Best Expat Cities in Mexico: 15 Affordable and Welcoming Places to Settle

Are you thinking of starting a new chapter in a foreign country? For many Americans and Canadians, Mexico is the answer, and for good reason.

 

With a lower cost of living, rich Mexican culture, amazing food, and welcoming communities, this Latin American gem has become a hotspot for expats looking to live comfortably.

 

In this guide, we’ll introduce you to the best expat cities in Mexico, offering affordability, safety, and lifestyle perks. Whether you’re seeking beach towns or cultural hubs, these locations cater to a wide range of preferences and needs.

 

Is Moving to Mexico a Good Idea?

 

 

For the vast majority of expats who relocate to Mexico, the answer is yes.

 

Mexico offers a comfortable life for retirees, remote workers, and families alike.

 

The cost of living is significantly lower compared to the U.S. or Canada, and the exchange rate makes everyday expenses, from organic food to car insurance, more affordable.

 

While it's a foreign country, many areas have large expat communities, especially in central Mexico and the Riviera Maya.

 

Medical services don't fall short in many cities, with access to good hospitals, and residency visas aren't hard to obtain.

 

Many foreigners living in Mexico find permanent residency possible after a few years.

 

And while it's helpful to speak Spanish, many locals in expat-heavy areas also speak English, making integration smoother.

 

There’s also a large pool of expat groups and digital nomad communities, offering help and social support to new arrivals.

 

Best Expat Cities in Mexico: Our Top 15 Picks

 

 

Let’s explore the best cities and towns for expats looking to relocate to Mexico.

 

For each destination, we’ll cover living costs, rental and buying advice, and some insider tips for settling in successfully.

 

1. Playa del Carmen

 

Located on the Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen offers a blend of tropical beach living and modern amenities.

 

It has become one of the best expat cities in Mexico for digital nomads, retirees, and young families seeking a vibrant lifestyle with easy access to Cancun International Airport.

 

Playa combines beautiful beaches, nightlife, and high-speed internet, making it a hub for remote workers.

 

 

- Renting and buying: You can rent a one-bedroom apartment near the beach for $600–$900 /month.

 

Modern condos and luxury villas in gated communities range from $120,000 to $250,000.

 

Pre-sell developments continue to emerge, offering expats secure investment opportunities with reasonable property taxes.

 

 

- Living costs: Expect to spend $1,200–$2,000 /month, depending on your lifestyle.

 

Local markets offer affordable organic food, and public transportation is cheap and accessible.

 

 

 

Tip: Join expat communities and local Facebook groups to make local friends quickly.

 

Learning Spanish will greatly enhance your daily interactions.

 

While Playa is vibrant, tourist season can be hectic—choosing a home inland provides a quieter experience.

 

 

2. San Miguel de Allende

 

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Miguel de Allende offers a colonial charm, cobblestone streets, a splendid art scene, and reasonably priced properties for sale.

 

It’s especially popular with American expats and retirees who want to live in Mexico while enjoying cooler temperatures and a sophisticated cultural scene.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Renting a historic casita in the center can cost $800–$1,200 /month.

 

Homes for sale vary from $150,000 to $500,000+, with luxury estates in gated communities available for higher prices.

 

 

- Living costs: Monthly living costs range from $1,500–$2,200.

 

 

Organic markets, fine dining, and art galleries are common, but you can still enjoy local food at affordable prices.

 

Tip: While English is widely spoken, learning to speak Spanish and immersing yourself in Mexican culture will help you make local friends and enrich your experience.

 

 

3. Tulum

 

Tulum is a trendy beach town attracting eco-conscious expats, digital nomads, and wellness seekers.

 

It has many yoga studios, organic food, and sustainable living, it's one of the most unique Mexican cities to live in.

 

Tulum is not as affordable as it once was.

 

However, the relaxed vibe, great weather, and holistic lifestyle still make it a wonderful place to live.

 

Internet service has improved, and new hospitals and clinics continue to open.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent ranges from $700–$1,300 /month.

 

Eco-homes and luxury villas can start at $200,000, especially in new developments focused on sustainability.

 

 

- Living costs: Living comfortably in Tulum costs around $1,500–$2,500 /month.

 

Dining at beach clubs is expensive, but eating at local restaurants and buying produce at the market is budget-friendly.

 

 

 

4. Merida

 

As the capital of the Yucatan, Merida is often described as the safest city in Mexico.

 

It’s full of colonial architecture, Mayan heritage, and family-friendly neighborhoods.

 

Merida offers great infrastructure, international flights, and good hospitals, making it perfect for retirees and expats with families.

 

Visit during different times of year to make sure you can handle the heat.

 

 

- Renting and buying: One-bedroom apartments rent for $400–$700 /month.

 

Restored colonial homes and modern houses range from $100,000–$250,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Monthly expenses range from $1,200–$1,800.

 

Utilities are low, though air conditioning can add to bills during the hot summer months.

 

 

 

5. Huatulco

 

A quiet coastal town in Oaxaca with nine stunning bays and stunning oceanfront properties, Huatulco is a lovely, eco-friendly beach town ideal for retirees and expats who want a slower pace.

 

Huatulco is a great alternative to busier cities.

 

It’s also one of the safest towns in the region, with a strong sense of community.

 

While it’s small, medical services are accessible and growing.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rentals aren't expensive, around $400–$800 /month.

 

Beachfront condos and homes start around $150,000.

 

 

- Living costs: You can live comfortably on $1,000–$1,500 /month.

 

It’s one of the most affordable places to live in Mexico near the beach.

 

 

 

6. Cancun

 

Cancun is more than a tourist hub.

 

It’s a major city with international schools, hospitals, and a growing number of expats living full-time, especially in neighborhoods away from the hotel zone.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent ranges from $500–$1,200 /month.

 

Beachfront condos cost $150,000–$400,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Monthly expenses range from $1,300–$2,000.

 

Local food, transportation, and car insurance remain affordable compared to the U.S.

 

Tip: For a quieter life, choose residential areas like Downtown Cancun or Puerto Juarez.

 

With Cancun International Airport nearby, you’ll have access to international flights year-round.

 

 

7. Akumal

 

This small town on the Riviera Maya is known for snorkeling with sea turtles and a tranquil lifestyle.

 

Akumal attracts expats seeking nature and privacy.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent ranges from $700–$1,300 /month.

 

Beachfront property prices start at $250,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Expect monthly costs between $1,500–$2,300.

 

 

 

8. Puerto Vallarta

 

Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta blends tradition and modernity.

 

It’s popular with the LGBTQ+ community, retirees, and those looking for culture, good weather, and easy access to the U.S.

 

The city offers great medical services, cultural festivals, and a welcoming atmosphere.

 

Join expat groups to connect and make new friends.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Apartments rent from $500–$1,200 /month.

 

Old Town condos range from $150,000–$300,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Monthly expenses run $1,400–$2,200.

 

Local restaurants, public transport, and utilities aren't high.

 

 

 

9. Nuevo Vallarta

 

Just north of Puerto Vallarta in the state of Nayarit, Nuevo Vallarta is a planned community with great infrastructure, making it ideal for families.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rentals range from $700–$1,200 /month.

 

Homes start at $200,000 and go up based on size and proximity to the beach.

 

 

- Living costs: Expect to spend $1,500–$2,500 /month.

 

 

Tip: This area is quieter and more suburban than Puerto Vallarta, offering safety and comfort, and lovely properties for sale.

 

High-speed internet is widely available.

 

10. Puerto Morelos

 

A laid-back fishing village between Cancun and Playa del Carmen, Puerto Morelos is increasingly popular with expats.

 

Puerto Morelos offers a relaxed lifestyle with easy access to bigger cities.

 

It’s a safe city ideal for retirees and families.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent in this small town is about $600–$1,000 /month.

 

Homes can be found starting at $150,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Live comfortably for $1,200–$1,800 /month.

 

Organic food, nice beaches, and friendly locals make it an appealing choice.

 

 

 

11. Puebla

 

A cultural powerhouse in Central Mexico, Puebla offers delicious food, colonial buildings, and affordable properties for sale.

 

It's a great alternative to Ciudad de Mexico.

 

If you're looking for a really authentic Mexico experience with a lower cost of living, consider Puebla.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent is extremely affordable: $300–$600 /month.

 

Homes start at $80,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Live well on $1,000–$1,500 /month.

 

Enjoy local cuisine and cultural activities without the price tag of bigger cities.

 

 

 

12. Chelem

 

A sleepy beach town on the Yucatan coast, Chelem is a favorite among expats looking for a quiet, laid-back lifestyle near the Gulf of Mexico.

 

Just 30 minutes from Merida, it offers the charm of a fishing village with easy access to city conveniences.

 

If you’re dreaming of ocean breezes, fresh seafood, and a slower pace of life, Chelem might be your ideal spot.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent beachfront or near-beach homes for $400–$800 /month.

 

You can find lovely properties for sale starting around $100,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Live comfortably on $1,200–$1,600 /month.

 

Fresh markets, low utilities, and a small-town vibe help keep expenses low.

 

 

 

13. Cabo San Lucas

 

At the southern tip of Baja California Sur, Cabo is a resort town with stunning scenery and a large American expat presence.

 

Ideal for those who want luxury, golf courses, and access to the United States.

 

Many expats from San Diego and the West Coast choose to retire or invest in Cabo San Lucas.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rent ranges from $800–$1,200 /month.

 

Property prices begin around $250,000.

 

 

- Living costs: It’s pricier than many other Mexican cities, with monthly costs ranging from $1,200 up to $3,000 for those seeking luxury lifestyles and upscale amenities.

 

 

 

14. Conkal

 

Just outside Merida, Conkal offers a rural escape with access to urban amenities.

 

Great for remote workers and families seeking quiet.

 

The affordable properties for sale, high-speed internet, and new developments make Conkal a popular choice.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Extremely affordable: $400–$900 /month for rent.

 

Recently built homes and new developments typically range from $100,000 to $180,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Expect monthly costs of $1,000–$1,650.

 

 

 

15. Puerto Aventuras

 

A gated marina community between Playa and Tulum, Puerto Aventuras offers security and a planned layout.

 

This is one of the best cities in Mexico for families and retirees who value security and privacy.

 

The community includes shops, schools, and restaurants all within walking distance.

 

 

- Renting and buying: Rentals range from $600–$1,000 /month.

 

Properties for sale start at $120,000.

 

 

- Living costs: Expect monthly expenses of $1,200–$2,000.

 

 

 

How to Choose the Right Expat City in Mexico

 

 

Choosing the best city to live in Mexico as a foreigner involves evaluating your personal priorities, lifestyle needs, and long-term goals.

 

Start by asking yourself if you prefer a quiet, colonial town or a lively beach town.

 

Do you need high-speed internet for remote work?

 

Do you want to be near an international airport or are you seeking rural peace?

 

The weather is another major factor.

 

The Yucatan Peninsula offers year-round warmth but comes with humidity, while central Mexico offers a temperate climate with cooler nights.

 

Consider your healthcare needs as well.

 

Cities like Merida, Mexico City, and Guadalajara have world-class hospitals and medical services.

 

Families may gravitate toward safe, suburban communities with access to bilingual schools, while retirees might prefer towns with slower paces and supportive expat networks.

 

If you’re a digital nomad or entrepreneur, consider vibrant cities with coworking spaces like Playa del Carmen or Mexico City.

 

Finally, visit your shortlisted cities for a few weeks to get a feel for daily life.

 

Talk to expats living there, explore local transportation, and sample the food and social atmosphere.

 

Your Mexico experience will be far more satisfying if you match your expectations with the city’s unique culture.

 

Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico as a Foreigner

 

 

Living in Mexico comes with a host of advantages, but it also requires realistic expectations.

 

Let’s look closely at the pros and cons of living in this beautiful country.

 

Pros:

 

 

- Lower cost of living: Your dollar goes further in Mexico.

 

Affordable housing, cheap healthcare, and inexpensive services allow many expats to live comfortably on modest budgets.

 

 

- Vibrant Mexican culture: From music and festivals to family-oriented values and traditions, Mexico offers a culturally rich environment.

 

 

- Warm climate: Many cities enjoy good weather year-round, ideal for outdoor activities.

 

 

- Friendly Mexican people: Locals welcome expats with open arms, especially in towns with long-standing expat communities.

 

 

- Residency options: With options for temporary and permanent residency visas, it's relatively easy to stay long-term.

 

 

- High-speed internet: Most major cities and tourist towns offer reliable connectivity.

 

 

 

Cons:

 

 

- Language barrier: While English is widely spoken in expat-heavy areas, learning Spanish is essential for deeper integration.

 

 

- Bureaucracy: Opening bank accounts, getting a driver’s license, or navigating immigration paperwork can be time-consuming.

 

 

- Healthcare in rural areas: While major cities have excellent care, smaller towns may lack adequate facilities.

 

 

- Tourist season fluctuations: Beach towns can become crowded and expensive during peak travel months.

 

 

- Cultural differences: Adjusting to "mañana" culture and different standards for services can take patience.

 

 

 

Buying Property in Mexico as a Foreigner

 

 

Many expats who move to Mexico fall in love with the lifestyle, culture, and cost of living, and eventually decide to put down roots.

 

Buying property in Mexico is not only possible as a foreigner but also increasingly common.

 

Whether you're looking for a cozy casita in a beach town, a colonial-style home in a UNESCO World Heritage Site like San Miguel de Allende, or a modern condo in a city like Guadalajara or Ciudad de México, the real estate market offers a wide variety of options at affordable prices.

 

Can Foreigners Buy Property in Mexico?

 

Yes, foreigners can legally own property in Mexico.

 

However, if you want to purchase property within the "Restricted Zone"—that is, within 50 kilometers (about 31 miles) of the coast or 100 kilometers of a national border—you'll need to do so through a fideicomiso, a real estate trust set up through a Mexican bank.

 

This is a common and legal method that grants you full rights to use, rent, sell, and own the property.

 

Outside the Restricted Zone, foreigners can buy property directly in their name without the need for a trust.

 

Here’s how:

 

 

- Find a trusted real estate agent: Work with agents who have experience with expat clients and understand the local laws.

 

Many popular expat towns have bilingual agents who guide you through the process.

 

 

- Hire a Notario Público: This is not just a notary, as in the U.S.—a notario público is a licensed lawyer appointed by the Mexican government to certify property transactions.

 

Their role is essential and legally required.

 

 

- Due diligence and legal review: Your notario and legal team will confirm property ownership, debts, and land use restrictions.

 

Always insist on a thorough title check.

 

 

- Sign a purchase agreement and pay a deposit: A 5% to 10% deposit is typical.

 

The full payment is usually made within 30 to 60 days.

 

 

- Closing and registration: The property is officially transferred and registered with the Public Registry.

 

You’ll receive your deed (escritura) and proof of ownership.

 

 

 

Property Taxes and Ongoing Costs

 

One of the biggest surprises for expats living in Mexico is how low property taxes are compared to the U.S. or Canada.

 

Known as predial, these annual taxes usually range between 0.1% and 0.3% of the assessed property value.

 

For example, many homeowners in beach towns or central Mexico pay less than $300 a year in property taxes.

 

Utilities (electricity, gas, water), HOA fees (if applicable), and optional car insurance or home insurance are also quite affordable compared to North American standards.

 

These savings contribute to the lower cost of living that attracts many expats to live in Mexico.

 

Tips for a Safe Purchase

 

 

- Always use a trusted notario and bilingual real estate agent.

 

 

- Be cautious of "too good to be true" listings, especially in developing Baja Peninsula or Riviera Maya areas.

 

 

- Consider renting in your desired city for a few weeks before committing to a purchase to truly understand the neighborhood and local culture.

 

 

 

Cost of Living in Mexico Compared to the U.S. and Canada

 

 

One of the key reasons so many expats are drawn to Mexico is its significantly lower cost of living.

 

On average, expats report that their day-to-day expenses in Mexico are 40% to 60% lower than what they paid back home.

 

This makes it possible to enjoy a higher quality of life for much less, whether you're renting a beachfront condo or shopping at a local market.

 

Here’s a quick comparison of average monthly costs:

 

U.S./Canada (in USD):

 

 

- Rent (1BR apartment): $1,500–$2,500

 

 

- Utilities: $150–$250

 

 

- Groceries: $400–$600

 

 

- Dining out: $300–$500

 

 

- Healthcare (private): $400–$800

 

 

- Transportation: $200–$400

 

 

 

Mexico (in USD):

 

 

- Rent (1BR apartment): $400–$1,200

 

 

- Utilities: $50–$100

 

 

- Groceries: $150–$300

 

 

- Dining out: $100–$250

 

 

- Healthcare (private): $50–$150

 

 

- Transportation: $50–$100

 

 

 

Even in more expensive areas like San Miguel or Cabo, you’re still likely to spend much less overall than in major North American cities.

 

Many expats in Latin America find they can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,500 per month, especially if they avoid imported goods and embrace local lifestyles.

 

Visa Options for Expats in Mexico

 

 

Mexico has one of the most accessible visa systems for North Americans.

 

Expats typically begin with a Temporary Resident Visa, which is valid for one year and renewable for up to four years.

 

After that, they can apply for Permanent Residency, which allows indefinite stay without renewal.

 

Temporary residency:

 

 

- Monthly income of about $4,185 or savings of $69,750 (as of 2025)

 

 

- Proof of income or pension

 

 

- Application through a Mexican consulate outside of Mexico

 

 

 

Permanent residency:

 

This is ideal for retirees and long-term expats.

 

It requires higher financial qualifications (around $6,975 /month or $279,000 in savings), or you can transition from a temporary visa after four years.

 

 

Healthcare in Mexico for Expats

 

 

One of the major reasons why expats find Mexico appealing is the quality and affordability of healthcare.

 

From routine checkups to complex surgeries, medical services in Mexico are well-regarded and significantly more affordable than in the U.S. or Canada.

 

Private hospitals in cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, Merida, and Monterrey hold high standards.

 

Many doctors and specialists receive training in the U.S. or Europe and speak English fluently.

 

The cost of care is about 50–70% less than in the U.S., and wait times aren't usually long.

 

Health insurance is available through international providers, Mexican private companies, or government programs like IMSS.

 

Many expats opt for private insurance for greater flexibility and access to top-tier care.

 

Pharmacies are plentiful, and many medications that require a prescription in other countries can be obtained over the counter in Mexico.

 

Alternative medicine, wellness therapies, and dental care are also affordable and widely available.

 

For those considering long-term residence, access to a good assisted living facility or hiring in-home healthcare is another advantage.

 

These services are available at a fraction of the cost compared to the U.S., and they often come with personalized care.

 

It’s advisable to choose a city with a reputable hospital and consider its proximity to international airports in case emergency travel is necessary.

 

Overall, healthcare in Mexico supports a high quality of life and peace of mind for expats at any stage of life.

 

What's Your Pick?

 

 

Mexico offers a diverse array of cities for expats, from vibrant cultural centers to peaceful beach towns.

 

Whether you’re a retiree on social security, a digital nomad with a flexible schedule, or a family seeking new opportunities, there’s a place in Mexico that fits your lifestyle and budget.

 

Learn Spanish, connect with expat groups, and embrace the local culture to get the most out of your Mexico experience.

 

FAQs

 

Where in Mexico do most expats live?

 

The vast majority of expats live in Playa del Carmen, San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, Lake Chapala, and Mexico City.

 

These locations offer safety, infrastructure, expat communities, and good weather.

 

Other cities that foreigners like include Chapala, Mexico City, and Puerto Escondido.

 

What is the safest expat town in Mexico?

 

Merida is often ranked as the safest city in Mexico.

 

Other safe options include San Miguel de Allende, Huatulco, and Conkal.

 

These towns combine low crime rates with friendly Mexican people and supportive expat networks.

 

Is Mexico City good for expats?

 

Yes.

 

While it's a big city, Mexico City (Ciudad de Mexico) offers a rich cultural scene, great weather, and numerous expat groups.

 

Neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma are especially popular among younger expats and remote workers.

 

Which part of Mexico is best to live in?

 

It depends on your lifestyle.

 

Beach lovers prefer the Riviera Maya or Baja California Sur, while cultural enthusiasts might enjoy Central Mexico.

 

Cities like Merida, Puebla, and San Miguel de Allende offer a balance of tradition and modern convenience.

 

Where is the cheapest and safest place to live in Mexico?

 

Conkal, Puebla, and parts of Merida offer affordability and safety.

 

These areas have lower housing costs, good infrastructure, and emerging expat communities, making them ideal for those on a budget.