Living in Todos Santos: A Guide to the Laid-Back Baja Lifestyle

Nestled at the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains on the Pacific coast of Mexico’s Baja California Sur lies Todos Santos, a tranquil oasis that may just steal your heart. This coastal town has a charm that’s hard to resist, with its historic buildings, boutique shops, and an art scene that punches well above its weight for such a small community. Those vivid sunsets painting the skies as the day winks out?

That’s your everyday backdrop in Todos Santos.

Living in Todos Santos is coastal bliss
Living in Todos Santos is coastal bliss

Life here as an expat moves at a leisurely pace, treating you to a blend of natural beauty and local culture. Picture yourself wandering through streets lined with colorful murals and colonial buildings, dropping into galleries, or maybe learning to surf on the pristine beaches nearby. And while it has garnered a reputation as a haven for artists and creatives, Todos Santos also offers a smorgasbord of organic farms and delightful eateries that celebrate farm-to-table dining. It’s a place where culinary adventures await around every corner.

But a move to Todos Santos offers more than just pretty scenery and tasty food.

It’s a community with a pulse. You’ll find friendly locals, nice housing options, expat from near and far, and an embodiment of the laid-back Baja lifestyle. You also have beautiful beaches. Plus you are very close to major cities like La Paz, San Jose del Cabo, and Cabo San Lucas. 

From the lively festivals that fill the calendar to the tranquility of a desert hike, there’s a sense of belonging and balance here. It’s not just a place to live; it’s a lifestyle that many have come to cherish.

Below are reasons to move to Todos Santos.

Living Essentials in Todos Santos

When considering a move to Todos Santos, you’ll want to weigh up the cost of accommodation, the safety of the area, life in Todos Santos, and the day-to-day expenses. Understanding the local conveniences, cultural offerings, and potential challenges is crucial to enjoying your life in this Baja California Sur oasis.

Accommodation and Cost

Here you have a choice between renting a place or taking the plunge into property ownership. Rental prices vary, with some affordable options for apartments and homes, especially compared to nearby Los Cabos. Here’s a quick snapshot of estimated monthly rental costs:

  • Studio Apartment: $600 USD
  • 1-Bedroom: $600 – $800 USD
  • 2-Bedroom: $800 – $1,500 USD

If you’re looking to buy property in Todos Santos, prices can range from modest for a simple home to premium for ocean views or proximity to the town center. An average 2 bed 2 Bath home in Todos Santos can cost from $250-$500k USD. It all depends on its location, size, and age.

Watch the full video of Todos Santos below to learn what life here is like:

YouTube video

Safety and Wellbeing

Living in Todos Santos
Living in Todos Santos

Your safety is essential, and you’ll be pleased to know that Todos Santos is generally considered a safe place to live in the Baja Peninsula. With a laid-back vibe and a close-knit community of locals and expats alike, it’s got a welcoming feel. Always take the usual precautions and stay aware of your surroundings for a worry-free stay.

Conveniences and Challenges

Living in Todos Santos means embracing both its conveniences and accepting its occasional challenges:

Conveniences

  • Proximity to natural beauty like beaches and mountains
  • Laid-back lifestyle that’s welcoming to expats
  • Growing number of art galleries and cultural events

Challenges

  • Limited medical facilities; the nearest hospital is in La Paz
  • Spotty internet connection in some areas
  • Occasional water scarcity

Culture and Leisure

Cultural activities abound in Todos Santos with its vibrant art scene. You can spend your days exploring local art galleries or enjoying the town’s natural beauty. The annual music festival is a must-see, and various workshops often attract a creative crowd. Prepare to immerse yourself in a mix of traditional Mexican culture and international influences.

There is a decent expat community, and because it is touristic there is also a decent amount of English spoken by locals.

Day-to-Day Expenses

To help manage your budget, here’s a basic breakdown of common expenses:

  • Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage): $40-$150 USD/month
  • Groceries: $200 – $300 USD/month- 1 person
  • Dining Out: $8 – $20 USD/meal
  • Internet: $27-$59 USD/month

Remember, while the cost of living is often more affordable than a similar beach town in North America, it’s always wise to keep an eye on your spending.

Lifestyle and Recreation

In Todos Santos, you’ll find a laid-back lifestyle with an active beach scene, a tight-knit community vibe, and escapes into nature that will leave you breathless.

Beach Life and Activities

The Playa in Todos Santos is your playground. Surfers flock here for the consistent, year-round waves, making it a haven for both beginners and seasoned veterans looking to catch the perfect swell. With miles of pristine coastline, you can sunbathe, swim, or engage in various water sports – the beach life here is as active or relaxed as you make it.

Community and Expats

Bar in Todos Santos
Bar in Todos Santos

This town isn’t just a tourist spot; it’s a home. The community here is brimming with Expats who’ve swapped their fast-paced lives for the tranquility of this desert oasis.

Local events and shared interests create a close-knit atmosphere where you’re likely to make lifelong friends. If you’re considering making the move, you’ll be welcomed into a diverse group of kindred spirits.

Nature and Escapes

Beyond the beach, adventure calls in the Sierra de la Laguna mountains. These peaks challenge hikers with their rugged paths, but reward them with panoramic views.

The surrounding wilderness studded with unique flora and fauna turn a simple “get away” into an escape into natural beauty. Whether you enjoy bird watching, mountain biking, or just exploring, there’s always somewhere new to discover.

Market in Todos Santos
Market in Todos Santos

Popularity Factors

Why is Todos Santos so popular?

Perhaps it’s the balance between accessibility – a short drive from Cabo San Lucas – and the untouched feel of the town’s surroundings. It’s popular enough to have excellent amenities yet maintains a laid-back vibe that isn’t found in more commercialized locales.

Year-round sunshine is just the cherry on top. Whether you’re lounging on the beach or grabbing a bite at a local eatery, it’s easy to see why so many have made Todos Santos their own slice of paradise.

Check out our Todos Santos Relocation Tours!

Ready to visit Todos Santos and learn what living here is truly like?

Check out our private relocation tours and start planning your journey to coastal bliss today! Intrigued but not ready to pack your bags? Don’t miss out on the chance to experience the magic of Todos Santos firsthand. Watch our video now and start planning your move to coastal bliss!

Mariana Lange

Mariana Lima-Lange was born in Mexico and immigrated to the U.S. when she was a child. She spent every summer visiting family throughout Mexico and is very knowledgeable about Mexican culture, lifestyle, and traditions. She is fluent in both Spanish and English.

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