If you’re considering living in Mexico, San Luis Potosí might not be on your radar yet, but it should be.
This vibrant city offers a unique blend of authentic Mexican culture, a peaceful lifestyle, and modern amenities, with an affordable cost of living. While it’s not as popular with expats as other cities like San Miguel de Allende, Queretaro, Puerto Vallarta, or Ajijic. Yet, San Luis Potosí has much to offer those seeking a more affordable and authentic place to live.
In our latest video, we explore everything you need to know about living in San Luis Potosí, from the cost of living and neighborhoods to its incredible location and climate.
Why San Luis Potosí Stands Out
Located in the heart of Mexico, San Luis Potosí is rich in history and culture.
Once a small mining province in colonial times, the city has transformed into a bustling industrial hub with a growing population of over one million people. Despite its rapid development, San Luis Potosí retains a peaceful, small-town vibe that makes it perfect for those who want to slow down but still enjoy modern conveniences.
One of the biggest advantages of San Luis Potosí is its central location in Mexico.
This makes it an ideal base for exploring nearby cities and states. For instance, Guanajuato is just two hours away, San Miguel de Allende is two and a half hours away, and Mexico City is just a five-hour drive.
This prime location makes it easy to take weekend road trips or explore other parts of the country while still having a peaceful home base.
San Luis Potosí Weather: Comfortable Year-Round
The weather in San Luis Potosí is another big draw. The city enjoys a semi-desertic climate, which means it’s dry most of the year, with a rainy season lasting from May through November. The summers are comfortable, with daytime highs rarely exceeding 83°F (28°C), while the winters are cool, with average lows around 41°F (5°C) in January.
This mild climate makes it easy to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, golfing, and picnicking in the city’s many parks, including the expansive Tangamanga Park, which is larger than New York’s Central Park.
Additional Reading: Best Highland Cities to Retire in Mexico
Cost of Living in San Luis Potosí
One of the biggest factors attracting people to San Luis Potosí is its affordable cost of living. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly rental or a luxury home, you can find a range of options to suit your needs.
Here’s a breakdown of rental costs in different areas:
- Budget-friendly areas (Zona Industrial): You can find 3-bedroom, 2-bath homes in gated communities with access to amenities like pools and green spaces for around $400 USD/month (8,000 MXN).
- Mid-range options (Lomas, Tangamanga): These neighborhoods offer more upscale homes and apartments, with rent ranging from $800 to $1,250 USD/month (16,000 to 25,000 MXN).
- Luxury homes (La Loma Golf and other exclusive areas): If you’re looking for high-end living with access to golf courses and private amenities, you can expect to pay $2,000 USD/month or more (40,000+ MXN).
Beyond housing, utilities and groceries are also quite affordable. For example, water bills typically run around $30 USD/month, while electricity costs are minimal because you don’t need air conditioning or heating year-round. Internet services start at $25 USD/month for 100 Mbps.
With such affordable living costs, San Luis Potosí offers excellent value for those looking to relocate and enjoy a high quality of life without the high expenses of other major cities.
It’s very possible for a couple to live VERY comfortably in San Luis Potosi for under $2,500 USD a Month!
San Luis Potosi Neighborhoods
If you’re considering a move to San Luis Potosí, it’s important to find the right neighborhood to match your lifestyle. Here are some of the top areas to consider:
Lomas & Tangamanga
These areas are known for their upscale homes, peaceful streets, and access to Tangamanga Park. Rentals here range from $1,000 to $2,000 USD/month, making it a great option for those looking for a mid to high-end lifestyle.
Zona Industrial
For a more budget-friendly option, the Zona Industrial offers gated communities with great amenities like gyms, pools, and green spaces. Rent here is very affordable, starting at just $400 USD/month.
Centro
The city’s downtown area, known as Centro, is full of historical charm but may not be the best fit for everyone due to noise and some areas needing better maintenance. However, for those who love being in the heart of the city, you can find 3-bedroom homes for around $525 USD/month.
Modern Amenities and Services
Despite its peaceful vibe, San Luis Potosí has a lot to offer regarding modern conveniences. The city has several shopping malls, big-box stores like Costco and Walmart, and a wide selection of local markets where you can buy fresh produce and handmade goods. Whether you’re looking for international products or local specialties, San Luis Potosí has something for everyone.
For healthcare, the city boasts some of the best medical facilities in the country.
Hospitals like Hospital Angeles and Hospital Lomas provide first-class medical services with well-trained staff and state-of-the-art equipment. Even minor issues can be handled at local pharmacies, where you can see a doctor for as little as $2.50 USD and get affordable medications.
Additional Information: How This Couple Find Their Forever Home in San Luis Potosi
Why San Luis Potosí is a Great Option for Expats
If you’re an expat looking for a slower pace of life but with access to all the modern amenities you need, San Luis Potosí is an excellent choice.
The city offers a safe environment, a welcoming local community, and an affordable cost of living. While the expat community here is smaller than in places like Mérida or Puerto Vallarta, this gives you the chance to truly integrate into local culture and experience authentic Mexico.
Book a San Luis Potosi Relocation Tour
Ready to explore San Luis Potosí for yourself?
We offer private relocation tours that give you an insider’s view of the city. A local expert will show you the best neighborhoods, schools, shopping areas, and more to help you make an informed decision about your move.
To book a private relocation tour, you will need to first buy the COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide. Which is packed with all the information you need to make your move to Mexico as smooth and stress-free as possible.
From visa requirements to healthcare options, finding rentals, scams to avoid, and more- our guide has it all!
👉 Click here to purchase the Mexico Relocation Guide and book your tour.
Petra S. Ramos says
Mariana, I am interested in Mexico. I speak fluent spanish. I was raised by my grandparents that were originally from Mexico. I would very much be interested in going to Mexico to see if I can live there with my husband. I need your guidance.
Mariana Lange says
Hola Petra! Welcome to the site.
We are happy to help you navigate moving to Mexico.
You could become a dual citizen by ancestry which would make it easier for you to move. Your parent (child of your Mexican grandparents) would have to apply for citizenship first and then you could apply for it as a child of a Mexican citizen. If you need help with that process, we have a couple of great immigration facilitators that can help you.
Randy Klein says
Hello Mariana,
I was on your site last year and you have come a long way. It looks very good! We are seriously considering Mexico and will be buying your guide however, my concern is age. I’ll be 75 next year and my wife will be 71. Is there insurance available? We are both healthy with no pre-existing conditions. I have been told our Aetna Medicare Advantage plan is accepted in Panama for emergencies. Do you know if Mexico does? Thank you in advance for your consideration.
Randy & Elaine Klein
Mariana Lange says
Hola Randy
Thank you so much for the praise.
You can absolutely get insurance at your ages. However your options will be likely limited.
I recommend getting in touch with Greg Hovey to discuss your options – GregHovey.com