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If you ask 100 expats what living in Mexico is like for them, you’ll get 100 different answers. Their experience depends on where they live, how patient they are, and how much they’ve attempted to accept Mexico for what it is, a developing country.
When you read publications that talk about all the wonderful beaches and places you should move to in Mexico, you’d think the whole country is a “paradise.”
When you look at distance photos of Mexico City, it looks like any first-world metropolis. But if you walk the streets or drive around the country, you will quickly notice it isn’t as perfect, neat, and developed as the USA, Canada, or Europe.
But, It’s Not All Paradise!
So, what am I getting at here?
Living in Mexico is great. I love this country! However, I believe it’s good to be fully transparent as well. So here are 13 things other overseas gurus won’t tell you about living in Mexico. Let’s jump right into number 1!
1. Basic Utilities Aren’t Always Reliable
You might notice that Mexico has problems with things like power outages. These are totally common, and most of the time, they only last for a few minutes. However, if there is a storm, then it could last for hours. I recommend having lamps, batteries, and candles on hand at all times just in case the next power outage lasts for hours.
Now, this might not be a deal-breaker for you, but it can be frustrating when you’re about to binge-watch your favorite show, and now you don’t have electricity. Or you’re in the middle of a zoom meeting, and you look bad to your employer or co-workers.
The good news is that most Mexican houses have gas for your showers and for your stove. Most Mexican households also have surge protectors to avoid your laptops or computers burning out when the sudden surge of electricity comes back.
Although it’s an inconvenience, it can also be an opportunity to read that book, take your dog for a walk, take a break from working, or cook a nice meal.
2. Internet Speed Isn’t As Fast
You may walk into an internet provider store like Totalplay, Telcel, or any of the other local companies and get pitched on the idea that you’ll have crazy fast internet.
You might even hire a service thinking you’ll get download speeds of 100Mbps, only to find out that you’re actually getting 20Mbps tops! And let’s not even talk about upload speeds because, for some reason, upload speeds tend to be even slower in Mexico.
This might be especially important to you if you’re coming to Mexico and are planning to have a remote job while you live here. Do a quick internet speed test before you rent the house you’re looking into. Ask the landlord for the wifi password and use a program like the speed test by Okla.
Do your research to make sure you’ll have the optimal speed to be able to do your job. Depending on where you live, you might be able to get fiber optic since big cities are quickly adopting more coverage. But even if a city says it has fiber-optic available it doesn’t mean it’s available in your neighborhood.
The good news is that Mexico is still developing every day, and more and more cities are building reliable and very fast-speed internet into their infrastructure.
3. Uneven Sidewalks Or NO Sidewalks
Many sidewalks in Mexico are very old and may have obvious gaps or holes. That’s if they exist at all. And if you’re not looking while you walk, you could very easily get hurt with the number of holes on sidewalks all over the country.
You might be thinking, who doesn’t watch where they are walking? You’d be surprised how many people twist their ankles or get injured because they didn’t see that hole on the sidewalk.
Also, it’s very common for popular expat cities like San Miguel de Allende or Ajijic to be made up of mostly cobblestone streets. Which is very challenging to walk on if you have mobility issues, aren’t wearing the proper shoes, or aren’t paying attention. Many newcomers living in these towns report twisting their ankles or injuring their feet because they weren’t watching their steps.
But walking is a way of life in Mexico, even though it’s not always designed with the pedestrian in mind. I really recommend you wear sturdy and flat shoes, especially if you plan to do most of your walking on sidewalks. The good news is there are plenty of pedestrian-only retail areas in most cities of Mexico that are even flat and where you can comfortably walk without having to look out for cars.
Learn How to Move to Mexico and Have a Better Life for Less! Check out our Complete Mexico Relocation Guide.
4. Lack of Saftey Building Codes and Inspections
If code enforcement from the U.S. came to Mexico, it would probably shut the country down. There can be crazy wiring inside and outside in many parts of Mexico. In Mexico, it’s not common to have a GCI outlet. Not even next to a water source like a sink or pool. This is especially true in older construction.
And if you are handicapped or have mobility issues, there are many businesses and buildings with stairs and no ramp to accommodate wheelchairs or the handicapped.
We’ve even had some customers find a rental in Mexico they love, move in, and find out the electrical outlets were all fake! Who does that right?
In Mexico, not every house falls under the same building codes. Some builders cut corners by putting in cheap products or not thinking a design through. That’s why we recommend renting before you buy and making sure you work with a reputable realtor who will be your liaison in your transaction.
But if you have mobility issues, Mexico might not be for you. Many cities aren’t equipped to handle wheelchairs or other mobility disabilities.
5. You Can’t Flush Toilet Paper
Walk into any public bathroom, and you’ll probably see a sign that says “porfavor no tirar papel en el WC,” which means please don’t throw the paper into the toilet.
That’s because the plumbing in Mexico isn’t designed like what you’re used to. The pressure isn’t strong enough to send toilet paper down Mexico’s pipes, and oftentimes, toilets get clogged. Not to mention that many towns in Mexico are very old, and their pipes can’t handle the same systems toilet paper is designed for.
You might also notice that some places don’t have a lot of water pressure. In fact, it’s a treat when you go to a place that has sturdy water pressure when you take a shower or wash dishes!
Keep in mind that not being able to flush toilet paper isn’t a nationwide issue. In fact, newer construction, new houses, or the like will have better water pressure. As well as nice resorts and hotels. So flushing toilet paper in a home is very common. The issue of flushing toilet paper is more prevalent in public bathrooms.
6. Public Bathrooms Are NOT Free
This might catch you by surprise if you move to Mexico from the U.S. or Canada.
If you’re coming from Europe, you’re probably a little more used to getting charged to use a public bathroom.
When you live in Mexico, you need to have some spare change with you at all times. Not only because you’ll need to pay the bathroom fee, but sometimes toilet paper isn’t included and is an additional fee. The typical cost for a public bathroom is between 2-5 pesos, and they usually have a metal gate that opens once you pay. (see image below).
I also highly recommend always keeping a pack of tissues or spare toilet paper in your car or if you plan on using a public bathroom. Usually, places like restaurants, hospitals, bus stations, or airports in Mexico have free public bathrooms. Places like these also tend to have toilet paper in them. But just to be safe, bring a pack of tissues with you.
The good news is that most toll roads along Mexico have great rest stops with clean bathrooms and plenty of toilet paper. However, it’s still a good idea to carry some extra just in case.
Get our Free Email Series About Living and Retiring in Mexico! Learn more.
7. Topes Can Hurt Your Car
Topes in Mexico are speedbumps. But when you see one, you would think they’re trying to slow down a tank.
The topes in Mexico can be rather large and wide. And in some cases, and for no good reason, they’re even on some highways. So, if you’re coming down a highway at 60 mph and don’t see this speed bump, it can really damage your car.
There are usually signs saying “tope a 500 mts” or something similar, which stands for speedbump at 500 meters. But if you’re driving at night, on a dark highway, and not paying attention, you might miss the sign.
My recommendation is to always drive during the day in Mexico. And always drive alert in Mexico. Drivers here don’t always follow the road rules. You may get someone wanting to make a left turn on the right lane, and if you’re not paying attention, you might end up having a fender bender. Driving in Mexico is truly an art form.
8. Bribing Cops
If you ever get stopped in Mexico by a cop, you might actually get a ticket, or in some cases, you might be able to get away with it by bribing the cop.
It’s happened to me several times along the border, in Playa del Carmen and in Mexico City.
Now, corruption is common in Mexico, and I am not suggesting that it is okay. In fact, I am a big supporter of asking for your ticket and forcing the police officer to do the right thing. Don’t pay the bribe!
But I also know it can be intimidating to be stopped by law enforcement and oblige to their request for a “donation” if it gets you out of a ticket and saves you time. In most cases, when you insist on getting a ticket for your wrongdoing, they’ll probably let you off with a warning.
9. You Cannot Drink The Water
Potable water isn’t widely available in Mexico like it is in other more developed countries. In fact, most people buy water by the gallons in a jug called a “garrafon” which can be refilled and is used for cooking and drinking.
Some people even refuse to brush their teeth with water straight from the tap, but I think this is an exaggeration. Nothing has ever happened to anyone I know from brushing their teeth with tap water. The good news is that garrafones are widely available from many companies that will offer you a monthly subscription and will refill your water as needed for not a lot of money.
Most couples in Mexico spend about $300 Pesos a month on drinking and cooking water.
Would you rather watch a video of this blog- Check out the video on Youtube
10. It Can Be Smelly At Times
And I’m not talking about the faint smell you might get from roadkill on the side of the highway.
I’m talking about a sewer smell in parts of the city where drainage was built hundreds of years ago.
Depending on where you live, this might be less of an issue. Especially in neighborhoods where residents of the area have done a lot out of their own pocket to improve infrastructure and services. I’ve noticed smelly sewage in higher-trafficked areas like parts of Mexico City and The Riviera Maya (Cancun, Playa Del Carmen, Cozumel, etc.) But it all depends on the plumbing, what businesses are around you, and whether a neighbor lets their pets do their business right outside your house.
11. Your Neighbors Might Be Noisy
I highly suggest spending an extended amount of time in a neighborhood before you decide to rent or buy a house in Mexico.
Listen, Mexico is a noisy country. Latinos, in general, can be loud people, especially when it comes to parties, get-togethers, festivals, fireworks, or noisy animals like roosters. But you won’t know how sensitive you are to it unless you actually spend some time in an area. You might get lucky and have very quiet neighbors.
But you might not know your neighbors like to throw parties until the wee hours of the night until night time comes. Or they let their dog bark all night long without bringing them inside. A lot of ex-pats complain that this is frustrating and don’t know how to deal with confronting neighbors about this. Most of the time, confronting them about it won’t change anything, and you now might have a negative relationship with your neighbors.
That’s why I advise that you rent an Airbnb nearby to get a feel for the neighborhood at all times of the day. If this isn’t possible, consider driving by a possible rental at all times of the day to determine the noise levels.
And if you are very sensitive to noise, like I am, avoid living in the centro of any town unless you have some very good earplugs. Whenever I travel to a new city in Mexico, I want to stay in the middle of the action. But this always means more noise at night. That’s why I always bring earplugs or a soundwave machine.
12. English Isn’t Widely Spoken
This one should be an obvious one to many people, but it’s not uncommon to see a foreigner get frustrated because the locals don’t speak English.
Now, Mexico is a large country. Depending on your economic level, you may have been taught English in school. But for the majority of locals who go to public schools, English isn’t taught all over the country. Mexico has a mixture of big cities, medium-sized towns, and very small rural towns. And even in the major cities, English isn’t widely spoken by everyone in every situation.
Sure, you will find English speakers at places like hotels, airports, resorts, and even some hospitals. But know that Spanish is the official language, and you’ll need to learn some Spanish to get the most out of living in Mexico.
13. Mexico Has Earthquakes
Seismic activity happens almost daily in various parts of Mexico, but most of it is so small that if you’re moving or driving, you won’t feel anything.
However, Mexico has also had some devastating earthquakes in the last 40 years.
Mexico City has had 2 major earthquakes in the last 35 years and has sustained significant damage as a result. Plenty of “safe spots” are marked on the streets where seismic activity is strong, so look out for these points of interest in case you experience a relatively strong one.
Learn How to Move to Mexico and Have a Better Life for Less! Check out our Complete Mexico Relocation Guide.
So Why In The World Would You Want To Live in Mexico?
Some retire and live in Mexico to make their retirement money go further, and others move for political reasons. Some expats move to Mexico because they are ready for a new adventure!
Regardless of the reason, these are the things you can also enjoy by living in Mexico:
- A Low Cost of Living!
- Retiree Discounts
- Beautiful Beaches, Mountains, Volcanos, Desserts, Waterfalls etc
- Ease of Residency
- Affordable Healthcare
- Very Low Property Taxes
- Inexpensive Medical Care If Paying Out of Pocket
- Fresh Air and Open Spaces
- Strong Family Values and Community
- Delicious Food
- Fresh Fish From The Oceans
- Great Produce
- Amazing Weather
- Rich Soil- Ease of Growing Food
- Low Taxes or No Taxes
- New Entrepreneurial Opportunities
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion of $112,000 USD
- Visible Improvements Seen Everywhere
- Beautiful Scenery and Bio-Diversity (see the image below!)
- Incredible Landscapes
- Rich Culture and History
- A LOT OF Untapped Opportunity
- Friendly And Supportive Locals
- Friendly and Supportive Expats (mostly)
- I could GO ON AND ON- You get where I’m going… The pros outweigh the cons.
Visit my FREE Living in Mexico Guide for Expats. Filled with important information that can help you decide if you’d like to live in Mexico.
Great letter and advice. We recently moved to Tulum. Not without it’s challenges. BUT it’s a beautiful place with beautiful weather and great people! Prices here are on par with some US big cities areas so DON’T expect cheep. Purchase prices, Rent and electric are pricey. We lose water and power often. Internet is pretty good but can be spotty. This is a tourist magnate so expect the loud late night parties even though there is a noise curfew. Endless construction noise and dust during the day…Progress.
Hi John!
Thanks for reading the post. And thanks for your feedback. Mexico is an amazing country that is still under development, but yes progress 🙂
Yes I love mexico city very much and I feel like being there
Healthcare in Mexico isn’t that good. Maybe for a person from the US it might seem like it’s cheap, but for the local population good public healthcare is almost non-existent. More than half of the people who can pay for a private consultation would do this because public health falls short in many ways. But again, this wouldn’t be the majority of the population. Nowadays public hospitals lack even the most basic medications. Besides, a private hospital examination could cost you half of your monthly earnings (if you’re Mexican). So many people here just ignore big medical problems and suffer the consequences later.
Thank you for sharing your feedback. I agree that the public healthcare is not what people think it is. But a lot of other youtubers convince people that the public healthcare is amazing and they don’t realize they are doing a disservice to their followers. I always suggest going to a private hospital if you can afford it and enrolling into the public healthcare as a last resort.
One thing I don’t see on the negative list which is very important and should be mentioned: how animals are being treated including farm animals and it is very common to see stay dogs and cats. Also dog poops all over. For me, this is the worst among the negatives. Otherwise, it’s a great article and summary.
Thanks for reading- you’re right… unfortunately some animals are treated poorly in Mexico. The culture is changing, but it will take many years before it fully changes.
My wife and I are thinking about Tulum but will probably start in Playa del Carmen.
I personally would stay away from Tulum for the time being. It seems to be the epicenter of the gulf cartel activity. I would stay away because you just never know what businesses are involved and when you may be in the middle of it as an innocent bystander
I live in Mexico and love it! I moved from the USA few years ago. We are moving to Europe (Spain) in few months.
Anyhoo, Your blog post is on the money honey! You nailed it! I honestly feel as if we are twins!
For all the readers take heed to her words so you can overcome obstacles and enjoy your life in Mexico!
If I can add:
If you want a nice house you won’t pay no cheap rent. If you do, you’ll have mold, rust, water damage, and only God knows what else!
Yes, you’ll save some money versus USA prices, but you’ll still spend more money than the average Mexican to be comfy.
Also be aware and get a good lawyer or responsible mediator for the lease or bill of sale contract, because sometimes the landlords/owners will see the USD, CAD, Euro and up their rent or asking price quickly!
Have a Spanish speaking friend seek the property first😏
Mexico is Magical. Not for the faint of heart.
I couldn’t agree more! Mexico is Magical!
Mexico is the best country in the world
Can you please say something we dont know
At least we dont have massive shooting at schools
Gun violence in the US is a BIG problem. Shootings occur everywhere, from malls, restaurants, gas stations, schools, and the streets of urban areas. Everyone is at risk here. There is resistance to change by the gun advocates, & the politically powerful NRA. In Florida, an older man shot & killed a young guy, a husband & dad of 2, in a movie theater over cell phone use during the previews, and the murderer got away with it, because he is a retired cop. Sadly, Police violence is a big problem in the US.
Funny re bathrooms because the majority of US cities don’t have any public bathrooms at all!
Having them, even if they cost a tiny bit, is astronomically better than in the US.
I would disagree. Every city in the US has at least one Gad station or convenience store near where you are that allows to use the bathroom at no cost. Even including New York City.
Even if these are private establishments, you will always have access to a bathroom without have to carry extra change.
Just my opinion
Exactly- I am talking about Mexico not the U.S.
You’re correct, I live in FL in a big city. The free public bathrooms can be hard to find, but they’re in the parks, the libraries, (lots of homeless hang out in them), & government buildings, & one or 2 in our large downtown area. But free bathrooms are everywhere, such as every grocery store, every bar, nearly every gas station, every fast food restaurant, and more. I like to purchase something if I use a bathroom in a private business to show appreciation that they have a public restroom.
My wife and I have been visiting Mexico with another couple for two weeks a year for the past 25 years. We prefer the mainland as opposed to Baja, and have been mostly to xijuatenejo (sp.), but in recent years to other places on the beach and inland. We like San Miguel de Allende and Puerto Escondido, but we’ve enjoyed every place we’ve been. Lately I’ve been wanting to move to Mexico, but at 84 years of age it’s not likely to happen. We’ll just keep on with our annual trips to Mexico. We love your country.
We have 80 year old customers who move to Mexico too! It’s never too late
Thank you for replying. We may just have to reconsider.
Is health insurance in Mexico expensive for folks over 80 years old?
How do I find affordable health insurance in Mexico if I’m over 80 years old?
Not only is it expensive. It’s almost impossible to get if you don’t already have a relationship with the insurance company.
We have a few broker recommendations in our online guide that do offer insurance policies to people over 75
Mexicorelocationguide.com/guide/
Mariana, I love this website & all the great info…. I’m also a senior, and I’m considering relocation to SMA, but my concerns about Mexico are:
1. Safety – including harassment by police. (My kid was falsely arrested & held by police for ransom in a Mexico tourist beach area years ago.)
2. Finding the right area for an apartment or home – which must have easy access to park or green space and cafes.
3. And 3rd, most importantly is that I don’t know Spanish!
Thanks! Janet
Harassment by police? Well if you been living in the u.s. I can tell everyone,police don’t take bribes but the police here are corrupt as well.and the police in the u.s. harassing everyone is common.and killing of black people is common by police here.latinos are getting bad reps my daughter is Latino I’m white.i fear for my daughter and myself when it comes to police in the u.s. and the big thing is everything that’s happening in the u.s. with police has always been going on.its the internet and social outlets that’s bring all there activities to the public eye.this is REAL in the u.s. and having a cop to bribe is a luxury in Mexico.
I am looking for a relaxed and laid back location to retire and spend the rest of my life. A place where I can walk to in the morning for coffee and breakfast. Friendly people to get to know. Great ocean scenery. Less hassle than US.
That’s all of the beach areas of Mexico in a nutshell. It all depends on your budget and your absolute must haves https://mexicorelocationguide.com/best-beaches-in-mexico-for-retirement/
Mariana, thank you for your frank post of good and bad. I am going to travel to Queretaro next month to explore the possibility of moving there or maybe San Luis Potosí. I will keep all you have said in mind.
I hope you love Queretaro and SLP! Let us know what you think when you are done
Hi Mariana, great post! I wonder what you think about a single mother with 3mo moving to Mexico? Do you think it is a good idea? I want to work a bit less and spend more time raising him and have beautiful nature around us but also be in or very near a town. I’m thinking of Puerto Calkarta as a starting point. Do you have any thoughts/suggestions?
Hi Anne.
People move to Mexico with young kids all the time! I think if that’s your dream, you should do it.
We can help you with a relocation tour, to help you find rentals, and many other things 😀
Hello
I am planning to move to Mexico City as an Expat from India along with family (wife and young kids).
Can you help in relocation and finding rentals?
Hi Sajal
If you’d like help with relocation tours, immigration, rentals or any other of these matters of moving to Mexico, Our COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide will take the guesswork out of your move and answer all your questions. With our easy-to-follow online guide, you’ll transition smoothly to your new life in Mexico.
In the guide you get an easy to follow plan that covers the most important basic topics such as
Residency Visas
Knowing How to Apply for Residency
How to bring your household goods
Driving vs Flying
How to get healthcare coverage in Mexico
How the medical system works in Mexico
What to know about taxes in Mexico
How to find the best rentals
Scams to avoid
And a lot more!
Plus, we also give you access to our complete directory of contacts across Mexico that help make your move a lot easier.
We include contacts like
Immigration Facilitators
Rental Agents
Realtors
Healthcare brokers
Medicare Advantage brokers
International moving companies
Relocation tour guides
Private drivers
Pet transport companies
and so many more
We save people hundreds of hours of research. And because we are continuously updating the online guide, you can feel confident that even if you are moving in a few years you will still have the most up-to-date information.
Check out what’s included here mexicorelocationguide.com/guide
You mentioned Medicare Advantage brokers. Does that mean that Medicare is accepted in Mexico??
Medicare Advantage is accepted for life threatening emergencies only and not all Medicare Advantage plans are accepted. You’d have to select one that allows you to live in México
Wayne,
Hey, I’m 60 (the new 40)! My husband and I plan on moving somewhere in Mexico next year. Yes, definately reconsider moving; once you’re there, I think you’d be glad you did! Regards, Kandy
Can I live comfortably on $1500/month social security? I’m thinking along the Baja so or some place I can drove my vehicle down.
Thanks for the excellent article. The article should also explain the difference between ‘visiting’ or ‘living’ in Mexico. A US citizen staying longer than 180 days requires special residency applications from immigration proving income and financial solvency. If you drive your US licensed car to Mexico expect more complications. Getting a foreign registered auto legally licensed in Mexico is nearly impossible from my limited experience.
I know Mexico well. Mexico City is a challenge even for natives. I recommend looking at the “silver cities” to the north (Queretaro, Guanajuato, etc.) and also at Merida and other mid-sized cities. Lots of options. -Ned
My Fiancee is From Leon Guanajuato. I have not been there yet, but I will be visiting there soon to meet the family. any suggestions or advice?
Mexican families tend to be kind of old school. So Bring her mother a nice bouquet of flowers when you first meet. Bring her father a nice bottle of tequila. And formally ask her mom and dad for their daughter’s hand in marriage if you haven’t already done so. Other than that, have a great time and keep an open mind about cultural differences in Mexico. Oh yea and be prepared to gain about 5 lbs because they’ll likely want to feed you all day long.
I was thinking about retiring in Playa del Carmen. Are there houses for sale in that area or just condos and rentals? Also, would I be able to use the resort restaurants
and pools without any problems whenever I wanted too?
There are probably more houses for sale than there are rentals in PDC. It is a mecca for real estate investment not only from foreigners but also Mexicans.
I was considering retiring in Mexico. Do you recommend Playa del Carmen? How is the housing market there?
If you want to live on a beach yes I think Playa del Carmen is great for many reasons. The housing market is def competitive you can find homes in the low 100s and in the millions of dollars. it all depends on location and type of home
We are in our mid 70s and have been living in Mexico for about 2+yrs.
Luvin’ it. We have NEVER had a bit of trouble at all with anyone, anywhere. You can find it if you want it just like any country or state.
We had lived in Ajijic for 6 months and are now living in Mazatlan, Sinaloa.
We have our Temporal and plan on obtaining our Permanente.
Doctors, dentists, surgeons, hospitals are all reasonable especially when compared to the U.S. and they are good.
Using a taxi is very inexpensive.
Food from a local Mercado, outdoor market, is fresh and delicious.
It is can be almost less expensive to eat out than cooking, (my wife loves that part) depending on your tastes and budget.
The infrastructure needs updating, except in the tourist areas which are, understandably, nicer. Sidewalks can be rough, dangerous or nonexistent.
Mexico is not the U.S. or Canada. It is a growing economy and working damn hard at it.
This blurb may be a little disjointed but I old and can’t contain myself.
Oh, almost forgot, the people are, for the most part, helpful, pleasant and kind.
Im working on retiring in Quintana Roo. Will take a few weeks looking at layed back places to live on Caribbean. I am an animal rescuer. Plan on gutting a RV to transport them from LA area. Few cats, couple little dogs, rabbit and pot belly pig. Will they be safe? My family is trying to scare me. About animals, long drive & single old lady. Soon to be 60. My grandparents brought me down there since I was little. As young girl I said this is where I want to retire. The people are so easy going, family oriented. Any suggestions. Gracias
My cousin and his wife built in Lake Chapala, Jocotepec after 10 years of visiting/renting. They loved living there, sadly they passed away in the last year. The weather is one of the best in the world (other than rainy reason), living is affordable.