The Global Expat Hub
Mexico
The easiest place in the world to make friends, with a cost of living that stretches a foreign income a long way.
Your plan for Mexico checklist · timeline · cost breakdown
Estimates for one adult before ongoing rent and living costs; couples and families scale up. Tap a plan for the full breakdown.
Top cities for expats in Mexico
Costs and character vary significantly within Mexico. Here are the cities our readers compare most.
World-class capital with every amenity, a huge expat scene and low cost
Artists, foodies and remote workers — one of the most loved small cities in Mexico
Colonial gem popular with American retirees and creatives
Safe, affordable and increasingly popular — the Yucatan's welcoming capital
Mexico by the numbers editorial estimates in US dollars
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🌤️ Climate
Everything from desert north to tropical south; the central plateau is mild year-round with a Jun–Sep rainy season.
Mean temperatures for Mexico City.
🌧️ Rain & snow
Rainfall about 850 mm (33 in) a year.
Snow Only high mountains.
⚖️ The law
Official legislationCámara de Diputados legal library ↗
OverviewLaw of Mexico on Wikipedia ↗
Driving On the right. Licence rules →
🏛️ Taxes
Property tax Predial ~0.1% of assessed value; very low.
Local & regional income tax None at state level.
🎓 University
UNAM and public universities near-free (small fees); private $5–15k/yr.
📱 Phone & eSIM
Carriers Telcel, AT&T Mexico, Movistar.
Average cost Local SIM or eSIM with generous data about $15/month; a 30-day travel eSIM (Airalo, Holafly, Saily and similar) around $18 for 10 GB.
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🎁 Schemes to attract expats
- Temporary residency on ~$4,300/mo income or ~$73k savings
- Permanent residency on ~$7,100/mo pension
- Foreign income generally untaxed while non-resident for tax
Figures are national averages for planning, not quotes; big cities run higher. Tax schemes change often and carry conditions. Verify before you rely on them.
Official sources for Mexico embassies, warnings, law and reference
Government, intergovernmental and reference sites only; no reviews or opinion. Links open in a new tab.
Ratings & warnings independent
Follows your Mid-range tier partner listings match your budget
Services & daily life one labelled partner per page
Life in Mexico faith, wellbeing, shopping and play
Holidays & festivalsNational holidays, closures and the festivals worth planning aroundSearch for jobs for free, or post a job — free.
Roles open to foreigners in Mexico: remote work you can do from Mexico City, and in-person jobs with employers who hire from abroad. Searching for and posting expat jobs is always free, for job seekers and employers alike. Every listing stays live for 60 days.
Latest listings. Example listings shown until the first real posts go live.
See all jobs in Mexico and post a job →
In the meantime, search these trusted remote job boards
Free to use. These are independent sites we like; opening in a new tab. Come back to post your own role here — posting is always free.
Frequently asked questions
Is Mexico safe for expats?
Mexico scores 44 out of 100 for safety on The Global Expat Hub. Safety varies significantly by region. Expat communities in Mexico City, Oaxaca and the Yucatan Peninsula are generally considered safe.
How much does it cost to live in Mexico?
An affordable lifestyle in Mexico costs around $1,200 to $1,800 per month. Mexico City, Oaxaca and Merida offer excellent value.
What visa options are available for Americans moving to Mexico?
Mexico offers a temporary resident visa valid for one to four years requiring proof of income of around $1,620 per month, and a permanent resident visa.
What is the best city in Mexico for American expats?
Mexico City has the largest expat community. San Miguel de Allende is popular with retirees. Oaxaca attracts foodies and remote workers.