Country Guide Living in Mexico as an Expat
3,206 businesses across 10 cities — curated by the expat community
Why expats choose Mexico
Mexico has quietly become one of the world's top expat destinations — and for good reason. From the Caribbean coastline of the Riviera Maya to the colonial highlands of San Miguel de Allende, the country offers an extraordinary range of lifestyles, all at a fraction of the cost of North America or Western Europe.
The most popular areas for expats include Playa del Carmen and Tulum along the Yucatán coast, where the digital nomad scene is vibrant and the beaches are world-class. Further inland, San Miguel de Allende draws retirees, artists, and remote workers with its colonial architecture, year-round spring climate, and one of the largest expat communities in the Americas. Sayulita on the Pacific coast offers a more laid-back surf village atmosphere, while Puerto Vallarta and Los Cabos on the Pacific side pair established, English-friendly expat infrastructure with direct flights from most major US and Canadian cities.
Visa access is straightforward: Mexico's Temporary Resident Visa requires proof of income or savings and can be renewed for up to four years before qualifying for permanent residency. Private healthcare is excellent and typically 60–80% less expensive than the US. English is widely spoken in all major expat hubs, and broadband and co-working infrastructure have improved dramatically, making Mexico increasingly practical for remote workers at any career stage.
Expat cities in Mexico
Playa del Carmen
Walkable Downtown
Digital nomad beach hub
2,412 businesses
San Miguel de Allende
Colonial Charm
Colonial charm and arts
412 businesses
Sayulita
Surf Village
Surf and hippie charm
235 businesses
Cancún
Beach & Nightlife
Beach resort paradise
104 businesses
Tulum
Wellness & Ruins
Boho beach and cenotes
39 businesses
Puerto Morelos
Quiet & Authentic
Quiet fishing village charm
3 businesses
Mexico City
Capital & Culture
Culture, food, energy
1 businesses
Isla Mujeres
Island Life
Laid-back island life
0 businesses
Los Cabos
Desert & Marina
Desert coast and marina life
0 businesses
Puerto Vallarta
Malecón & Old Town
Colonial charm on the Pacific
0 businessesFrequently asked about living in Mexico
What visa options are available for expats living in Mexico? +
Mexico offers the Temporary Resident Visa (Residente Temporal), valid for 1–4 years, which requires proof of monthly income (typically $2,000–$2,500 USD) or substantial savings. After 4 years, you can apply for Permanent Residency. Many retirees also use the Residente Temporal based on pension income. Tourist visas (FMM) allow 180-day stays but don't permit employment.
How much does it cost to live in Mexico as a foreigner? +
Cost of living varies by location. Playa del Carmen and San Miguel de Allende are pricier expat hotspots where comfortable living costs $1,500–$2,500/month. Smaller towns like Sayulita or Nosara offer lower costs. Overall, Mexico is 50–70% cheaper than the US or Western Europe for most everyday expenses including dining, transport, and housing.
Is healthcare good in Mexico for expats? +
Private healthcare in Mexico is of high quality and significantly more affordable than in the US — typically 60–80% less expensive per visit. Major expat destinations have English-speaking private clinics and hospitals. Most expats use international private health insurance alongside local providers. IMSS (public healthcare) is also available to legal residents at low monthly premiums.
Is it safe to live in Mexico as an expat? +
Safety varies significantly by region. Popular expat destinations like Playa del Carmen, San Miguel de Allende, and Sayulita are generally safe for everyday living. Crime in Mexico tends to be concentrated in specific areas and rarely targets expats living in established communities. Standard urban precautions apply: stay aware, avoid displaying valuables, and follow advice from local expat communities.
Can I open a bank account in Mexico as a foreigner? +
Yes. Most major Mexican banks (BBVA, Santander, Banamex) open accounts for foreigners with a valid passport and proof of address. Some require a visa or RFC (Mexican tax ID). A popular alternative is Wise or Revolut for international transfers while you get settled. Many expats maintain accounts in both their home country and Mexico.
