Welcome to La Paz, the stunning capital city of Baja California Sur! In this guide, we’ll delve into various aspects of living in this coastal Mexican town.
You’ll love living in La Paz because it has a little bit of everything! You have good healthcare, beautiful landscapes, sunny weather, good food, great beaches, and an affordable cost of living. You can easily find rentals starting at $800 a Month and Houses for sale at $200,000 USD.
In this video, we discuss the average cost of living, how to get around, healthcare availability, the overall vibe, and more. We think a couple can live very comfortably in La Paz for $2,500 USD/month or less.
Where is La Paz?
- Located along the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula, La Paz boasts a desert climate with high temperatures and minimal rainfall.
- Temperatures range from 90F during the hot season to 60-75F in the cold season, with rainfall primarily occurring in late summer.
- The landscape features stunning coastlines, crystal blue waters, and rugged mountainous terrain, contributing to its natural beauty and ecological diversity.
What’s The Vibe?
- La Paz offers modern amenities while maintaining a relaxed coastal lifestyle.
- Despite being less touristy, the city welcomes newcomers with a friendly atmosphere, although water supply stress can be a concern.
- Basic knowledge of Spanish is recommended for navigating daily life and fostering connections with locals.
- The city is ideal for those seeking a slower pace of life without sacrificing modern conveniences.
Neighborhoods in La Paz
- Popular neighborhoods include Esterito, Centro, Pueblo Nuevo, Colina del Sol, El Centenario, and Pedregal, each catering to different preferences.
- Rental prices vary based on proximity to the beach, ranging from $15,000 to $40,000 pesos per month for a 2-3 bedroom furnished house.
- Consider factors like walkability and amenities when choosing a neighborhood, and consult with a local real estate agent for guidance.
To give you an example, our friend Lori and her husband (ages 70 and 75) are living in a 2-bedroom, 2-bath setup, and they are absolutely loving the lifestyle on about $2,200 USD/Month!
Here is exactly what it costs them to call La Paz home, converted using today’s exchange rates. Lori provided most of her figures in Pesos, so I’ve converted those to USD and CAD to give you a clear picture of how it stacks up against your current budget.
Now to give you an idea, attached is a picture from the exterior of Lori’s home.
When I asked Lori how she felt about the move, she kept it simple: “Love it!”
Cost of Living in La Paz
- Electricity costs range from $850-2,000 pesos every two months, with higher usage during the hot season.
- Water bills typically amount to $150-300 pesos monthly, while drinking water can be purchased from supermarkets or delivered by local companies.
- Propane for cooking and heating is available from providers like Caligas, with costs around $12-14 pesos per liter.
- High-speed internet packages start at $350 pesos per month, with options from companies like Telmex and Megacable, or satellite internet through Starlink.
Shopping
- Explore local mercados like Municipal Market Gral. Agustín Olachea Avilés and Mercado Nicolas Bravo for fresh produce, handmade goods, and authentic experiences.
- Neighborhood tienditas offer convenience for everyday groceries, while organic stores and artisanal markets provide specialized items.
- Supermarkets like Chedraui, Soriana, and Walmart offer a wide range of products, including imported goods and household items.
Healthcare in La Paz
- La Paz boasts numerous pharmacies, consultorios, private clinics, and hospitals like Central De Especialidades Médicas for healthcare needs.
- Preventive care and maintaining a healthy lifestyle are emphasized, with options for minor illnesses and specialized medical services available.
Transportation
- Manuel Márquez de León International Airport serves as the main gateway to La Paz, with ferry options from mainland Mexico.
- Within the city, walking, taxis, Didi, and Uber provide convenient transportation options, while a public bus system offers affordability.
- Consider renting or owning a car to explore nearby towns and attractions, although driving can be unpredictable.
Things to Do
- Enjoy leisurely walks along the Malecon, exploring the city’s vibrant culture, restaurants, and museums.
- Experience the beauty of La Paz’s beaches, such as Playa Balandra and Tecolote, for relaxation and water activities.
- Engage in marine-related adventures like fishing, boat tours, and snorkeling to discover the wonders of the Sea of Cortez.
- Venture beyond La Paz to nearby destinations like Todos Santos and Los Cabos for additional experiences and exploration.
La Paz offers a unique blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and vibrant culture, making it an ideal destination for those seeking a coastal lifestyle. Whether you’re considering a move or simply exploring, La Paz welcomes you with open arms. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights on living in Mexico. Until next time, ¡hasta luego!
Want to Move to La Paz?
I hope you’ve gained valuable insights into what this charming city has to offer.
If seeing these numbers has you thinking seriously about a move to La Paz (or anywhere else in Mexico), you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our Complete Mexico Relocation Guide lays out the exact step-by-step process for making the move.
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