Summary
From coastal resorts and ancient Mayan towns to sprawling urban centers, Mexico has no shortage of beautiful destinations to call home.
Mexico is the ultimate vacation destination, featuring thousands of miles of beaches, mouthwatering cuisine, fascinating culture, and traditions steeped in thousands of years of history. Moreover, Mexico has become increasingly popular with digital nomads and expats, primarily due to its affordable cost of living and health care, warm weather, reasonably priced housing, and low property taxes, coupled with a stable economy. In 2022, a record number of Americans relocated to Mexico, with Mexico City being a top destination.
Read on for eight of the best and most welcoming places to relocate in Mexico, focusing on safety, economic opportunities, and a wealth of recreational activities.
01 of 08: Mexico City
The country’s capital is a bustling metropolis steeped in history and culture, firmly rooted in the present. While the city fell four spots in the 2022 economic competitiveness index, it still ranked fifth in the 2022 Urban Competitiveness Index compiled by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO). In 2022, around 40 percent of real estate sales in Mexico City were to foreign buyers, a figure that, according to Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty, will rise to 60 percent this year.
If you’re looking for upscale neighborhoods to relocate to in Mexico City, check out Lomas de Chapultepec and Jardines del Pedregal, where houses typically run into the millions of dollars. Expats prefer the Coyoacán and San Ángel areas for their colonial-style homes and vibrant arts scene, in addition to the family-friendly Roma and Condesa neighborhoods, according to Daniel Sánchez of Mexico Sotheby’s International Realty.
02 of 08: Puebla
Located at the foot of one of Mexico’s highest volcanoes about two hours southeast of Mexico City, Puebla’s historic downtown is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, enticing visitors with 16th- and 17th-century churches and colonial buildings clad in azulejos tiles. Furthermore, the larger metropolitan area of Puebla ranks among the top 15 most competitive cities in Mexico and is one of only three cities allocating over 10 percent of its federal budget to improving public transportation.
“The luxury real estate market in Puebla has been growing in recent years, attracting buyers with its unique blend of traditional and modern features,” Sánchez shared, noting that popular neighborhoods include La Paz, La Cańada, and gated communities such as Las Fuentes, Campestre del Bosque, La Concepción, the Golf Club, and the Country Club.
He added, “The city’s proximity to Mexico City and its thriving cultural scene make it an attractive location for those interested in a second home or investment property.”
03 of 08: Riviera Maya
This 100-mile stretch of white-sand coastline on the Yucatán Peninsula is a favorite vacation spot for millions of Americans. Riviera Maya, which extends south of Puerto Morelos to Sian Ka’an, just south of Tulum, is not only picturesque but steeped in Mayan history and culture, making it a sought-after location for expats. Wellsuited for those considering relocation, Tulum offers a hip, wellness-focused vibe and a fantastic restaurant scene, while Playa del Carmen is renowned for its nightlife and all-inclusive resorts.
“One significant difference between Playa del Carmen and Tulum is that Playa’s real estate offers and home prices revolve around property proximity to the sea, with beach access found throughout the city,” explained Liszett Torres, a broker at Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty. “In Tulum, beach access is mainly controlled by boutique hotels, leaving few beachfront houses available. Playa del Carmen also offers a relaxed lifestyle in a more developed city, complete with paved streets and all necessary public services.”
04 of 08: Mérida
The capital of Yucatán, Mérida, consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Mexico. The Spanish occupied Mérida in the mid-16th century, yet the city maintains a rich Mayan heritage; many colonial buildings were constructed using stones from dismantled Mayan structures. Furthermore, inhabitants enjoy close proximity to the Gulf of Mexico’s beaches, accessible in under an hour from the city.
Mérida boasts one of Mexico’s most competitive economies among major cities, with retail trade dominating the local market. The city is home to a sizable Indigenous population, with about eight percent of residents speaking an Indigenous language.
05 of 08: San Miguel de Allende, Mexico
San Miguel de Allende is known for its fantastic food, vibrant art scene, affordable cost of living, beautiful architecture, and a lively international community paired with year-round spring-like weather. Those looking to own property in this stunning hilltop city must act swiftly, as the real estate market is thriving.
“2022 was our strongest year in ten years of operation,” stated Larry Stebbins of Agave Sotheby’s International Realty. “The market is dynamic, with a noticeable demographic shift as younger, educated, and mobile working families move to San Miguel.” Stebbins remarked that condos and small homes start at $250,000, while luxury properties can reach up to $4 million.
06 of 08: Puerto Vallarta
With a record number of visitors in 2022, Puerto Vallarta is rapidly expanding as a sought-after destination. Visitors flock here to enjoy the warm Mexican sun and vibrant culture, while those who choose to call it home benefit from near-perfect year-round weather, affordability, quality health care, and excellent economic prospects.
“According to MLS data, the total number of recorded property transactions has doubled since 2017, and the average two-bedroom condo value has soared over 25 percent, rising from $275,000 to $346,000,” explained Darlene M. Carucci, a broker at Puerto Vallarta Sotheby’s International Realty. She added that while sales slowed towards the end of last year, this was primarily due to a scarcity of available properties rather than a decline in buyer interest.
07 of 08: Monterrey
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Monterrey is a significant economic hub in Mexico, renowned as the country’s industrial capital. Its proximity to the U.S. has led many companies to establish operations here, leveraging quick access to the U.S. market.
“This advantage allows Monterrey to attract individuals seeking a better quality of life and higher-paying jobs. Furthermore, we possess one of the best educational environments in Latin America, with top universities such as the University of Monterrey, the Autonomous University of Nuevo León, and the Monterrey Institute of Technology, making it the city in Mexico with the highest percentage of English speakers,” explained Alex Roma, a luxury property specialist at Monterrey Sotheby’s International Realty.
However, it’s not just work; the city is surrounded by the stunning Sierra Madre Oriental mountain range, creating an ideal playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
08 of 08: Los Cabos
As one of the safest and most economically competitive cities in Mexico, Los Cabos is an excellent home for expats. Many who relocate here are attracted by the varied landscape, featuring miles of sandy beaches, stunning desert views, and the breathtaking Sierra de la Laguna mountain range, protected as a UNESCO biosphere reserve.
“My favored neighborhood is the community of El Tezal in Cabo San Lucas. Located a short distance from downtown, it boasts coveted bay views from numerous properties and ample services, reducing the need for downtown visits. Unsurprisingly, this area is also ripe with new developments and opportunities,” remarked Alex Hugessen, a broker at REmexico Real Estate/Luxury Portfolio International.
