You’ve thought about taking the plunge and living in Mexico and visiting the many places that it has to offer. You may have heard about people that are living there and love it — maybe even some of your friends!Mexico is an attractive destination for retirees and ex-pats, but what is living in Mexico really like for expats? We’ll show you the day-to-day experience
You may have even taken the time to research the best places to retire in Mexico or expat life in Mexico. While the idea of living in Mexico might sound glamorous and fun, is it really what you want?
Related Read: Pros and Cons of Being an Expat
Continue reading this article to learn what life is really like as an expat living in Mexico.
You can also find more Facts about Mexico here.
The Benefits of Living in Mexico as an Expat
If you think you’ll buy real estate in Mexico, you should know the most significant benefits that come along with living there. Here are some of the good things to keep in mind when you’re considering the expat life.
1. The Locals Are the Best
If you want to live in an area where people are excepting and excited to have you in their country, then Mexico is a great place to live as an expat. Not only are you going to meet people that are courteous, but you’ll meet people that are welcoming and want to be friends.
You won’t be treated like a tourist. You’ll be treated like a part of the community.
2. Lower Cost of Living
If you want to make your retirement dollars go further than living in Mexico may be a good option for you. If you’re planning on renting a home in Mexico, you might be surprised to see that there are no formal contracts involved in the process. It’s a your word is your bond kind of situation.
Many people opt to buy real estate in Mexico instead of renting because they want to put their money toward something that will go into their estate.
You should know that living in Mexico might not be as inexpensive as some might have led you to believe. Before you start making your budget, you should check about the specific area where you’ll be living to see what the true costs are.
3. The Climate Is Amazing
If you don’t enjoy having four seasons where you live and want to experience a constant climate, then living in Mexico is the way to go. Whether you want humidity and heat or cool mountain air — you can find it in Mexico.
4. The Food — Of Course
One of the biggest benefits of living in Mexico is delicious Mexican food. Before you move to Mexico, make sure you’ve experienced authentic Mexican food. Don’t move to Mexico thinking you’re going to get the American version of Mexican food — because it’s so much better.
Once you’ve experienced true Mexican food, you won’t want to go back.
5. Safety
If you’ve been told that Mexico is dangerous for Americans and dangerous in general — that’s not necessarily true. While every place has its challenges, you shouldn’t feel any less safe than many other areas in the world.
Potential Challenges of Life in Mexico
We’ve mentioned the many benefits of living in Mexico above — but what about the challenges? As with everything, there are going to be challenges, and you have to figure out if they outweigh the benefits you’ll experience.
1. Potentially Lax Security & Police
In some areas, you might experience more laid back security and police. While they will slap a fine on parties that are going to loud and late into the night with their noise — that’s about all you’re going to get.
2. Classism
In some cases, you might see classism in action, but that isn’t always the case. The best course of action is to be a positive force for change and be kind to those doing service jobs for you.
3. Water May or May Not Be Available
Make sure you stock up on clean drinking water because when the water goes out — it might be a while before it’s back on. If your water does go out, you can call and order water, and they can bring it to you if you don’t want to go to the store and get it yourself.
4. Spotty Internet
If you depend on the internet, you might have some challenges in Mexico. The internet can be intermittent. If you do have a problem with your internet, it is likely to take a while to get someone out to take a look at it, so don’t expect to watch Netflix for a few days.
Stock up on DVDs of movies you can stand to watch a few more times if you’re worried about losing the internet for entertainment.
5. Delivery Dates Are a Suggestion
If you work with a company and they say they’re going to deliver something to your residence on Monday, they may actually get there on Wednesday. Delivery dates are more of an estimate vs. a concrete date.
To Mexico or Not to Mexico?
Now that you know more about what expat life is really like — you’ll see it’s not all roses but what is?
If you want an enjoyable, safe, and friendly place to live out your retirement, then Mexico is a great option.
Learn More About Retirement & Beyond
Now that you know more about living in Mexico as an expat, you’re likely more excited about it than ever. Why stop learning with this article? We have many other informative articles that can help you as you’re considering your transition.
Browse our site, find your favorite section, drop a bookmark, and come back soon for more great reads.
