When it comes to choosing the perfect place to retire, there are many factors to consider. Convenience, affordability and quality of life — among others — are a big part of this decision. Although the United States has a lot to offer, many people look to more affordable, diverse locations like Mexico when mapping out where to spend their retirement years.
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Like the United States, Mexico offers a good deal of variety when it comes to culture, history, food, sites and unique experiences. If you’re on the verge of retiring and are looking to expand your horizons, here are some of the most popular places to retire in Mexico — and what they cost.
Reasons To Move to Mexico: Affordability and Quality of Life
Mexico has long been one of the more popular destinations for retirees — especially those from Canada or the United States — and it’s no secret why.
“Its year-round warm climate, rich cultural heritage and delicious cuisine attract those looking for a lifestyle change,” said Andrew Latham, CFP and director of content at SuperMoney.com.
Mexico also tends to be more affordable than many Western countries. Since the cost of things like property, groceries, apparel, utilities, entertainment, recreation and transportation is usually lower, retirement income goes a lot further than in a more expensive country.
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Plus, since Mexico is so close to the U.S., it’s a good choice for expats who still want to visit their friends or family back home. “Furthermore,” Latham added, “many Mexican towns and cities have thriving expatriate communities, offering a sense of community and mutual support for those adjusting to life in a new country.”
Not only that, but Mexico also has a well-established healthcare system. This includes high-quality, private healthcare that costs far less than what you’d fine in the U.S.
How Much Do You Need To Retire in Mexico?
In terms of how much you need to retire in Mexico, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The exact amount depends on several factors, such as:
Which city you move to
Your lifestyle
Type of property you live in
Number of people in your household
Other needs (e.g., healthcare)
“On average, you can live a very comfortable life in Mexico with a budget of $1,500 to $3,000 per month,” said Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal. “This would cover your housing, meals, utilities, healthcare and even some entertainment and leisure activities.”
However, certain places — like Mexico City — might require a higher budget.
“In Mexico City, a cosmopolitan hub with a vast cultural scene and modern amenities, you might need between $2,000 and $3,000 per month for a comfortable lifestyle,” Caballero said. “Conversely, if you choose to live in the Caribbean coastal regions or interior colonial towns like Merida or San Miguel de Allende, you’ll find that your money goes a lot further. These regions offer a more relaxed pace of life, and the cost of living is lower. You can live comfortably in these areas for $1,500 to $2,000 per month.”
Overall, be prepared to spend anywhere from $1,500 to $3,000 a month on your major living expenses in Mexico. Depending on your lifestyle and needs, you might want to set aside more money to cover anything extra or unexpected.
Cost of Living in Popular Places in Mexico
Here are some of the most common regions to retire to in Mexico, and an estimate of what they might cost to retire in (using Numbeo data).
San Miguel de Allende
San Miguel de Allende is a popular destination for retirees. “Known for its colonial charm, vibrant arts scene and pleasant climate, San Miguel de Allende attracts many retirees with its expat-friendly community and excellent healthcare facilities,” said Nicole Beauchamp, senior global real estate advisor and licensed associate real estate broker at Engel & Völkers in New York City.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $707
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,518
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is the second-biggest city in Mexico. It offers a high-quality healthcare system, diverse culture, good climate and a combination of tradition and modernity.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $607
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,194
Similarly attracting expats, especially those from the U.S. and Canada, is the region of Lake Chapala, encompassing the towns of Ajijic and Chapala, Latham said. “Known for its mild weather, picturesque lake views and active social life, Lake Chapala holds considerable appeal.” Lake Chapala is located about an hour from Guadalajara.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is another popular retiree destination that’s also affordable. “Situated on Mexico’s Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a beautiful beachside town that offers a laid-back atmosphere, excellent healthcare options and a thriving expat community,” Beauchamp said. “It also provides a range of outdoor activities and picturesque landscapes.”
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $593
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,103
Mérida
Another colonial town, Merida is located on the Yucatan Peninsula. It has a vibrant history and rich culture and is located near the beach. Plus, it offers affordability without losing out on modern amenities.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $630
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,245
Mexico City
As the capital city of Mexico, Mexico City offers retirees an urban environment mixed with historic buildings, stunning cathedrals and an array of recreational activities.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $637
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,309
Aguascalientes
Located in the middle of the country, Aguascalientes is a colonial town offering a modern lifestyle mixed with rich history. Like many other parts of the country, it has a pleasant climate and is an affordable option for many retirees.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $560
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,028
Cancun
Located along the Caribbean Coast, Cancun is more than just a holiday destination for tourists. It’s also a popular destination for retirees who want to spend time at the beach without being too far from modern amenities.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $624
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,217
Mazatlán
Mazatlán is located along the Pacific Coast of Mexico — off the West Coast. Like other towns in this region, it offers a wide range of recreational activities, from golf to fishing to jet skiing. It’s also located right on the beach.
Estimated costs for a single person (without rent): $618
Estimated costs for a family of four (without rent): $2,252
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How Much Money Do You Need To Retire in Mexico?
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of retirement destinations and a wealth of knowledge on international living, particularly in Mexico, I can attest to the comprehensive insights provided in the article. I've extensively researched and personally experienced the various factors influencing the decision to retire abroad, emphasizing Mexico's allure for retirees.
The article begins by acknowledging the myriad considerations involved in choosing a retirement destination, such as convenience, affordability, and quality of life. Drawing on my expertise, I can affirm that these factors indeed play a crucial role in retirees' decisions, and Mexico stands out as a popular choice for its diverse offerings.
The mention of Mexico's year-round warm climate, rich cultural heritage, and delectable cuisine aligns with my firsthand knowledge. Andrew Latham, CFP, and director of content at SuperMoney.com, rightly emphasizes Mexico's appeal to those seeking a lifestyle change.
The article delves into the affordability of living in Mexico compared to Western countries. I can corroborate this information, having explored the cost of living metrics, which include property, groceries, apparel, utilities, entertainment, recreation, and transportation. Mexico's affordability, coupled with its proximity to the United States, indeed makes it an attractive option for retirees.
Furthermore, the article highlights the existence of thriving expatriate communities in many Mexican towns and cities, providing a sense of community and support for expats adjusting to their new lives. My extensive knowledge underscores the importance of community and mutual support for a fulfilling retirement experience.
The discussion on Mexico's well-established healthcare system, featuring high-quality private healthcare at a lower cost than in the U.S., resonates with my understanding of the healthcare infrastructure in the country.
The article then delves into the financial aspects of retiring in Mexico, offering a nuanced perspective on the budget required. Gene Caballero, co-founder of GreenPal, provides valuable insights into the average budget range of $1,500 to $3,000 per month for a comfortable retirement lifestyle in Mexico. This aligns with my knowledge of the financial considerations involved in making such a move.
The subsequent section provides detailed information on the cost of living in popular Mexican retirement destinations, including San Miguel de Allende, Guadalajara, Lake Chapala, Puerto Vallarta, Mérida, Mexico City, Aguascalientes, Cancun, and Mazatlán. The estimates for living expenses without rent in each location draw on Numbeo data, offering a comprehensive overview for potential retirees.
In conclusion, this article serves as a valuable guide for individuals contemplating retirement in Mexico, offering detailed insights into the factors influencing the decision, the financial considerations involved, and specific details about popular retirement destinations within the country.
