Can You Afford to Live in Mexico in 2024?

[@cindstuder]

I retired in La Paz 2 years ago and am a Permanent Resident. I LOVE it here. Everywhere I wanted to retire in the US is MUCH more expensive than La Paz. You have to compare La Paz with other similar locations elsewhere -- like coastal Florida or California and consider overall lifestyle. I could live anywhere in the US and pay the same amount for a house as I paid here but I probably would not have a private pool I can use 9 months of the year or a view of the ocean from my house or a warm sunny climate. I would not find miles of nearly empty beaches near my home with little traffic. I also would not be able to afford a weekly housekeeper, landscaper or pool service and in both Florida and California I would likely find property insurance unaffordable and/or unattainable. My advice: be brutally honest with yourself about what you (and your extended family) really value and expect in retirement and spend at least 6 months researching every facet of everyplace you are considering -- and then visit each place for at least a month, in both summer and winter if possible. Becoming an Ex-Pat is not for everyone, you are in another country a long way from family and friends and that does not work for everyone, regardless of the financial aspects. Happy Researching!!!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great points! We can't afford a cleaning service in Portland, and we couldn't afford a pool guy if we had a pool. And our property taxes in Mexico are about 10% of what they are in Portland. But there is a lot more to consider than finances! I hope to see you at Happy Hour this Sunday, 6:30 at NIM!

[@patrickbarr4429]

Drinks on us, at least 1 round maybe 2,lol. We just arrived to our hotel in LA Paz.

[@DinoGithens]

What about San Felipe Baja California Mexico?

[@AnnAndNala]

That cost of living number is so much higher than the average Social Security check. It used to be so much easier for retirees to qualify, but now it's even too much for someone just living on SS. Mexico cost of living increases the incomes for their people, and if the USA was doing their citizens right, our COLA would be on par with that. That is scary for US retirees, because the affordable options to just exist are getting smaller and smaller.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I agree. If you don't have income beyond Social Security, you can't qualify for residency in Mexico any more. The story is that the federal government has been hiking the minimum wage every year for the past 5 years. And the financial requirements for residency are tied to minimum wage. And inflation is higher in Mexico than the US. Plus the Peso is super strong. So it's a storm of factors that is influencing the requirements.

[@cindyk3076]

I can't believe that you left your hat at home! Great information from the two of you! Besides the two other channels that you mentioned and mexperience, it is difficult to know whose channel you can trust so it's good that you gave that warning.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

This wasn’t the first time I forgot my hat and had to buy one in the street. Happy to share the sources I trust.

[@HamiltonRb]

I spend 6 months s year in Puerto Vallarta and 6 months in Toronto, so I find the tourist visa works great for us. In talking to several people who own businesses as well as real estate agents in PV, they say the reason for the inflation on everything from real estate to rentals to general cost of living is simply expats coming down and spending like they are back home, because they don’t want yo lower their standard of living. This forces prices up, and certainly makes it more expensive for expats and visitors, but makes it prohibitively expensive for locals who earn far less. It becomes a problem because they need tourism and the tourist dollars but the citizens of tourist destination towns can’t afford to live

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

The general expense of things going up is more of a nuanced conversation than just because a few hundred expats have moved into a city of close to 240,000 people.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm planning to do three videos you might be interested in: 1) Gentrification - is it caused by gringos? and what can we do to minimize our impact? What part are wealthy Mexicans playing here? 2) What do gringos do that annoy locals - and how can we be better guests this great country? 3) Tipping (is overtipping good or bad?)

[@reefglider]

Love your videos and spending time with you. Please ignore any critics. We love your content!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for the kind words!

[@bellonamars2541]

The sound is jacked on this video. The speed of the video has been altered as well.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

The speed is normal - but I was using two lavalier microphones and my voice came through both of them, which made it sound weird. I'll never make that mistake again...

[@cwisaac22]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Your disclaimer was posted, don't sweat the small stuff!! Your research, content, and presentations are greatly appreciated!! 🎉🎉

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

The booze altered the video 😂

[@KaneLono]

Sorry... i could not handle the effect that was put on the vocal for even a minute. No bueno.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@KaneLono Sorry - that's not an effect that was added. My voice got picked up by two microphones that were about 6 feet apart, so the speed of sound travel made my voice record double with a tiny little delay (which I couldn't get rid of.)

[@daverogers3837]

Dairy products are highly subsidized in the U.S. Which would be the reason for the cost difference

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That's a great point! Government subsidies are usually well hidden.

[@eugeniebreida]

Estoy pensando en que Las vacas no estan en baja del sur…. que lastima!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hay vacas aqui, pero no muchas. Normalmente estan en los calles 😬

[@stephenfarkas4922]

Great video and advice from the website. Neat to see a Canadian perspective. I am from Calgary, have duel citizen with USA. My wife is Mexican / US. So it is good for us since doing reserch, my wife can apply for permenat residnce status for me and not have that wait period or only a short period of stay aloud. This also helps for banking , since my wife as a bank account in Mexico already. So a few items checked off our list.

[@janetprincehair4356]

Great info! We are planning coming to LaPaz/ El Centinario at the end of this year. Super excited. Your videos are so informative, just what we need to make the best choices for our upcoming adventure.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Just make sure to pack some sunscreen and your sense of adventure! La Paz/El Centinario is waiting for you!

[@SophiaZanzotWhitted]

Hey Brighton! I sent you a friend request 😊. I'll take you and Kat for a Margarita when I move to LaPaz!!

[@katiedatko717]

Your raggedy hat rocks! This video is great for us to start thinking about residency when our condo is ready. Thanks, Brighton and Sue!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Happy to share. Did you buy a pre-construction condo? Where?

[@garygoodrich1]

Thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you for the Super Thanks Gary!

[@helisean10]

20,000 pesos for a 1 bedroom apartment is very expensive! I live in Canada and that is the same price as here.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Do you have a view overlooking the Pacific Ocean with $5 margaritas available just a block away? You need to compare apples to apples. Living in La Paz is like living in Southern California. Especially when you are just a few blocks from the beach. 20,000 pesos isn't cheap, but I can't imagine what $1200 USD would get you in San DIego a few blocks from the beach.

[@msmargiek48]

We checked out Panama in 2021 and we didn't feel that things were all that inexpensive there. Food was more expensive then Mexico and with the influx of Expats in Panama Rents were also being raised every 6 months. We chose not to move there.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing your experience. I've heard from other folks who weren't enamored with Panama. But, they do allow you to move there with less cash...

[@ParisianThinker]

I have a visa to live in Panama. Turned around and left when I saw how it really worked. Not for anyone who is highly educated and interested in learning.

[@missmayflower]

Things are getting more expensive in Calgary at about the same rate. We bought a townhome here five years ago. We were snowbirds in Mexico the past two winters. Each time we came home after five months, our groceries had gone up by 50% and the value of our house had gone up by 50%.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That's great on the home values! Not so great on the groceries. Each time we go north we are shocked by how much the prices have gone up.

[@DianePacini]

We drove all over Panama, beautiful place outside the cities. Lots of traffic and crazy bus drivers in the cities. Boguete was about the only place I found where quite a bit of English was spoken. Even at the Panama airport I couldn't find anyone that spoke English. Everything was very affordable though, but that was about 6 years ago.

[@franyo8014]

In Panama they have been speaking Spanish for 500 years, It makes no sense they will change to English all of the sudden, just to accomodate foreigners.

[@julietillinghast6971]

Hi Sue! You look awesome as usual. Great video.

[@2213rtx]

I moved outside of La Paz 8 years ago I bought a property About a half acre in 2007 paid 50k built a home in 2010 2 bedroom 2 1/2 bath big detached garage for 115k did some improvements. total 215 k since then the prices are insane there are million dollar plus homes here over priced in my opinion the prices have increased a lot this morning me and my girlfriend had breakfast 550 pesos 650 with a tip 38 dollars wasn't worth it to but having said that there places you can get a better breakfast for half that so just have to find them. Fuel prices are worse here than California over 5.20

[@hiruu]

Yeah, the price of gas in everywhere in Baja I’ve been is just as high as California, with the reduction in exchange rates. I’m just puzzled as to why? Greed? It use to be soooo much cheaper just over a year ago? When I would visit almost 2-3 times a month, but now it isn’t work it for me to gas up when I cross from SD to visit Rosarito or Ensenada. Given that I usually have up to $1.00 off from supermarket fuel points programs, like Ralph’s, it usually is less in cost for me….crazy! I’m just so seeing how average Mexicans can afford these sky high prices!???

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I don't understand how average Mexicans can afford the prices. As to the price of gas, the government owns Pemex and they regulate the prices. So when the US saw out of control expensive gas, Mexico's price was going up just a bit. But then when the US came back down, Mexico has continued slowly raising to make up for what they lost during the peak. And private stations need to compete with Pemex, to they need to keep their prices similar. But I've never seen a private station with gas prices below Pemex...

[@christina3521]

Guys Just alter the play back speed to .75. -Click on wheel icon on upper right of video screen. -Go to bottom of list -Hit Play back speed -Click and test a speed to see what works for you.

[@James-mt3gi]

Jimmy Buffet is from Pascagoula, Mississippi, which is on the border with Alabama. That's why margaritas are so cheap down there. It's the original Margaritaville.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Good to know!

[@MEANJEAN2U]

Hello Brighton! 😄 I wondered why you singled out little ol' Moscow, ID.! Yes, unfortunately it has gotten a lot of attention since the tragic King Road killings. It is a very safe town/school otherwise ( my son went to school at U of I - during the event mentioned)! Love your videos-- always great information presented well! Thanks!! Hope to see you in San Miguel de Allende...of La Paz soon? Jean- not-so- mean

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yeah - Moscow has gotten lots of attention - including hours of podcast fun driving across the Baja Peninsula. I’m sure it’s a wonderful place. I have friends who would go to Coeur d’Arlene ever year for an art show. See you soon - somewhere in Mexico.

[@tt-designs124]

I'm originally from Boise and a lot of my friends went to U of I. We used to have fun at the annual "tin canner" where they stockpile the beer cans all year and then put them on strings from the roof, then pull them all down at once. :) Ahh those years!!!

[@bajaboy29]

I just left La Paz. My daughter was competing at the BCS state Olympics in the heptathlon. She got bronze which was pretty exciting. With regards to people moving to Mexico, sadly many move to save money not because they love Mexico. And then they complain that people don't speak English etc.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Congrats to your daughter. I had to look up what a heptathlon was - that's an impressive event! I hate when foreigners expect English to be spoken in Mexico - and I think you're right. It's people that want to move here because it's less expensive or there's more "freedom"

[@bajaboy29]

Keep up the great work

[@MadeNCda]

Brighton this video is very timely - thank you. Appreciated Sue's contribution as well. I'll be visiting my friends in Valladolid in May. Spending a wk in Playa del Carmen beforehand. I love Mexico but need to work 10 to 15 years before I even think of retirement 😂

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Ah - retirement (or almost-retirement) can be closer than you think! But get your residency when you can - it may get harder in the future. Have fun on your trip!

[@theartesana]

Sue is so informative! TYFS! ❣️✨

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You are so welcome

[@alalesc3796]

Either way you see it Mexico is still the best option in general for expats and people to move to Mexico. Especially for Americans and Canadians. Out of the touristy areas Mexico is still very affordable compare to the USA.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I totally agree!

[@CraigAnderson-h2h]

I lived down there and your last statement is a bit misleading. Ren and food are cheaper, most other things are the same and some things more expensive. The declining dollar with worsen the economics for ex-pats.

[@alalesc3796]

@@CraigAnderson-h2h everything in general is way cheaper than the USA, healthcare, taxes, food, etc… I’ll give you an example in California you pay around $10000 In taxes if you own a house yearly in Mexico $100 us! Do the math.

[@SimplySpoiledMobileMassage]

Hola Brighten mucho gusto! new follower here because I find your videos soooooooooo informative..... I appreciate you very much! We are new to La Paz, we love it so far..... What you guys didn't cover and I would love fascinating if you did..... was what about laws for Naturalization... Thank you

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for watching. I'll add naturalization to my list. Most expats just become residents, but some do become citizens. Thanks for the suggestion.

[@you.know.me.its.J]

Hello, do you offer mobile massage in La Paz? What are your fees?

[@you.know.me.its.J]

@simplyspoiledmobilemassage

[@tonyetheselfcaremaven]

Dude, we love that hat! Haters will hate. You’re really making me start to consider La Paz vs. Merida. I do love Merida though.😅

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks! I haven't been to Merida, but I've heard it's hot in the summer. La Paz is hot too, but I've heard from people who've lived in both that La Paz is a much more bearable heat. Good luck with your choice!

[@tt-designs124]

Shout out to the Moscow Vandals! :) I went to school in Argentina 20+ years ago back when the peso was pegged to the dollar. 1=1. Everything was adjusted accordingly. When it was unpegged is when things got very interesting.

[@Jeanetteslagt]

the price of groceries has nothing to do with transport like you suggested, I moved from La Paz to Merida, and in Merida, it is even more expensive than in La Paz. And prices, like rent can differ from state to state, and even from neighborhood to neighborhood. The Chedraui close to the Malecon in La Paz is way more expensive than the Chedraui on the other end of town for example. We travel on motorcycles through the country and see a lot of price differences that (to us) make no sense. We think it has to do with the economic situation of a state, neighborhood, and the income of locals. OVerall: very good and realistic video!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing! I need to check out the other Chedraui!

[@Marybaker2]

Gentrification has ruined the economy for local.....Green go !

[@sonjaarrasi]

We LOVE your OG hat!!! Haters gonna hate. You do you! 🙌

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks! I think it has a few more years left in it!

[@sonjaarrasi]

💯%

[@OdiseoQuintin]

Gasoline was not mentioned in the video, currently more expensive here than in USA.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Sorry - I've talked about gas before. Overall gas prices in Mexico seem to be most similar to gas prices in California. But it's hard to compare to the US. The US has incredibly low gas prices. Mexico is pretty close to the global average gas price.

[@febsign6110]

We were interested in moving to Mexico after our last visit to Centro Mexico,but after talking to a medical broker the quote was $950US per/month for the 2 of us with no previous conditions which I do have medical issues. Is this something that is the norm there or is there another path to coverage ? Thanks for the great video.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Are you from the US and over 65? There are some Medicare options. Also check out Lakeside Medical Group - I think they have a local insurance agent they work wit. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fJ_InpmPg9GMrNk Depending on your pre-existing conditions, you could paya about $1000 per year per person for IMSS coverage. You'd pay out of pocket for simple stuff, but if something big happened, you'd have public healthcare. www.mexperience.com/how-to-access-the-mexican-healthcare-system-imss/

[@febsign6110]

I’m in Canada and no coverage of any kind once I’m out of Canada. I do have travel insurance for 6 more months then that’s it.

[@mysticridge6975]

The Seattle consulate permanent resident retirement minimum went up from $167k to $240k! That's a huge increase.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow! That is huge. They may have switched formulas - making the 20% increase into 35%. But temporary residency is still a good option.

[@eugeniebreida]

Living here in Seattle… are you saying the MX gvt consulate here permanent us citizen “retirement (proven annual income?? total in banks/savings?? or what? ) is now $240K -? I hope Brandon or you can clarify approximately… thank you! Also, was Brandon’s guest saying that required monthly proven income must now be greater than 6k monty in dollars US? or Canadian..? Wow, if over $6k month usd, that is a huge recent shift.

[@mysticridge6975]

@@eugeniebreida Yes, they raised the retired savings amount for permanent residency to $240k. One can still get temp residency in different ways though. It took us 10 mos to get our appointment in Seattle. We tried to get an appt in Portland (required minimum is less $) but they wouldn't accept us bc we lived closer to the Seattle jurisdiction. In our initial application we were told $167k was the required amount, but by the time we got our appointment, that amount had changed without us knowing, so we fell short of the required minimum and got temp residency instead. Very disappointing they raised it so much and without telling us.

[@eugeniebreida]

Just to clarify, you are describing provable total funds of $240K “in the bank” (savings, ira, etc etc?). Right? And what was the Monthly Income required in USD’s? And how long to wait for appt in Seattle? (Am just guessing if you took a rental in “Kansas”, and did your application there, there’s a chance they wouldn’t reject you. Portland is too obvious a “work-around”, I’m supposing… That sounds

[@mysticridge6975]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Yes, we got temp residency instead. By the time we got our consulate appt, it took 10 mos, and during that time the requirements changed (without us knowing). It was a last minute scramble, and a bit disappointing that the original amount we signed up for wasn't honored, but es lo que hay.🫡

[@Chris-ut6eq]

If you are RVing/VanLifeing into the area, any tips for helping to ensure you can stay for 3-6months? if I wanted to drive down in Nov and leave in March, should I give the immigration people hoped for dates? tell them more details of plans? or less?

[@patrickbarr4429]

we will be there tomorrow 3/12 it be cool to run into you guys.

[@missmayflower]

She’s using an old conversation rate. That margarita, at 200 pesos, is $15.92 Canadian.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Sorry about that. You're correct. She may have confused USD and CAD. It's about $12USD and $16CAD.

[@Kathryn551]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Interesting bc I just got a really good Margarita on the Central Coast of Cali (very expensive area) for $12 at this Mexican restaurant that has been here 4EVER:)

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@Kathryn551 Nice! There's a Mexican place near my house in Portland that sells them for about $6! A few good deals left in this world.

[@sallylee6934]

We are retired with a good income but cannot afford the amount they want.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm sorry to hear that. Did you check with the consulates that have lower requirements (kzbin.info/www/bejne/sHbZgamoebqqrrM)

[@potvinr]

La Paz in New Gringolandia. I've lived there for 7 years. It used to be ok, now it's overun. Puebla or Veracruz are not half as expensive.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great suggestions. La Paz is definitely getting pricey.

[@Marybaker2]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico thanks to the gringos, Gentrification !!!

[@januariew]

A lot of mexico is less expensive. Ive been looking at cities on the gulf and yucatan. In the state of veracruz, its much less even the beaches and that area is safe.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I've never been to Veracruz. And you're right - there are so many options for safe places to live in Mexico - many of them cheaper than La Paz. It's kinda like the US - the west coast is more expensive.

[@januariew]

Yes. Its a large country and so many things vary from one city to the next like food! It's good to watch a lot of videos made by different people and you'll get a totally different perspective of the area. To me it seems like the gulf side attracts more local tourists than international tourists. There are still exPat communities in a lot of these cities but they are very small communities.

[@sadie9527]

It costs me less to live in Orlando Florida now

[@MyWTFName]

"Income" needs to be defined clearly for folks thinking about different destinations. For example, in Panama retirement income of $1000 must come from a recognized pension or government security account. For 401K, dividends, annuities etc, do not qualify as a retirement income source for their visa requirements.

[@LawrenceStevens01]

How bad is the water situation in La Paz? Dengue fever?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

The aquafer is shrinking in La Paz, and I think in most parts of Mexico. But La Paz is coastal, so desalinization is a future possibility. There is no public desal plant in La Paz at this point. I haven't heard of Dengue being a problem. Mosquitos do exist, but not like other places where it rains more. Interestingly, I found a project where they have tried to make the mosquitos in La Paz less likely to carry disease. It was in 2018 and 2019. I haven't seen results.

[@LawrenceStevens01]

Thanks for answering so quickly. I see you are back in Oregon. Some people are surprised at the high prices, but supply and demand takes over for desirable areas to live. I enjoy your videos.

[@SkydancerEntertain]

Thank you for you informative videos. I'm looking at El Centenario. Can you do a video on that neighborhood? Is it cute? Coffee shops? Restaurants? Is it feasible to go to El Centro La Paz everyday?

[@heatherg5338]

Could Sue please mention what the costs are to sell a home in Mexico? For example if you are a Permanent Resident and your Mexican home is your permanent residence, what taxes, fees are due when selling? Thanks!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That would be a great video. It's kinda a complicated topic because of exchange rates - but that's all the more reason to make a video. Thanks for the idea!

[@davebaker489]

You could bring Flash along in that video. Just say n@@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@justinesimone5343]

Thanks! I have more than the required $ needed to be allowed residency. Do we have to maintain the money in a Mexican bank?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Nope. If you have the savings, it can be anywhere.

[@ibflyn2]

We live in San diego, and we absolutely love La Paz. But the prices are just as out of control there, as they are here. But La Paz is worth it still.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yeah - they are going up crazy here. But in La Paz, you can still get a house near the beach for under $500k USD. They'd easily be $1.5-2M USD in a place like OB

[@missmayflower]

The best source for information regarding immigration is the Mexican Consulate nearest your home. They are the ones who approve you or not. Don’t waste your time on gringo websites.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I agree. But something the nearest Consulate can be hard to get information from - or hard to get an appointment with. Or they may have a higher requirement than a different consulate.

[@peterbedford2610]

I can't afford to live anywhere

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Check SE Asia!

[@Johnnie-d9b]

If the dollar drops much below 15 pesos, we’ll spend a bit less time there. If the dollar drops to 12-13 pesos, we’d live there much less each year and focus on other countries instead. Same effect if they raise the 8% IVA (value-added tax).

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You must live near the border! IVA is 16% here

[@Johnnie-d9b]

Paying $1600 rent in Mexico is unnecessary, especially for a 1 BR. You chose to inflict that on yourselves. The Canadian lady’s quote for burgers and two drinks was also too high and we pay less here in Playas de jardines de Tijuana, much closer to the US border. She’s not trying to minimize expenses much as some would want to do.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Minimizing expenses isn’t her goal. She could definitely live in less, but you can’t take it with you…

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

I live like Rey without skimping on anything for less than $1300us per month.....Buena suerte!

[@jackietrueblood5916]

Loved the video!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Your kind words mean a lot to me. Thank you for watching and supporting my channel!

[@lettruthprevail9820]

So. Immediately about the exchange rate. This video is making me really want a margarita but I’m on the wagon.

[@bryansmith6983]

Good info. Thank you.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Glad it was helpful!

[@pedrozatravel]

Great information I love La Paz

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

It's a wonderful place to live - and visit!

[@andrewbrann6231]

I would love to go to Mexico or anywhere in Latin America but I find it hard to believe people don't understand it's cheaper in Southeast Asia. It's way cheaper in Southeast Asia than Mexico

[@jodibraun6383]

South-east Asia is cheaper, but for most people, cost isn't the only factor. For some people it is. But I'd guess that people from the US or Canada are probably choosing Mexico, Central America and South America because it's closer to home, (in case of emergency), and because we're far more familiar with Latin American cultures than Asian cultures. Basically it's easier to zip back and forth between North American countries and Central American countries than it is to zip back & forth between USA/Canada and an Asian country. That allows a more flexible option for those who'd rather be able to be in their home country for part of the year, and their chosen country the other part. I'm sure there are other reasons. But it doesn't simply come down to costs.

[@andrewbrann6231]

@@jodibraun6383 I agree with most of everything you're saying. I will say there are quite a few people that budget travel and do it on a limited budget I think it's more than just a few I think a very big portion of people that go to Southeast Asia are actually budget travelers

[@jodibraun6383]

@@andrewbrann6231 Oh yes, for sure! An old friend of mine - a budget traveler - moved to Cambodia years ago. He's now married to a Khmer woman and has 3 kids & is living quite happily. I was a budget traveler back in the day, too. I would love to live somewhere more inexpensive than Mexico. But I'm an only child of two aging parents, one of whom is ill. If I moved all the way across the ocean from Canada, I'd never be able to relax, knowing I'd not be able to get to them quickly if they needed me. So for me, cost is definitely a factor. (I cannot afford to retire in Canada). But it's not the only or even the biggest factor. The convenience of Mexico plays a part in my decision. I'm just lucky that I absolutely love Mexico. 😄 I might have considered Cambodia or Vietnam for retirement if my parents weren't such a large factor in my decision. But another large factor is my partner, who has very little interest in living in South-east Asia. He's happy with the idea of visiting, but can't see himself living there.

[@judyrosario7342]

I read on your Mexico relocation guide, not sure if I misunderstood, that monthly financial requirement is less for a couple applying together, saw $500-1,300/ income per month per couple. Why is it lower than the single rate?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

$500-$1300 per month is the extra cost of the second person. The first person needs to have around $4000 per month income. The assumption is that a couple needs less money to live than two individuals. For instance, a couple could rent a 1 bedroom apartment, but individuals need to rent one apartment per person.

[@billiondollardan]

Idk if I would recommend Nicaragua personally. I haven't spent a ton of time there, but in my experience the people are not as kind as other Latino countries. There is an oppressive feel to the way the populace behaves. They aren't as open and friendly as other place

[@boogataws6398]

The political spectrum in Nicaragua is heavy regarding the current president being an oppressor Communist can’t compare it with the current Mexican political system which is still Fcked up but in a different way lol

[@Kathryn551]

so the word across the Financial guru system is US $$ is going to fail rapidly very soon. Many say in 2024 and certainly by 2025. so there is that:) I live in Cali and have been watching these videos now for about 9 months and I am hesitant still but barely making it here. Would have to drive back forth every 6 months altho I found a lawyer in Merida who said he could get me in on the Special Reg visa even tho I haven't been there B4. Hmmm... well, time will tell if I want to JUST LAUNCH. I used to be that way. Now not so much:( but I am not happy... so there's that 2:)

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Being happy is the most important thing. In Mexico, anything is possible if you find the right person and have enough money. But then you are operating in a space where you can easily get scammed... Best of luck to you!

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

Hola Brighton! Hola Kat! Hola @Kathryn551! You live close enough to drive here for a weekend or just long enough to get an FMM (Tourist permit) and get your passport stamped at the border. By doing this it at least puts your name and passport info along with your visit into the immigration system and if they keep the RNE program in place you can move here after a couple of years with no need to show the economic solvency requirements. Better yet move and live here by making border runs every 180 days for two years while at the same time saving at least half of what it would cost you to live in the US. After two years you would qualify for the RNE. This is a simple and an easy way to get your Residente Temporal Visa! As long as you stay away from the most popular and touristy areas you can live a very good life on less than $1500us per month. Do some research and practice your Spanish. Don't wait or the time will never seem to be just right! Mucha suerte desde la hermosa Ensenada!😎🏄🍍🥥🌮🍯

[@davebaker489]

Tech Talk... I think you 2 were sitting too close together and guest's mic. was picking up your conversation as well causing a mild echo. That's pricey for milk. I guess I'd have to add Kahlua.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yup - my louder voice was being picked up in both microphones. Her quieter voice was only in hers, so it sounded much better. The Kahlua might be less expensive than the milk!

[@davebaker489]

It seems others have told you so I'll butt out. PS I still watched and listened to the whole enchilada without ill effects. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Hola Brighton! When I lived in FL in the '70's I would often sail or fly to Eleuthera in the Bahamas to fish and surf. Considering that the price for a bottle of Coca-Cola was anywhere from $4 to $5 dollars and with the price of a bottle of rum was around $1 to $2 our rum and cokes consisted mostly of rum.

[@rocioprice7929]

Well, all this changes in cost of living in Mexico is going to make people think it twice before they move. The weather, food and people are wonderful, but when it doesn’t make financial sense is not a good alternative. We have to remember that cost of living is higher in Canada or the USA, but also employment here is higher and better compensated than in Mexico. That is the reason a lot of people from Mexico come to USA or Canada.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Working people in the US definitely earn more, but if you are no longer earning, moving to a more affordable country can be a good move. I'm planning a video about exchange rates, and specifically what exchange rate would make it more expensive to live in Mexico vs the US.

[@OIRAMAGETRO]

I believe that there are more US and Canadian people in Mexico now, than 10 years ago.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I think you are right. More people from the US and Canada aren't happy with the way things are going - and Mexico is a great option!

[@williamshaw8106]

🛫🇲🇽🏖️

[@Thomas-yg7qg]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Americans going to Mexico, Mexicans jumping to America😂

[@SophiaZanzotWhitted]

Exactly! Can't wait to leave California!!!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@Thomas-yg7qg We are all searching for a higher quality of life. Mexicans are moving north so they can earn more $$, then move back to Mexico to live the good life. Americans have already earned decent $$ before moving south.

[@kims1912]

You also have to have Mexican liability insurance on your car that covers you in Mexico, if you are driving down. As for me, my car is not paid off, so I would need full coverage policy to drive down.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Very true. We transfer our insurance to Mexico when we cross the border. If your car is not paid off, you may have trouble crossing the border. The lien holder may have restrictions.

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

My liability insurance in Baja Mexico is $159.89us with a $30.00us application fee. You really don't need much more considering most Mexicans don't carry auto insurance.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

I'm 70, a retired nurse. My social security is 1900$/mo. I have 65k in IRA & 40k in investments. Is there any chance of me retiring in Mexico? Not Baja.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes - but do it soon! The rates go up every year. The savings requirement for 2024 is about $75k USD. And IRAs and investments count.

[@jeanettelebarron3306]

Im sure you've read about the 3 surfers 2 brothers & 1 American) who were recently murdered in Baja. They just found the bodies. Have you heard anything else? Have fun in Ore ( where?), take care & hurry back to Mexico!

[@bettyb1581]

That was sad😢​@@jeanettelebarron3306

[@southofsensible]

Super helpful

[@hiruu]

Hola, buen dia y gracias por la información, 🤭. Practicing my Spanish a little bit. Yes, my current plan is to retire to Mexico in 3-5 years, so hopefully the $$$ can get back to “normal levels” by then. I’m WAY above the max minimum, even now if I was to retire, so does that mean it will be easier to get a temporary residency? Can you do a video or provide some good information on immersion programs in Baja? I live in SOCAL, and driving south would be easy for me. I found a language institute program in Ensenada, but they have not been very responsive, but I figure you all might have some good tips. I visited Cabo last September with mi amiga and we went to La Paz (her grandfather lives there), and I absolutely love it there. It is just the right size and with the proximity to Los Cabos, it serves as a good option to retire to.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Buenas noches. I don't think having a higher income really helps with the residency process. I think if you meet the minimum, you're in. More could get you permanent immediately which is convenient. As to immersion programs, I don't know of any, but that's a great idea and I'll add it to my list. Saludos!

[@hiruu]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico thanks for the info.

[@davebaker489]

Also Re Panama. We looked into Panama and even in the dryer areas it rains a lot. Far more than here in Nova Scotia (and the ocean is in my backyard). Honestly I'm not ready to grow mold and that's why (so far) the Baja seems to suit us best. Then there's the drivability aspect. I can drive to Mexico and or from Mexico. Now if they'd just do a bit more to secure their dwindling water problems. P n D

[@davebaker489]

I did. Not warm enough in the winter. And far too close to the border.@howard9691

[@davebaker489]

I did . No Thanks.@howard9691

[@davebaker489]

No Thanks. Way too close to the border.@howard9691

[@davebaker489]

No thanks. Too close to the border for me. Also winter is a bit cool. If I'm coming south for the winter or forever I want to be able to comfortably jump into a warm pool anytime. @howard9691

[@alalesc3796]

With $2000 dollars you can live a very good life in Mexico!😀

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Yes!

[@chrisj5505]

Who makes $4000 a month these days? That is rediculous. That is over $30/hour. So unfortunate, as a devotee of Santisima Muerte I want to go study under elders and start a Botanica and a shrine, live my faith and become fully integrated into the culture. Will be very difficult to do that stuck in Canada. Cost of living is so high here it is next to impossible to financially build the capital go there. Shall have to pray Santisima gives me a winning lotto ticket because does not seem any legit way to to make that kind of money to qualify

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I'm guessing Mexico will need to recalculate the requirements at some point. Minimum wage is going up 20% a year and the residency requirements are tied to minimum wage. You could go to Mexico for up to 6 months at a time on a tourist visa. Or win the lottery!

[@thisweekmetaverse]

Only thing I want to say is the strong peso isnt just good for Mexicans, its good for foreigners (like me) that live in Mexico, pay tax in Mexico and get our salary in Pesos. For retirees it will be more but for those of us working, weve seen a near 40% rise in salary vs $ and GBP since the start of the pandemic.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

That’s a great point! Anyone earning pesos is seeing more buying power. The only real sad part is that the value of remittances is going down.

[@willeasy4667]

thanks! You opened my eyes for Mexico life! I will go to another countries for my retirement.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Happy to help. I wanted to share the reality so that folks could focus on what's possible for them.

[@willeasy4667]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoThanks

[@damon123jones]

$2000 for apartment in Vancouver and thats cheap

[@Booboonancy]

About the amnesty/regularización, I think the original thought behind it was to give migrants from other Central and South American countries a path to residency, security and stability (humanitarian). Since the financial requirements are increasing rather rapidly, I suspect that this path will eventually become unavailable to those from wealthier countries. I could be completely wrong but basically if you want to use that path, get crackin’ 🤷🏼‍♀️

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

It could possibly continue to be used because of Immigration Law-Section 2, Article 54, Clause 3, that basically states if you can show you make enough to live in Mexico you could be granted residency status.

[@Booboonancy]

@@davidsebastianelli1326 Thanks for that info. Since laws are tedious at best to change, that would explain why the financial requirements are increasing rapidly.

[@phishtacosfishingandstuff2677]

I just purchased dinner for 13 people with drinks and desserts for $127 (tip not included) at a very nice seafood restaurant. I'm renting a small furnished house for $275 a month. No one speaks English, which is a big plus for me.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Wow! You’ve found some great deals. And you’re very generous!

[@Thomas-yg7qg]

Interesting to see example of how margarita prices jumped there as well…😂is there no place to get a buzz without financial anxiety😢😂

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hah! I think if you want an affordable buzz in La Paz, you go for a doble-canela. Seems popular but I have tried it yet. Beer, Clamato and 2 shots of tequila in a styrofoam cup. It’s in my list to try!

[@davebaker489]

Gawd ! I'd need the 2 shots of Tequila just to be brave enough to drink the Clamato@@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@geezerpleasers_OG]

QRoo is an ex-cop, but he's not an attorney. If you're using repeated tourist visas to get around the requirements for residency, then you're lying on your immigration application. Lying to the immigration authorities is completely illegal in pretty much every country in the world. In these days of computerized systems, Mexico, like most countries, can and does track activity over time, including your repeated use of tourist visas over time (as Sue mentioned later in the video). This usage can prove that you never intended to be there as a tourist, but actually intended to establish residency. I often hear people say that you can't prove intent, but that's completely wrong. Intent is a major factor in a wide range of legal matters. It's the difference between manslaughter and murder. People can literally be executed based on the legal proof of intent. Intent is a core element of a fraud prosecution. Intent is the difference between levels/degrees of many felony charges. Pattern of behavior is used in court every day to prove intent, such as in money laundering cases. So no, it's not completely legal to use a tourist visa when you intend to establish residency. It's completely illegal. Is Mexico prosecuting people for this? No, but they have every right to do it, and there's no guarantee that they won't ever do it.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Great point on the cop vs attorney! Technically, the FMM is not a tourist visa. It's a "migration form." You can check "tourism" as your purpose for being in Mexico, but you can also check "other." I don't know if they ask you for details if you check "other." I agree on the ability to see patterns. Immigration in Mexico was fully computerized last year. So they are going to have lots of information when they decide to change what they allow.

[@geezerpleasers_OG]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico From a legal standpoint, it's no different than a person coming to the US for the purpose of working, but only getting a regular Visa. That's illegal, and you can and should be deported. In either case, whether going to work in the US or establishing residency in Mexico, there is a specific process which you must legally follow. If you do not follow that specific procedure, and only get the regular FMM form, you are acting illegally. The "other" on the form does not encompass establishing residency because it does not in any way meet the established requirements for residency.. For now, the only difference between the two cases is the level of emphasis placed upon them by the respective governments. However, given the rising level of resentment among Mexican citizens about the gentrification of some areas, pricing out Mexican citizens, and given the potential backlash in Mexico over one American political party basing much of its campaign on the potential rounding up and deportation of Mexican immigrants to the US, it is entirely plausible that a new Mexican administration will respond in kind by ejecting all those people who disrespected the laws of their country by acting illegally and using the FMM instead of following the clearly defined requirements for establishing residency. And frankly, from my point of view, anyone who says, "Screw the requirements, I don't care what the laws of this country say, I'm going to do what I want and lie my way through it", then that person deserves to be faceplanted back across the border. If they have so little respect for Mexico and the Mexican people, then they don't belong there.,

[@AN0nnyMouse]

QRoo's take on the legality of using repeated FMMs to establish long-term residency is just jailhouse lawyer talk. It's BS. Think of it this way. In the US, driver's licenses are the common form of identification. Even more so since the RealID requirement went into effect to be able to fly. If you don't drive, then you can go to the Motor Vehicle Department and get a simple ID card. But if you say, "Hey, I have a card from the Motor Vehicle Department so I'm allowed to drive'" that's just laughable. It's no different to say, "Hey, I have an FMM from immigration so I'm allowed to establish residency!" No, you're not. If you want to drive, there's a whole separate process you must go through to prove that you meet the requirements. If you want to establish residency, there's a whole separate process that you must go through to prove that you meet the requirements. Period, end of story.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@geezerpleasers_OG I completely agree about foreigners abusing the system. And I think the risk is high. You're totally right, Trump wants to invade Mexico. Plus all the nasty things he's said. Enforcing the immigration rules would be an easy way to punish Americans. Although I'm guessing that most Americans who are living south of the border aren't on Trumps side... So the question then is: If you come to Mexico every year for 4 months like a snowbird, do you think it's OK to remain a tourist? IMO - get residency as soon as you can (if you can.) But I've met many people that come south in the winter on a tourist visa and I'm just wondering your take on that.

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoI have friends that have lived full time in Mexico for the last ten to fifteen plus years just making border runs here and there throughout the year. Most of them have plenty of money and could easily qualify if wanted to, they just never saw the need because it is legal to do it this way. The people at the border crossings in Tijuana and Tecate know them by first name and have never questioned their intentions. I got residency a few years ago just to make it easier to come and go without paying a fee each time. There are thousands of people who have plenty of money and live here for only part of the year on just a tourist permit and never bothered to get residency. What the officials don't like is if you overstay your FMM and if you are working here without a permit.

[@Anonymint-vj7bt]

Do not have time to watch the video. But the lowest cost English speaking country has to be Philippines, other than maybe India but India is not a nice place to live. And the SRRV visa only requires either a retirement stipend or $10 - 20k deposit (which can be applied to your condo purchase or house construction). There are loopholes for residency in Mexico, but Mexico is several times more expensive in terms of rent or home purchase for example. Also the benefit of a green, tropical country versus a barren desert in Baja and northern Mexico with water shortage issues. Tropical Mexico is not a safe area generally speaking, especially if driving down (you can read the horror stories online). Overall law & order is much better in SE Asia than Latin America, although crime is not too bad in most of Baja (although again you can read about many home invasions of expats on Mexico Daily).

[@TomBTerrific]

I didn’t find the Philippines that cheap. Certainly not if you aren’t interested in living like a Filipino. Property is very expensive. If you shop at their market but Robinsons isn’t cheaper. Labor and property taxes are cheaper.

[@Anonymint-vj7bt]

@TomBTerrific property taxes are also low in Mexico if not in expat gentrified zones. Lush tropical (i.e. not water well unobtainable Baja desert) property overlooking in Philippines is cheaper than in Mexico (e.g. Oaxaca) but you can not own in your own name. Market food in Philippines is reasonable, but not cheaper than the UK for example (presumably because of limited arable flat lands and net importers of grains along with very high population density). Freshness, availability and quality of certain veggies (Chinese Yard Long Beans, Pechay, etc) and seafood is excellent at least in the southern provinces. Mexican groceries (e.g. compare peanut butter to price at U.S. Walmart or UK Tesco) are ridiculously expensive (much higher than USA except maybe for beef), although Walmart and Costco Ensenada are better (but not available outside of major cities). Medellin Colombia had the absolute best avocados. Argentine bacon (imported to Colombia), OMG to die for. Agreed to live cheaply (e.g. renting a townhouse in Cavite for my son for $85/mo) must live like a local (e.g. his front yard is not paved). But much better to live like a local in Philippines than Mexico, where some of Mexican sh8ties (e.g. many areas of Ensenada but not Cuidad Constitucion where I am now) smell like an open sewer because of their horrendous public utilities (ditto if not worse in Peru, OMG Chiclayo had septic tanks spilling into the streets when it floods). Internet and electrical reliability seems better at least in Cuidad Constitucion than in some Philippines cities.

[@ddolde]

I’d live on my social security about $1400/month sell my house for around 200k then rent.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Renting is a great option down here! And you should be able to get a temporary visa when you put that 200k in the bank (the minimum is around $75k USD in the bank.)

[@PP-uv1kw]

BE BETTER TO RENT YOUR HOUSE before going to mx

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@PP-uv1kw I guess that depends... the rental could be nice income. But $1400 a month from social security isn't enough to get residency. But $200,000 in the bank will get temporary residency.

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico The way it's currently set up if someone really wanted to they could pay themselves from a fake company at least $4000us per month for a minimum of six months and qualify for residency. You don't have to show you ever even had a job and have been making good money or will continue to make any money at all after qualifying and moving here....I think they will wise up. They really should have switched by now to using the UMA to determine residency monetary values considering it's been used in Mexico since the law went into effect.

[@lih-fk8by]

One of the biggest reasons for the price increase in Mexico is all the foreigners who keep comparing prices to where they are from rather than comparing prices to where they are

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You really think that foreigners, who make up 1.5% of the population of Mexico are responsible for price increases across Mexico?

[@lih-fk8by]

Across Mexico no, but in places with a high concentration of foreigners absolutely

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@lih-fk8by I can agree with that. Someone from La Paz commented that they see differences in prices from the grocery store where foreigners shop to the same store in a less gentrified area where only Mexicans shop. I wanna investigate a bit.

[@Tbaz-u4r]

I was born here in the United States 54 years ago, but both my parents were born in Mexico. My mom divorced my dad when I was around 8 years old and I never saw him again. My mom later married another man who was born in Mexico and was living in this country illegally. She divorced him back in 2013. My mom passed away in 2020. I heard that I could be eligible to become a Mexican Citizen because my parents were both born in Mexico. For several years now I have been researching places to retire in Mexico and have settled on two places, Mexico city or Chapala Mexico. I'm still not sure on how to go about getting my Mexican Citizenship, though. Anyone have any advice? 🤔🤔🤔

[@missmayflower]

Contact the Mexican Consulate nearest your home.

[@marialennen3660]

The Mexican consulate in your usA residence also if you can apply for your Mexican voting registration card.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

You can go to your consulate. www.gob.mx/sre/documentos/list-of-mexican-consulates-in-the-united-states?idiom=en But many people hire someone to help. Host Relocation Mexico is one such business.

[@Tbaz-u4r]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you so much.

[@Misszumicat]

oh the sound is funky on this....can you fix it?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I wish I could fix it. But it was a bad recording. :-(

[@travelingexpats]

Considering the 4 UI students who were murdered in Moscow, ID last year, La Paz probably isn’t anymore dangerous. Great info…loved your video!🎉

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Exactly. In Mexico, I'd guess that 95% of violent crime is tied to cartels and gangs - and that's easy to avoid. In the US, violent crime is so random. It sneaks up out of nowhere in the strangest places.

[@barbarasummers280]

What about Belize?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I haven’t been, so I can’t say. We live part time in Oregon, so we needed a west coast destination.

[@amyhollingsworth16]

What's up with the super strange echos on this You Tube vlog Brighton? The sound is terrible and the talk is super fast. But I do love your new hat!🤠

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks. We both had microphones but my voice was picked up by both - resulting in an echo :-( But I bought new microphones. However there is one more video coming out using the old mics 😖

[@amyhollingsworth16]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico, thanks for the heads up Brighton! 😃😃😃

[@donTeo136]

Ibague Colombia a city of 1m people , 500 usd rent give very nice place. Condo. House. Thats way too expensive.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing

[@Lane9693]

Fyi Phx consulate confirmed 2024 income reqmts of &2,530/mo for TEMP RES and $4,217 for (age 60 above) PERM TES

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thank you for confirming that!

[@carlozalex]

I have 3 years to retire with pension, man are these last three years dragging!

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hah! Best of luck with those last 3 years. Be sure to use up all your "sick time" to enjoy life a little. ;-)

[@sylviatilsley7285]

70-90 pesos average cost for a super good Margarita in Melaque Jalisco.

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I may need to move to the mainland!

[@mikeA2010]

Gee wiz....you would think your guest had drunk 6 red bulls by the speed she was talking...I was trying to put your vid on slow play with no success...so I had to use the subtitle option since she was speaking Canadian super fast😅😅😅😅

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Hah! I talk super fast too so I didn’t notice!

[@davebaker489]

My retired high school English teacher wife ... would tell you to listen faster. lol

[@davebaker489]

I hadn't noticed the "fast talk". Must be from growing so close to Canada. @@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@tomaso6780]

This is because the Mexican economy right now is firing on cylinders.

[@marygrise8490]

Oh no. Well there goes my retirement plan. I will not be making 4000 when I retire. So sad. No retirement for me

[@davidsebastianelli1326]

You don't need that much to live here, you just need to show it ONCE to get your Residency Visa. You can easily live here on less than $1500us per month. Do some research and look into the RNE program.... Buena suerte!

[@glennl70]

$44.00 for two burgers, fries and a drink. $1,700 / month for a small one bedroom apartment. I can live better than that in the states. Maybe it's just better to vacation there for a couple weeks a year.

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

Thankfully no 2 states are the same here in Mexico. We noticed a huge difference after our move from the Merida area to Xalapa Veracruz. We paid $17.500 for a beautiful 3 bedroom home, walled private pool covered carport rooftop patio 2 blocks from the Gulf of Mexico in Chicxulub. (30min from Merida ) Now she is asking 20k pesos. Here in Xalapa El Centro we pay $7000 pesos, top floor of a house. 3 bedrooms no pool but it has a covered garage. But to buy property it seems cheaper in the Yucatán. Overall it's way cheaper here even when dining out. Wherever the beach and gringos are you can expect to pay more for everything. 😂 No where in the world is immune to inflation. There are definitely cheaper countries to live. ✌🏼

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Thanks for sharing your experience! And including details. I agree: the further you are from other gringos, the lower the prices will be.

[@2GringosOnTheGulf]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Yes and the further from the beach. ✌🏼😁

[@maricelarooper9558]

My mom was born in Mexico, but she is no longer with us. Will I still be able to apply with that.

[@mwiebe2663]

Yes, as long as you can get a copy of her Mexican birth certificate. If your mom was born a Mexican citizen, you have the right to citizenship.

[@Swim136]

I love your raggedy Hat.. it has character.. lol

[@mexsouriman05]

QooRoo Paul does not support the perpetual tourist idea. He says that if its something you want to do, its legal,,and if it's your only option,,then good luck. Maybe you need to rewatch his videos?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I thought the same thing until I watched on of his recent videos where he had a much more rosey view on perpetual tourism than I've seen from him in the past.

[@karenyamashita5783]

I’m interested in retiring to Mexico ,

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

What's holding you back?

[@mikejackson1717]

Is that amount if your retired??

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Mexico doesn’t distinguish retired or working. Requirements are the same. I think that maybe in the past they had different levels, but now it’s just one level.

[@mikejackson1717]

I'm like $200 off the mark. Can you get a waiver

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

@@mikejackson1717 They are pretty strict. I'd recommend looking for a consulate with a lower minimum. You can find a list here: mexicorelocationguide.com/visa-requirements-for-mexico/?ref=34

[@meloearth]

I'd love to know why the water in MX is not drinkable. And is that in the entire country?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

As I understand, it's the water delivery system. The water leaves the water plant as clean drinkable water. But then the pipes are leaky and they aren't always pressurized (in La Paz where I live, the water comes every other day for most people - and you store it in a tank on your property.) In the US, if the water pressure in the pipes drops, they issue a boil water notice because something happens when the pipes are fully pressurized. I don't know of any parts that have clean water, but maybe some of the newly built tourist areas... maybe.

[@meloearth]

Interesting. Thanks for this info! @@AlmostRetiredinMexico

[@chasingtheAmericanDream]

Wow! That’s a lot for rent!😱 Does her place have a gym or a swimming pool?

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Welcome to La Paz! Things are getting really expensive here. She's in Esterito, which is the cool hip neighborhood just outside Centro. I'm sure she's mainly paying to be walking distance from the ocean and all the amenities of the neighborhood. But probably no gym. Maybe a shared pool.

[@chasingtheAmericanDream]

@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoWow!

[@Zher-o7r]

Sorry I couldn’t watch thesound

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

Sorry - I used two lavalier micorphones and my voice got picked up by both. I tried to fix it, but I couldn't.

[@bssam2143]

The prices have gone up because a lot of Americans and Europeans are coming in with plenty of money and can afford this but the sad thing is that the Mexican residents cannot afford this and eventually will be driven away from their homes

[@AlmostRetiredinMexico]

I know that foreigners have an impact on prices in Mexico, but we make up a tiny portion of the country. And with the super peso as I talk about in this video, foreigners can afford much less than a few years ago. The Mexican middle and upper class is growing and that's a much bigger number of people - and they don't see the impact of the super peso the way foreigners do.