Where in Mexico Should You Live?

I often get asked about the best places to live in Mexico. The country is a top destination for expats and digital nomads, and for good reason.
Diverse landscapes, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, Mexico offers something for everyone.
But with so many options, deciding where to settle down can be challenging.
So, we'll explore four different types of cities in Mexico:

The Capital: Mexico City

Beach towns such as Riviera Maya, Puerta Vallarta Ect

The small towns like Mérida

The culturally rich second-tier cities like Guadalajara

Each of these places has its own unique pros and cons, catering to different lifestyles and preferences.

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Mexico City: The Capital

Mexico City, or CDMX as it's often called, is the beating heart of Mexico. As one of the largest cities in the world, it offers an incredible array of experiences, from its historical sites and cultural landmarks to its bustling markets and upscale neighborhoods. If you thrive in big cities and enjoy energy and diversity, Mexico City might just be the place for you.

Pros: One of the biggest advantages of living in Mexico City is its rich cultural scene. The city is home to some of the best museums in the world, including the National Museum of Anthropology, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes. The art scene is vibrant, with numerous galleries and exhibitions showcasing both traditional and contemporary Mexican art.

Mexico City is also a food lover's paradise. Whether you're dining at a high-end restaurant or enjoying street food from a local vendor, the city's culinary scene is top tied . The variety of cuisine reflects Mexico City's diverse population, with flavors from every region of the country and beyond.

Another significant benefit of living in Mexico City is the business and job and networking available. As the economic hub of Mexico, the city is home to many multinational companies, start-ups, and a thriving tech scene. This makes it an ideal location for expats looking to network.

Finally, Mexico City is well-connected, both within the country and internationally. The city's international airport offers direct flights to major destinations around the world, making it convenient for those who travel frequently.

Dating wise - I’ve written an in-depth serious on dating across different regions.

Cons: The cost of living is higher here than in most other parts of the country. While it's still more affordable than many cities in the United States or Europe, you'll need to budget a little more if you’re not coming from money, especially if you want to live in one of the more upscale neighborhoods like Polanco, Condesa, or Roma.

Traffic is another significant downside to living in Mexico City. The city's streets are often congested, and commuting can be time-consuming, particularly during rush hours. Public transportation is available and inexpensive, but it can be crowded, especially on the metro. Expats don’t deal with this as much since we choose to live in more walkable areas, but some days it becomes a factor where a 15 minute trip can become 45 minutes at peak traffic.

Pollution is also a concern. Mexico City has struggled with air quality issues for years, and while efforts have been made to improve the situation, it's still something to be aware of, especially if you have respiratory issues. I have never had any issue, but I have heard sensitive people do between the pollution and altitude.
Again, most ex-pats will likely live in nicer areas where trees line the streets, and there are multiple parks. You might not even notice it.

Ideal For: Mexico City is ideal for expats who enjoy the hustle and bustle of urban life, have a passion for culture and history, and are looking for networking opportunities. It's a city that never sleeps, offering endless possibilities for exploration and growth.

Beach Towns: Riviera Maya, Puero Vallarta, Cabo

If your idea of paradise involves sun, sand, and sea, then beach towns might be the perfect place for you. Popular towns like Playa del Carmen, Tulum, and Puerto Vallarta ect are hotspots for expats and digital nomads looking to enjoy the good life by the beach.

Pros: The most obvious benefit of living by the beach is the natural beauty. The beaches in mexico are are some of the best in the world

The lifestyle is laid-back and relaxed. Many expats come here to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a slower pace. You can find a million chicks doing yoga on the beach, exploring ancient ruins, or simply enjoying a margaritas bar.

There is a strong expat community in most beach town particularly in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This makes it easier to make friends, find social activities, and integrate into the local lifestyle. English is widely spoken, especially in the more touristy areas, so language barriers are minimal.

The tourism-driven economy also offers plenty of job opportunities, particularly in hospitality, tourism, and real estate. If you're working remotely, you'll find that the Riviera Maya, PV or Cabo has a good infrastructure for digital nomads, with plenty of co-working spaces, reliable internet, and a supportive community.

Cons: However, in my opinion there are many drawbacks. One of the main downsides is the cost of living, which is higher than in many other parts of Mexico. This is especially true in Tulum, where real estate prices have soared in recent years. While you can still find affordable options, particularly in less touristy areas, you'll need to be prepared for higher prices if you want to live close to the beach.

Another challenge is the transient nature of the population. Being popular tourist destination, and many expats here are seasonal residents. This can make it harder to build lasting relationships and create a sense of community. Lots of people are purely here to party. This can be a positive or a negative depending on your propensity for debaucary.

I considered these started locations for a lot of nomads, they might start coming for vacations at first and then make the jump to move there’s, and then after 6 months, maybe a year, they finally get comfortable enough to go to a less tourist city.

The area can also be crowded, particularly during the high season when tourists flock to the region. This can lead to traffic congestion, long lines at popular attractions, and a lack of privacy.

Finally, while beach areas are generally safe, The cartel runs them and crime has slowly increased year over year due to cartel activity.

Ideal For: The Riviera Maya is ideal for those who want to live a relaxed, beach-oriented lifestyle and enjoy outdoor activities. It's perfect for digital nomads, retirees, or anyone looking to escape the rat race and enjoy life in a tropical paradise.

Smaller Towns

For those looking for a quieter, more traditional Mexican experience, smaller towns like Mérida ( using this as the article example) offers a charming alternative. The capital of the Yucatán state, Mérida is known for its colonial architecture, vibrant cultural scene, and friendly locals. It's a city that has managed to maintain its traditional charm while offering modern amenities, making it an attractive option for expats looking for a slower pace of life.

Pros: One of the biggest advantages of living in smaller towns is its affordability. The cost of living here is lower than in larger cities like Mexico City or Guadalajara, making it an excellent option for expats on a budget. Housing is particularly affordable, and you can find beautiful colonial homes for a fraction of the price you would pay in other parts of Mexico. I have many friends that live in smaller towns across the country. Typically its due to the fact that the’’ve settled down a bit, usually married or have a kid often moving back to the mothers families town for better support

Small towns like Mérida is also known for its safety. The city specifically has one of the lowest crime rates in Mexico, and it's common to see families and children walking around the city late into the evening. This makes it a great place for families or retirees looking for a peaceful and secure environment.

The sense of community in Mérida is strong, with numerous cultural events, festivals, and gatherings that bring people together. The local Yucatecan culture is rich and distinct, with its own cuisine, music, and traditions that set it apart from the rest of Mexico.

Another significant benefit of living in Mérida specificaslly is its proximity to the coast. While Mérida itself is not a beach town, the Gulf of Mexico is just a short drive away/

Cons: However, Mérida is not without its challenges. The climate is one of the most significant downsides. Mérida is known for its hot and humid weather, particularly during the summer months when temperatures can soar. If you're not a fan of heat, this could be a dealbreaker.

While Mérida has a lot to offer in terms of culture and history, it lacks the nightlife and entertainment options of larger cities. If you're someone who enjoys a bustling nightlife, you might find Mérida a bit too quiet.

Another downside is the limited access to direct international flights. While Mérida has its own airport, it primarily offers domestic flights and a few international routes. This means you may need to connect through larger hubs like Mexico City or Cancún for international travel.

Ideal For: Smaller Mexican cities and towns are ideal for expats who are looking for a more traditional Mexican experience, value safety and community, and prefer a quieter, more laid-back lifestyle.

Second-Tier Cities: Guadalajara / Monterrey

Guadalajara, Mexico's second-largest city, is often overlooked by expats in favor of Mexico City or the beach towns. However, this city has a lot to offer If you're looking for a city that offers many of the benefits of Mexico City without the intensity, Guadalajara might be the perfect fit.

Pros: One of the advantages of living in Guadalajara is its cultural scene. The city is the birthplace of mariachi music and tequila, and it hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, celebrating everything from film to literature to the arts. The historic center is full of beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and theaters, offering plenty of opportunities for cultural enrichment.

Guadalajara also has a lower cost of living compared to Mexico City, making it a more affordable option for expats. Housing is more reasonably priced, and you can find good deals on everything from groceries to dining out.

The city is also home to a large and growing expat community, which can make the transition to living in Mexico easier. There are plenty of social groups, events, and activities specifically for expats, helping you to make friends and settle in quickly.

Cons:
Second Tier Cities are not always great for beginner travelers. English competency is usually lower than in big cities or more tourist centers. Infrastructure is good, but sometimes a few more hiccups need to be navigated.

While Guadalajara is a major city, it doesn't have the same level of international connectivity as Mexico City. The city's airport offers fewer direct international flights, which can be a drawback if you travel frequently.

Ideal For: Guadalajara is ideal for expats who want the benefits of city life without the intensity of Mexico City. It’s also great if you have already spent some time in Mexico or Latin America and are a little more comfortable navigating a city that caters much less to a foreign population. I also considered them great places for both families and dating because there is typically a much more traditional culture.

The same goes for Monterrey

At the end of the day

Choosing the right place to live ultimately comes down to your personal preferences and lifestyle. Mexico City offers the excitement and opportunities of a major metropolis, while the beahc towns provides a laid-back, beach-oriented lifestyle. Small towns offers a quieter, more traditional Mexican experience, and Second Tier cit strikes a balance between city life and cultural richness. Each of these cities has its own unique pros and cons, so it's essential to consider what matters most to you. Whether you're looking for a bustling city, a tropical paradise, or a charming small town, Mexico has something to offer every expat and nomad.

Do your research, visit these places if you can, and choose the one that feels like home. If you’re planning your journey to international life, a second residency, retirement or anything under the sun, book a call today and let’s get started.