Merida, Mexico

What do I need to know about living in Merida?

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

"Before deciding to retire in Merida it is important for expats to consider the cost of living, safety, healthcare options, language level, cultural norms, and the need for a visa. Additionally, it pays to get to know the city prior to settling in, as well as researching the availability of quality housing and neighborhoods. As with any move to a new location, understanding the local customs and laws can help expats better integrate into the city. Finally, it is important to note that Merida is a very affordable place to live which makes it an attractive spot for retirees, but it pays to keep a watchful eye on the exchange rate of the Mexican Peso," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"We chose Merida over Tulum, Cancun and all of the of the primarily tourist destinations in MX. There are a thousand cities each unique. I would not live in Tulum for the dame reason I would not choose to live in San Diego. We live in a quiet Mexican suburb, have access to the beach (many) in 20-30 min, Have all the conveniences that we would have in a city of 1 mil. people. Many whine about the heat in Merida, but with 5 minutes of research you know what the weather is month in and month out. As a beautiful historic city Merida is a dream at least for us. The city is feeling it's growing pains but the people and culture are a delight. We (I) recently had occasion to undergo an emergency cardiac procedure here and spent time with multiple specialists, most spoke English well, at the costs were much lower than expected; the technology and care was exceptional. Tulum, to me at least, is not what I want; neither is anywhere near there like Cancun Playa del Carmen, Akumal, etc. A little like trying to have a quiet normal life in the FL Keys," said one expat in Merida.

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What do I need to know before moving to Merida?

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

"Moving to Merida can be an exciting adventure, but there are a few things expats should consider before relocating. Knowing the language is essential for expats who want to settle in Merida, so it is recommended to start learning Spanish before arrival. As the city is located in a tropical climate, expats should be prepared for hot and humid weather. Security is also an important topic for people relocating to Merida, so researching safety policies and guidelines can be beneficial. It is also helpful to find out the quality of healthcare available before arriving and bring along any necessary medications," remarked one expat who made the move to Merida.

"Inalambrica is a nice area, close to a lot of parks and easy access to centro and the main market, there is a huge sports facility nearby too (Complejo deportivo Inalámbrica). Would not assume that because it is not near a main road means that it is quiet, all neighborhoods have bus routes that run through them and some streets are heavily used for short cuts or in this case to get to the Deportiva. There is no zoning laws like the US so the house could be next to a restaurant or business. I would recommend at least renting for 6 months to get a real feel for the place," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

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How do I find a place to live in Merida?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"I live in a large furnished studio with good sized kitchen with pantry (full size appliances), true dining area (room for 6-8) living area with sofa, coffee table and 2 chairs and nice sized bedroom area. It has a yard with parking and outside dining and is fully air conditioned. It's actually the ground floor of a 2 story house so it's larger than most studios IME. Including my power, water, garbage, gas and WIFI, it's under $400 USD per month. Outside my front door is a park and 2 more parks are within 3 blocks in opposite directions. It's a great neighborhood away from downtown but still has every kind of business within a 5 minute walk. A really nice mall is 2.4 miles away and it's dog-friendly! I've lived in 3 different neighborhoods in Merida, Yucatan, Mexico including Centro and this is by far my favorite! FYI, my AC runs 24/7/365. It's clean, quite, walkable and has green spaces," wrote a member in Merida.

"Merida is made up of the Centro area (downtown) and then many different neighborhoods which are called colonies and Fracc's. We were told by a realtor that many expats move to the North Merida area, which is nice and very safe with many stores and restaurants. He said anything above Calle 59 is good. We ended up finding a place in a small neighborhood called San Pedro Uxmal. I don't think there are many expats there, but the home had everything we wanted and the price was good. We are very happy there," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Merida?

"We rented a 3 BR/3 Bath home. It is very modern and has a small front yard and a beautiful back yard with a pool. It is 2 stories. We also have a terrace overlooking the back yard and a sunny roof top overlooking the front of the house. The house has a large wall around it and an electric gate in the front which is very nice for our 2 dogs and 2 cats. They can go in and out as they please," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"A renovated colonial stone house, about 100 years old. And it's very typical of the expats around here," wrote one member in Merida.

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What is the average cost of housing in Merida?

If you are thinking about moving to Merida, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Merida can vary depending on size, location and amenities. Generally, rent for an average one-bedroom apartment will range from about $300 to $500 USD a month, and three-bedroom apartments can start at around $500 USD a month. Prices for more upscale, luxurious housing can be higher," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

"My husband found a two bedroom one bath house in Pensiones neighborhood in Merida Yucatan for about $35,000 USD. It needs another $10k in upgrades or remodeling but it is a cute home and would be great. The rents here are all over the place. But a huge home with a lot of amenities unfurnished in my neighborhood (4 bedrooms or 5 with three bathrooms and so on? Goes for $14,000 Mexican pesos a month. About $675 or $700 USD give or take," remarked one expat living in Mexico.

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How do I meet people in Merida?

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

"There are numerous clubs and activities which expats in Merida can join. For example, they can join running groups and meet with other expats who run around the city, or they can join book clubs, photography clubs and art clubs. Other activities that expats can participate in include language exchanges, team sports, annual music and film festivals, salsa dancing and wine-tasting nights. Additionally, there are cultural events such as visiting the city's many plazas and markets, where expats can meet people and connect with the local community. Expats can also make new friends through joining online forums, attending language classes and even visiting local industry leaders in the area. Finally, networking events, such as tech and startup events, are a great way for expats to connect with the local business community," said one expat in Merida.

"Definitely look up the two Merida Expat groups on Facebook before you come. Get acquainted with what goes on, advice for newcomers, how to find things, and, most importantly, introduce yourself and tell when you are coming. There is a breakfast club here, a monthly meet and greet, a bowling league, etc. FB has an activities calendar. I immediately went to several events within my 2nd week here," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

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What should I bring when moving to Merida?

People living in Merida were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:

"When moving to Merida, it's important to pack comfortable clothing, such as shorts and t-shirts for warm weather as well as some warmer clothing for the cooler spring months and occasional cool nights. Make sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat, and other UV protective gear to help protect you from the sun. Bring some lightweight rain gear, such as a poncho and waterproof shoes, in case of a tropical rain shower. Pack your favorite books, music, and other forms of entertainment to help you settle in and get to know Merida. Consider bringing kitchen supplies such as pots, pans, and tableware, to help you fill your new home with the comforts of your own cooking. Finally, don't forget to bring along an open mind and sense of adventure to help you get the most out of your experience in Merida," wrote a member in Merida.

"My husband and I were told by the shipper that once we have a Merida address that our items will be shipped to our door within a few days. We have been here for almost a month and we have found that our items are still in Miami!! We were also told that our items cannot be sent from Miami until my husband gets his Temporary Resident card (which he applied for, but we have been told that it will take approximately a month to get it). Once he has the card, then they will schedule the items to be sent and it takes 10 days to go across the Gulf of Mexico and then a few days to go through Customs. So at this rate, we will be lucky if we have our items for the New Year and we have been in Mexico since October 27th. Please be warned about this and make sure that you get everything in writing. We did and we are still having issues. We wish we would have all our items that we shipped and have not found anything that we had wished we left yet," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

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Where should I setup a bank account in Merida?

We asked expats in Merida what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:

"Before retiring in Merida, expats should be aware that the city is very different from many other places popular with retirees. It is important to ensure that one's current passport and visa are in order, as the Mexican government sets strict requirements for expats. Additionally, healthcare in Merida is different than that found in more developed countries, so expats should research and familiarize themselves with their medical care options in their new home. An average budget should also be created before the move to cover relocation expenses, rent and the cost of living. Finally, it is important to learn the basics of Spanish, both to communicate more easily with the locals and also to be able to read warning signs, understand directions, and access local services in the language," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

"As far as I know, there is no "expat-focused" bank here. Banamex is owned by Citibank, and many of the other banks are owned by US banks. We have accounts at Banamex and Inbursa (a Mexican bank owned by Carlos Slim, the richest man in Mexico and the owner of Telmex, among other things). We used to have an account at Scotiabank but found them too old-fashioned and slow. Even so, Banamex's online banking can be terrifically confusing. But at least its there," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

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Will I be able to find a job in Merida?

When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Merida, they reponded:

"Foreigners living in Merida often find work in positions such as teaching English, working in hotels or resorts, doing digital marketing, working in or opening a store or cafe, or providing administrative support. Other types of jobs that expats may find in Merida include construction, taxi driving, blogging, conducting tours, or working in the real estate market," said one expat in Merida.

"Manufacturing, construction and power are the main industries of Merida. Of course, it is the capital of the Yucatan region, so tourism is very active here as well. I am a retiree so am not in the job market. I will say that you can work here as a foreigner but need special permission on your visa, as most countries protect their jobs for their citizens. A great way to work is invest in opening a business," said one expat who made the move to Merida.

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What is life like in Merida?

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

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Merida is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy the city's many attractions, such as its colonial architecture, vibrant nightlife, and numerous outdoor activities. The city also offers a wide range of international cuisine, making it easy for expats and digital nomads to find food that suits their tastes. Additionally, the city is well-connected to other parts of Mexico and the world, making it easy to travel to and from Merida. All in all, Merida is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads looking for a vibrant and affordable place to live," explained one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"That is a broad question to answer. I have lived in 2 other Central American countries and will say they focus a lot more on family than we do in the USA. Merida is by far more sophisticated than where I've lived before, is a wealthier city than I've lived in before. I would expect the proximity to the US has affected values, although the Yucatan retains much Mayan culture, different than the rest of Mexico," said one expat in Merida.

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What do expats in Merida appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Merida appreciate the warmth of the locals and the strong sense of community that exists in the city. They are also drawn to the city's rich cultural heritage, vibrant art and music scenes, and the abundance of colorful markets and traditional festivals. Merida is also known for its delicious regional cuisine, from street food to award-winning restaurants. Its mild climate and easy access to the nearby coast and Yucatan Peninsula make Merida a great place to live, work and explore," wrote a member in Merida.

"They are family oriented, like inviting you places to do fun activities and they like to celebrate dates with a lot of joy. Also the laid back lifestyle compared to big cities in the states. I also love to see the traditions being kept up and honored. And I like seeing my son speak Spanish beautifully. I like everything. The architecture, the art, the music, the dancing and the literature and the people telling me their life stories," commented one expat who made the move to Merida.

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What do expats find most challenging?

"I think language is the main challenge. Originally, we were going to move to Playa del Carmen where many of the Mexicans speak English as it is a tourist town. We changed plans and moved to Merida and have found that the majority of Mexicans do not speak English, so it is definitely a challenge daily!," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

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Is there a lot of crime in Merida?

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

"Merida is generally considered to be a safe city. However, like many other large cities, there are reports of petty theft and other crime. The areas most susceptible to crime are often tourist destinations, so it is important to always use caution when visiting and familiarize yourself with safety tips. It also advisable to not carry large sums of money or valuable items, and to exercise extra caution during the evening and late-night hours. Overall, Merida remains a safe and enjoyable destination for travelers," wrote one member in Merida.

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

"Merida is a culturally-rich city full of diversity. There is a wide variety of people's backgrounds and nationalities living in Merida, including indigenous people, descendants of Spanish settlers, immigrants from other Latin American countries, and Europeans. People living in Merida are generally respectful of others and accept people of different backgrounds, customs, and beliefs. People from diverse cultures support each other and collaborate in achieving meaningful goals," remarked one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"This city is huge and very diverse. It's kind of a melting pot of different peoples and lifestyles. For example, the north part of town is completely modern, with buildings and homes that look very stark with linear architecture. The newer malls are also there. Other colonias range from old, historic structures to a mixture. I live in Campestre, which is one of the more quiet, residential parts but still has plenty of stores and shops and is only 6 miles from Centro (downtown). There is also Uptown, which has its own vibe. So, depending on what you like and how much noise and people you like to be around, there is a colonia for everyone and all get along and are friendly and welcoming," wrote one member in Merida.

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What are the schools in Merida like?

"Merida is home to some of the best international schools and bilingual schools in theworld. Colegio Americano de Merida is one of the top international schools in Merida, and it focuses on providing a rigorous academic program with a wide range of extra-curricular activities and sports, as well as a range of different languages and cultures. The bilingual school Perspectiva School provides a bilingual education and is widely known for its excellent academic programs and for providing students with knowledge and understanding of different cultures. The Lionbridge School of Merida is renowned for its top quality language teaching and its emphasis on international understanding and collaboration. Finally, Elisabeth y Honorato International School is known for its commitment to developing bilingual and multicultural global citizens. All of these schools provide a high level of education, with a wide range of enrichment activities and resources," commented one expat when asked about in Merida.

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What are the pros and cons of living in Merida?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Merida responded:

"One thing that expats and digital nomads tend to like about living in Merida is the city's vibrant culture and unique local customs. Expats particularly enjoy the city's plentiful outdoor activities, such as exploring the Yucatan Peninsula's ancient Mayan ruins, snorkeling in the coral reefs, and biking along stunning trails. Additionally, the affordable cost of living is a major plus for most expats and digital nomads. On the downside, the heat in Merida can be intense and some expats may find the locals very friendly but also too nosy. Additionally, the fast pace of life in Merida can sometimes overwhelm expats who are used to a more relaxed, laid-back lifestyle," said one expat living in Merida.

"The only thing I do not like about anywhere in Mexico is the racism toward white people. I deal with it every day. However, it is the poor, uneducated, unsophisticated people, who are ignorant who do this. Racism is not that much of a problem in Central America like it is in Mexico. Or any other countries I have traveled to. But Mexico is the worst for it," mentioned one expat inMerida.

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What type of social life can someone expect in Merida?

When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Merida, they replied:

"Expats, retirees and digital nomads living in Merida, often enjoy an active and varied social life. With a large population of expats and retirees from around the world, it is not hard to find a group of peers to enjoy the many activities that Merida has to offer. Due to the warm climate and low cost of living, many digital nomads have chosen to make Merida their home, creating vibrant communities and work hubs within the city. Social events such as movies, salsa dancing, or music concerts are regularly organized, offering plenty of opportunities to meet new people and make friends. Neighbourhood parks also provide great meeting places to catch up with new acquaintances. With its hospitable locals and friendly expat community, Merida makes it easy to blend in and feel at home," mentioned one expat inMerida.

"I have wonderful Expat friends from the US and Canada, and Mexican friends. I am no longer seeking a relationship with a man as I like traveling and living alone," commented one expat who moved to Merida, Mexico.

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"The expat communities are too compartmentalized for us. We came for cultural experience. We have no English speaking neighbors, and that is fine with us," mentioned one expat inMerida.

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What advice to expats in Merida have about housing?

"We purchased immediately, did our homework and are absolutely happy with our decision," commented one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

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What are medical services in Merida like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Merida, they replied:

"Merida offers excellent medical services. The healthcare system is well-regarded and includes both private and public hospitals, as well as many specialized medical centers. Patients in Merida are well taken care of, and can expect prompt attention and quality care from knowledgeable professionals. Many medical establishments in Merida also offer a wide range of modern technology and diagnostic equipment, so visitors can be sure to receive treatment at the highest standards," said an expat in Merida.

"I had two routine check up procedures at Clinica Merida, and they were done very professionally and excellent at a low cost. Merida has two medical schools for doctors so health care in Merida is excellent," remarked one expat in Merida.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Merida?

"Medicare and supplements are only of use within the US except for certain life threatening emergencies when traveling. If you have substantial financial resources and a high respect for the health services in major cities you can pay for private care. Most insurance in MX will not cover preexisting conditions and the premiums are out of reach, especially for people over 70 or so. Staying connected with doctors and hospitals in the US is the most logical thing for us, we make several trips a year to see our doctors but are prepared to pay for care here in MX as needed," mentioned an expat living in Merida.

"If you are planning on gettin a permanent recidency visa you could look into getting in the public insurance program, I think it is called IMSS, but they have a long list of pre existing conditions and some of those take years to expire, in other words if you do not have the conditions, but get it in a set amout of time, it will not be cover, you do have to pay a yearly fee but it would be cheaper than private. I think your best option would be to live close to the border and cover any minor issues out of pocket and cross to the US for anything major, there are medifvac insurance programs that you can look into," said an expat in Merida.

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Is the cost of living in Merida high?

We asked people about the cost of living in Merida, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Merida is considerably lower than in the United States. Living expenses, such as rent, food, and recreation, are much less expensive in Merida. Rent for a nice one bedroom apartment in Merida is typically around 300-400 USD per month, while rent for a nice two bedroom apartment often costs around 500-600 USD per month. Eating out in Merida can be quite affordable; a dinner at a moderately priced restaurant may cost around 10-15 USD per person," commented one expat living in Merida, Mexico.

"The rents here are low for now. As more people discover the richness Merida offers, I know that they will increase, but for right now, you can get a very nice apartment or rental home for a fraction of what you'd pay in the USA. My advice is if you like it here, buy sooner rather than later (very carefully). Local food is very cheap and imports are what they are," remarked one expat living in Merida.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Merida?

"In order to get a visa to visit Merida, visitors must apply for a visa with the Mexican Embassy or Consulate serving their home country or place of residence. The visa must be obtained before arriving in Mexico and is required in order to enter the country. To apply for a visa, travelers must provide a valid passport, complete a visa application form, provide two passport-size photographs, and pay the applicable visa fee. In order to be eligible for legal residency in Mexico, you must first obtain a temporary residence visa, which is renewable each year. To apply for a temporary residence visa, you must provide proof of your identity and nationality, a valid passport and two passport-size photographs, copies of all your documents, paperwork proving that you have enough funds to sustain yourself during your stay, and documents proving that you have family or business ties in Mexico. Once you have submitted these documents, you must wait for approval before traveling to Mexico. Once you arrive in Mexico, you must register with the National Immigration Institute before you can obtain your residency permit. This permit is renewable every two years," commented one expat who moved to Merida.

"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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Why do people move to Merida?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Merida, they responded:

"Merida is an attractive destination for expats due to its affordable cost of living, vibrant culture, and year-round warm climate. The city is known for its cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, and picturesque plazas, providing a quaint atmosphere to explore. Additionally, locals are incredibly welcoming, offering expats the opportunity to form lasting friendships. Merida's proximity to the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of Mexico, and a wealth of Mayan sites further add to its appeal. With its charming atmosphere, an array of activities to take part in, and a laid-back way of life, Merida is a great choice for ex-pats looking to experience something new," remarked one expat living in Merida.

"Oh, my, where do I start? This is my 4th country and I am here to stay! Merida has surpassed my expectations- it is a large city, with many different neighborhoods to choose from, each with their own separate, distinct vibe. Activities are everywhere- every night a park holds a free event. Centro is hopping on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The shopping is first class, many very nice new malls, and restaurants are everywhere, for every price range. Most of all for me is the culture- there are so many fine museums and homes to tour that I have made a list so that I don't forget any. And then there's the cenotes to swim or dive in, found nowhere else but the Yucatan, and the Mayan ruins nearby," said one expat living in Merida.

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