Americans Live in Mexico
Americans Live in Mexico
Retire to Mexico
Trade the rat race and retire to Mexico for a lower cost of living, more affordable (and high quality) healthcare, and close proximity to home.
How to Retire to Mexico
Temporary Residency
Have US$4,000 monthly income or US$70,000 in savings? You can secure temporary residency – no investment necessary.
Permanent Residency
If your savings top US$250,000, you can skip temporary residency and get immediate permanent residency. Ideal for retirees.
Investor Visa
Invest US$300,000 in a local business or real estate to obtain temporary residency, which transitions to permanent residency after four years.
Citizenship by Descent
Millions of Americans can qualify for Mexican Citizenship by Descent by proving at least one of their parents is a Mexican citizen.
Tourist Visa
U.S. citizens can stay in Mexico for up to 180 days visa-free. If you’re just a snowbird, this method is ideal for you.
Mexico in Photos
Low Cost of Living
Live comfortably on a fraction of your U.S. budget. Even Mexico City’s cosmopolitan lifestyle compares favorably with American cities.
Quality Healthcare
Enjoy medical services at prices far lower than those in the U.S. The 2025 Global Relocate Health Index ranks Mexico 22nd in healthcare quality worldwide.
Easy Access
No matter where you settle in Mexico, regular direct flights keep you close to friends and family stateside.
Pleasant Climate
Warm weather year-round with access to the beach or mountains makes daily life more enjoyable.
Rich Culture
Mexico’s customs, delicious food, and local festivals make every day an exciting adventure.
Expat Community
Instant community with fellow American expats and retirees makes adjustments smooth.
Beautiful Nature
From beaches to mountains, explore stunning natural environments right at your doorstep. Mexico is one of the most biodiverse countries in the world.
Familiar Conveniences
Because of the large expat community, you can enjoy familiar amenities, American brands, and English-speaking services throughout Mexico.
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How Life in Mexico Compares
Cost of Living in Mexico
Still significantly affordable relative to U.S. prices, Mexican housing, groceries, and services cost much less. Expat-popular areas like Polanco in Mexico City or Playa del Carmen can be pricier.
Taxes in Mexico
As long as you don’t spend more than 183 days in Mexico per year, you do not have to pay Mexican taxes. But if you do, Mexico offers few tax advantages. The Freedom Files helps you understand and comply with tax regulations.
Community in Mexico
One of the largest U.S. expat populations in the world, the community in Mexico is strong and welcoming. But integration into local communities can vary depending on the area.
Quality of Life in Mexico
Americans with U.S. dollars can access a high overall quality of life in Mexico, though disparities in services, culture, and amenities exist between urban areas and rural locations.
Safety in Mexico
Safety varies throughout Mexico. Generally avoid the state of Sinaloa. By taking precautions, remaining informed, and making wise decisions, you should not run into issues.
Travel Connectivity in Mexico
Mexican cities and resort towns have excellent connectivity to the United States and throughout the world. The Mexico City international airport is one of the most connected in the world.
Infrastructure in Mexico
Major expat hubs generally have good infrastructure. But of course, if you choose to live in a smaller town or rural area, expect less reliable services.
Healthcare in Mexico
Expats in Mexico enjoy quality, affordable private healthcare, especially in major cities. Hence, the growth of the medical tourism industry here. Public healthcare is extremely inexpensive as well, but its quality and accessibility can vary significantly.
English Proficiency in Mexico
Mexicans rank toward the bottom in global English proficiency. However, in tourist-heavy areas like Mexico City and Jalisco, English is widely spoken. The Freedom Files always recommends our clients learn local language basics to improve their daily life.
Bureaucracy in Mexico
Governmental affairs can be frustrating in Mexico, especially without assistance. Mexicans work at a slightly slower pace than our American clients are accustomed to. Team up with the Freedom Files, so you avoid losing time or money with the wrong partners.
Where to Live in Mexico
Population: 21,804,515
Mexico City
For urban city lovers, Mexico City offers a retirement experience unmatched in Latin America. World-class healthcare, gourmet dining, rich culture, and endless activities – Mexico City is perfect for active, cosmopolitan retirees. Neighborhoods like Condesa and Polanco offer safety and comfort, keeping city life enjoyable.
Population: 291,839
Puerto Vallarta
Are you dreaming of a seaside retirement with first-world comforts? Puerto Vallarta offers beautiful beaches, excellent healthcare, international dining, and a growing expat scene (popular among the LGBTQ crowd). It’s ideal for social retirees who appreciate an active lifestyle by the water.
Population: 1,316,088
Mérida
For those looking for a hot climate, Mérida offers affordable colonial living in a city known for its safety and history – and sweltering summer heat. The pace of life is slower here, excellent for retirees looking for tranquility. With easy coastal access in under an hour, Mérida is one of Mexico’s safest cities.
Population: 174,615
San Miguel de Allende
Famous for its strong expat community, San Miguel offers culture, arts, and great weather in the Mexican mountains. It’s safe, welcoming, and full of events year-round. Daily life here feels like living in a postcard. Want to avoid the expat crowd? Avoid this city.
FAQs About Mexico
How Do I Qualify for Mexican Residency?
To get temporary residency, you’ll need more than US$4,000 per month or US$70,000 in savings. For permanent residency right away, US$250,000 in savings gets you through the door. Remember – This is not an investment. It’s rather just documenting that you have the means to survive in Mexico on the income you already have.
Will I Be Taxed on My US Income in Mexico?
If you spend more than 183 days a year in-country, you become a Mexican tax resident and are liable for taxes in the country. However, Mexico does have a double tax treaty with the US, which prevents taxation on the same income in two countries. The Freedom Files can help you structure things properly, so you can prepare and don’t get blindsided.
Is It Safe to Live in Mexico as a Retiree?
It depends on where you land. Big expat hubs like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, Oaxaca, and San Miguel are very safe. Avoid the risky states like Sinaloa, and generally, you’ll be fine. Always take precautions though.
Can I Use My Medicare in Mexico?
Nope. Medicare does not cover you internationally. But private healthcare in Mexico is so affordable that most retirees don’t mind paying out of pocket or getting a premium insurance plan here in Mexico. Even the most expensive, high-end insurance costs less than US$5,000 a year.
What’s the Deal With Mexican Bureaucracy?
Mexican bureaucracy is slow and confusing without help. But if you work with the Freedom Files, we make sure you avoid the red tape headaches and get it done right the first time. No scammers. No malicious partners. No stress.
