Rosarito, Mexico
Rosarito, Mexico
Last updated on Mar 10, 2023
Summary: The approximate population of Rosarito, Mexico is around 150,000 people. People describe Rosarito as a vibrant beach town with a laid-back atmosphere. Expats love the affordability of living in Rosarito, as well as the close proximity to the beach and the vibrant nightlife. The weather in Rosarito is generally mild, with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. The average cost of living in Rosarito for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month. The cost of a one bedroom apartment is around $400 to $600 per month, and a two bedroom apartment is around $500 to $800 per month.
What do I need to know about living in Rosarito?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rosarito, they said:
"Expats in Rosarito should have a basic understanding of Spanish as English is not widely spoken. Rosarito is relatively inexpensive compared to other locations, so retirees on a budget may find it attractive. It is important to research the immigration regulations for retirement visas for Mexico before making the move. It is advised to arrange for healthcare prior to arriving, as public healthcare in Mexico may not be extensive or reliable. Additionally, having a reliable source of income to cover expenses is important. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the culture of Rosarito to ensure you feel comfortable and can adapt as an expat," commented one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
"There are many people from the USA, Canada and Europe have visited Mexico, love it and have considered relocation. Many visitors also spend their Mexico trip to the top resort areas at the best time of year to be there. This being the winter months. The down season is usually from May through October and the top resort areas are ghost towns. Reason for this is the abysmal heat and humidity. I once spent a month in Mazatlan in August. Mazatlan is just the start of the tropics and the heat and high humidity were abysmal and almost impossible to tolerate. Even walking a short distance can be very unpleasant as are the temperatures that can top 120 degree with 98% humidity. The only tolerable place to be are inside with the air conditioning on high. I love and visit the tropical areas yet only in the winter. I live in the South area of Rosarito Beach, Baja California. Year round climate is beautiful. Never too hot or cold. Winters are very mild and similar to San Diego, Ca. I have friends in Rosarito that spend their summers here and winters in the tropics. Living in the tropics is most certainly not the ideal area for most people. Even the locals hate the low seasons. I have not seen this topic get a lot of attention here yet what I have said is absolutely true," remarked one expat living in Mexico.
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What do I need to know before moving to Rosarito?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Rosarito, they said:
"There are many expats living in Northern Baja. Playas Tijuana, Rosarito and Ensenada areas. Some bought their property, some rent while they are looking for the right place. If people are new to the area, I usually mention that renting for the 1st year is best. This of course is to make sure that living in this area would be a good idea. Most end up with positive views on this and either buy or rent," commented one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
"Take several house hunting stay vacations. Have a established realtor. Mover, Laurel at Sullivan Moving in San Diego knew process and made a difficult move easy and had tremendous information," remarked one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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How do I find a place to live in Rosarito?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"Several trips going to different complexes, at different times of day and getting good referral of long time real estate agent. Mover knew a great deal about pluses of areas also," explained one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Rosarito?
"Expat homes or apartments in Rosarito typically come in a variety of styles, ranging from modern high-rise condos to beachfront houses. Most expats in Rosarito provide their own furniture, linens, and appliances, although some properties may include basic furniture and appliances. Because Rosarito is close to the ocean, many expat homes feature balconies and terraces overlooking the ocean. Expats in Rosarito also have access to local amenities such as supermarkets, pharmacies, and restaurants," said one expat in Rosarito.
What is the average cost of housing in Rosarito?
If you are thinking about moving to Rosarito, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"We lust bought a small (1400sqft) house in Rosarito for $325,000. Not much inventory so if are ready to buy you can't be real picky. The 2 places we really wanted to see sold the day before we got there. New house built in 2019, nice furniture & long range ocean view," wrote a member in Mexico.
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How do I meet people in Rosarito?
When we asked people living in Rosarito about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"Expats in Rosarito may join meet-up groups and expat clubs to connect with people from similar backgrounds. Additionally, connecting with the local Mexican community through cultural events and volunteering are also popular ways for expats to meet people. Online forums and social media groups can also be a great way to connect with other expats living in Rosarito. Different areas in Rosarito also have restaurants, bars, and cafes where people can socialize and meet people from all over the world. Finally, expats in Rosarito can make use of the many beaches and parks in the area to engage in activities and connect with new people," explained one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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What should I bring when moving to Rosarito?
People living in Rosarito were asked what three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They wrote:
"Pack comfortable clothes appropriate for warm weather, including shorts, sandals, swimming suits, sunglasses, and a hat. Bring items that you require on a daily basis such as toiletries, a basic first aid kit, and medication. Make sure to bring your important documents such as your passport and visa paperwork. It is also important to have a phone and basic electronics with the right voltage. Bring items such as a Spanish language dictionary, a guidebook, and maps to help you navigate your new environment. If you will have a car, make sure to bring some basic mechanical tools. Finally, don’t forget to bring small but meaningful items from home to help make your new place feel like home," wrote a member in Rosarito.
"Wish I brought patio furniture, bikes and water maker. Wish I had not brought China, so many books and knickknacks," commented one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
Where should I setup a bank account in Rosarito?
We asked expats in Rosarito what banks they use and there advice about banking. They advised:
"It is important for expats to research Mexican residency and visa requirements before retiring in Rosarito. They should also consider the cost of living in the area, and make sure to obtain health insurance, as the quality of medical care in the region may not be the same as what they are used to. It is a good idea to familiarize with local laws, customs, and cultures, as well as get to know the people in the community. Additionally, it is important to familiarize with local transportation options and the overall infrastructure of the city. Expats should also make sure to learn some Spanish, as it will be enormously helpful when interacting with locals and navigating through Mexican culture," remarked one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
Will I be able to find a job in Rosarito?
When we asked people about industries and career opportunities in Rosarito, they reponded:
"Foreigners in Rosarito often find work in the hospitality industry, such as hotels and resorts, as well as in restaurants and bars. Other popular job opportunities include retail work, teaching English and providing administrative assistance. Additionally, many expats find work in construction, landscaping, and other manual jobs. With the presence of so many foreign companies in the area, consulting and business-related roles often provide highly-paid employment," wrote a member in Rosarito.
What is life like in Rosarito?
When we asked people living in Rosarito what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"Life for expats and digital nomads in Rosarito is generally quite pleasant. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and friendly locals. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of activities to enjoy, from surfing and swimming to exploring the nearby towns and villages. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The city also offers a wide range of amenities, including modern shopping centers, restaurants, and bars. With its close proximity to the US border, Rosarito is an ideal destination for those looking to experience the best of both worlds," remarked one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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What do expats in Rosarito appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Rosarito appreciate the friendly and welcoming atmosphere of the city. The people of Rosarito embrace the warm hospitality of their neighbors and are incredibly generous with their time and resources. Expats also appreciate the vibrant cultural heritage of Rosarito with its colorful street art, traditional cuisine, and rich music and dance. Lastly, expats enjoy the breathtaking beaches and stunning blue waters of the Sea of Cortez, which provide endless recreational opportunities," commented one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
"The family orientation of the Mexico people, the way the kids behave themselves when they are out on family events," remarked one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expatriates in Rosarito often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of adapting to the local culture. The cultural divide between the foreign nationals and Mexican nationals can also be difficult to bridge, as local customs, expectations and values may vary considerably. Additionally, expats may find the local bureaucracy and paperwork to be daunting and inefficient. The cost of living in Rosarito can also be a barrier for expats, depending on the individual budget. Finally, expatriates often find the heat, limited public transportation and the sparse nightlife options to be difficult to adjust to," said one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
Is there a lot of crime in Rosarito?
We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:
"Crime levels vary in Rosarito. While certain parts of the city tend to suffer from higher rates of crime, there are also safer areas that are less affected. The city experiences bouts of drug cartel-related violence, with some criminal activity including robberies and car hijackings. Rosarito's police department works hard to monitor and combat the problem. Overall, though, most visitors and residents can feel relatively safe when traveling in and around the city, so long as they take the necessary precautions and remain aware of their surroundings," commented one expat who made the move to Rosarito.
Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Rosarito accepting of differences?
"Rosarito is a city with a diverse mix of cultures and beliefs. Many people of different backgrounds and origins, such as Mexicans, Americans, Africans, and Asians, can be found in Rosarito. There is also a variety of religious beliefs, including Catholicism, Evangelism, and Protestantism, among other denominations. Generally, people in Rosarito are accepting of differences and most residents of the city value and celebrate the city's culturally diverse population," explained one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
"There are also Churches of most denominations and also Churches geared for Americans," said one expat in Rosarito.
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What are the schools in Rosarito like?
"The international schools and bilingual schools in Rosarito range in quality and span a variety of educational focuses. The Colegio Bilingüe Inglesano Americano (COBIAA) is one such school. Established in 1990, COBIAA strives to provide an international-style education while anchored in the cultural identity of Baja California. The school offers English, Spanish and French language instruction, as well as speciality classes like art and music. The school boasts an impressive student body of around 400 students, many of whom are developing into bilingual, bicultural citizens. The Academia M.I.T. International Bilingual School is another excellent international and bilingual school in Rosarito. This school program offers experiences and understanding to students, as well as encourages analytical thinking, creative and practical problem solving, and critical self-appraisal. It also strives to provide students with the opportunity to express themselves initially and descriptively, in English and Spanish, as independently and confidently as possible. The school also offers speciality classes such as Chinese and robotics, as well as an outdoor bilingual program where students get to explore national parks and nearby beaches. Not to be overlooked, the Frankfurt International School provides a variety of language instruction in English, German, and Spanish. The school relies on a progressive yet diverse learning environment providing a stimulating cumulative experience for each student. This model focuses on internationalism, globalism, and interculturalism and seeks to develop students into well-balanced, globally-minded citizens. Furthermore, their kindergarten and pre-primary programs provide excellent preparation for children beginning their education," remarked one parent with kids at in Rosarito.
What are the pros and cons of living in Rosarito?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Rosarito responded:
"Expats and digital nomads like the affordable cost of living in Rosarito, and the fact that it has plenty of modern infrastructure to support digital nomads. They also appreciate the easy access to the beach and the close proximity to the border with the USA, making it a convenient place to travel to and from. Those who can understand Spanish, or who learn it, also love the friendly locals and the welcoming atmosphere in Rosarito. On the other hand, digital nomads may not appreciate the lack of diversity in terms of food, shops, and services available; some also find the language barrier difficult to overcome. Noise from large developments, including high-rise buildings, can also be difficult for some. The crime rate in some parts of Rosarito can also be a concern for expats," remarked one expat in Rosarito.
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What type of social life can someone expect in Rosarito?
When we asked expats and global nomads about their social experiences in Rosarito, they replied:
"Expats, retirees, and digital nomads in Rosarito, typically have very active social lives. Expats often form networks with other expats in the area, meet-up for meals and happy hours, enjoy BBQs and movie nights, and participate in other activities like bicycling, surfing, and kayaking. Retirees often join various clubs, such as the local English-language conversation group, or the women’s bridge club, and also become involved with the local charitable organizations. Digital nomads often take advantage of co-working spaces and networking events to meet other digital nomads or people in the tech industry. In addition to all of this, foreigners in Rosarito benefit from a multicultural community that hosts a variety of events and festivals, such as the annual Rosarito Beach Beach Fest and Carnaval," said one expat.
"The social scene in Rosarito is lively and vibrant. It's a great place to meet locals and travelers alike. From beachside bars and clubs to quaint cafes and restaurants, there's something for everyone in this lively beachside town. The mornings are typically spent at the beach, the afternoons exploring the unique shops and markets, and the evenings drinking and dancing in the local cantinas. Rosarito is a culturally diverse place and provides endless possibilities for socializing and making new friends," said one expat.
What advice to expats in Rosarito have about housing?
"Expats in Rosarito advise potential renters to research Rosarito’s neighborhoods before making a decision on a housing option, as areas vary significantly in crime rate, infrastructure, and affordability. It is important to also inspect the house thoroughly before signing a lease, as maintenance may be lacking in some rentals. Additionally, expats recommend speaking with other expats to learn more about the neighborhoods and local resources. Finally, expats advise considering rental properties with a physical address, reliable utilities, and safe and secure locks," mentioned one expat inRosarito.
What are medical services in Rosarito like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Rosarito, they replied:
"Medical services in Rosarito are provided by a variety of medical professionals, including doctors, nurses, and dentists. Many of the local medical services are highly regarded and many of the doctors are bilingual, speaking both English and Spanish. Hospitals in the area are modern and well-equipped and most are accredited by the Mexican government. Additionally, many private clinics in the area specialize in cosmetic surgery and offer quality services at an affordable price. For those wishing to access specialized medical care, Rosarito also has top-notch medical centers with doctors and specialists from many countries. Most private clinics accept major international insurance plans and offer services at competitive prices," said one expat living in Rosarito.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Rosarito?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Rosarito can vary in cost depending on where one seeks care, but in general they are usually much more affordable than they would be in other countries. Private health providers offer lower rates than public hospitals, and smaller co-pays and additional out-of-pocket costs than in the US or Canada. Public health insurance plans are also available, and they provide a lower monthly premium plan than private ones while still providing good coverage. For those without health insurance, medical visits are usually much cheaper than in other countries, thanks to looser regulations on the cost of services," commented one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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Is the cost of living in Rosarito high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Rosarito, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Rosarito is generally lower than what you would find in other cities around the world. Generally, a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Rosarito, Mexico will cost around $550-$650 per month in US Dollars, and a nice 2 bedroom apartment will cost around $850-$1000 per month in US Dollars. Eating at a moderately priced restaurant for dinner, the average cost a person would pay is around $12-15 US dollars," wrote one expat living in Rosarito.
What are the visa & residency requirements in Rosarito?
"Visitors to Rosarito must obtain a visa in order to enter the country. The most common visa to obtain is known as a visitor's permit, which is generally valid for a period of six months. In order to apply for a visitor's permit, applicants must provide a valid passport, along with a completed application form and payment of application fees. Applying for residency in Rosarito is a multi-step process. First, applicants must submit application materials, including a valid passport, proof of financial resources, a medical exam and the signed applications for Immigration. Applicants must also pay the applicable fees in order to process the request. After submission, the application is reviewed by the Mexican government and applicants may be required to attend an interview to prove the validity of the submitted materials. If all the application materials are approved, the Mexican government will issue a residency card for the duration of the stay in Rosarito," mentioned one expat inRosarito.
Why do people move to Rosarito?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Rosarito, they responded:
"Rosarito offers a unique lifestyle for expats looking to explore a different culture. With its beautiful beaches, year-round warm weather and laid-back atmosphere, Rosarito has become an attractive destination for expats. The cost of living is low and the local culture is friendly and welcoming. Rosarito offers expats the chance to experience a diverse community, with its mix of local restaurants, shops and attractions. Expats can take advantage of Rosarito's close proximity to both the US and Mexico, allowing for easy access to explore both countries. With its welcoming culture and low cost of living, Rosarito provides a great opportunity for expats looking to experience a different lifestyle," said one expat.
" I am moving to Rosarito in 2025 when my condo will be completed. Reasons are because I live in Las Vegas, Nevada and my son Lives in Carlsbad,CA. I have my first new grandchild there and it is a one hour drive from his door to Rosarito. I just drove to Carlsbad from Vegas yesterday and it was a little over a five hour drive. My second reason is because I will be 65 next April and will still be able to drive to San Diego and use Medicare for my medical needs. I love Mexico, the Mexican people and Mexican food is in my top three foods to eat. The bonus is where else can you buy a brand new ocean front Condo with lot's of amenities on the West coast for less than a million dollars? I was going to move to Puerto Vallarta which I love but it's a flight to the states every time to visit or use medicare. Plus the summer humidity is intense in Vallarta and it's San Diego like weather in Rosarito," commented one expat living in Rosarito, Mexico.
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.
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