Pros and Cons of Living in Lake Chapala, Mexico

Pros and Cons of Living in Lake Chapala

Last updated on Feb 15, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in Lake Chapala, Mexico include the warm climate, the low cost of living, the friendly people, and the abundance of outdoor activities. The cons of living in Lake Chapala include the lack of modern amenities, the language barrier, and the limited access to healthcare.

What are the pros and cons of living in Lake Chapala?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Lake Chapala responded:

"Expatriates and digital nomads living in Lake Chapala, often enjoy the area's warm weather, low cost of living, and friendly locals. In addition, many appreciate the convenience of access to quality healthcare, amenities such as supermarkets, banks, and pharmacies, and a variety of cultural activities available. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads can find the language barrier frustrating, as few locals in the area speak fluent English. Additionally, slow or unreliable internet connections and the area's distance from larger cities can be drawbacks for some," explained one expat in Lake Chapala.

"Very friendly expats. Very welcoming community. Mexicans are very warm. Restaurants are affordable, although somewhat limited in scope -- but that's getting better. Weather is incredible year-round. Crime, security, corruption is getting worse," said one expat in Lake Chapala.

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What do expats in Lake Chapala appreciate most about the local culture?

"New things are always here to explore like art, Churches for their age and design, food love the food! I've explored most of the country by car now and love it. Always feel safe but use common sense too. It many ways there's always reminders of where you came from in the diverse terrain and geography like Mexico's," replied an expat in Ajijic.

"Fresh food--veggies, fruit everywhere. Street markets that have everything you need, and the smell of cooking. People saying "buenas dias" and "buenos tarde" when passing on the street. No one's in a hurry, except macho jovenes in their cars, and then it's only to the next tope. Tequila and basic Mexican home cooking. The craftsmen and women, who still make items as their parents and parents before them did, and the fact that chicken wire has so many uses," remarked one in Lake Chapala.

What do expats find most challenging?

"Knowing that you are never really going to be part of it....that you'll always be an outsider to some extent," said one expat in Lake Chapala.

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.