Cancun, Mexico
Cancun, Mexico
Last updated on Jul 11, 2023
Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Cancun, Mexico: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.
What do I need to know about living in Cancun?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cancun, they said:
"Expats considering retirement in Cancun should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, it's important to understand the cost of living, which is generally lower than in the U.S. or Europe, but can vary depending on lifestyle. Healthcare is also affordable and high-quality, with many doctors and dentists trained in the U.S. or Europe. Understanding the visa requirements is crucial. Most foreigners can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days on a tourist visa, but for a longer stay, you'll need to apply for a temporary or permanent resident visa. It's also important to consider safety. While Cancun is generally safe, like any city, it has areas that are best avoided. Researching and visiting different neighborhoods before deciding where to live is a good idea. Language can be a barrier for some, as not everyone speaks English. Learning basic Spanish or taking a language course can be beneficial. The climate in Cancun is tropical, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. It's also important to note that Cancun is in a hurricane-prone area. Finally, it's worth considering the cultural differences. Mexican culture is rich and vibrant, but it can be a big change from what you're used to. It's important to be open-minded and respectful of local customs and traditions. In terms of housing, there are many options available, from condos to beachfront homes. However, foreign ownership of land in Mexico is subject to certain restrictions, so it's advisable to consult with a local real estate expert or attorney. Lastly, it's important to plan for taxes. Mexico has tax treaties with many countries to avoid double taxation, but it's recommended to consult with a tax professional to understand your obligations," remarked one expat living in Cancun, Mexico.
Interested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes from our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
International Citizens InsuranceInterested in expat health insurance? Take a minute to get quotes from our partner, International Citizens Insurance, a trusted expat health insurance broker. They will provide you with comparison quotes from some of the biggest expat health insurers: Cigna, Allianz, IMG and GeoBlue.
Get Quotes
What do I need to know before moving to Cancun?
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.
