Frequently Asked Questions About Mexico: What Every Expat Wants to Know

The most common expat questions about Mexico City: (1) Safety, generally safe in expat neighborhoods (Roma, Condesa, Juarez, Coyoacan) with basic precautions, safer than many major US cities; (2) Cost, $2,000-3,500/month average ($1,500 minimum frugal), rent $400-1,200 for one-bedroom in good neighborhoods; (3) Visa, temporary residency requires $2,700/month income proof or equivalent savings, process is bureaucratic but straightforward; (4) Spanish, can survive without it in expat areas, but learning transforms experience and opens local friendships; (5) Healthcare, excellent quality, doctor visits $30-50, dental 50-70% cheaper than US, private insurance affordable or pay out-of-pocket. After ten years in Mexico City, these are the questions I get repeatedly from people considering the move, newly arrived expats, and even long-term residents, the honest answers cover safety realities, actual costs, visa processes, language needs, work options, neighborhoods, healthcare quality, apartment hunting, dating, property buying, food scene, loneliness, retirement suitability, and how to get started.

In my ten years living in Mexico City, I've gotten asked the same questions over and over again by people considering the move, newly arrived expats, and even people who've been here a few years. I've decided to compile the most frequently asked questions and give you my honest answers. These are the things people really want to know but are sometimes afraid to ask.

Is Mexico City Safe?

This is the number one question, and the answer is: yes and no. Mexico City itself is generally safe in the neighborhoods where expats live (Roma, Condesa, Juarez, Coyoacan). I've walked home at 2 AM from bars without incident countless times. The serious crime, the stuff you hear about in the news, happens in specific areas and is typically related to organized crime, not street crime against tourists or expats.

That said, petty theft is real. Don't leave your phone on the table at a cafe. Don't walk around flashing expensive jewelry. Use common sense. The city is safer than some major US cities when you use basic precautions.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Mexico City?

You can live on $1,500/month if you're frugal. You can spend $5,000+/month if you're not. Most expats I know spend $2,000-3,500/month including rent. The city is significantly cheaper than US/European major cities, but it's not as cheap as it was five years ago. Prices have been rising, especially in popular neighborhoods.

Budget for: rent ($400-1,200 for a nice one-bedroom in a good neighborhood), food ($400-600/month), utilities ($40-80), and entertainment/activities ($300-500).

Do I Need to Speak Spanish?

You can survive without Spanish in Mexico City, especially in Roma, Condesa, and other expat-heavy areas. Most restaurants, shops, and services have English speakers. But here's the thing: learning Spanish transforms your experience. It opens up friendships with locals, allows you to navigate bureaucracy, and changes how people treat you. You go from being a tourist to being an actual resident of the community.

If you're planning to stay long-term, learn Spanish. If you're here for six months? You can probably get by.

Is It Hard to Get a Visa?

Not as hard as people think. Mexico has several visa options: tourist visa (180 days, free), temporary residency (requires proof of income, $2,700/month or equivalent savings), and permanent residency (after 4 years on temp residency). The process is bureaucratic but straightforward. You'll spend time in government offices. You'll need to gather documents. But it's doable without hiring an expensive lawyer.

Can I Work as a Foreigner?

It depends. If you're working remotely for a foreign company, technically you need a work visa, but many digital nomads operate in a gray area. If you want to work legally for a Mexican employer, you need an employment authorization. If you're freelancing for clients outside Mexico, your home country's tax situation matters more than Mexican tax law. This is one area where I'd recommend consulting an accountant who specializes in expat taxes.

What Are the Neighborhoods Like?

Roma: Young, vibrant, tons of restaurants and bars. It's trendy and can feel touristy. Condesa: Similar to Roma but slightly more upscale and less chaotic. Juarez: Artsy, more Mexican, slightly cheaper, still excellent. Coyoacan: Bohemian, further south, more local, great for writers and artists. Polanco: Luxury neighborhood, expensive, corporate. San Angel: Quiet, residential, great if you want a slower pace.

Each neighborhood has a totally different vibe. Visit them all before deciding where to live.

Is Healthcare Good?

Yes. Mexico has excellent healthcare, both public (IMSS) and private. Private healthcare is cheap compared to the US, a doctor visit is $30-50, dental work is 50-70% cheaper than the US. The quality is high, especially in the private sector. Most expats use private insurance or pay out of pocket because it's so affordable.

How Do I Find an Apartment?

Immobiliario.com, Airbnb, Facebook groups for expats, and walking around neighborhoods with "Se Renta" signs. Expect to pay a deposit, sometimes a month's advance rent, and possibly agency fees. Landlords will ask for proof of income or a guarantor. Having a local Mexican friend or employer vouch for you helps tremendously.

What About Dating as an Expat?

Dating in Mexico City as a foreigner is different. You'll have more dating options purely because you're foreign, but you'll also face stereotypes. Local women might assume you're a "Passport Bro" type. Local men might see you as competition. Dating someone from your home country (other expats) is easier but maybe less adventurous. Dating a Mexican national requires cultural understanding and patience. It's complicated, but so is dating everywhere.

Should I Buy or Rent?

Rent unless you have permanent residency or citizenship. Property ownership as a temporary resident is complex (you need a trust arrangement). Once you have permanent residency, buying becomes more straightforward. Real estate prices in Mexico City have appreciated significantly, so it can be a good investment long-term.

What's the Food Scene Like?

World-class. Honestly. Mexico City has some of the best restaurants in the world. Street tacos are $0.50-1.50. Fine dining is $30-60 per person. You can eat incredibly well for very little money. The food is fresh, diverse, and delicious. This is one of my favorite things about living here.

Will I Get Lonely?

Possibly. Mexico City has a huge expat community, so you can make friends easily. But meaningful friendships take time. Integration with local Mexicans is harder but more rewarding. After a decade here, my best friends are a mix of other long-term expats and Mexican nationals. The loneliness hits harder in the first few months, then it gets better.

Is It a Good Place to Retire?

Absolutely. The low cost of living, excellent healthcare, culture, and weather make Mexico City one of the best places to retire in the world. Temporary residency requires proof of $2,700/month income, which is very achievable for most retirees.

How Do I Get Started?

Get a tourist visa (90 days), come visit, stay in different neighborhoods, take Spanish lessons, explore the city. Don't rush the decision. Talk to people who've already moved. Join expat Facebook groups and ask questions. If you like it after your first visit, come back for longer. The city will tell you if it's right for you.

Related Mexico City Resources

• Mexico City Complete Guide
• Housing and Relocation Services in Mexico City
• Healthcare Services in Mexico City
• How to Travel Like a Local in Mexico City
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