Mexico Living Costs

Retired life in Mexico is not just about cheap prices and good weather. The lower cost of labor makes all services from restaurant meals to medical treatment more affordable. Stories about retired life at our project home in the mountains of central Mexico, our USA travels in our 40' Monaco motor home, or whatever else is on my mind today.

[@luisguiza18]

I always hear the birds singing in your videos, it's beautiful!

[@hollycarol5209]

Love all the birds in the background

[@JCTravelStories]

We have more in the winter. A lot of birds have gone north for the summer.

[@michaelmurphy9596]

Me too, I muted my TV, like 'What's that noise?' I realized it's birds, COOL !! I'm a country boy, so that's right up my alley!

[@1hardman161]

I am from the USA, moved here 4 yrs ago. I don't have a pension, I live off investments I made. I receive a $1,000 a month. People think I am rich, but in USA I am considered poor. You say costs here. I had a tooth pulled, 200 peso[$12], went back had a implant put in 500 peso[$30]. My house 3 bedroom, 1 and a half bath, kitchen, living room, garage 100,000 peso' [$5,600], My electric[CFE] is every other month between 150 to 200 peso[$9-12], my taxes a year 1,000 peso and I have a huge back yard. In USA I had $135,000 home almost the same, my taxes was $4,000 a yr. In USA I bought my meat from a butcher since I know there was no steroids given to the cows or hogs, I do the same here. A hog cost 2 weeks ago 300 peso[$16], 2 of us split the hog. A cow cost us 2,000 peso [$120], we got 2 other guys to help and they got free beef for helping. A hog in USA was $300, a half of a black angus was $800. Is the cost of gas higher, yes[$4 a gallon]. A lady cooks diner at her house and her daughter delivers it to me, 25 peso plus I toss her daughter 10 peso for bringing[$1.50]. It is always a full plate of great tasting food. The other day I thought my mother was alive and made my diner. Pepper steak over white rice, mmmmmm good. Last evening was a half BBQ chicken. My 2006 chevy 4X4 truck with 120k miles was 35,000 peso less then $2,000 USD. My internet, telephone cable TV 300 peso[$16] a month.To recharge my cell phone for the month 200 peso[$12]. I have a maid clean 200 peso a week[$12], a woman does my laundry 200 peso[$12], she comes picks up washes returns folded. She wanted less, I give her 200 peso. As for tickets I don't know the cost, I don't drink or speed. I know here in Zacatecas we are not required to have plates, inspection or insurance. My initial registration when I bought my truck was 300 peso, that changed the name to my name and a set of plates for my truck. So is the cost of living in Mexico cheaper? yes. I will never go back to the USA. I am 50 and retired and will relax the rest of my life.

[@PInk77W1]

You need a passport and what else ? Anything ? What part of mex u live ? I’m retired from state of calif and get paid about $2300 a month for life. I don’t own a car. I’ve ridden my bicycle across USA 4 times. I would like to ride from Panama City to USA thru Mexico someday and maybe move there. I’m paying $250 a month to rent a room in TX.

[@1hardman161]

@@PInk77W1 Yes you need a passport. At the border you can get a 6 month visa. Every 6 months do a border run, any border and get a new visa. I get $1,000 a month and live very comfortable. I have been all over Mexico. Most people in Mexico use buses.You can get dual citizenship if you do the papers. Mine was easy to get. So I have U.S. passport and Mexico and Efi[ID] and corp['social security]. But I have family in Jalisco. Its easy and life is better, cheaper living.

[@canders7133]

How long have you lived in Zacatecas? Why Zacatecas?

[@1hardman161]

@@canders7133 since March of 2015 I came to Mexico, traveled all over looking. This area is very relaxed, country style living, mountains, but warm, cheap everything, not required to have license plates or insurance on vehicles, low crime, people very friendly.

[@naynaygatorty4301]

@@PInk77W1 I would move if you have the funds

[@mitamita4072]

Good day Jerry And wife just discover your videos and I love them Love your honesty, may GOD grant you and your wife HEALTH so you keep making your videos, I want to let you know we all appreciate your no nonsense conversations so sincere it’s a delight to spend time with your videos please continue to inform and entertain all of us, BLESSINGS to you both.

[@jsal849]

I've traveled to Mexico every year since the 2000. It's Great.

[@craigandlisao9736]

We’re headed to los alogones end of March to get glasses and teeth cleaned. Hubby just retired from Boeing after 40yrs. Our health ins is only $88 month,,, yes 88......BUT, IT SUX! 2800 deductible and then there is the percentage crap,,, thank god we’re still healthy. Thank you for the detail of your living finances “NUT”. My husband has traveled to 64+ countries and I not as many,,, but I love MEXICO. BLESSINGS to both of you. 🌸❤️🌺

[@carlavv5302]

You spoke the true. It is affordable if you live with your base us-dollars and learn how to live local. For families who work and live in Mexico and earn the minimum wage it's a big strugle to go day by day.

[@JCTravelStories]

Very true that living with a family on minimum wage is a struggle ... anywhere! Hope you and yours are not in that place, Carla.

[@carlavv5302]

@@JCTravelStories thank you for the sweet thoughts. Life is good!

[@maggiep9007]

Carla V V Okay, Hickock.

[@amandahuginkiss4098]

@@JCTravelStories True. I worked overseas for many years and sometimes the local guys I worked with would complain thinking I made so much more than them. My response was usually - ok how much does a house cost here? This is what a house costs in my country. Or lets compare our salaries - I make about 3 times what a secretary makes in my company - you make about 10 times what a secretary makes. How much money you make or have doesn't mean anything unless you take into context the cost of living. Anyway I've been retired for 4 years now and I'm thinking about moving to Mexico as well. My spanish is already pretty good. Or I'm considering moving somewhere where they speak french - don't speak french but that would be a new challenge. I enjoy your videos- thanks.

[@cf8959]

I love, love, love your videos. You answer questions, give info that anybody would want to know as a retired person. You even talk about stuff that I hadn’t even thought of. PLEASE, tell more about the average cost of mortgage, rent, utilities, living expenses. I also would love a tour around your home, property and surrounding areas of your town. I can hardly wait to see what your next video is about!

[@JCTravelStories]

We will be returning to our home in Mexico the first week of March. I'll do some videos that are current on the price of living in Mexico. :)

[@cadykyst1234]

When I was living there in 2009, I could live off my art and guitar playing.

[@miguelgaleana1]

Cady Kyst what type of art if you mind answering, thank you..

[@joiab11]

That's very inspiring

[@wendicox8300]

I just subscribed to your channel and enjoy it very much. My husband and I live in Oregon and are researching retiring in Mexico. We are 50 years old and would like to do it within the next five years. Appreciate all of your information.

[@JCTravelStories]

I came to Ajijic after 27 years in Portland. Opt for sunshine. :)

[@bryanjimenez5845]

I'm 17 years old and i'm moving to mexico with my family once i finish high school

[@tammykosiancic]

Great info Jerry. You're doing what I hope to do. I really enjoy your videos. You're relaxed manner and subtle humor is a nice break from the in your face style of so many. Thanks for doing this!

[@ramblingruby8027]

Great video Jerry, makes me want to move to Mexico!

[@JCTravelStories]

Ramblingruby ... All those who move start with a visit. Come on.

[@ramblingruby8027]

Maybe I will some day!

[@hattienuff1405]

@@JCTravelStories Mexico is looking better to us each day ! Can we still collect our US social security checks & retire to Mexico ?

[@LuisTorres-qn6dt]

@@hattienuff1405 As long you have a Bank account in USA and you have a direct deposit, you can withdraw it at any ATM, thats what my mother does, I belive Bancomer BBVA charges the least commision

[@ricardofigueroa7185]

Ramblingruby noooooo to move to Mexico we don't want you here

[@patrickshepherd4664]

I love Mexico my wife's family is from mexico it's not what the lieing news makes it out to be it's safe the food is home made and the people would give you the shirt off there back and no not everyone poor,you should really give it a try

[@JCTravelStories]

True, true, and true! :)

[@KeikoFXDesigns]

NICE SHIRT! Btw the cost of living in Portland Oregon has gone up for the past 5 years. It is impossible to rent an apartment working for a 15 dollar an hour job.

[@ashqelon7267]

Isn't it nice the state, City , county Gov have caused the costs to rise like asinine taxes, so where YOU and others ARE going to carry Their increases PASSED to YOU or ME? Yet the sniveling accusation is put on the landlords who are robbed by the city-county . Ya, Oregon -portland is a absolutely disaster in many ways on many levels. Its got to be the most HATEFUL city in all USA because the ppl there and what THEY force others to conform to their special insanity we see in the news ANTIFAS' riotings. .

[@Nere950]

Thank you for sharing. What all wanted is to live in a place that give you that comfort and peace of mind. God bless you beautiful house.

[@Serena-fp2kp]

I have a villa in Italy and the property taxes are only $160 a year. In New York the same villa would cost me $25,000+ a year. You can get free healthcare.

[@emerysaulnier5502]

Wow. Amazing.

[@wlonsdale1]

You get what you pay for. Right now, the USA heavily subsidizes Europe.

[@walkerskii]

You're a very wise young man, thank you for sharing your knowledge I appreciate that you have no agenda

[@merriamcooper]

Jerry, I think that is your name, isn't it? You are my latest KZbin favorite. I love the videos. You tell the practical stuff about life in Mexico I need to know. I will reach full retirement age November 2019. I just found out about Ajijic, Lake Chapala, Americans retiring there. I will have to learn to speak some Spanish and how to count pesos.

[@JCTravelStories]

Thank you, Merriam! Glad your enjoying my videos and I hope something I say will help you navigate a new life in the land of eternal spring.

[@merriamcooper]

@@JCTravelStories Just know that you have a real fan in Kinston, Al. That's about 50 mi. From Dothan Al which I consider home. Forget about all the jerks that say negative things. The good comments far outweigh the bad. God bless you

[@mangolt23]

J C man i just came across your video's i love them,You do a great job i want to move to Mexico my self. i will be keeping in close touch with you brother you and your lovely wife have a wonderful healthy bless day brother. talk too you soon.

[@mangolt23]

Hi Merriam i am planning on moving too Mexico. Mexico have been calling for me the last year and a half.

[@merriamcooper]

@@mangolt23 I can retire in a few yrs. Mexico, Aijiic looks really beautiful.

[@reginathomas2930]

I love the way you explain stuff because you are spot on.

[@gregsclavius8806]

You have a wealth of info JC... And, You are Not long winded, you have a lot to impart and you talk very clearly, which makes possibly makes you a little SLOW. For some people who think you are long winded, I say, Double the speed of your videos. I do this for a lot of youTube videos. I study videos at that speed. Though some, I have a hard time hearing at that speed, especially when they slur their speech or run words together, but not you. You sir, are Very clear at that speed in speech and easily understood. Keep up the good work JC...

[@JCTravelStories]

Thanks for your kind words, Greg. :)

[@tatoojeff241]

I just stumbled upon your videos this morning and watched my first one on why you moved to Mexico...I really enjoyed it and after watching this one , I subscribed to your channel. You are well spoken and have a pleasant tone...I look forward to watching more of your content ... Thanks !!

[@miguelgaleana1]

Guadalajara has one best schools in medicine, “UAG” it’s more of a international school, and yes Americans attend that private school...

[@dianaj3139]

Very interesting story .. thanks for sharing your thoughts about prices and everything else you discuss with us who watch

[@maryjoan4128]

Thanks for the reality check, and information. I believe again it is your taste and attitude, not just your wealth or lack of wealth the determines how you will like living abroad. Still believe you are lucky to be in mexico.

[@JCTravelStories]

maryjoan ... I agree. Attitude is everything. And yes, I feel lucky to have a home in Mexico.

[@fv1291]

I think those who watch your videos and then give you a thumbs down, are just jealous of your wonderful lifestyle :) I hope they don't discourage you, and you know that the rest of us LOVE your videos and content! Thank you.

[@JCTravelStories]

Thank you Filbert. The negativity of trolls has not power to discourage me. For every negative comment about me or about Mexico, I get thousands of positive comments. There's an old saying in motivation speeches ... "They only tackle you when your running with the ball." :)

[@azteca132525]

Again loved your video. Love how you seat there and talk as if I was seating right in front of you talking. Thanks for all the information Jerry. I'd like to go down there visit some time. Have a great day.

[@GoogleUser-mm5im]

I (Brent) was a welder for NW Natural Gas in Portland on Aug 25, 1985 when I was in a natural gas explosion in a hole about 30' deep under the St Johns bridge. I feel for your wife as I have had 5 spinal surgeries, terrible neuropathy from both knees downs and continual muscle spasms in my low back. Not that I'm competing but I have only lived in continuous pain for 34.5 yrs. I so sorry for your wife, I know her pain. I turned down the neuro stimulator because everyone I knew with them had major problems. I live on 3 different morphines and methadone. I'm also sorry for you and my wife Becky, our caregivers. This Sept we've been married 40 yrs, 3 kids, 7 grands and a hvac biz we "hope" we have sold. We enjoyed your story, Hope you are well

[@JCTravelStories]

We are well, and I hope you are a comfortable as possible. Lynn's neural stimulator is a great success story for her. Its was originally implanted by Dr. Fix at the Pain Clinic in NW Portland in 2001. It changed her life.

[@Frankallen12]

You are a very Honest person! You show both sides there!

[@katherineguerrero8508]

Love your comments. We live in Dolores Hidalgo...

[@chuyruiz14]

Jerry buy local it is cheaper and way better quality you live right by Chapala one of the most popular places in Jalisco it’s like living in California... in Santa Bárbara or LA .. it’s high end place ... I bin living here in Mexico I only live like 45 min away from you near Cocula or Ameca. And live on 700 hundred a mount and live like a king..my house cost us 30 thousand 5 bedrooms 2 baths it’s a little old house but it’s mine !!!! Nice to know you enjoy Mexico to going on my 16th year here...

[@felixthecat5416]

See thats what Im talkin about 30 grand is waaaay more my speed thanks for that very important info Chuy

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

Chuy ruiz I don't have no problem with butchering the cow behind the store as long as they have safe practices. Generations of us have grown up eating home butchered meat. I was curious though: do they cure the meat at all and how if it has a different taste.? Have you seen them do it, and do they cut and hang or what?

[@dreamingrightnow1174]

Five bedrooms is little, lol?

[@MeTreesndirt]

@@dreamingrightnow1174 . Must be tiny rooms.

[@MeTreesndirt]

U mean Lake Chapala? I thought that was a lake area up high.

[@alexm309]

Subscribed! Thanks for the info and sharing your stories.

[@fredflinstone6097]

Thank you JC, you are a great resource for those of us considering retirement in Ajijic

[@JCTravelStories]

Fred Flinstone ... Thanks Fred.

[@factswise-psychologicalfac84]

You remind me of my grandpa...Loved the video 😭

[@alfredo2459]

Just ran into your videos and I thinks its great!

[@marthamckinley5090]

I just saw your videos thank you for the information you give I went to Queretaro 2 years ago I wNted to move to Mexico I found it very expensive prices equal to US rents and cost of living thank you again I will follow you Best wishes.

[@xyzxyz4575]

You can live in Mexico but remember put your cash flow in US dollars, dont change everything, I mean entire 401K into Mexico peso, because Mexican peso is unstable in history, income still in USD.

[@robasiegel]

Thank you Jerry! I very much appreciate your input and insight. I’m at that stage of doubting the move for this or that reason. Listening to your videos is a big help as I weigh my options and decide is this really the right decision for me. I wish you a wonderful day. Rob

[@charlesdavis7461]

Thanks for your views. Fifty per cent off if you pay early lol. I like and feel your honesty coming through rather than the usual rah rah rah videos. It is obvious you are a well educated man with more than enough money to live in Mexico. If you can afford to pay $9k a year for property taxes but chose not to, your income must be well above average retirees. Thanks again for an informative and well explained reason for the things that do cost less and why.

[@JCTravelStories]

charles davis ... Thanks for your comment and compliments, Charles.

[@rayvogensen2983]

Not having heating or air conditioning reminds me of when we lived in Brasília, Brazil. Brasília is located at 1000 meters or 3280 feet and the average daytime temperature is 27 Celsius. At night it is between 15º and 20º. We never had heating or AC and never wore a coat. I could jog or play tennis every day, if I had the time. We didn't even have hot water in the faucets or to wash clothes in the washing machine. We only had an electric shower head for a soothing hot shower if needed.

[@lcwilliams7140]

You lightened my heart - "affordability /standard of living" - that's a reason I've told people I've stayed in China so long. I only just started collecting SS and wondered how feasible it was to live there on that alone. I'm headed there for a month between January and February (Chinese Spring Festival) to take a look around.

[@JCTravelStories]

LC Williams ... Jan and Feb are busy months here. Its the high season for snowbirds. More traffic. Might be chilly at night in Jan. Still warm in the daytime. July and August in the raining season is our favorite time here. Normal weather day ... Big storm at night or early morning then the tropical sun burns off the clouds and its a clean blue sky and 75 degrees. We have sunbirds from Texas and Arizona in the summer. Enjoy your visit!

[@r.c.salyer3652]

I think you will find Mexico beats China hands down! Besides everything mentioned, the real treasure is the people, and how they interact in society. If you do not have a good sense of humor and not willing to acquire one, then DO NOT COME. Oh, and you have to know, that Mexico is like turning everything upside down from what you knew it in the USA. One plus one equals 5 or 7 down here, rarely 2. Example. Google Map, Islas Tres Marias in Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico. Once you open up the map, you will be scratching your head. Why are the 4 not 3 Islands! Traditional logic goes out the window down here. Good excuse to go talk it over on the corner with a nice cold beer, or join in with that Fiesta going on down the block. And, the traditional reply to why things do not add up. Es Mexico! Do not fight it, laugh a lot and enjoy, that there is a place like this still on earth.

[@alperez8030]

Awesome information about the cost of living in Mexico......You were very realistic, detailed, and AWESOME!!!!!!Thanks!!

[@JCTravelStories]

Al Perez ... Thank you, Al. Nice to hear!

[@madeleinereilly1452]

Thanks for the great information JC. Very helpful!

[@JCTravelStories]

Madeleine Reilly .... Thanks Madeleine! More to come.

[@algorythemQ]

I keep coming back and watching your videos and I wish I had made this decision sooner.... Now it's to late... Hope the others watching heed your words.... Thanks

[@1533ramsay]

This guy is selling me for an early retirement...

[@JCTravelStories]

We came to Mexico at the age of 55 ... 18 years ago. Do it. :)

[@deejaye2647]

Me too!

[@rafaelsoto5512]

ditto

[@robsan52]

Thank you so much for this! It's great to get the 'real' deal from an articulate guy who's 'been there'. I'm sorry for your Wife's illness, that's hard I know. I have a friend who's 'wired up' for her Parkinsons and it's hard to watch her struggle with that. I had an illness which trashed our pension 3 yrs before retiring even though I retired from a railroad job with a good pension so I'm vicariously living my 'life in Mexico' through you lol. Thanks again, good stuff.

[@JCTravelStories]

Thanks Rob! :)

[@jmjm7494]

I seen the story about Blue Cross Blue Shield [why we moved to Mexico]. It's a shame the government let's those companies do this. We had had the same issues with doctors in the US. I had a friend who went into a diabetic coma, and was in the hospital for weeks. The insurance denied the claim because "the primary insurer did not call them." When we told them that the primary insurer was the one in a coma, they actually came back and said that was not their problem. I actually have insurance, but need to go to Mexico for medical treatment, because the deductible is high. I am also so sick and tired of dealing with the insurance. I also wonder why am I paying them? Were also considering moving to Mexico. The sad thing is that my house is paid off, but now because of high taxes, high water bills, and high home insurance, my monthly payment is much more than my original mortgage. I basically can't afford to live in a home that I own. Most people don't realize, that the older you get, the less you are worth, and it's harder to get jobs. I realize that the quality of the goods in Mexico are different, but I plan to do online shopping. I also plan on having some animals. As far as the crime, and scams, crime is everywhere. Just be smart, and take care. Good luck.

[@chonwayne909]

We are sure getting scammed here the US It's not like it use to be for sure

[@r.c.salyer3652]

It is a damn SHAME how broken the USA is. The SWAMP which controls both Political parties, keep the Electorate busy, agitated, fighting amongst themselves with BS things like Abortion Rights, while all the while those Billionaires, are out writing Bills giving them Socialist Advantages subsidizing their businesses. Right now Abortion after the Road b Wade decision is NOT hot enough, so lets get the DOJ to keep indicting ex Pres. Trump on BS charges. That ought to rile up the Electorate, while we keep stealing money out the back door of Congress, with our Pet Bills. Nothing gets done for common Americans anymore in Congress. Govt. in the US is BROKE not working! Calling Washington, and Congress THE SWAMP is too nice and polite a term to call it!

[@practicalintuition4030]

This guy is actually kind of awesome. Keep up the good work.

[@ebox008]

That is why i dont drink, always fallow the law and dont get sick, ext. ext ... then again i am a MEXI"CAN" living in the us! ..

[@jackiel6705]

I like your video's, thank you for sharing, I live in Michigan and every winter I get lazy, tired, ect., I know I need more sunlight to be healthy. Now Im getting older I'm thinking of moving, Mexico sounds so wonderful

[@JCTravelStories]

After living in the grey mist of Portland, Oregon for 27 years, we found the sunshine of Mexico life changing. :)

[@derylcracknell8853]

Very informing videos lately. Keep up the good work.

[@JCTravelStories]

Deryl Cracknell ... Thanks. I'll try, but not everyday in paradise is going to be intersting.

[@davidvonch8223]

Grace is an amazing gift... and directly correlates with love.

[@josearturobarrios38]

Jerry a house on Fresnillo Zacatecas it's like 25k dlls or 30 k dlks 4 beds/2baths and you can live with $400 dlls a month like a king..

[@gilbertwoodward75]

Been to Mexico, loved it. And it is what he says. Can't wait to get back.

[@RedSpiralHandTV]

We're going to start out living in an RV first and living in some different places but thinking that the Lake Chapala area will be really nice for the summertime. We just have to have decent internet to work but we'll have mobile hotspots and some other goodies so I think we'll be alright! Love Mexico.

[@JCTravelStories]

RedSpiralHand ... Good plan. There are a few internet options here. 4g pay as you go on TelCel. DSL from Telmex 5 - 10 mb. Some others depending on where you are.

[@RedSpiralHandTV]

Thank you! I will subscribe and add you to my list of resources. We are currently raising money to buy a decent (under 30') RV and for the move and for us to take at least 1 (much needed!) month off. Plan to launch the effort end of 2019. Would love to find a way to make it happen sooner. Thanks for your responses to my comments!

[@MeTreesndirt]

@@JCTravelStories . Oh book I..go back to email dial up?

[@RedSpiralHandTV]

And we will most likely get a mobile hotspot and a cell signal amplifier...

[@keithmcmahan5649]

I'm 70. Live in Cinti, OH. Just found your channel. ENJOYED IT. Subscribed.

[@JCTravelStories]

Stay warm, Keith. :)

[@charliebrown2813]

U love living in mexico.and youre gttin youre dollar worth..whe i retire im heading that way

[@dalepeter3016]

Thanks Jerry, honest comment. Was in PV before new year, it is not cheap at all in big box stores. My property taxes is $5000 a year on my home, still lower than your last Portland one. Trying to buy your wife's meds online from India. Stay well.

[@65adela]

I also own a home in Mexico and other properties, and I pay less than 500 dls.for them, I also have properties in Dallas but the taxes are horrible, for just one property I pay 4k, so it's fair to say we will be retiring in a couple of years and we will be doing something similar as you JC, rent out our homes here in Dallas and live confortably in a city in Mexico where I have family, that is also part of our decision.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

Well if you can't make it in Texas you've got issues. That 4k taxed house must be nice so enjoy no State taxes and lower cost of living. People don't have clean water and you're complaining about your taxes on ONE of your properties. Please move to Mexico and try to be thankful for what you do have.

[@65adela]

@@eyeswideshut2800 you know nothing about me, my statement is for retired people, you cannot make it anywhere on social security that's why people are flocking to Mexico, you seem very young, probably u don't own a home or a business and don't know, houses in Texas have recently gone up almost 40%, so yes property taxes also but our wages are stagnant, I will fight those taxes to get lowered. Nowhere did I say I wasn't grateful for what I have, I have an awesome husband, family, and I have been blessed, but with all those taxes our retirement will take longer, nothing has been given to me, I have worked since age 15 so has husband, the government just takes and takes, people need a break.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@65adela I spoke on what YOU posted, I'm 48, well traveled, read and accomplished so old enough. I can build you a home in Texas from raw land so qualified to speak on property. My grandmother was the first black woman to run for Mayor in Dallas so family tree ok too. Now back to you whining about your property taxes when others are speaking on survival..ijs

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@65adela and I've been driving since 12, what does all that have to do with anything

[@65adela]

Mochame, the more you speak the less you make sense, I spoke about taxes because JC spoke in video about this and choices he's had to make, so I am a Mexican American and he had the same experience I had, as a matter of fact I'm building a home right now in Mexico, but you come at me saying I'm ungrateful, what does paying taxes have to do with that, nobody gives me anything, but I do sympathize with senior citizens and the choices they have to make, you also said you drove since age 12 don't know where that statement fits here, respect others and their opinions and yours will be respected. Giving my opinion on the differences between Mexico and the USA is not whining, and if I have the way of doing that, that's my prerogative, if you're only surviving in the USA, everybody has the same opportunity, maybe it's your way of approaching people, I would not give you a job, that's for sure. SMH. I have worked 30 + years, I will be retiring soon and I will keep renting my homes and pay the least taxes that I can, I already paid years and years.

[@marcarcoria7672]

If i somehow could survive in mexico id move heaven and earth to get there but its not looking possible .looks like all i can do is watch your videos and tangerines and be glad you guys got a chance at the good life.much love and respect to you and your wife , jc .

[@maudsmith5072]

thank you for the information

[@socorrosa1396]

I love that you like my México ,it's the first time I hear you I am learning English and I need to hear it and I am interested in your topics I am living in the United States but it's very true what you say is very expensive here

[@dora7131]

Thanks for the info...make me want to live in Mexico

[@JCTravelStories]

Dora opfermann ... You can do that, Dora!

[@dora7131]

JC Travel Stories I’ve been watching your videos and I’m really getting excited about moving to Lake Chápala. Thank you for all your insights.

[@lorenzocarrillo]

Really enjoy your videos Jerry! Thanks for the insight and tips. Keep 'em coming!

[@Howrider65]

$9,000 a year for house taxes. What a crime.

[@JCTravelStories]

Well, to be fair ... it was a big house.

[@peterj.andros3996]

NOT AS BAD AS $13,000 in New Jersey a few years ago!!!

[@trueblue2k2]

Taxes are a disguised form of rent and a method of expropriation. When you truly own something, you don't continue paying for it. Corruption is endemic now, where city council keeps two sets of books, and shares the spoils of intrinsic income that the status of city business generates. Home investments are part of the total property value found within city limits that determines the value of city land. The (corporate) city government gains an income off that total value that all owners should share in, but instead they find ways to hoard it among themselves, and then tax owners on top of it.

[@summerland6397]

Looking for a place to retire in the next year or so and appreciate your honest stories. Thank you.

[@bogdan78pop]

Walmart doesn't have quality meat period..!!!

[@JCTravelStories]

Thanks for sharing your opinion. :) Where do you buy meat?

[@milanveverka9802]

No in the Wal-Mart...lokal buch.

[@kathyradford4048]

I agree. I live in the US

[@LuisTorres-mn1wv]

Superama is the Best in that area of the country

[@joesphpittinger7907]

But you got to remember this guys from the West Coast they are a little different out there.That's why they have Maxine Walters and Nancy Pelosi west coast people.

[@johnmorgan1313]

I thought i would just relax in retirement in the States ,but so much tension here ,time to renew my passport

[@bgregg55]

So how do you qualify for the federal healthcare system? like so many in the middle class here in the US, I'm finding it increasingly unaffordable to live here. Now I wish I would have studied Spanish rather than German.

[@JCTravelStories]

You qualify by being a legal resident and having about $400 USD per year to pay for it.

[@valeriegriner5644]

Spanish is pretty easy to learn! I took it in high school and foolishly took FRENCH in college...which I hated.

[@johnnyconner4184]

It's never too late to learn a new language, and Spanish is about the easiest one for a native English speaker to acquire. About 30 minutes per day, every day, for about 2 or 3 months is all that should be needed to gain a working knowledge (speaking, reading, writing). I am a bit lazy about it, otherwise I would have been speaking like a native by now. Good luck! You can do it!

[@leannbrower6914]

bgregg55 : LOL I took Spanish and forgot most of it😂. I’m relearning it now (or trying to). It harder as we get older.

[@cheyennebeasley9212]

Thank you for all your info, and stories. Your home is stunning.

[@wernerc.432]

When I get my SSI, I am out!

[@magikknights721]

SSI has different rules then SSA/SSDI you might want to check things.

[@Alan6Anderson]

As usual, found your talk interesting, informative and entertaining. You mention talking about both the good and the bad of living in Mexico and I learned of these in my two visits to Chapala. In fact one day at the American Legion hall in downtown Chapala I was sitting at a table with about 6 expats. I said; 'you all tell me how wonderful it is to live in this area but now I want to know what you don't like'. Well they thought about it and then mentioned the cobblestone roads, which beat up the suspension of the cars, the mosquitoes and of course the noise. Mexicans love their holidays and celebrations and there can be a lot of noise. And the closer you live to the Malecon, the noisier. But that is mostly what they came up with and none of that is a deal breaker for me to move there. I also encountered the traffic along the main road from Chapala to Ajijic and beyond which is a downside also. Oh, and some mentioned the manana attitude which often does not mean tomorrow but not today. I've lived overseas and experienced that slower pace of life and quickly got used to it. So yes, there are some downsides but aren't there downsides of anywhere one might live? I've lived in L.A. and their horrible traffic and years ago the smog. I've lived in Northern climes where it is frigid cold in winter and can be stifling hot and muggy in summer. One huge plus I see to moving to Mexico, especially Lakeside, is the overwhelming friendliness of both the expats and the Mexicans. I immediately felt there is a sense of community I find lacking in much of the U.S. Thanks for you videos and commentary. When this epidemic is a tragic memory and I can get a vaccine I will be moving there and hope to make your acquaintance.

[@donniepayne2088]

No Way! Tax 300? I’m going to be y’all’s neighbor!

[@JCTravelStories]

The house next door is for sale.

[@susansalata3118]

How much is the house next door ?

[@yolandaarroyo774]

@@JCTravelStories please send me the information, I was born in Mexico but my mother move to Chicago when I was 11 I worked very hard all my life and I think I'm ready to go back, Thank You and bienvenido a mi Mexico lindo i querido God Blessed

[@mauigonz]

@@yolandaarroyo774 Bienvenido de vuelta herman@!!!

[@reginathomas2930]

Hi Jerry and Lynn love your videos.

[@edgarrocha9546]

Bienvenido amigó wellcome to mexico

[@bonitawauls6274]

As I am listening to you, I hear in the background, the songs of many birds, feel the quiet of where you are and just am so attracted to Ajijic

[@kirstinstrand6292]

Very informative; you made the smart decision long ago. Are you a citizen of Mexico or US? I absolutely love Mexico and the people.

[@JCTravelStories]

I'm a citizen of the US. I'm a legal resident of Mexico.

[@kirstinstrand6292]

Will Mexico have the soon to be 5G and Smart Meters soon, like so many developed countries are planning?

[@janetzimmerman3832]

Thanks for doing this. We are traveling to Mas it lawn for one month next week. Both retired seniors of Moderat means. I have been to Mexico a number of times and I love it there. We will be scouting out opportunities. I am a musician and I am hoping to make some music connections. It is below zero for most of the month and deep snow. Can’t wait to get out of the climate and out of the culture. Thanks again

[@JCTravelStories]

Good luck in Mazatlan, Janet. Enjoy the mild climate and the warm culture. :)

[@j.h.5465]

Sir I do love your videos...... you are truly speaking of what’s mexico is all about...... Mexicans don’t see gringos as enemies like some gringos see Mexicans in the US thanks to the current US president......

[@valeriegriner5644]

Good! Isn't the current POTUS a disgrace? I hate bashing of any people...Mexican, Muslim, etc. We had better cross on over before he builds that stupid WALL. A "wall" is a symbol of Communism.....think "Berlin Wall." It's to keep people like us enslaved in the U.S.

[@wlonsdale1]

The current president never said or implied he disliked Mexicans. If I follow your logic, Obama, who built the cages and Hillary who voted against illegal immigration hate Mexicans too. This president loves his country and is against criminals using the southern border. The only idiots who hate Trump are the Marxist Democrats who hate America. Like the other commenter

[@wlonsdale1]

@@valeriegriner5644 hey idiot, the Berlin Wall was to keep people in! My lord you're stupid!

[@thomshere]

Your my go-to guy for this kind of video! A lot of the videos about living in Mexico feels really fake to me and too kind of "flowery" so thanks for your honest opinions and interesting stories!

[@alishajane777]

Unbelievable savings on medications. WOW

[@vsims5987]

Thank you , kind man for sharing. Hope to be there soon.

[@midnitkisser]

Most of the people own their houses in Mexico , inheriting or building little by little is how that works. Very common to see young guys inheriting a little bit of land where they start building little by little something as young as 15 years old and having it completed in theirs 20’s. Well that’s how it was some time ago I heard that new generations are lazier .

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@DrgnFlys there's nothing lazy about Mexicans, their youth hasn't cancelled out the hard working adults.

[@MeTreesndirt]

@@eyeswideshut2800 They're great workers. U see them everywhere now working construction. Even clear up north.

[@maggiep9007]

New generations are always lazier because they ride the coattails of their forefathers. Mexico is not immune to this tragedy. Hard-working parents in the west often means lazy spoiled children, which never had to suffer pain like their parents did. 100 years ago every Mexican commoner came from ranching or mining families, hard work was just work.

[@maggiep9007]

What you fail to realize is that laziness in the youth is a sign of a successfully developing western economy..... ironically. They have time to worry about what gender to choose, instead of worrying if the cow's in the cornfield again.

[@tammywines9771]

@@maggiep9007 lol amen !!

[@sailorsg4131]

You are enjoying the nobility of our people in my country JC and I´m glad about that. I hope that your wife is doing any better. I remember when I was a kid and I used to see a caravan of mobile homes of your people traveling along the country to south, I never knew where they were heading to. Now I know they used to go to the Caribbean in Mexico. Regards

[@JCTravelStories]

+Roberto SG ... Thanks Roberto. :)

[@afcw1969]

Like your shirt

[@dylanappenfeldt2442]

God Bless You, Thank You!

[@belindaolvera3501]

Love this guy. Did anyone notice that Lynn didn't pay attention?

[@JCTravelStories]

I noticed. :)

[@Crisco-b4b]

I didn’t see her move.

[@Chayogarcia73]

Belinda Olvera she’s busy coloring maybe 😀🤗

[@rosemariemontoya80]

Hi Jerry! Everything you said is true! I'm 52 yrs old , retired 2 yrs ago, My family has a home in Tucxeca, which is a beautiful village off Chapala lake, close by Ajiji, it's beautiful here , often go to Ajiji when I need to go to Wal-Mart or when I want to go to the movies, usually go into the city Guadalajara to go to Sam's Club or Costco for our needed supplies, I love it here in Mexico. Wouldn't change my mind for moving here, I actually fortunate and was able to become a Mexican citizen because my parents were born in Mexico, so I have dual citizenship in USA and in Mexico , I LOVE my native born country USA but fell in love with this country Mexico, it's beauty, the friendly people, and low cost of living

[@JCTravelStories]

My feelings exactly, Rose. Thanks for sharing. :)

[@firstlast1047]

As of 28 Aug the MX federally mandated minimum wage is 88 MXN / DAY = 4.65 USD / Day. 1 USD = 18.9 MXN. MX typically work 10 hrs /Day. So...0.465 USD / Hr. Hmm I wonder why the MX keep acomin' to the USofA?

[@MeTreesndirt]

Yeah. Where did u get 6 bucks? I read anyone working a not tipped job actually gets paid more than min. tho. Thank goodness.

[@MeTreesndirt]

The reason is the economic system is based on the minimum wage. They are attempting to make it separate.

[@martinsantamaria5297]

Do you think that is enough?? I dare you and anyone else to live with that salary and also why you guys go to Europe or better yet go to 🇬🇧 and see if you can live with you retirements there!!!!

[@firstlast1047]

@Martin Santmaria..Take a deep breath and learn to recognize "Irony" and "Rhetorical questions"

[@skydog729]

Jerry thanks for the information.

[@ILIK3HATERZ]

That shirt is sweet!

[@scorpion10r41]

I just came across your videos . I'm a Mexican living the " American dream" but now that I see you living happy in Mexico makes me want to go back and enjoy my life. By the way I'm from Guadalajara

[@JCTravelStories]

Make your money in the States and then come back to your wonderful country. :)

[@r.c.salyer3652]

Scorpion, sorry you bought the hype and did not get the memo. You should have been here yesterday, as the American Dream is all but gone.

[@claire_A-T]

Jerry, Who's the person in the background sitting at the dinning room table? She doesn't seem to have a head!

[@JCTravelStories]

Its Lynn. She does have a head the last time I looked. :)

[@gaelcortez6914]

😂😂😂

[@anabeltorres6089]

I was born in guadalajara and just recently came across your channel love your videos 💕

[@aressium133]

It's not really, " you get what you pay for " . I believe it doesn't apply in Mexico since everything is fresh and real eveb tho it's cheap. People love to eat chicken but never want to see or know how they are killed. People share a lot of post about saving cows but still drink milk on the daily. Mexico has always been a country about giving. Not a country that is always has to be 50/50 balanced satisfied on both sides. It's very cheap compared to what you get. The only economical thing I would change about mexico is that the minimun job salary is bs.

[@wlonsdale1]

It's easy when you depend on the country to the north of you

[@hugoperez8057]

Glad for you amigos have nice an peacefully place for retirement i know any human bean need place to leave happy on any part of the world no mater what but unfortunately is not thay way any more God bless to you guys

[@johnaverick7468]

I would like to see how a regular guy that didn't do as well as you in life can make it on lets say $ 800 a month total ( Disability check ) ? Sorry, didn't mean to sound like I have class envy. Just need something more tailored to my needs. medium size two room place with running water kitchen & bath and realistic security ? No lake front property needed .

[@JCTravelStories]

Watch Jerry Brown Travels on KZbin, John. And comment to him that I sent you. His videos are exactly the answer to your question.

[@johnaverick7468]

Thank you for the tip. Love your channel, You have a lot of sound pertinent info that I value

[@abelgonzalez4813]

Hello John, I ran in to this video by chance, I'm was born in Los Angeles, and lived in Guadalajara 16 years, I see thing they way they are, the US great services in utilities, etc , they cost of living in Southern California is getting way out of hand, now I own a house that I built my self in Baja, 1 hour south of Ensenada, I paid 24k for in 18 years ago, in front of the water, and you can still get breach front lots for 20k, now you have to build a septic tank, and a large in-ground water storage, but no big deal, my point is that there is many places where you can live in Mexico and save lots of money, you can buy your self a house in Guadalajara in a gated community , they call them Cotos, for under 100k, as a matter of fact you can get one for 65k new, they are not big, but they are new, if you can remove the old mentality of wanting a super large home, then you will be ok, because I used to struggle with that, now I'm fine, you need to do allot of search, and by the way this place has lots of Americans living there, from Arizona and San Diego, and Newport beach, you can become a Mexican Citizen and own by the beach, there is a Rule of ownership by the ocean, only to Mexican, by I think you can become one after 5 years, Im Glad to see this Gentleman giving info to people wanting to do the change, because even for me that I still live in LA, not the same moving 100% there, great points of view any way, Good Luck and God Bless you !

[@pablomolina443]

@@abelgonzalez4813 the rule of owning property by the beach is more than that, you can't buy property within 30 miles from the beach or 60 miles from the border, it doesn't mean that you can't have a beach house, you can, but through a bank trust, I live in Merida wich is 20 miles away from the beach, and there are more than 5,000 expats the majority of them are just residents, not citizens, and they own their houses through a bank trust. It is pretty easy.

[@peterj.andros3996]

800 a month is definitely possible.

[@rebeccagillham5865]

Thanks, super helpful. Your gal is a real firecracker!

[@peter8488]

After watching a few of your video's I get this feeling, you are living in Mexico because you need to rather then want too, you seem a bit like you're missing home, and while I'm sure you visit it is not the same as staying. That observation/opinion being said you seemed to have made a good life for yourself, there is a saying that you can never go back, the America you know and love may not be the same if you stay long enough to realize that, while I'm sure that if circumstances were different you would have made different choices but how much peace would you be at? At the moment as you are most likely knowledgeable of the issues in America going on, however the reality is that living through it is much different, the silent battles being waged as hate for neighbors is growing, intolerance, and battlelines, we do have abundance but people are so spoiled here that many are incapable of enjoying what they have, everything is about having the most stuff, we are the society of indulgences, of the gilded golden cage. People say if we don't kick others out our children won't have anything even though we burn through resources like the world is ending, so we demonize others in the small hope that there might be something for them so we won't feel guilty for being indulgent, I hope that trump does build the wall 1000 ft high, 1000 feet deep and 100 ft wide, a prison of our own making and we deserve it. Mexico is not perfect and there are problems (serious ones), but I also know that you know it's not so bad and actually in other ways pleasant, I don't want Mexico to become USA 2.0 and the wall will hopefully allow Mexico to be Mexico rather then the culture of Mexico becoming liken to the culture of pure capitalism of which is one of the reasons you went south, the greed of capitalism doesn't allow one to slow down and enjoy the simple things as you have now, enjoy what you have and remember the USA but do not feel as if you are missing out on this race into material things, there is not much to really miss that you can't have there if you allow yourself to see that the USA is not paradise it appears to be.

[@JCTravelStories]

A lot of good thinking, accurate analysis, and clear thought expressed very well ... except for thinking we are here because we need to be. You need to watch more of my videos. We're here like many because its a wonderful to be.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@JCTravelStories I didn't get that impression at all.

[@kbob8424]

- I don't think it's the greed of capitalism, rather as he said in his other videos, you try to follow the rules, make sure the paperwork is correct and everything is pre approved BEFORE, and then they still find a way to shaft you or just flat out refuse to pay or reimburse you.

[@MeTreesndirt]

It's a comment section not a place to write a ,book dude.

[@eyeswideshut2800]

@@MeTreesndirt those who don't know much shouldn't. Don't read it and all is well. If you hadn't commented then THIS GUY'S CHANNEL IS MUTED so problem solved. Your commenters like to just hear themselves, nothing substantial but that's what they said about you.

[@malenaqueteimporta5729]

My dad lives in Guanajuato. He has a beautiful new construction home. He pays $125US for a year. He has a condo here in a near western burb in Chicagoland. One bedroom, $2K taxes.