Your Ultimate 2025 Guide to Moving to Mexico

Thinking about moving to Mexico in 2025? You’re definitely not alone! Mexico’s got an awesome culture, seriously beautiful and unique scenery; think sunny beaches, cool mountains, and lively cities. Also, it’s generally easier on the wallet than the US and Canada. That’s why more and more people are choosing to live there. Whether you’re dreaming of retirement, seeking new adventures, or looking for a change of pace, Mexico has a lot to welcome you with.

Moving to another country is a big deal, and we at Remitly get that having good information is super important as you plan your new life. We’re here to help you handle your money across borders without any hassle. This guide will walk you through the main things to think about when moving to Mexico, so you can get ready for your adventure feeling good about it.

Why move to Mexico?

Mexico’s appeal for expats is multifaceted. Many are drawn by its rich cultural heritage, evident in its ancient ruins, colorful traditions, delicious cuisine, and warm, family-oriented people. The country’s diverse geography means you can choose a lifestyle that suits you, whether it’s a beachfront town, a colonial city nestled in the mountains, or a modern urban center.

One of the most practical benefits is the affordable cost of living. Compared to many parts of the US and Canada, expenses for housing, healthcare, food, and entertainment can be substantially lower, allowing for a comfortable lifestyle on a more modest budget.

Also, Mexico boasts growing expat communities in many areas. This can make settling in easier, as you’ll find people with similar experiences who can offer support, advice, and friendship. Many Mexicans are also known for their hospitality, contributing to a friendly and inclusive environment for newcomers.

Key requirements for the move

Proper planning for visa and financial matters is essential for a smooth transition. Mexico offers several visa pathways for those looking to stay longer than a standard tourist visit (usually up to 180 days for US and Canadian citizens, who often don’t need a visa for tourism).

Visa and residency options

Tourist visa/permit: For stays up to 180 days. While not a long-term solution, it’s how many start their exploration.

Temporary resident visa: This visa is for individuals who intend to live in Mexico for more than 180 days but less than four years. Common reasons for application include:

Financial independence (Economic solvency): Proving you have sufficient monthly income or savings/investments. Amounts are set by Mexican consulates and can vary.
Family connections: Having close family ties with a Mexican national or a foreign resident in Mexico.
Real property ownership in Mexico: Owning property in Mexico can sometimes be a factor.
Invitation by a Mexican organization: For specific purposes like study or non-remunerated activities. After four years, a temporary resident may be eligible to apply for permanent residency.

Permanent resident visa: This visa allows indefinite stay and the right to work (though specific work permits might still be needed depending on the activity). Eligibility often includes:

Having held temporary residency for four consecutive years.
Certain family connections (e.g., spouse of a Mexican citizen).
Retirement status with proof of sufficient pension or investments.
A points system (less commonly used for initial applications from abroad).

Application process

US and Canadian citizens can apply for temporary or permanent resident visas at a Mexican consulate in their home country before moving to Mexico. The process generally involves an application, financial documentation, photos, and an interview. Once the visa is approved and stamped in your passport, you can travel to Mexico and complete the process by obtaining your resident card from an Instituto Nacional de Migración (INM) office.

For general insights on sailing the immigration processes, check out our guide on how to move to another country from the US.

Financial preparation

Daily life in Mexico is affordable and convenient, but you need to prepare your pockets so you are not caught off guard.

Average cost of moving

This varies greatly but is likely to include:

Transportation to Mexico (flights).
Visa application fees ($50 – $250 USD per person, approximately, but check with your consulate).
Shipping belongings (can range from a few hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on volume).
Initial temporary accommodation.
Setting up your new home (deposits for rent, utilities, basic furnishings).

Monthly living expenses

Budgeting for different locations:

Mexico City & Guadalajara: A couple might live comfortably on $2,000 – $3,000 USD per month.
Beach destinations (e.g., Puerto Vallarta, Playa del Carmen): Can be similar, or slightly higher for prime locations.
Smaller cities/towns: Can be significantly less, potentially $1,500 – $2,500 USD for a couple.

Budgeting for different income levels:

Modest budget (e.g., $1,500-$2,000 USD/month for a single person): Possible in smaller towns or by living very locally (local markets, modest housing).
Comfortable budget (e.g., $2,500-$3,500 USD/month for a single person): Allows for more dining out, travel, and a wider range of housing options in most areas.
Higher-end budget: Sky’s the limit for luxury living. It’s wise to have at least 3-6 months of living expenses saved up as an emergency fund.

Best places to live in Mexico

Mexico’s diverse regions cater to different lifestyles and preferences.

Top cities for expats

Mexico City (CDMX): A lively, cosmopolitan metropolis with world-class museums, diverse cuisine, historic neighborhoods, and abundant job opportunities (especially for those who speak Spanish). Offers endless entertainment but can be crowded and have higher living costs. Appeals to young professionals and culture enthusiasts.
Puerto Vallarta (Jalisco): A popular Pacific coast resort town with beautiful beaches, a lively LGBTQ+ community, a large and active expat population, and good amenities. A blend of Mexican charm and international comforts.
Guadalajara (Jalisco): Mexico’s second-largest city, known as a cultural center (birthplace of mariachi and tequila) and a growing tech hub. It gives off a big-city feel with a more traditional Mexican atmosphere than some coastal areas. Good schools and accessibility.
Lake Chapala Area (Ajijic, Chapala – Jalisco): Home to one of the largest North American expat communities in the world, particularly retirees. Known for its pleasant climate, established expat services, and active social scene.
Playa del Carmen & Riviera Maya (Quintana Roo): Caribbean coast destinations famous for stunning beaches, Mayan ruins, and a tourist-driven economy. Attracts digital nomads, beach lovers, and those in the tourism industry.

Navigating daily life

Understanding the practicalities of everyday life will help you seamlessly settle in.

Cost of living

Let’s see a side-by-side comparison with the US/Canada.

Expense Category	Mexico	US/Canada
Rent (1-bedroom, city center)	$400 – $800 USD (can exceed $1,000 in CDMX/Riviera Maya)	$1,200 – $2,500+ USD
Utilities (basic monthly)	$40 – $70 USD	$150 – $250 USD
Groceries (monthly)	$200 – $350 USD (cheaper at local markets)	$400 – $700 USD
Healthcare (private doctor visit)	$30 – $60 USD	$100 – $300+ USD (without insurance)

For general money tips, Remitly has a useful guide on creating a budget.

Healthcare system

Mexico has a multi-tiered healthcare system:

IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social): A public healthcare program for Mexican employees and their families. Expats with resident status and formal employment may be enrolled. It can be good but sometimes crowded with longer wait times.
INSABI (Instituto de Salud para el Bienestar): Replaced Seguro Popular, aimed at providing healthcare to those without social security. Its effectiveness and accessibility for expats can vary.
Private healthcare: Many expats opt for private health insurance and use private hospitals and clinics. These generally offer high-quality care, English-speaking doctors (especially in expat areas), and shorter wait times. Costs are significantly lower than in the US. Leading hospitals/clinics are found in major cities. Medical tourism is also popular in Mexico due to affordable costs for specialized procedures.

Banking and financial management

Setting up a Mexican bank account: Requires resident status (temporary or permanent resident card), passport, proof of address (utility bill), and sometimes an RFC (Mexican tax ID). It’s usually done in person.

Trusted banks: BBVA México (formerly Bancomer), CitiBanamex (part of Citigroup), Banorte, Santander, HSBC México are major national banks with extensive ATM networks.

Converting money & daily transactions:

You can convert money at banks or “casas de cambio” (exchange houses).
ATMs are widely available for withdrawing pesos.
Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities and tourist areas, but carrying some cash is advisable for smaller establishments and local markets.
For transferring funds from your home country to your Mexican account or sending money back home, Remitly provides a reliable and often cost-effective service. Ensure your online financial activities are secure with these digital safety tips.

Transportation and driving

Within cities:

Metro systems: Mexico City has an extensive and very affordable metro. Guadalajara and Monterrey also have metro/light rail.
Buses: A common and inexpensive way to get around cities and towns.
Taxis & ride-sharing: Taxis are available; using official “sitio” taxis or ride-sharing apps (Uber, DiDi – where available) is generally recommended for safety and fare transparency.

Traveling between cities:

Luxury buses (Autobuses de Lujo): Companies like ADO, ETN, and Primera Plus offer comfortable, safe, and affordable long-distance bus travel between major cities.
Domestic flights: Several airlines connect major cities.

Driving:

Should expats get a Mexican driver’s license? If you become a resident and plan to drive regularly, it’s advisable.
Exchanging a foreign license: Some foreign licenses can be used for a limited time, but policies vary. Exchanging a US or Canadian license for a Mexican one isn’t always a straightforward swap and may require tests. It’s best to check requirements with the local transit authority (Tránsito) in your state.
Driving in Mexico can be challenging due to different driving habits, road conditions in some areas, and potential safety concerns on certain highways. Many expats choose not to drive, especially in large cities with good public transport.

Work and income in Mexico

Job prospects for US and Canadian expats do exist, but there are some important things to bear in mind.

Language barrier: Proficiency in Spanish greatly increases job opportunities. Many local jobs require fluency.

Visa restrictions: You typically need a work permit, usually obtained through a sponsoring employer who proves a foreign national is needed for the role. Temporary and permanent residents may have rights to work depending on their visa status.

Industries with opportunities:

Tourism & hospitality: Especially in coastal areas and major tourist destinations.
Education: Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) is common, though often not highly paid. International schools also hire qualified foreign teachers.
Manufacturing & multinational companies: Roles for skilled professionals, managers, and engineers.
Real estate & expat services: Catering to the growing foreign community.

Remote work/digital nomad options: Mexico is very popular with digital nomads. Many work online for companies based outside Mexico. While the tourist permit (FMM) is often used for shorter stays, for longer-term remote work, a temporary resident visa (often based on economic solvency) is the more appropriate legal route, though explicit “digital nomad visas” are still evolving in their implementation compared to some other countries.

Settling in and thriving

Adapting to the local culture and building a community are instrumental to a fulfilling life in Mexico.

Learn the culture

Cultural norms: Politeness, respect for elders, and family values are important. A more relaxed sense of time (“Mexican time” or “mañana culture”) is common; patience is often needed. Personal relationships are highly valued in business and daily life.

Holidays & celebrations: Mexico has many active holidays. Key ones include:

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead – Nov 1-2): A unique and colorful celebration honoring deceased loved ones.
Independence Day (Sept 16): Marked by “El Grito” and nationwide festivities.
Christmas (Navidad) & Posadas: Important family and religious celebrations.
Semana Santa (Holy Week): A major holiday period leading up to Easter.

Adjusting to lifestyle: Embrace the local pace. Be open to new experiences, try local foods, and make an effort to understand and appreciate the local way of life.

Building your community

Connect with other expats: Join online groups (Facebook is very active for expat communities in Mexico), local clubs, and attend events to meet other foreigners who can share experiences and advice.

Integrate with local culture:

Learn Spanish: This is the single most important step for deeper integration, better daily experiences, and connecting with local people. Even basic Spanish will be greatly appreciated.
Participate in local activities: Attend local festivals, markets, and community events.
Be respectful and open: Show genuine interest in Mexican culture and people.
Enjoy what Mexico has to offer: Explore the local cuisine, music, art, and natural beauty.

FAQs

What is the best way to find housing in Mexico as a foreigner?

Using a combination of online resources (Facebook Marketplace, expat forums) and connecting with a reputable local real estate agent is often effective. For initial research, websites like Vivanuncios, Inmuebles24, or Point2Homes (for some areas) can be useful. Once in Mexico, walking around neighborhoods you like and looking for “Se Renta” (For Rent) signs or visiting local agencies can also yield results.

Can I use my US or Canadian bank cards in Mexico?

Yes, US and Canadian bank debit and credit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted at ATMs for withdrawing pesos and at many businesses in tourist areas and larger cities. However, be sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your card being blocked. Also, be aware of potential foreign transaction fees from your home bank and ATM withdrawal fees. Opening a local Mexican bank account is recommended for long-term stays.

Is it necessary to speak Spanish to live in Mexico?

While you can get by with English in some heavily touristed areas and within certain expat bubbles, your experience will be significantly limited. To truly integrate, navigate daily life smoothly, build relationships, and fully appreciate the culture, learning Spanish is highly recommended for a fulfilling long-term stay.