Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico City, Mexico

Summary: The pros of living in Mexico City, Mexico include the vibrant culture, the delicious cuisine, and the affordable cost of living. Additionally, the city is home to many world-class museums, galleries, and other attractions. On the other hand, the cons of living in Mexico City include the high levels of air pollution, the traffic congestion, and the crime rate. Additionally, the city is prone to earthquakes and other natural disasters.

What are the pros and cons of living in Mexico City?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Mexico City responded:

"Expatriates and digital nomads often find Mexico City to be an attractive destination. It is renowned for its vibrant cultural atmosphere and its diverse range of dining options, as well as its excellent shopping opportunities. Expats often appreciate the affordability of its cost of living, while digital nomads enjoy easy access to reliable online infrastructure. The city's sprawling public transportation system is often praised for its low costs and convenience. Expats and digital nomads may also enjoy the mild climate and ample open spaces, with plenty of greenery and parks. On the flip side, expats and digital nomads may be dissatisfied with the city's notorious traffic congestion, as well as its high levels of air pollution. In addition, the city’s famously relaxed attitude to safety and security can be a cause for concern for some expats. Finally, crime rates can be high in Mexico City, so it is important for expats to exercise caution when living and travelling here," remarked one expat in Mexico City.

"I have lived in 8 US states and four foreign countries - 29 addresses in all. No where has the cultural and historical offerings while still be as affordable as Mexico City. The city has a near-perfect climate and is visually stunning," explained one expat in Mexico City.

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What do expats in Mexico City appreciate most about the local culture?

"Expatriates in Mexico City appreciate the vibrant culture, rich history, and friendly people of the city. They enjoy the colorful culture and traditions they experience, such as sharing good food and conversation at local restaurants and markets, trips to ancient Aztec ruins, the many festivals and public holidays where towns and cities come alive, and the vibrant street art and cultural events taking place around the city. The people of Mexico City are known for their warmth and hospitality, and expats in the city find that there is always something new to explore and enjoy, making it an exciting place to live," explained one expat.

"Having to conceal the fact when and if you dislike someone. Not being able to throw temper tantrums in public without facing possible legal problems. Being able to enjoy the moment without being paralyzed by thoughts of what you have to do in an hour or tomorrow! Being obligated to greet each and every person who you come into verbal contact with, saying 'buenos' or 'buenas', which would be unheard of in the U.S," said one person in Mexico City.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Not reading newspaper editorials that dare to criticize any Mexican political officials. Plus, very few people say what is on their minds, sort of the opposite of African-Americans, West Indians, or Jews in the United States. It is a xenophobic culture, for the most part, sort of like the Chinese culture. Mexicans are far, far more relaxed when and if they are amongst their own kind, although there are occasional and definite exceptions," explained one expat living in Mexico City.

"The frequency of the crime is never easy to adjust to. It's much better now, but when I moved to Mexico for the first time, smog was a big problem. There seems to be a lack of organization in the way the country functions. But if you look at it with a sense of humor, it's almost charming. No one likes corruption, and it's a problem here," said one expat in Mexico City.

Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico City

What are the pros and cons of living in Mexico City?

What do expats in Mexico City appreciate most about the local culture?

What do expats find most challenging?

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