8 Perfect Mexican Destinations for Your Dream Retirement
Considering a move south of the border as a U.S. retiree? Here are 8 of the best destinations for retirement.
Retirees Heading South
Despite increasing news coverage of crime waves and cartel activity, U.S. retirees in their thousands are turning to Mexico as their new home. And it shouldn’t come as a surprise.
A Better Lifestyle is Possible
With retirement costs ballooning due to inflation, healthcare costs, and an ever-increasing cost of living in the USA, Mexico offers a better lifestyle at a lower price, particularly for low to middle-income retirees.
What to Know
If your retirement date is looming, you may be considering a move across the border yourself. If that’s the case, there’s a lot you’ll have to consider including the cost of living, property prices, safety, infrastructure, climate, and more.
8 Great Retirement Destinations
We’ve compiled 8 of the best cities in Mexico, for U.S. citizens who are considering seasonal or permanent retirement in Latin America.
#1. San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato
Located in the central highlands just a few hours northeast of Mexico City, San Miguel de Allende is a gorgeous colonial-era city known for its stunning architecture, museums, and cultural sites.
Retirement Lifestyle in San Miguel de Allende
This city has been a favorite retirement spot for North American expats for decades. Retirees, expats, and tourists flock here for the mild climate, friendly locals, and amenities. Expats and retirees make up between 9-11% of the population here.
#2. Merida, Yucatan
Nestled near the coast of the Yucatan peninsula is Merida, a city notable for its rich colonial history, vibrant restaurant culture, and museums. It is also a convenient drive to many of the best beaches in the region.
Retirement Lifestyle in Merida
Merida is considered one of the best cities in the country for foreign retirees for various reasons. It is one of the safest cities in the country, with top-rated amenities and healthcare, and plenty of real estate options for retiring expats.
#3. Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco
A popular coastal city sandwiched between Mexico’s Pacific coast and Sierra Madre mountains, Puerto Vallarta is already a popular retirement spot due to its stunning beaches, temperate climate, and convenient tourist infrastructure.
Retirement Lifestyle in Puerto Vallarta
A retired couple can expect to live well on $2000 per month. While it is more expensive than in some regions, it makes up for it as an overall safe city with many things to do and top-notch medical facilities
#4. Guanajuato City, Guanajuato
Only a short drive from San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato City is considered to be one of Mexico’s most beautiful cities.
It is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers intricate colonial architecture and countless cultural activities.
Retirement Lifestyle in Guanajuato City
Culture lovers should consider Guanajuato as a prime retirement destination, with plenty of art festivals, museums, and exhibitions to enjoy.
It is an affordable city with homes that can be purchased for less than $100,000. Though it is safe in terms of crime and cartel activity, the city is susceptible to earthquakes.
#5. San Cristóbal de las Casas, Chiapas
In the southeast, near the border of Guatemala, the town of San Cristóbal de las Casas can be found. This scenic highland destination is popular for its charming parochial atmosphere and mountainous terrain, as well as its churches, markets, and cobbled streets.
Retirement Lifestyle in San Cristóbal de las Casas
San Cristobal is an excellent choice for retirees who seek a more peaceful small-town environment. It is very affordable, and a retired couple can live comfortably on less than $1500 per month. It is a popular destination for expats and tourists alike.
#6. Mexico City
That’s right, the capital and largest city in Mexico is also well worth considering for retirees. This buzzing, vibrant metropolis offers some of the best restaurants, museums, and art galleries in the world.
Retirement Lifestyle in Mexico City
While CDMX has its downsides – including higher real estate and rent prices than most areas, and high rates of urban pollution – it is also a winner for retirees who still want to live a cosmopolitan city lifestyle in older age.
You’ll have everything you need here, including access to world-class facilities and an endless list of exciting things to do.
#7. Oaxaca City, Oaxaca
The capital of the Oaxaca state, Oaxaca City is bursting with life and is widely considered to be the arts and cultural capital of Mexico, as well as a haven for indigenous culture.
Nature walks through mountains and waterfalls, Zapotec ruins, and delicious regional cuisines are also on offer.
Retirement Lifestyle in Oaxaca
One of Oaxaca’s most appealing features for retirees is its affordability: it is one of the cheapest locations for expats in Mexico, including food, accommodation, and transport. It is reasonably safe, though petty crime is still a concern.
#8. Ajijic, Lake Chapala
Ajijic is an idyllic town beside Lake Chapala, the country’s largest lake. It’s a peaceful, beautiful town surrounded by mountains and alive with vibrant markets, boutiques, and restaurants.
Retirement Lifestyle in Ajijic
A highly attractive retirement town, the Ajijic community is full of Americans, Canadians, and Europeans. With its inexpensive cost of living, bracing climate, and natural beauty, it’s definitely a retirement town worth considering.
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Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Perfect Wave.
For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.
