millions of Mexican pesos to luxurious homes that can cost in the tens of millions," remarked one expat in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Should I buy or rent a home in San Miguel de Allende?
If you have not spent a lot of time in San Miguel de Allende, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Whether you should buy or rent a home depends on your personal circumstances and goals. Buying a home in San Miguel de Allende can be a great long-term investment, as the city's rapidly growing economy and attracting foreigner-friendly lifestyle mean that property values are likely to increase over time. On the other hand, renting in San Miguel de Allende gives you the flexibility to move around if needed, without the entanglement of a long-term commitment or ownership costs. In either case, it is important to research all of the options for housing before you decide, as the benefits and costs will vary depending on your unique situation," replied a member in San Miguel de Allende.
What should I pack when moving to San Miguel de Allende?
We asked people living in San Miguel de Allende to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to San Miguel de Allende, it is important to pack appropriate clothing for the warmer climate. Bring lightweight items such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses as well as light layers such as a cardigan or scarf. Also pack a lightweight raincoat since the city is known to have a wet season. Consider bringing a hat and sunglasses to shield yourself from the sun, especially during the hot summer months. If you plan to explore the nearby mountains and canyons, it might be a good idea to pack sturdy walking shoes, a backpack, and a water bottle. Lastly, remember to bring essential documents, such as your passport and visa, to ensure you are in compliance with Mexican immigration law," commented one expat who made the move to San Miguel de Allende.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in San Miguel de Allende?
We asked people in San Miguel de Allende if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural differences when traveling to San Miguel de Allende. In Mexico, direct eye contact between people of different genders can be considered impolite, so make sure to look away or down when speaking to members of the opposite gender. Avoid making assumptions about an individual's background, beliefs, or lifestyle, which can be considered rude and lead to uncomfortable exchanges. Additionally, be conscious of speaking too loudly or gesturing aggressively, as these behaviors may come off as disrespectful. Lastly, follow local customs when dining out, such as waiting to begin eating until everyone at the table is served," explained one expat living in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.
Why do people move to San Miguel de Allende?
When we asked people why foreigners move to San Miguel de Allende, they responded:
"San Miguel de Allende, has long been a desirable spot for expats looking to experience a new culture and explore an exciting new city. Its vibrant atmosphere, unique character and colorful colonial architecture have made it an attractive destination to many foreigners. The city also boasts a range of amenities including year-round festivals, renowned art galleries, ample restaurants and nightlife, and beautiful weather. Furthermore, San Miguel de Allende is home to a low cost of living, excellent healthcare and a safe and welcoming environment. All of these factors, along with a high quality of life, make San Miguel de Allende an excellent destination for expats looking to start a new adventure abroad," said one expat.
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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.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services San Miguel de Allende?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in San Miguel de Allende, they replied:
"San Miguel de Allende offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as cardiology, orthopedics, and obstetrics. Additionally, there are a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, including family medicine, pediatrics, and dentistry. San Miguel de Allende also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. For those seeking alternative treatments, there are a number of holistic health centers that offer acupuncture, massage, and other natural therapies," wrote one expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
What are medical services in San Miguel de Allende like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in San Miguel de Allende, they replied:
"Expat healthcare insurance for age 60+ is expensive and not great. To me, not worth it. Also Rx pain meds and psych meds extremely expensive & very difficult to legally obtain," remarked one expat in San Miguel de Allende.
"San Miguel de Allende offers a wide range of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has a number of private clinics and hospitals that provide quality care and services. Many of these facilities are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals who are knowledgeable in a variety of medical specialties. Additionally, the city has a number of pharmacies that offer a variety of medications and medical supplies. San Miguel de Allende also has a number of medical tourism companies that offer packages for visitors seeking medical care in the city," wrote one expat living in San Miguel de Allende.
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 San Miguel de Allende?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is the average cost of housing in San Miguel de Allende?
- How do I meet people in San Miguel de Allende?
- What do I need to know before retiring in San Miguel de Allende?
- What should I pack when moving to San Miguel de Allende?
- Where should I setup a bank account in San Miguel de Allende?
- Will I be able to find a job in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about San Miguel de Allende?
- What type of social life can someone expect in San Miguel de Allende?
- What is the social scene like in San Miguel de Allende?
- What advice to expats in San Miguel de Allende have about housing?
- What are medical services in San Miguel de Allende like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in San Miguel de Allende?
- Is the cost of living in San Miguel de Allende high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in San Miguel de Allende?
- Why do people move to San Miguel de Allende?