Retire in San Carlos, Mexico
Last updated on Jul 08, 2025
Summary: What is it like to retire in San Carlos, Mexico? Retirees share their experiences living in San Carlos.
How do I meet people in San Carlos?
When we asked people living in San Carlos about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:
"There are lots of activities in San Carlos. In the winter, Club Deportivo hosts an Educational series along with the usual bingo and such. There are several non-profit organizations to join, The Rescate (EMS) thrift store collects and sells items to support ambulance service. The Castaway Kids supports the local orphanage. The Rotary - and more. If you want to be involved there are many avenues. Most of the support groups are run by English speaking people, so there should be no hesitation if you haven't entirely grasped the language," said a retiree who moved to San Carlos, Mexico.
What is life like in San Carlos?
When we asked people living in San Carlos what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:
"People here love kayaking, fishing, scuba and off-roading. There is a large, modern marina. There are rocky beaches, sandy beaches, public and isolated. There are also many restaurants with excellent food - Italian, Mexican, American, Greek, and even Texas Style BBQ," said one retiree in San Carlos.
What do I need to know before retiring in San Carlos?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to San Carlos, they said:
"I suggest you never secure a 6 mo lease until you see and feel the property. Committing to 6 month online is not recommended whether you get a 180 day visa or not. Get a hotel when you arrive and make that your base camp to find longer arrangements. Don't think what you see online is what is actually there. Bait and switch happens in Mexico....and don't forget it. Once they have your money you are behind the curve," commented one retiree living in San Carlos, Mexico.
"Living costs are about 2/3 of those in the states. This is a relatively new area. 60 years ago there was nothing here but a fishing village. Not as cheap as in other parts of Mexico, but still a savings. Bring a good sturdy vehicle. The weather and the waters are sublime (although hot and humid in the summer months). Very low crime area, but petty theft is here as it is everywhere. You feel welcome wherever you go. Relax. Sometimes you have water and electricity...sometimes you don't. Bring butter," explained one retiree living in San Carlos.
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.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before moving to San Carlos?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in San Carlos?
- What is the average cost of housing in San Carlos?
- How do I meet people in San Carlos?
- What do I need to know before retiring in San Carlos?
- What should I pack when moving to San Carlos?
- Where should I setup a bank account in San Carlos?
- Will I be able to find a job in San Carlos?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do people like (and dislike) about San Carlos?
- What type of social life can someone expect in San Carlos?
- What is the social scene like in San Carlos?
- What advice to expats in San Carlos have about housing?
- What are medical services in San Carlos like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in San Carlos?
- Is the cost of living in San Carlos high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in San Carlos?
- Why do people move to San Carlos?



