Things to Know Before Deciding to Move to Mexico

Mexico rewards preparation

Mexico is one of the most compelling relocation destinations in the world — affordable, culturally rich, geographically diverse, and close to the US. It is home to a large and growing community of expats from the UK, US, and Canada. But it is also a country where the experience varies dramatically depending on where you live and how prepared you are.

Safety is hyperlocal

Mexico's security situation is the first thing people ask about, and the honest answer is that it depends entirely on where you are. Some Mexican cities consistently rank among the safest in the Americas. Others have serious problems with organised crime.

Cities popular with expats — Mérida, Oaxaca, San Miguel de Allende, Puerto Vallarta, and large swathes of Mexico City — have good safety records. Many expats live in these areas for years without incident. That said, doing your research on specific neighbourhoods before you commit is essential, and following local advice about areas to avoid is important wherever you settle.

Cost of living is genuinely low

Outside of resort towns and the most fashionable neighbourhoods of Mexico City, Mexico is very affordable for those earning in dollars or pounds. A comfortable lifestyle — including rent, food, transport, and health insurance — can be achieved for $1,200–$2,000 per month in most cities. Mexico City (CDMX) is more expensive but still significantly cheaper than London or New York.

Food is exceptional and cheap. Eating at local markets and fondas costs a fraction of restaurant dining in the UK or US.

Healthcare: private is excellent and affordable

Private healthcare in Mexico is high quality and significantly cheaper than in the US. Many expats pay out of pocket for routine care and carry private insurance for emergencies. International private health insurance from providers like Cigna or AXA is the standard approach for newly arrived residents.

The public IMSS system is available to registered residents but quality varies by location. Most expats working remotely or living on savings use private care.

Spanish is not optional

Unlike some expat bubbles where you can get by in English, making a real life in Mexico requires functional Spanish. Markets, landlords, government offices, mechanics, and doctors in most cities operate entirely in Spanish. English is more common in resort areas and upscale neighbourhoods of CDMX, but the more you can engage in Spanish, the richer your experience will be.

Before you move, focusing on listening comprehension — the ability to understand spoken Mexican Spanish at natural speed — is worth prioritising. The Spoken app trains exactly this: understanding real native speech rather than textbook pronunciation.

Visas and residency

Visitors from the UK and US can enter Mexico without a visa and stay for up to 180 days on a tourist permit. For longer stays:

• Temporary resident visa: requires proof of income (~$1,500–2,000/month) or savings. Valid for one to four years and renewable.
• Permanent resident visa: available after four years as a temporary resident, or immediately if you meet a higher income/savings threshold.

You apply at the Mexican consulate in your home country, then exchange the entry visa for a Tarjeta de Residencia at the INM (immigration office) within 30 days of arriving.

You will also need a CURP (a population registry number) for most official purposes, and an RFC (tax ID) if you earn any income in Mexico.

What surprises most newcomers

Mexican culture is extraordinarily warm. People are generous with their time, hospitable, and genuinely interested in where you are from. Social relationships move quickly and family is central to most people's lives.

Bureaucracy exists but tends to be more relationship-based than European bureaucracy — patience and politeness go a long way. Timelines are often flexible. Building local knowledge and friendships early makes everything easier.