Top 7 Best Places to Retire in Mexico

Now that you know a little bit about the best places to retire in Mexico, it’s time to choose the right one for you. Each of these seven locations has its own unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences before making a decision.

1.    Puerto Vallarta

A popular resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta offers excellent year-round weather and a variety of retirement amenities. The mild climate makes it an ideal tourist destination, but there are plenty of other things to do as well. Golfing is very popular, especially at the nearby Barona Resort Course, hosting major tournaments.

There are also several art galleries, theatres, and other cultural attractions. The downside to Puerto Vallarta is that it can be expensive. Property prices are high, and most services and amenities cater to wealthy retirees.

2.    Mazatlán

Mazatlán is a port city on the Pacific coast with just over 400,000. It’s a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and plenty of cultural attractions. The cost of living is relatively low, making it a good choice for retirees on a budget. Also, there are several universities in Mazatlán, making it a great place to stay if you’re looking for an affordable college town with resort amenities.

One drawback of Mazatlán is that there can be occasional shootings and other acts of violence directed at tourists. However, these incidents are relatively rare, and the city draws high-profile security detail to keep things under control.

3.    San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque colonial town in the state of Guanajuato. It’s a popular destination for tourists, retirees, and expats, thanks to its lovely architecture, temperate climate, and low cost of living. The city has a high quality of life and numerous opportunities for education and employment.

The downside to San Miguel de Allende is that it’s relatively isolated. There aren’t any airports in the city, so it can be difficult to get there without driving, which adds significant travel time. Additionally, the public healthcare system is understaffed, and the wait times for appointments can be long.

4.    Ajijic

Ajijic is a lakeside town in the state of Jalisco. It’s a popular destination for retirees, thanks to its temperate climate and affordable cost of living. The town is also home to a large expat community, making it easy to find English-speaking services and social activities.

The downside to Ajijic is that it can be quite isolated. There are no major airports nearby, so it can be difficult to get there without driving. Additionally, the town is prone to severe weather events like hurricanes and floods.

5.    Cabo San Lucas

Cabo San Lucas is a resort town on Mexico’s southern tip. It offers beautiful beaches and an economy based largely on tourism. The cost of living in Cabo San Lucas is quite high, but the area does have one of the lowest crime rates in Latin America.

The downside to Cabo San Lucas is that it can be difficult to get there. The closest major airport is in Los Cabos, which can add a significant travel time. Also, the area experiences frequent drug-related violence, and there have been reports of tourists being assaulted by police officers in some resorts.

6.    Puerto Escondido

A small city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Escondido is a popular destination for surfers and other outdoor enthusiasts. The city has a population of just over 50,000 and a cost of living that’s relatively low. It also has a good healthcare system and plenty of employment opportunities.

The downside to Puerto Escondido is that it can be quite isolated. There are no major airports nearby, so it can be difficult to get there without driving. Also, the city is prone to hurricanes that bring torrential rain and floods.

7.    Mazunte

Mazunte is a small town in Oaxaca known for its surf beaches, excellent seafood, and laid-back atmosphere. The cost of living in Mazunte is low, and there are several colleges in town that attract a progressive crowd. The downside to Mazunte is that it can be difficult to get there. There aren’t any major airports nearby, so it can be quite time-consuming to make the journey by car or bus. Also, the local medical care system isn’t as good as it is in other parts of Mexico.

Frequently Asked Questions about Retiring in Mexico

What is the cost of living in Mexico?

The cost of living varies depending on the city you choose to retire in Mexico. However, it is generally much lower than in the United States or Canada. You can live comfortably on a budget of $1,000 to $1,500 per month.

Meanwhile, a budget of $2,000 to $3,000 a month will allow you to live a very luxurious lifestyle in Mexico. Generally, a long-term rental apartment or home costs between $250 and $1,000 monthly.

What are the health care costs?

Health care in Mexico is much less expensive than in the United States or Canada. For less than $100 a month, the average person can have complete medical coverage through an IMSS (Mexican Health Insurance). Many private healthcare options offer more extensive services for reasonable prices.

How good is the weather?

Mexico is home to 7 of the ten most popular destinations for winter sun-seekers in North America. Many places have dry, sunny winters between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit (24-29°C). The entire Caribbean coastline has warm water year-round.

Conclusion

There are many reasons why you might choose to retire in Mexico. Perhaps you have family or friends living in Mexico, and you want to be closer to them. Or maybe you enjoy the warmer weather and slower pace of life that Mexico offers. Well, you still need to read this article to understand how it works.

Overview of the Pros of Retiring in Mexico

Without a doubt, there are many reasons to retire abroad. The five most common destinations for retirees looking to begin their second act are Belize, Panama, Thailand, Malaysia, and Mexico. Here’s why you should consider adding the Latin American country of Mexico to your retirement list.

The Cost Of Living Is Lower In Mexico

According to the 2020 cost of living comparison by InternationalLiving.com, retirees can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Mexico for about 60% less than in the United States. In major cities like Mexico City and Guadalajara, you can find quality apartments starting at just $500 a month, and groceries, restaurant meals, and entertainment costs are also much lower than in the States.

Mexico Is A Culturally Rich Country

From ancient ruins to bustling metropolises, Mexico is home to an astonishing range of cultural experiences. From traditional villages where time seems to have stood still for centuries to world-famous festivals and celebrations, there is always something new to explore. Also, Mexico’s long history and strong indigenous traditions make it a unique and interesting place to retire.

The Weather is Ideal for Retirees

Mexico boasts some of the best weather in the world, with average temperatures ranging from the low 70s to the mid-80s year-round. This makes it an ideal retirement destination for those who want to avoid cold winters and scorching summers. In fact, many retirees report that they never need to use heating or air conditioning in their homes, thanks to Mexico’s balmy climate.

Healthcare is Excellent and Affordable

Mexico has a well-developed healthcare infrastructure, with quality hospitals and clinics. In addition, the cost of medical care is much lower than in the United States, making it a wise choice for retirees on a budget. Meanwhile, many clinics and hospitals provide retirees with discounts for foreign retirees.

Healthcare is Affordable and Good Quality

Mexico has high-quality, affordable healthcare, with private hospitals and clinics available in most major cities. And, because Mexico is a popular destination for medical tourism, you can often find excellent deals on treatments and procedures. Meanwhile, the doctors, nurses, and staff at these medical centers treat foreign retirees with discounts and special attention because of the money they bring to the local economy.

Mexico is a Peaceful Place for Retirees to Live

With its thriving cities and peaceful villages, lovely beaches, and picturesque coasts, Mexico really does offer something for everyone. It even topped the list of the world’s “10 safest places to retire” in 2019, according to International Living. So, if you’re looking for a relaxed and worry-free retirement, Mexico is a great place to call home.

Cons

It Is Not As Safe As the United States

While Mexico is certainly not as dangerous as some of its Central and South American neighbors, it is still important to take precautions when traveling or living in the country. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and theft, is common, so it is important to keep your belongings close and aware of your surroundings.

The Cost Of Living Can Be High

Compared to some other Latin American countries, living in Mexico can be quite expensive. Healthcare and food costs are particularly high, so those on a fixed income may find it difficult to live comfortably in Mexico. More so, the peso is not as strong as the dollar, so retirees may find that their money doesn’t go as far as they anticipated.

The Infrastructure Is Poor

Mexican roads are often in disrepair, and the public transportation system is unreliable and uncomfortable. This can make getting around difficult, especially if you are not used to Spanish. Also, the electrical and water systems can be unreliable.

It Can Be Difficult To Get a Visa

 Retiring in Mexico is not as easy as retiring in other Latin American countries. In order to obtain a visa, you will likely need to prove that you have enough income to support yourself, and you may also be required to show that you have health insurance.