The advantages of living in Mexico
Mexico and its all-year-round warm weather is a popular destination amongst American and Canadian tourists. In 2014, 1,598,000 Canadians visited Mexico, up from 692,000 in 2000, according to Statistics Canada. Canadians account for about a third of all foreign retirees in Mexico, according to the Mexico Tourism Board.
Canada’s department of foreign affairs estimates about 125,000 Canadians live at least part of the year in Mexico but why is that? Well, there are several reasons but one of the most important one is surely this one:
What makes Mexico really attractive is the cost of living! In short, people can live in Mexico, a life that they can’t anywhere else.
Indeed, housing has extremely high standards…The same as what you would have in Canada or the US: Full kitchen with all useful appliances, good internet connections, AC, etc. But for a fraction of the rent, you would pay back home. And if you decide to buy a place and furnish it, you will be able to find local craftsmen who can do fitted kitchen etc…again…for a fraction of the price!
Food is also an important element! Mexico’s culinary tradition being part of UNESCO’s world heritage, you can be sure that you will always have something to satisfy your taste buds. Just as an example, a street meal won’t cost you more than 5$. And if you decide to cook your own food (totally possible since you will have a fully furnished kitchen), you will most definitely save even more on your food budget.
Since most people moving to Mexico are retirees or snowbirds, something very important to consider is health care. Well you will be happy to learn that Mexico enjoys extremely good health care. As good as in the US or Canada…even better maybe as the price for dental cares and health services, in general, are less expensive, with better service and less waiting time!
In addition, keep in mind that the “better life” part often includes a maid, gardener, or inexpensive babysitter in the mix…
Of course, if you’re considering moving to Mexico to live full-time or part-time, there are other things you should keep in mind:
Transportation: On that side, you are also lucky! Not only is Mexico a very accessible country from the US or Canada; there are several international airports throughout the country, but there is also excellent and safe bus service to travel around the country or between cities for not very much and local public transport is well developed in even the smallest towns. So most of the time, you won’t need a car.
Last but not least…visa and immigration paperwork! Mexico is probably one of the easiest destination in that regard. Upon arrival, you can ask for an 180 days visa which you will get instantly and that you can renew as often as you want (as long as you leave the country for a couple of days and reapply for one when you come back). However, becoming a permanent resident of Mexico requires several years of living in the country: four for most people, two for those married to a Mexican national.
Safety: We often hear terrible things about violence in Mexico but all in all, Mexico is a safe country. Of course, you should do a little research before you move anywhere but all popular cities and regions amongst expats (such as Riviera Maya), are extremely safe!
