Mexico offers some fantastic places that expats love for their vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, cost of living, as well as welcoming communities. There is space for everyone, whether they want to live in a busy metropolis or a seaside area.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta, stretching 30 miles along Banderas Bay, has been an expat haven for 60 years. The vibrant coastal city offers a perfect blend of beach life and cultural experiences for over 40,000 expats. The Riviera Nayarit area provides endless activities, from golfing to mountain adventure. With excellent healthcare facilities and easy flights to the U.S., it is a top choice for medical tourism. Moreover, the cost of living is within $2000 per month, making this city an affordable choice.
San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque colonial town with a cost of living of less than $1,500. It is home to about 10% of expats among its total population. The city is known for its vibrant art and color architecture. It is a heaven for creatives and retirees alike. The high-desert climate offers warm days and cool nights year-round. While there is no local airport, you can access it via Leon which is 2 hours away, or Queretaro which is 1 hour away. The city’s bilingual atmosphere makes it easy for English speakers to integrate.
Merida
Yucatan’s capital, Merida is referred to as the “White City.” Over 10,000 Americans reside in the city which is praised for its safety and cleanliness. Colonial architecture and Mayan cultural influences create a unique atmosphere. The city has an international airport along with accessible transportation which eliminates the need for a car. Plus, the proximity to the Gulf Coast beaches adds to the appeal of living in this city.
Puebla
Puebla is a colonial city located two hours away from Mexico City. It is a UNESCO Heritage site and offers a rich cultural experience at a higher altitude. The city boasts museums, theaters, and music festivals, appealing to history buffs, and art enthusiasts. With a mild year-round climate, it is ideal for outdoor activities. Rent for a studio apartment ranges from $300 to $600 monthly, making it an affordable city. Puebla’s efficient public transportation and pedestrian-friendly streets make navigation easy for newcomers.
Monterrey
Monterrey is Mexico’s third-largest city and second-most important economic hub. The city attracts expats seeking career opportunities. Its proximity to the U.S. border makes it popular among American expatriates. With over 40 universities, it has a significant English-speaking population. The city is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Oriental mountains, offering plenty of scope for outdoor enthusiasts. Despite being a major city, Monterrey provides a quieter lifestyle to tourist hotspots.
Lake Chapala
Lake Chapala including Ajijic is home to about 20,000 expats, making this city the largest expat community in Mexico. The area’s serene atmosphere and pleasant weather draw many “snowbirds” escaping harsh winter. You can comfortably reside in this city within a range of $1,200 to $3,000 per month. With a population of over 50,000 in the municipality, it offers a new world-class hospital and assisted living homes.
Mazatlán
Mazatlán is a Pacific coast city with almost 10,000 expats. Known as the “Mexican Rivieras,” it offers a unique blend of history and seaside charm. The city attracts retirees and artists with its English-speaking locals and diverse recreational opportunities. The cost of living is lower than in many Mexican cities, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from $400 to $1,000. The city has a 20-mile beachfront, excellent healthcare facilities, and a vibrant nightlife in Zona Dorada.
Tulum
Tulum is one of the largest cities built by the Maya. It offers a Caribbean lifestyle without island living. It takes two hours by car to get to the city’s major airport. The city is economical since the average living cost is between $1,500 to $2,500, making it affordable. The town is divided by a coastal highway, with the beach just a stone’s throw away. Tulum has become popular among expats, especially divers and yoga enthusiasts.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city which attracts expats with its warm weather and affordable living. Known as Mexico’s “Silicon Valley,” it is a hub for IT startups and tech manufacturers. The acuity offers both urban and suburban lifestyles with quiet neighborhoods. The city provides excellent food, nightlife, along healthcare options. Its proximity to Lake Chapala provides a peaceful retreat from city life.
Mexico City
Mexico City, the country’s capital, has a population of over 125 million with more than 1 million expats. Neighborhoods like La Condesa and Roma are expat favorites. The living cost in this city is about $1,500 to $2,500. Mexico City provides world-class museums, diverse cuisine, and excellent public transportation. The city’s altitude provides a cooler climate than coastal areas, making it a great choice.
Cancun
Cancun offers expats more than its famous beaches and nightlife. It is becoming a hub for young digital nomads, providing networking opportunities and a constant influx of new faces. Beyond the party scene, Cancun serves as a base for exploring Mexico’s attractions. It is particularly appealing for couples, offering romantic experiences from snorkeling adventures to chocolate-making classes. The city balances tourist excitement with expat-friendly amenities.
Huatulco
Huatulco is a planned development by Fonatur and has over 55,000 residents including around 1,000 expats and part-time visitors. The city is divided into three main areas- La Crucecita which is a commercial center, Santa Cruz which is a marina area, and Chahué which is a residential seaside. Despite its small size, Huatulco boasts an international airport with direct flights to the U.K., U.S., and Canada.
Los Cabos
Los Cabos, comprising Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo, offers expats a blend of desert and coastal living. Located at the tip of the Baja California peninsula, it is known for safety and modern conveniences. The area has 22 beaches with some Blue Flag recognition. Los Cabos provides world-class medical facilities, family resorts, and a thriving social scene. The UNESCO-protected Sierra de la Laguna Biosphere Reserve adds to its natural appeal.