Best Places to Retire in Mexico
Table of Contents
Viva Mexico! Are you looking for some sun and relaxation in your golden years? Mexico is an exciting destination for retirees that’s full of culture, history, beauty, and unforgettable experiences. It’s no surprise that more and more Americans are choosing to retire in Mexico every year. But with so many places to choose from, how do you know which is the best fit for you?
In this blog post, we’ll explore a few of the more popular best places to retire in Mexico—from the colonial city of San Miguel de Allende to the beachside paradise of Puerto Vallarta—so you can pick where to spend your retirement in style. Vamos…
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Best Places to Retire in Mexico - Best Places to Live in Mexico - How Much Money to Retire in Mexico - Is Retiring in Mexico a Good Idea - What are the Safest Places - Where do Most Americans Retire in Mexico - Top Places According to Ex-Pats - How Much Money Will I Need to Retire in Mexico - Travel Resources - Best Hotels and Tours in Mexico - Best Places to Travel to in Mexico
San Miguel de Allende
Perhaps the most well-known/popular Expat location in Mexico, and for a good reason. The weather in San Miguel de Allende is perfect for retirees. The average temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit, and there are very few days with humidity. This makes it a great place to enjoy your retirement without having to deal with extreme heat or cold.
San Miguel de Allende: Located in the central highlands of Mexico, San Miguel de Allende is a charming and historic town with a thriving ex-pat community. The city is known for its colonial-style architecture, vibrant arts scene, and excellent food. The climate in San Miguel de Allende is temperate, with warm days and cool nights. The cost of living in San Miguel de Allende is relatively high compared to other areas in Central Mexico, but the town’s high quality of life and a strong sense of community make it a popular choice for ex-pats. San Miguel is widely considered one of the safest places to live in Mexico.
As I wandered the charming cobblestone streets of San Miguel de Allende for the first time, I couldn’t believe I was still in Mexico. This colonial gem of a town took my breath away with its colorful houses adorned with cascading flowers, and the majestic church in the central square transported me to a fairy tale dream. It was like nowhere I had ever been before, and its unique charm seemed unreal. Read all about my time in San Miguel de Allende!
Puerto Vallarta
Are you looking for a beach town with all the amenities? The world-famous Puerto Vallarta may be what you are looking for. Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful coastal town in Mexico that is perfect for retirees. The weather is fantastic, the food is delicious, and the people are friendly. There are plenty of things to do in Puerto Vallarta, from exploring the historic center to relaxing on the beach.
Located on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, lively nightlife, and excellent food. The town has a strong ex-pat community and a relaxed, tropical atmosphere. The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta is relatively high, but the town’s many amenities and proximity to the beach make it a popular choice for those looking to live near the water.
Nestled along the Pacific coast in the state of Jalisco, Puerto Vallarta is a beach paradise that has been luring travelers for decades. Once a quiet beach town, it rose to fame in the 1960s as a favorite haunt of Hollywood’s golden-era actors and has since blossomed into a lively resort city. Now it is world famous and every bit worthy of it.
With its vibrant nightlife, pleasant weather, and low risk of hurricanes, it’s no surprise that Puerto Vallarta is a top destination for American ex-pats looking to stretch their dollar while living in paradise. And with an abundance of fresh seafood and a lower cost of living compared to other beach towns in the U.S., it’s a dream come true for those who crave a lively city by the sea. If you’re ready to dive into the laid-back beach life, Puerto Vallarta should be at the top of your list.
Source: Cost of Living in Mexico City
Mexico City
The world’s 6th largest city is not short on culture, activities, and history. Depending upon where you decide to live, the low cost of living may surprise you. The stunning architecture and history are in themselves a reason to retire in Mexico, but I have yet to live somewhere with more perfect weather.
As the capital and largest city in Mexico, Mexico City offers a wide range of opportunities and amenities. The city is known for its rich culture and history, vibrant arts scene, and excellent food. The cost of living in Mexico City is relatively low compared to other major cities around the world. Still, the city’s high population density and traffic can be challenging for some.
Mexico City is a melting pot of cultures, traditions, and history with a low cost of living, top-notch healthcare, and access to all the amenities you need. Plus, its mild climate and endless things to discover make it an attractive place to retire. Read our blog about CDMX HERE. CDMX would be an excellent place to retire and have a very high quality of life.
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Source: Cost of Living in Tulum
Tulum
This location is for those who love the Pacific Coast town of Sayulita but with more cultural opportunities.
Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Tulum is a small town with a laid-back, bohemian vibe. The town is known for its beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, and eco-tourism opportunities. The cost of living in Tulum is relatively low compared to other parts of Mexico, but the town’s small size and limited amenities may not be suitable for everyone.
Escape the cold and retire in sunny Tulum, where the average temperature is a warm 80 degrees Fahrenheit and the natural beauty is unmatched. From turquoise waters and sandy beaches to ancient ruins and lush jungles, Tulum has it all. Plus, the cost of living is relatively low, and the culture is rich and diverse. Whether you’re interested in traditional Mayan crafts, contemporary art, or music and dance, Tulum is the perfect place to retire and discover new passions.
The small beach town is safe and affordable and one of the few places where you can enjoy beachside relaxation and culture without traveling very far.
Lake Chapala - Ajijic/Guadaljara Area
If you are looking for a strong ex-pat community and an easy transition into your new Mexico life, then this area of the country is a perfect starting point. For many retirees, the thought of living in Mexico is an appealing proposition. The cost of living is relatively low, the weather is warm year-round, and there are plenty of activities to keep busy. But with so many choices, it can be tough to decide where to retire in Mexico. Lake Chapala may be the perfect spot for you if you’re looking for a laid-back atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and friendly locals.
Lake Chapala is located in the state of Jalisco in western Mexico and is the largest lake in Mexico. The lake and the surrounding area are popular destinations for ex-pats and tourists alike, thanks to their beautiful natural surroundings and friendly, welcoming communities. The lake is surrounded by small towns and villages, each with its own unique character and charm. The climate in the Lake Chapala area is temperate, with warm days and cool nights. The cost of living in the area is relatively low compared to other parts of Mexico, making it an attractive destination for those looking for an affordable place to live.
The widely popular Ajijic is just a quick drive away with a slightly higher cost of living and a large ex-pat community, and Guadalajara is within an hour’s bus ride. You will not miss out on the amenities you were accustomed to back home.
With a range of outdoor activities, there’s no shortage of ways to stay busy. And the town of Chapala, with a population of around 40,000, is a perfect size – not too big, not too small. Plus, with its stunning lakeside location and friendly community, it’s easy to feel at home here.
Source: Cost of Living in Merida, Mexico
Merida
Have you heard of this more affordable option for those that love experiencing Cancun? The cost of living is low, and there are many activities and attractions for retirees to enjoy.
Merida is the capital and largest city of Yucatan in eastern Mexico. Located on the Yucatan Peninsula, the city is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful natural surroundings. The climate in Merida is hot and humid, with temperatures reaching up to 100 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer months. The cost of living in Merida is relatively low compared to other parts of Mexico, making it an attractive destination for those looking for an affordable place to live.
As more and more ex-pats search for a safe and serene place to call home in Mexico, Merida is fast becoming one of the most sought-after cities. With a population of over 800,000, this beautiful colonial city may not be small, but it packs a big punch when it comes to value.
One of the main reasons people are flocking to Merida is the low cost of living, which allows you to get more for your money. But that’s not all – this city has everything you could need, including top-notch hospitals, an airport, shopping malls, and plenty of activities to keep you entertained. Plus, with the beach just a 30-minute drive away and the rich culture of Yucatan at your fingertips, you’ll never run out of things to do or see. All these factors make Merida an irresistible destination for those looking to start a new life in Mexico.
Playa del Carmen
Another popular beach town community with retirees that don’t want to lose out on experiences and a taste of home.
Located on Mexico’s Caribbean coast, Playa del Carmen is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters. The town has a laid-back, beachy vibe and is home to a large ex-pat community. The cost of living in Playa del Carmen is relatively high, but its proximity to the beach and its many amenities make it a popular choice for those looking to live near the water.
Picture yourself in a tropical paradise, with dreamy white sandy beaches and crystal clear waters as far as the eye can see. That’s precisely what you’ll find in Playa del Carmen, a town of about 300,000 people, one of Mexico’s most popular cities for ex-pats.
Why do so many people flock to Playa del Carmen? For starters, there are plenty of opportunities here, and the cost of living can be very affordable, depending on your lifestyle. It’s not hard to find a cozy two-bedroom, two-bathroom rental for less than $700 per month. And with its stunning beaches and vibrant ex-pat community, it’s easy to make new friends no matter your age.
But that’s not all – Playa del Carmen is also a haven for healthy eating, thanks to the abundance of fresh tropical fruit and seafood. And with its warm weather and endless sunshine, it’s the perfect place to soak up the laid-back beach lifestyle. If you’re looking for a slice of paradise, consider making Playa del Carmen your new home.
What to Consider When Retiring in Mexico
Mexico is a great place to retire, with its friendly people, low cost of living, quality of life, and unbeatable climate. There are so many beautiful places to choose from, making it difficult to narrow down your options. Fortunately, this article has discussed the Top Places to retire in Mexico (voted by some retirees) and what each has to offer. Whether you’re looking for an idyllic beachfront community or bustling cities with plenty of activities, there’s something for everyone in Mexico.
We hope this information will help you make the best decision on where to settle down after retirement! I encourage you to dig deeper into the best places to retire in Mexico, not just the most popular ones. Many other favorites are not as widely discussed, especially Pueblo Mágicos as an option. Hint my favorite you can read about Here!
Let’s remember our position as a quest in another country and do our best to speak and walk humbly with dignity and respect for our surroundings: we’re the ones coming here to visit or live our best lives, and we, like many people trying to get in another country – are appreciative of the opportunity. Thank you for having me, to all these great cities!
As always, we appreciate you and Live Con Todo.
Sources
- Wikipedia
- Forbes
- Vist Puerto Vallarta
- Tulum.com
- Playa del Carmen.com
- Cost of Living
- Personal Experiences
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Calvin L Miller II
Lifestyle and Travel Blogger
Creator of the Con Todo Brand