7 Cheap Places to Live & Retire in Mexico (that nobody talks about)

[@russellbarnes7728]

We relocated to Morelia, Michoacan two years ago. My wife is a Mexican citizen and I'm from Reno, Nevada. We rent a nearly 4000 square ft home, in a very nice neighborhood, 3 bdrm/3 ba. Our rent is 8000 pesos, or $400 USD. Our total monthly outgo is less than $1200 USD. We are able to travel, entertain, and travel at our leisure, just on my SOCIAL SECURITY. Altitude is 6200 ft, and the weather is beautiful always. Certainly the best move I've made. VIVA MEXICO 🇲🇽

[@soulshine8531]

Morelia sounds fabulous..I’m in the north as i have friends here from rock climbing but it’s expensive and difficult to get fresh food. Also hot. I need to head south!! That budget is staggering. Fresh organic produce i guess in those parts.

[@purplebabushka852]

I am going to look this up. We can't wait to finish the hurricane repairs and get out of here. 8 months later, still waiting on one more repair. Thanks for the info

[@belle42]

What is required as a minimum passive income for residency?

[@Carp0rn]

​@@soulshine8531Fyi, Morelia gets very hot in the summer! Lots of traffic too. Beautiful city though.

[@soulshine8531]

@@Carp0rn oh boy don’t need more heat.. or more traffic..

[@yunuenhoover16]

My husband and me retired two years ago in a small town called Tonatico, Estado de Mexico just two hours away from Mexico City. Its warm weather round year, beautiful landscaping, wonderful small downtown, very welcoming people makes it the perfect place for us.

[@abogadocarajillero3169]

You americans are very adventurous. Hope you enjoy your stance in Mexico, learn spanish and enjoy mexican culture. Welcome.

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

Congrats on finding the spot that makes you happy. We have lots of cities to check out from Mexico to Argentina. Cool temps are one of our most important things to find.

[@dimwitsadvocate6264]

@@abogadocarajillero3169 I am looking into moving to Mexico from the USA, so all this is new to me. While I'm looking into this, I am working hard to learn Spanish. I want to meld with the culture and people.

[@abogadocarajillero3169]

@@dimwitsadvocate6264 I can help you if you want. Of course, meanwhile, i also practice my english, haha. Greets from CDMX.

[@pgpc6448]

How did you and your hubby find this area?

[@Ze0nite]

For those wanting a quiet life without losing access to any modernity, Puebla is a good pick. I cover all my living expenses including food for about 600 USD per month.

[@oirampeceda2409]

Wow! 600 dollars per month?! Every expense? Are you in a small apartment?

[@Ze0nite]

@@oirampeceda2409 Every expense indeed! 600 for rent, gas, water, electricity, hi speed internet and food. It's a two bedroom 1200 square feet home plus gated parking so not too small! We're 5 minutes away from any major service we might want like supermarket, shopping mall, cinema, veterinary, hospital, etc. and the number of dining options surrounding us in a 1km radius are well above one hundred.

[@krissyhughes2768]

Solo canadian traveller here is it safe for single woman

[@barbararenaud]

@@krissyhughes2768Yes it’s safe.

[@fayskelley]

I’d be interested. I’m solo woman.

[@scottweier4285]

I moved to Tijuana over 13 years ago, you just have to do it, it seems over whelming but really is not that difficult. There are many ex pats all over Mexico who are all willing to help with information, and the Mexican people are very friendly overall. I have had a few a bit jealous because I married one of their beautiful women, some do not like us coming into their country and taking their things, living at a higher level than them. But the majority are great. Really a good place to live.

[@rayray2076]

You are a fool, matter of time you will be found in the desert.

[@mellomello4020]

ilegal people

[@scottweier4285]

A very simple laid back tranquil life.

[@HM-uj6ud]

You think they hate you because you married a Mexican or because you’re buying property and renting it to high?

[@HM-uj6ud]

Honestly no one cares that you have an average wife, they don’t like you because everyone hates a landlord, period. Refocus lol.

[@susanfarley1332]

I spent 5 years in mexico when i was a kid. I would love to move back. The people, the culture, the beauty are all wonderful.

[@stevebrankin9582]

👍🏻

[@Diasporaliving]

Mexico is no longer a good place for the majority our retirees. Here’s the reason: “Given that the minimum monthly income to qualify for a Mexican residence visa is $3,540 USD per month, and the average monthly social security check is only about $1,827 USD,12 social security alone won't be enough to qualify for economic solvency unless you already have a minimum of $58,996 USD in savings. May 17, 2023.” Cheers, Dave.

[@nisadeeves7102]

You can also look into a temporary residency visa which is much less. You can stay up to four years then covert into a permanent residency visa without financial qualifications. That’s what we did last year. But yes, every year the financial requirements go up, which is why we made the leap while we could still qualify.

[@Mongoose-ct6us]

​@@DiasporalivingWhat about Argentina?

[@alvarotorres9057]

I can probably retire in my old village in Mexico. I have a house that my parents left me in Mexico and I’ve see many people that came to the US during the 80’s and 90’s are returning back to Mexico. I can probably make it with $750 a month.

[@pinoivegas]

You should,It makes me wonder why lots of Mexicans particularly in California with very high cost of living haven’t considered of relocating back to Mexico. I’m currently here in San Cristobal de las Casas on my 5 weeks vacation,I can even see myself retiring here,Oaxaca or Guerrero on $800-$1000. You’ll be set on that $750 with no house payment and live like a local $400-$500 will be more than enough to live comfortably.

[@alvarotorres9057]

I think a lot of Mexicans living in the US still believe that living in the US is superior to living in Mexico. In my situation, I would prefer to retire in my families village. I know it would be easier to retire in a town nearby because you have restaurants, hospitals and you can buy a house for like $15,000-20,000 dollar but I would really like to retire at my family village. I hold a sentimental value because that’s where my father, grandfather and Great grandfather are from. The only issue is there’s a lot of work to be done around the village.

[@sierrajoy11]

​@PHILIRAQ because of pay. Yes the cost of living is cheap there but keep in mind they don't make a lot of money. The people that move to Mexico to retire are already set with their income & it's cheaper for them to live there. They probably come to USA for better opportunities. I have a co worker who's family still lives in Mexico and she sends money to them every paycheck to help them.

[@Wazupiseeyou]

@@pinoivegas All those Mexicans had children in the US and now have grandchildren they want to be close to. Family is everything for Mexicans.

[@dennishassler605]

I would advise against relocating back into your own village. Instead, you should select a place with a higher quality of life and start a "new" life with a new experience. I often engage a Mexican in a discussion here in the Phoenix area - I tell them everybody's running in the WRONG direction. Opportunities are rare in Mexico and many are locked into jobs that don't pay much. For those retiring, Mexico is excellent.

[@kathimccaw1444]

México is full of wonderful diverse choices. I recommend staying uncommitted to any spot, and check out a variety of choices. Think long and hard about what you really want in your community/social group before making any decisions. One of the reasons that the more popular cities get such interest is a lot of the work is already done for you. Moving to a small place with a limited (or non-existent) expat community can severely limit many of the conveniences you take for granted. How is the WiFi, are there English movies, is there a library, etc - whatever you need in your social arena? We've been living in México full-time since 2006. We love it, but you do have to adapt.

[@nicolasmaximus2286]

There is not plenty of entertainment on the net/yt too.Connect it to a Tv.

[@shebun6242]

Thank you for that but of sage advice. I've been doing just that. I'm now retired with two cats and looking for a place. I'm a city girl who likes walkable spaces, libraries and museums. In addition to a few modern touches for shopping. Thanks for your suggestions.

[@shebun6242]

@@kathimccaw1444 Thanks for the heads up. When an experienced person speaks it is the novice who benefits. Thanks

[@bigmike208McDizzle]

Yes and don’t be to lazy to learn another language lazy Americans 😅

[@LoveLightSalsa]

$1000 a month for rent in Mexico is expensive! Even with all utilities and a housekeeper. Maybe it seems low compared to prices in the US. But for middle class Mexican’s that’s considered someone who is rich. The video is gorgeous and gives tons of great information, nonetheless.

[@nicolasmaximus2286]

Some people can manage it for $500/Mo.!!!! Just don’t be a show off.!!!!

[@nancyharris4913]

Great video and well done. Just a couple of comments about Oaxaca City that I think people should be aware of.... 1) regarding the hiking trails in the hills surrounding the city, this area is not safe. There have been a lot of muggings there. You'd have to go out of the city area a bit to get to safe hiking. There have also been some muggings in certain areas of the city so walking around later at night is not advised. (Just like many cities.) 2) You made it sound like it's a short distance to the Oaxacan coast, but it's a 7 hour drive through the mountains. A highway is being built (and has been under construction for many, many years, so who knows when it will be complete) and eventually that would reduce it to a 3 hour drive. The best way to get to the coast is to fly (a short 45 minute hop), which is obviously more expensive, but not overly expensive. I loved Oaxaca. It's an absolutely beautiful, photogenic, artistic, colourful city. The food is great as well. There are a lot of towns in the surrounding area that have interesting markets. So the city has so much going for it. Thanks again for all of the great ideas!

[@iLikeGreenTea]

true. :/

[@anasalazarsmotivation954]

Road to the coast is done

[@nancyharris4913]

@@anasalazarsmotivation954 Great news. Thanks for the update.

[@tomgardner8825]

the new híghway to the coast completed in 2024. yes 3 hrs but its safe and scenic. its mexico so whats the hurry.

[@stephenkelly1650]

This video, was so helpful. Thank you. I am 60 yrs old, retired Canadian , with pensions of approx. $3k/month, which is bugger all here, but in Mexico I could live a better life. Thank you so much for all your effort. From an old hippy, PEACE!

[@DebbieD7777]

You could live like a king on 3k in mexico or anywhere outside of the US😊

[@coachinguniversitario-exit140]

I would recommend Mazatlán, Ixtapa pr Huatulco with direct flights to Canada and not as popular and crowded destination as Cancun, PV or Los Cabos ….

[@RedroomStudios]

@@DebbieD7777 not anywhere outside of the US. he is Canadian and can barely afford to live there. western Europe would also not work. what you should have said is any less developed nation, including pretty much any Latin American country.

[@RedroomStudios]

@@coachinguniversitario-exit140 being on the coast is overrated and for many people like me the heat and humidity is unbearable for more than half the year. interior of Mexico is preferable with much drier air and higher elevations.

[@brittneywilliams2730]

Most likely less stress as well inflation is extremely high

[@carolmartinrmt]

I could listen to your videos all day. You are great. And this video "7 cheap places to live and retire in Mexico (that nobody talks about) is perfect for me. I thank you so very much.

[@sirgalahad1470]

The new "American Dream" is to leave the US for good as soon as possible

[@nicolasmaximus2286]

Yes, you have that right & same with 🇨🇦 Canada 🍁.Thank you.

[@allo.813]

Yep

[@saladbreath607]

The U.S. has become a morally and financially bankrupt, overregulated outhouse, i'm sad to say.

[@YouGotOptions2]

I think the new "American Dream" is the diversify and decentralize your life as MUCH as possible.

[@NoGoingBack2024]

sad but true. If Trump becomes president, I'm gone!

[@williamo3919]

Moving to Cancun Quintana Roo Mexico. Leaving Michigan next week to sign the lease

[@mannyalaniz926]

Huatulco Oaxaca was just too beautiful. The weather, people and food really left a mark on me.

[@RedroomStudios]

too fucking hot.

[@mannyalaniz926]

@@RedroomStudios it was and humid, but since I was a tourist, I was always in the pool or at the beach… so I didn’t really suffer

[@Doug-zl8nb]

The sand was very hot​@@RedroomStudios

[@RickyDominguez]

Morelia, Michoacan is the BEST for retirement!! Amazing food, amazing culture, amazing architecture!

[@mochilero13]

This video is far better than most about Mexico and actually features some lesser known options for a change. But I want to accentuate that there are literally hundreds of lovely towns and small cities in Mexico that satisfy the aims of this video. Let me suggest just two, Orizaba, Vera Cruz and Zacatlan, Puebla.

[@j0rgesin]

Puebla como tal es una ciudad grande, y supongo que dependiendo de cada zona serán más altos los costos de vivienda y de recursos fundamentales.

[@gschell99]

Having traveled widely in México, I wholeheartedly agree with your choices.

[@timisaac8121]

Hey Aly. Great vid: enjoy it alot. I live in Mexico for about 20 years. So glad you didn't send anyone my way. In my town of about 5000, I am one of the only gringos. Lets keep it that way!! One aspect you don't mention (or I missed) is costs can go down: my living costs are about 1/3 of what it was when I first came. Both my needs got smaller and I took advantage of local culture. If you around Americans, with them at the 3X factors, and stay there, costs won't go down. Most people, as you present, will rent: Long term, I found owning is so much better. But it took me about one year to find a place that was great for me. It turned out to be FAR greater than I dreamed: Value is at least 3X what I paid and I can sell easily. If I move, it will be to Cuernavaca!!! Maybe see you there sometime! Best wishes.

[@ordinaryalan]

I’ve lived in Valladolid for several years and I can promise you it gets much hotter than 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Try between 100-110 during summer with 80-90% humidity.

[@elsanto8879]

Tulancingo, Hidalgo is where all my family from my dad’s side is. He was born in Hidalgo. This where my wife and I plan to retire. We can’t wait. Thanks for sharing

[@juanmtpelaezg]

Mucho mexicano queriendo vivir el "american dream" y mucho gringo (🇺🇸 y 🇨🇦) y otros extranjeros también deseando vivir el "sueño azteca" 🤭 excelente video 👌🏻me gustó mucho el contenido 👏🏻 Afortunadamente tenemos muchos lugares hermosos en todo 🇲🇽, en cada rincón, en cada pueblo y en cada ciudad encontrarás nuevas y diferentes cosas, comidas, costumbres y trato afectivo de nuestra gente, de nuestro pueblo 😎😌 Somos un país con 32 diferentes países pequeños y cada uno de ésos 32 pequeños países tienen también gran cantidad de micro países: los pueblos mágicos 🇲🇽💚🤍❤️ Todo aquel extranjero es bien recibido y más aún si van a aportar crecimiento y diversidad a nuestro amado México 🇲🇽 así que sean bienvenidos, aquí tendrán siempre su 2da casa (que estoy seguro que será su 1ra casa y de aquí no querrán irse jamás) Saludos ✌🏻

[@Mexicobeanpole]

A beautiful post. Gracias and saludos!!

[@alysmalls]

A lovely message, Viva Mexico!

[@daisyapontehavenmemoriestr8552]

Love Mexico.

[@yvonnereyes7141]

Yo nada más quiero regresarme a mi país. Mi mamá inmigró 🇺🇸 cuando yo era niña y ahora de adulta quiero vivir 🇲🇽

[@muneca7979]

Venezolana..Que vive hace 25 anos en USA... Mi primer viaje fue a MÉXICO hace 23 anos....AMO❤ MÉXICO... Es lo más hermoso que he visto en el mundo.. he viajado...pero su país me robo el corazon..me retirare...alla Si Dios lo permite ❤

[@ricardo_cn]

Thank you for showing and putting in the map my hometown of Valladolid 5:57 best wishes and luck in your journey. Regards from the UK 🇬🇧

[@j0rgesin]

Soy de Torreón en la Comarca Lagunera, pero muy bonito municipio bro.

[@rocketboy9127]

Valladolid is boring, offers nothing special,l have spent there 3,4 days and left for good😢

[@used369]

Good memories of La Cruz. "Tacos in the Street". Beaches gone bad, in Playa del Carmen. Currently on Lake Attitlan Guatemala.

[@YouGotOptions2]

Been living here in Playa Del Carmen for the last 7 months and while I LOVE IT, I also know there are more affordable options.

[@gem4hems]

How much is monthly rent there?

[@LivingandenjoyingLife]

Depends. I used to stay 2 streets from the beach by 52nd ave. It was 11000 pesos a month for a studio with view of the ocean, private rooftop balcony. But average fort hat location is 17000 pesos studio, about 10 minutes drive to beach, you can get a house with two to 3 bedrooms for the same price 11000 pesos with everything included except electricity. It just all depends on how you want to live, by beach, you don't need taxi, you can walk everywhere, or use a scooter and live a little further, scooter cost about 18000 pesos in Walmart there. ​@gem4hems

[@YouGotOptions2]

@@gem4hems I agree with the other commenter here. It all really depends on where you are. Closer to the water generally means more expensive and the revers. We lived in "Luxury" condos off of 10 ave anywhere from 18000 to 24000 pesos a month, but also found a slightly older place that was a bit cheaper 18000 (electric included) that was right in between 10th and 5th ave.

[@Lbb789]

We live in Playa too!!! Definitely there are cheaper places but none like Playa 😊

[@JbeachLovers]

Check out Cozumel.

[@wachox]

I would also recommended, Cuetzalan in Puebla , Malinalco en Estado de México, San Andrés Tuxtla in Veracruz, and Morelia Michoacán

[@susanshaver912]

Thanks! I appreciate the focus on less touristy, smaller places to live:)

[@toesfingers20]

We live in Todos Santos. I always tell people, if you’re gonna make that move do it before you’re 70. How I wish I was young enough to go and visit all the town named. It would also be nice to be a new less expensive location. when we purchased our home in 2019 it was probably 70% cheaper than it is now. Thank you for doing the videos is very interesting and well done.

[@mackmoulin]

I was offered 10 acres of beachfront land there 25 years ago, for $110,000! Had over 100 meters directly in the beach and went uphill, so good views. Old growth cactus too. I did not buy. LOL.

[@worldadventuretravel]

I spent several weeks in Valladolid and the nearby village of Ek Balam and absolutely loved it.

[@o2bkjohn]

We spent the day at Ex Balam and Valladolid in 2019. I live in Texas and grew up without air conditioning. It gets really hot in the summer like Texas. I'm used to the heat but people need to be aware of the heat. We had a good time in V. As mentioned you're close enought to the Cancun airport .

[@christhefou]

in 4 years I plan to go to Acapulco for the 6 months of winter but its nice that you give us alternatives . Thats a great informative video thanks

[@richard135b7]

Beautifully produced video and amazing content. So useful. Thank you so much!

[@ghilly_one1720]

I am thrilled that the KZbin algorithms brought your channel to me. These are the types of towns I am looking for. I hope to retire in Mexico and want to start the scouting trips. Also need to get my husband on board because he is believing the USA media about “the cartels taking over”. Big sigh. If I can live even part-time in the country and part time USA that would suffice for a while.

[@mariansmith7694]

Hello Aly, I am seriously thinking of coming to live in Mexico. I was a Park Ranger in National Parks in USA. I am also a Natural Health Consultant/ herbalist. I have watched many videos. I like this one best of all.

[@alysmalls]

Thank you, good luck with your move!!

[@wellnesscoach73]

you will do great here as herbalist are respected and revered as part of of old traditions passed down with wisdom and knowledge about healing try to learn about mushrooms for spiritual healing

[@bumpylucas26]

hey miss smith have you consider living within the continental US i mean mexico is in sepia colour scheme and there is too much violence you know lots of guns coming from up north wouldnt you consider a better place to live i dont know mmm maybe montana oregon or maybe any where within inside the american territory

[@j.whisper2379]

If you don't need to work, Patzcuaro, Michoacan! Where I have lived for the last 11 years, and will never leave!

[@purplebabushka852]

We want to retire in Mexico. But after we sell our home in Florida we need to narrow it down to a few places to visit. This video is informative, and a couple of these places are very tempting. Thanks !

[@RedroomStudios]

no matter where you go I can tell you that Mexico never disappoints.

[@daysetaruselli4881]

I'm planning on doing the same but I'm going to rent the FL home for a while.

[@mexicoliferodcook9479]

Living in Tepotzotlán Mx for 9 years now. A Pueblo Magico about 50km outside Mexico City. If you go to Mexico City, make sure to come and check out Tepo.

[@alysmalls]

Would love to visit one day for sure!

[@mexicoliferodcook9479]

@@alysmalls When you visit, make sure to go up to Arcos del Sitio... A Roman style aquaduct.

[@christopherhouse7937]

Does Tepotzotlan have a low cost of living?

[@mexicoliferodcook9479]

@@christopherhouse7937 Extremely low cost and it is beautiful. My bills total $600 usd not including food.

[@christopherhouse7937]

@@mexicoliferodcook9479 Is it safe enough to walk around the city at night? How far from central Mexico City? How much does a monthly bus pass cost for unlimited trips to Mexico City! Is there nice gyms nearby? 😃✌🏻

[@stacistein702]

Sooo happy you mentioned historic areas and many "hot" cities. I'm searching for hot, humid regions with lush vegetation, and almost every relocation video I've seen focuses heavily on West Coast, non-humid cities. Not all of wish to live in desert, mountainous areas! Thanks for recommending places that meet my criteria!

[@lobosolo3215]

It is hot and humid in Heroica Veracruz and Boca Del Rio Veracruz. Yet may I make a suggestion: DO NOT COME TO HEROICA VERACRUZ nor BOCA DEL RIO VERACRUZ. You will step back in time of racism, hatred, smiling faces that stab you in the back. There are other hot and humid like Merida Yucatan where many are flocking to and from. It is hot and humid yet there are good places to live and expat community growing. Best of luck

[@mamatita2549]

Veracruz también es un lugar muy hermoso para vivir y tiene ciudades muy hermosas y muy económicas una de ellas es orizaba pueblo mágico con un excelente clima, bienvenidos hermanos

[@s.m.h.7480]

Thank you for this good information Allie. Chacala and Lacruz are very interesting to me. I’ve been looking at Puerto, Escondido and San Pancho as possibilities and this seems to fit right into that area. Really appreciate your site and will continue to look forward to more information about these more affordable Pacific coast, cities for my retirement in a couple of years Steve

[@Mexicobeanpole]

Watched till the end. Must say, this is a very well done video. Subscribed.

[@alysmalls]

Glad you enjoyed :)

[@RedroomStudios]

getting harder as exchange rates get worse too, especially for us Canadians. I am still getting by on $1500 Canadian a month. just being more careful about picking lower priced accommodations to make up for the difference in exchange rates.

[@ZuyinLuy]

San Miguel de Allende, Playa del Carmen, Merida, Queretaro and Mexico City are just great! Merida off course is the cheaper place but the rest can be very affordable if your income is 🇺🇸 💵

[@dgoins6]

I lived in a big city in Mexico for under $1000/month. I could walk to the big box stores. Tons of major medical facilities and the international airport was 20 minutes away by taxi. A 2 hour flight to Houston.

[@OldLadyInFL]

If you're willing to live like the locals do, you can easily live on $1,000/month. Some of them don't make that much, and they are still happy and friendly.

[@RedroomStudios]

why the hell are you going to big box stores? support the local people, not the ones who are the reason you left the USA in the first place.

[@soulshine8531]

Sounds like Monterrey I’m here and can’t make it on 1800.. not sure how the Mexicans do it.

[@dgoins6]

@@soulshine8531 Veracruz

[@dennishassler605]

@@soulshine8531 You might try more economical places in Mexico like Oaxaca or Huatulco; moreover, you can live in Brazil for less than you live in Mexico and Brazil can be a step above Mexico in many places given it's more modern and a friendly place as well.

[@vinconssier4224]

I’ve lived in san Cristobal for 3 years i absolutely love it. Something worth noting is that the water is extremely polluted and causes massive problems especially for foreigners. People with sensitive stomachs should beware.

[@riseupbloom9836]

Excellent video! I retired and moved to Merida in 2020. Beach bum here so then I moved to Playa. Now I’m ready to move to the west coast, thanks for informing me La Cruz or Chacala I had not heard of those towns.

[@gem4hems]

How was it there in merida vs playa?

[@riseupbloom9836]

@@gem4hems Merida was a soft landing spot for my initial leap to Mexico living. I enjoyed Merida and the architecture of Paseo De Montejo , and Centro. More of a city feel, great for easy quiet living for families. I found it to be isolating for me after a while. Playa is a touristy beach town. There are people everywhere and out at all times. More lively area, I like that.

[@Socrates1944]

Thank you, Aly Smalls, for this very informative video about reasonable places to live in Mexico!❤😮

[@TheTwoTravelersInMexico]

Nice video. I just discovered your channel and subscribed. We've been living in Mexico for 3.5 years now and love it. We live in San Luis Potosi. -Marc

[@alysmalls]

Thanks Marc! San Luis Potosi sounds beautiful, I can't wait to visit

[@theknightswhosay]

The only place on the list I’ve been is Valladolid. The neighborhoods I saw were a little bit sketchy when the sun went down. Nothing happened to me, just a feeling. I wouldn’t have wanted to be there alone. The shopping areas were nice though. Just don’t expect to find an American large or bigger. I liked that it got cool at night when I was there (in late October). I also like that it’s between Merida and Cancun.

[@rhondaclaiborne7283]

Thank you for this amazing video pointing out roads (towns) less travelled.

[@musiccreation1198]

Great, informative video. Thanks Aly. I've been living San Miguel de Allende for two years. Cost of living in SMA is getting out of control, so I'm looking for alternatives. Several good options in Mexico, but I'm leaning toward Ecuador.

[@talesfromtheleashexpatdogl1426]

Estado de Puebla

[@johncofield803]

I've been thinking about Cuenca, Ecuador for a while. However, the recent events around the presidential election is making me wonder. You?

[@musiccreation1198]

@@johncofield803Same here. Leaning toward Oaxaca City currently. Going for an extended visit early next year. Plus once the new hwy is finished, just 3 hours from very nice beaches. ;)

[@nicolasmaximus2286]

You might find good info on YT&Google.

[@DonRamiro1]

When God created Mexico, He did it with love and affection. This is a nice list. My family is from Atotonilco el Alto, Jalisco, which is home to Patron Tequila, Tequila Siete Leguas and Don Julio. It is a BEAUTIFUL place with proximity to GDL. There are a lot of hidden gems in the Los Altos de Jalisco region such as Tepatitlan, Arandas, Jalostotitlan and Lagos de Moreno. I, myself, am planning on moving to Mexico, either GDL or Atotonilco in about 2 years, I'll be 55 years old by then. I have a ranch down there and it's been planted with Blue Weber agave just this April (2023). After the harvest, I plan on planting avocado and lime trees and some strawberries. I want to have a home nearby at the edge of los altos with a view downward towards the town of Atotonilco. The food there is very good. Best tacos you'll ever eat are in Atoto at Los Cuñados (multiple locations in town) and La Guadalupana. I'm telling you...

[@JbeachLovers]

Tacos ,enchiladas, tostados andmore they are so good Burritos big and deilicious.😊

[@pedrozatravel]

This is a good list, it is all about getting out of your comfort level a bit and find something that works for you.

[@BarrierIsland]

Thank you Aly, this is very informative, and you have a soothing voice which makes it enjoyable to watch...

[@juliecaron3955]

This countey is so large we have plenty of options i loooooove aguascalientes!!!! Clean safe not too big very well organized big boxes and small city vibe and country side. Airport go direcly to isa dur to Nissan university city…lots of young ingeneer are studying there

[@CarlosRomo-p2u]

También hay un pueblo a 40 minutos de Aguascalientes se llama Villa Hidalgo Jalisco yo soy de ahí es muy bonito.

[@CreativeBusinessFinance]

Most of Baja is very affordable, been RVing Baja for a couple years and rented space in RV parks for under $700 with some parks (full hookups) under $600 a month.

[@chucke756]

Aly, Glad I found your YT channel. I’m hoping to retire in 3 to 7 years. The cost of retiring in the US is getting ridiculous. Anyway, looking forward to seeing more of what you have to say about retiring in MX. Thanks! 😊😘

[@alysmalls]

Glad to have you here Chuck!

[@RedroomStudios]

Colombia is an even cheaper option.

[@phatmonkey11]

We were in Chacala for 5 days in April. It is teeny tiny and there's nothing going on, and I live in a small town myself. It was awesome for 5 days though!

[@greggdoty3076]

Great video! Valladolid is a very nice city and the location between Merida and Cancun is ideal for relatively easy access to the US but, like most of the Yucatan it is VERY hot and humid in the summer, and, indeed, it's plenty toasty almost year-round. Something be be aware of if you don't want heat and humidity.

[@alysmalls]

Very true!

[@iLikeGreenTea]

is Valladolid hot between June and September?

[@greggdoty3076]

@@iLikeGreenTea Oh yes, it's usually very hot and humid during the summer.

[@donranski6557]

I've been thinking of moving to Panama, they have a great 'pensionado program' which offers discounts on just about anything and you don't have to be a senior citizen. Panama is one of the safest countries with excellent healthcare. I wouldn't go to Mexico for free.

[@lb9007]

There are many reasons why we choose popular places like Vallarta over the places avoided by most expats. I've been to many. San Cristobal is way to cold, damp and rainy. Guanajuato beautiful to visit but you're stuck in a narrow valley many older retirees avoid all those hills and steps. Zacatecas is one of the highest homicide place in MX, cold and unsecure. Valladolid and Oaxaca good. La Cruz soon to get more overflow from Vallarta. Chacala has a nice beach nice for weekends but there is nothing to do there, boring after few days, undeserviced.

[@andercoyote4170]

Valladolid y Merida are hot like you've never known heat.

[@janetpartyka5968]

@@andercoyote4170 Lol...

[@michaelm.3210]

Indeed! Apartments in Guanajuato are advertised by listing the number of steps UP from downtown. It can be a TREK!!!! And some of those quaint little alleyways are used as urinals--and they REEK. (I know--I lived there for 6 months.) And it does seem to me that when I looked at precipitation in Chiapas that it was huge. It's just so e-a-s-y to point out all the selling points of Merida, say, but many KZbinrs seem to sidestep discussing the HEAT (which can be high as heck). AND, it doesn't cool off at night!! LOL 90 by day and 70 at night isn't great sleeping weather, IMO.

[@user-xg6yc8ho3w]

There are a good number of great inexpensive towns in Mexico that are not on this list. I'm glad about that. It all goes down hill after youtube reveals them.

[@ronicmwest]

I just scouted in Mexico and there is a new visa option. Ill say this if you want to spend American pricing in Mexico you can but there is plenty of options for less. Im not close to retirement but I dont plan on staying in the states much longer. Im ready for community again , better food, decent cost of living, etc. I dont want my Grand Daughter experiencing too much American culture.

[@bumpylucas26]

but hey cmon why dont you love the american way ... remember mexico has their own ways and as much as you love mexico.. think also in the mexican you are pushing away from their home because they are not able to pay top dollar for the cost of living not everyone is a cleaning lady or a waiter this is not the US so please be kind dont be a digital nomad just pay taxes and complain about the loud music

[@Kathryn551]

I just spent 4 months in Mexico. First time. Drove at age 70 alone (with my dog:) Phone wouldn't work. No map. Mr. Toad's wild ride. I relied on the kindness of strangers. Some were kind, others were not. I ended up w/ PTSD driving in heavily populated cities without GPS. Started out in La Paz and ended up in Guadalajara (TOO MANY PEOPLE). Very nice place, inexpensive apartments, nice neighborhoods but TOO MUCH TRAFFIC. I came home two months early (I had planned to stay forever:) to get some peace and quiet and recover from the PTSD of being lost in a foreign country over & over & over:) After a year of recuperation in this tiny peaceful town back in USA, maybe I will venture out again. This is a true story...

[@matthewcox9624]

Also, other towns have been overrun by Expats. Cabo, La Paz, Todos Santo, Cerritos, Los Barriiles. To name a few in Baja Sur.

[@topplacetoLive]

These spots seem like contenders for the best place to live in the world on a budget. Thanks for the insights!

[@marcd1981]

Thank you for the video. The main question I have when seeing these cheap places to retire videos is what are the income requirements to move there in the first place. This video is talking about living comfortably on $1,500 a month, but it is not mentioning Mexico's income requirements to retire there. From the most recent numbers I've seen, it is not easy to meet the income requirements even when you've done well with income and investments in the US.

[@deebee2603]

The requirements for a temporary residency visa are now $4,350 - $4,600 per month income (depending on the consulate). For permanent residency, you need to make $7,364 per month. If you are using personal saving/investments, you need to show at least $73,200 - $73,600 in an account for the past twelve months to gain temporary residency. For permanent residency using qualifying savings or investments, you need $293,000 - $300,000 U.S. for twelve months total. The total must not fall below the minimum amount. You can also apply at a consulate for temporary residency if you own a Mexican property with a minimum value of $553,000 - $586,000. Cost of living for even a lavish lifestyle will come nowhere near these figures. Some people borrow money a year in advance from a family member, and let it sit in an investment account for a year. Others sell their North American home, bank the profit and use the total to apply at a Mexican consulate a year later. Others just come and go using their U.S. passport.

[@marcd1981]

@@deebee2603 Thank you for replying, but I already knew all of this information regarding income requirements. I was asking how people are meeting these income requirements? That is a lot of income to be asking for to live in Mexico. It is the most I have seen required from many countries we have researched moving to. I recently retired from a six-figure job and will not be bringing that much money home every month. I would not qualify for the Temporary requirement, never mind the Permanent one.

[@dgaydos]

Great vid highlighting some wonderful towns without a plethora of expats. My fav (y el hogar de mi mejor dentista - Salud Oral) is San Cristóbal for sure...I've spent many weeks there. Probably(along with Valladolid) the safest of them all too. A point for viewers of the video: the beaches of Oaxaca state take some effort to reach from Oaxaca City unless you're flying. But cheap microbuses that take you over the mountains are available for the adventurous...just be ready for lotsa curves! PS. Valladolid is pronounced "vaya-though-LEED", stress on that last syllable :)

[@McGrew100]

Great education! I've been watching Lake Chapala for about 10 years and I see the American realtors have really jacked prices up the past 3 years. Houses with nothing special are $200 a foot to buy. Dumps are around $200 a foot. It's theft as it cost about $50-70 a foot to build in that area. If you want a pool and a lake view, the price per foot can be higher. It's on the level of ridiculous...............BUT, you have Americans coming from high priced areas and they think they're getting a bargain, so if they're buying, why not rip them off?

[@brysava]

The real estate agents do not "jack up the prices". Simple economics do that--it is called supply and demand.

[@FM-yv6lm]

American Realtors? What are American real estate agents doing down in Mexico?

[@ksgraham3477]

It's the cancer of "Gentrification. "

[@nicolasmaximus2286]

Supply & demand!!! No thanks. I could by a small house. No rent!

[@famouskate9071]

Worse thing about Chapala is the extreme lake pollution. NO ONE is in the water, which is toxic. But what do you think is irrigating the fruits and vegetables?? Such a shame, being a lovely and friendly area.

[@LivingandenjoyingLife]

Yucatan is good, but that heat from April to November is brutal. Puebla is nice, just has thoae two volcanoes 🌋, I like oaxaca, i stayed on zipolite, very nice community, locals, actually everyone so friendly and chill.

[@SeagullRetirementPlans]

*I want to live in Southeast Asian countries because they are affordable and have many beautiful beaches*

[@clarencemarquez8134]

Hey Ally, ..... QUESTION: You recently had a video on Puerto Vallarta, where you stayed in a small "boutique style-roof-top" Hotel with a great view from the pool with great access to the main area and lots of restaurants and local bars. WHAT VIDEO IS THAT, ..... ?? Thanks in advance and keep up the great work. 😎🚴‍♂️🤸‍♂️⛹️‍♀️

[@alysmalls]

this one! kzbin.info/www/bejne/o5eQnYKfeKtsncksi=Xp1_XqDy47zhsEWY

[@soulshine8531]

I’m in the north right now because of rock climbing and friends. Zacatecas sounds up my ally i need some altitude, mountains and colder weather. Also in the north here i can’t get decent organic vegetables except at HEB and Costco. The stray and neglected animal situation is depressing me as well. Maybe that’s all of Mexico.

[@freetheppl5376]

Please read the comments on Zacatecas, it's very dangerous-esp for foreigners.

[@soulshine8531]

@@freetheppl5376 i did read them sad. Will it ever end?

[@chacmool2581]

Well done, but I would not choose any them. Cholula/Puebla, Hidalgo, Xalapa, Aguascalientes, San Luis Potosí, Querétaro is where I'd look.

[@Lane9693]

Lots of good ideas in this cideo ! Thank you.

[@flash521]

Very nice video and provides for some good leads for retiring in MX. My wife and I are retired near La Ribera, BCS. We have been here 15+ years in our own casa a few minute walk from the beach with a baja mountain back-scape. So many people are moving into our area, which is 1.5 hours north of San Jose airport on the Sea of Cortez. We are settled here - however - still adventurous to other areas of beautiful Mexico. Chiapas - coffee and CHOCOLATE has its draws and I suspect we will have to give the place a visit. Gracias

[@alysmalls]

I would love to explore more of the Baja - I think it would be fun to do a 2 or 3 week road trip. Sounds like you live in a beautiful place :)

[@mikeswanson2405]

We have a lot just north of the four seasons in La Ribera. I hope the growth projections (30k+ people in La Ribera in 10 years) does not happen. We bought there for the small town feel.

[@flash521]

@@mikeswanson2405 - Mike Congratulations on your purchase. We are living at Lighthouse Point Estates since there were on five casas here and less full time people. We live here full time. Since our 15 years + we have heard that 10,000 people were going to move south of us for Cabo Cortez; didn’t happen. Then we heard other rumors of another big development and three to four hotels; didn’t happen. The water availability problems, much due to the government, will put the halt to any major 30,000 developments in the next 10 years. PLUS - we have an economy that is chilling off. When we moved down here 8n 2007 by 2008 the USA economy put the total breaks on any development for five years. I’m not kidding. Anyways - hope you the best and may you live your dream.

[@dgaydos]

Great vid, thanks! I would say however, that the beaches of Oaxaca aren't exactly "an easy get-a-way". Unless you fly, it takes a few hours to reach the coast by bus or car. But maybe that's why la costa oaxaqueña is still so nice and less developed commercially. One other thing....it's far hotter and more humid on the coast than in Oaxaca City :)

[@christophercurcio4722]

Awesome video. Thank you so much. I need to learn Spanish!!!!

[@surf01er66]

Aloha, great vlog, especially the beach destinations. I was in Sayulita a couple of months ago. What a cool vibe !!!! Surf was limited to one point so not good but there are options...Aloha

[@alysmalls]

Such a good energy there! We actually just went for the day last week, fun town for sure

[@eunicehowe4159]

San Cristobal has a real water issue...contamination is so common...lived there for one year...so many people with stomach issues, salmonella...Coca Cola has a huge factory there and they take so much water! Something I didn't know when I went there!

[@andercoyote4170]

True.

[@kennethkilpatrick3758]

Got a parasite in San Cristobal. Took me weeks to get rid of it. A beautiful city in the center but the desirable area in the Centro is very expensive.

[@allenkares]

Oh no! and here I thought San Cris had lots of clean fresh water, the reason why it was one of the top of my list.

[@allenkares]

@@kennethkilpatrick3758 oh no! may i ask how did you catch this?

[@hydr8-007]

My naturopath has me to travel with empty gelatin capsules and black wormwood drops to combat parasites. Also, I eat no salads, request no ice, and even brush with bottled water. I believe my original parasite came from drinking the water at a restaurant or pork dishes.

[@iamhudsdent2759]

The low monthly rents touted in this video sound alluring, but you have to see what you are getting for that price. Mexican standards of living are not American standards. Nor is quality of housing. I lived on the Nayarit coast for one year. I rented three different places, ranging from $800-$1000 a month in rent. Had a few scorpions in two places, and lots of bat and iguana droppings all over the place. The other was third floor, so no scorpions, but I could hear the neighbors televisions and voices echoing. It was a nice enough condo, but flipping the mattress I noticed it smelled of urine. Couldn't get appointments kept for repair work there. Though they may show up three days late. Videos like these do not give the full picture. Mexico is a great adventure, warm decent people, and I am thinking of returning. It can be beautiful, but it is also shabby. Things are run down and in disrepair, and they don't do sewage well, you often smell it, and will you use the water to brush your teeth? I did not. In older construction, you don't flush toilet paper, not fun. And you may smell sewage coming up the bathroom sink, or shower drain, because they didn't install drain traps. My main issue in returning is finding a rental that's up to standards, not shabby, not gaudy, both of which are characteristic of Mexican buildings. And I do not need luxury, just something clean, proper, not ugly or depressing, a comfortable place with some aesthetic appeal (we Americans are spoiled). Mexico is also noisy, as Mexicans like to start parties and karaoke at midnight. You awake at night to hear a party going on, which is disturbing if you value peace and quiet. And the air quality can be poor, in that they tend to burn stuff at night, often causing wood or trash smoke to some degree. A variety of beautiful beaches though. I lived right above one in Lo De Marcos. Stunning view, open isolated seascapes, until the locals turn out on weekends with tables, chairs, music, and all the festive and childlike gregariousness that Mexicans display. A beautiful helping of humanity. They treat you like family; it is disarming and humbling. But that beach house had so many issues. Lots of things broken. Exposed wiring, so you get a shock turning on the light at 4 AM. Water pressure so low you can hardly shower. Crabs in a seedy toilet. Broken gates. Electrical outlets don't work. Things in need of repair. Sloppy paint. Streams of ants, indoors. Gecko droppings on the kitchen counter. A scorpion or two, so check your sheets before bedtime. Noisy ceiling fans. No washer dryer hookup. Leaky roof, which got fixed. Garish lighting. Rickety doors that don't close right. And when they fixed the roof, they threw the debris below onto the hillside. All this, perched above the sprawling Pacific Ocean, swaddled in overgrown jungle, fish right from the sea, jaw dropping beauty, up and down the coast, high cliffs to the south, brown skinned surfer girls glistening in the sunset, like a dream. But could I renew that lease? Or search for yet another place? I drove back to the US. Have had a plan to return that is fading, in my Mexican car with Nayarit plates, but I just don't know. It's been three years.

[@reonwatching]

Thank you I was reading through many comments in hopes of getting to some REALISTIC comments not just positive reinforcement. However, do you think the city you were in or the location or neighborhood within that area was a problem whereas other areas might be better? No one else has any such long list of problems.

[@largelingerie]

Yikes!

[@holyhandgrenadeofantioch2019]

You left out the roosters. And the neighbors’ dogs that bark nonstop, all day long.

[@J_Eusebio]

Thought about Merida but I think I would miss cooler weather

[@JonathanHunt-v3z]

I loved this video, because I want to live in Mexico City, but my best friend from the best looking option 🤔 for my Mexican dream palace

[@Baci302]

Thanks Aly. Great video. I'm hoping to retire soon and the destinations you highlight look wonderful. Honestly, I'd rather live somewhere a little under the radar. These places are "gems". One question I have: Do these places have reliable internet?

[@RedroomStudios]

the internet in Mexico is generally quite reliable but not perfect. its common for the internet to cut out briefly once to a few times per day. its generally better in large cities but can vary by provider and from one part of the city to another. thats why its good to start out renting air bnb's to figure out the basics before you commit to buying a place. personally I have been in Mexico for 2 years and have stayed in about 30 Air bnb's + a dozen hotels / resorts. I have no plans to buy my own place but prefer the freedom of moving around and not getting stuck in one place.

[@garlandetheridge9902]

Great job Aly. Very enjoyable.

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

San Cris is high on our list of possible retirement cities. Currently in Nicaragua…after a year we plan to head to Guatemala and then Mexico before heading to South America.

[@garycastronova7939]

San Cristóbal de las casas i spent a couple of months there. They shoot off fireworks all day starting at 6 am. Cold and rainy in summer. Nice to visit but living there no thanks.

[@therehastobesomethingmoore]

@@garycastronova7939 Cold and rainy doesn’t bother me but fireworks all day does not sound appealing. I don’t care but it will scare my dogs. Is that mainly downtown ?

[@garycastronova7939]

@@therehastobesomethingmoore If you're near any church. It's some religious practice apparently for the indigenous people there. The real estate agent neglected to tell me that before i rented an apartment....it drove me crazy. Sounded like i was in a war zone.

[@hewer1953]

6 years in Mexico now . We are in Querétaro now but landed in Rivira Maya .

[@DWilliam1]

I’m retiring next year and already own my retirement home in South Carolina but am looking for an out of country option as well. My concern is the food and getting sick. Every time I’ve been to Mexico and places like the Dominican Republic I get sick from the food. How long does it take for your body to get used to it? It’s the only thing holding me back.

[@DWilliam1]

@susieepstein2726 Thanks for the tips

[@daysetaruselli4881]

​@@DWilliam1I would make sure there are good medical facilities around. You can get food poisoning, water bacteria etc anywhere

[@DWilliam1]

@@daysetaruselli4881 Probably the best thing to do. I just naturally have a hard time processing food outside the US and a few European countries.

[@daysetaruselli4881]

@@DWilliam1 I understand. I have a similar issue

[@andreabaird7849]

They have a shot now

[@mygypseasoul]

I live in Los Cabos area. I love San Jose Del Cabo but rents are getting crazy expensive. I want to check out other parts of Mexico. Nice video

[@gustavobarajas5877]

I encourage the Anglos to get to know Mexico and it's people. Most people move to Mexico without caring for the people of Mexico. The only thing that people care about is, cheap, cheap, cheap.... There is no interest in the history, culture and socializing with Mexico. The Anglo brings to Mexico a hermit way of life.

[@janetpartyka5968]

I agree. If you don't immerse yourself in the culture, what's the point of being there? The Mexican people are some of the kindest people you will ever meet.

[@gigi-merida-moreno]

@@gustavobarajas5877 so true!!

[@michaelcyr8215]

and us American's and foreigners drive up costs and make it impossible for locals to continue to live in their own cities!

[@gigi-merida-moreno]

@michaelcyr8215 that's a terrible fact!!

[@HAPPYPLANTGAL]

I enjoy meeting the people from Mexico, here in Canada.

[@RobertIsaacson-hi9sz]

We found it a little more money than this. But the key we found was to stay way from any beach. Now if you get near a beach town . expect to pay five hundred percent more. More than you would pay it the United States. You can always drive to the beach.

[@frankmontez6853]

I spent two weeks some years back in San Juan De los Lagos Jalisco it was the coolest in July . It was dreamy with temps staying cool the entire time .Never once turned on AC . Lil showers every day kept it cool maybe in the 70s . Carried an umbrella with me everyhwhere . I don't remember if we knew what temps were going to be but it was most pleasant surprise I live in San Antonio Tx and it's horribly HOT here reaching above 100 F to 110 F heat index . i often thought it would be soo fantastic to live there just for the weather

[@grewdan58]

My husbands father was from San Juan. My husband visited there with his parents about 8 years ago. I would like to visit there but I'm not sure my husband is so interested. Still, he has relatives there so we could stay with them to visit.

[@DestinationRetirement]

Great Video. I bought my house in Mérida a few years ago. Valladolid is a beautiful city and a great option for anyone considering a move.

[@stevengoodman2278]

Hot as hell

[@hectorm.9441]

There is another little city in the State of Coahuila , is Parras de la Fuente , but this days it’s almost impossible to live there , hotels are as expensive as The Riviera Naya , it seems like Oareas us turning in to the back patio if millionaires especially from Monterrey Soon this place will be for certain type of citizens . Area of excellent wineries and the home of the first place in the American continent to grow Vine plant . Located in an oasis in the middle of the desert 1,500 meters over de sea level .

[@tanyagwilkins962]

Nice list Aly. I've never heard of LA Cruz or Chacala before.

[@cherylgray4721]

The issue isn't how cheaply you can retire in Mexico, the issue is whether you can meet the minimum monthly income the Mexican government requires in order to obtain a retirement visa to legally live in the country. Because if you can't meet that income amount, the rest doesn't matter. You can only stay in country on a temporary visa.

[@FYpgt]

Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia fully furnished condo $300.00 per month. Lunch, dinner $4,00 per meal. Massage 2hours $10.00. Nice beaches. Many European retired and American.

[@dianebourne6297]

And the temp of the sun, only sweatier

[@theresakunda4407]

For year 2024, you need 4, 100 per month and/or 69,000 in savings. Why didnt she mention that? Residency is difficult now

[@ltdodgen]

Video posted a year ago.

[@shsummers]

Yer killin' me, Smalls. Going to have to head south now.

[@mayrablanco2013]

Great video! I'm so glad I found you. My husband and I have been talking to make a move in the next 2 years when we retire. It's too expensive to stay in Fl. I'll have to check more of your videos.

[@coolbeans-plantbased707]

Same! Also in FL

[@daysetaruselli4881]

Same. I'm planning a trip to drive to different places in Mexico very soon

[@mayrablanco2013]

@@coolbeans-plantbased707 we have decided we are moving in May of 2024. We can't wait. We are going in November to Puerto Morelos . . . probably our next home! Will visit Fl, but it's different.

[@coolbeans-plantbased707]

@@mayrablanco2013 how awesome!!! Best of luck!

[@michaeldobrowolski5472]

Great to know!!

[@AzerPaul]

Great rundown, including places hitherto unknown to me.