According to official estimates from the United States Consulate General, about 1 million US citizens live in Mexico, and many more plan to move.
Americans Moving to Mexico
There are a lot of reasons why Americans want to jump ship from the promised land and move to Mexico. Many Americans move to Mexico because they are drawn to the country’s relaxed lifestyle, unique cultural experiences, rich history, and diverse population.
The proximity to the United States makes Mexico an attractive destination, not to mention the lower cost of living and warmer climate.
Retirees move to Mexico in order to retire and to take advantage of the country’s many cultural and recreational opportunities.
There are some challenges, of course, such as learning a new language and adjusting to a different culture. But overall, many Americans find that living in Mexico is a great experience.
Mexico’s Cost of Living
The cost of living is cheaper than in the United States
Here is a general overview of the cost of living in Mexico for an American, and below is a breakdown of common expenses.
Keep in mind that costs will vary depending on the specific location within Mexico as well as the lifestyle of the individual.
Housing: Renting a one-bedroom apartment in a major city like Mexico City or Monterrey will cost around $400-$700 USD per month. In smaller cities and towns, rent will be cheaper. It is also possible to find furnished apartments for short-term stays.
Utilities: Basic utilities like electricity, water, and trash service can cost around $50-$100 USD per month. Internet and cable TV service will add an additional $30-$60 USD to your monthly bill.
Food: A typical meal at a restaurant will cost $5-$20 USD, depending on the type of food and location. If you cook at home, you can expect to spend around $150-$250 USD per month on groceries.
Transportation: Public transportation in Mexico is relatively cheap and efficient. A one-way ticket on the metro system in Mexico City costs only around $0.30 USD. Taxi fares are also reasonable, starting at around $3.
Moving to Mexico – What You Should Know
Before you move to Mexico, there are a few things you will need to do in order to prepare.
To get started you’ll need to obtain a Mexican visa from the nearest Mexican consulate. Next, make sure you have all the necessary documents and vaccinations for travel and don’t forget to research the customs and laws of Mexico so that you can be prepared for your move.
Healthcare in Mexico is quite different than what Americans are used to. The quality of care is generally lower, and there are fewer hospitals and clinics to choose from.
However, the cost of care is much cheaper, which can be a big advantage for those on a tight budget. Most healthcare in Mexico is provided by the government, rather than private insurance companies like in America. This means that wait times for appointments and procedures can be longer than what Americans are used to.
Safety is important no matter where you live – there are some areas of the country that are more dangerous than others, but overall Mexico is a safe place to live depending on the area you live in. There are many American expats living in Mexico.
Americans can find a place to live in Mexico by searching online for rental listings, look for “For Rent” signs in neighborhoods that they are interested in living in, contact a real estate agent who specializes in rentals. Another way you can find a place to live in Mexico is by asking friends or family members if they know of any openings.
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