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Ixtapa, Mexico

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jul 11, 2023

Summary: Expats, digital nomads and retirees discuss what it is like to live in Ixtapa, Mexico: Cost of living, Finding a home, Meeting People and more.

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What do I need to know about living in Ixtapa?

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

"Expats considering retirement in Ixtapa should be aware of several key factors. Firstly, it's important to understand the cost of living, which is generally lower than in many Western countries, but can vary depending on lifestyle choices. Healthcare in Mexico is of a high standard, with many doctors and dentists trained in the US or Europe. However, it's recommended to have a good health insurance plan, as public healthcare can be slow and private healthcare can be expensive. The official language in Ixtapa is Spanish, so learning the language will make daily life easier and more enjoyable. However, English is widely spoken in tourist areas. The climate in Ixtapa is tropical, with hot and humid weather throughout the year. There is a rainy season from June to October, which can bring heavy downpours and occasional hurricanes. Safety is a concern for many expats. While Ixtapa is generally safe, like any place, it has its share of crime. It's important to take common-sense precautions, such as not displaying wealth and avoiding certain areas at night. Understanding the visa and residency requirements is crucial. To retire in Mexico, you'll need to apply for a temporary or permanent resident visa, which requires proof of income or savings. Finally, it's important to understand the cultural differences and adapt to the local customs and traditions. Mexicans are known for their warm hospitality and relaxed pace of life, which can be a big change for those used to a more fast-paced lifestyle," said one expat in Ixtapa.

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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.
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What do I need to know before moving to Ixtapa?

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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.

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Get comparison quotes from Cigna, Allianz, IMG, GeoBlue and more.
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Get comparison quotes from Cigna, Allianz, IMG, GeoBlue and more.
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Help others in Mexico by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Mexico.

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