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Toluca might not be at the top of your list when you think about moving to Mexico. It is not on the beach. It is not a tourist town. And it definitely does not have a huge expat scene like Puerto Vallarta or San Miguel de Allende. But that is exactly what makes Toluca one of Mexico’s best kept secrets.
This centrally located city is full of local culture, affordable housing, and cooler mountain weather. Plus, it is just an hour from Mexico City — so you are close to one of the biggest cities in the world without having to live in the middle of the chaos.
In this video, you will get a full breakdown of what it is like to live in Toluca, including the cost of living, neighborhoods, healthcare, weather, transportation, and more. But if you prefer to read this information, then scroll further.
Where Is Toluca?
Toluca is the capital of the State of Mexico (Estado de México). It sits in a valley about 8,700 feet above sea level, just 39 miles southwest of Mexico City (also called CDMX). That puts it in the heart of central Mexico, where you can enjoy a mild climate and great road and rail connections.
The metro area has over 2.3 million people, and the city itself is home to almost a million. That means you are not in a sleepy little town. You are in a full-on city, with real infrastructure, but without the sky-high costs.
A lot of people work in CDMX but live in Toluca because of the lower rents and easier lifestyle. So there are a lot of regular commuters back and forth.
What Is the Weather Like in Toluca?
If you are tired of sweating through your shirt in hot and humid beach towns, Toluca might feel like a dream. It has a subtropical highland climate, which basically means sweater weather all year long. Without it ever getting too cold.
In summer, it rains a bit, but the highs stay around 68°F. May is the warmest month, with highs around 72°F and lows in the mid-40s. Nights and early mornings can get chilly, especially in winter, so bring a good jacket and maybe a space heater.
The altitude also makes the sun feel stronger, so you will want sunscreen and a good moisturizer for the dry air.
Neighborhoods in Toluca: Where Should You Live?
Toluca has a wide variety of neighborhoods to choose from, and the video highlights three main areas that are great for newcomers:
Toluca Centro and Barrio de la Merced
This is the heart of the city. Toluca Centro and the adjacent Barrio de la Merced are full of 18th and 19th century buildings, arched walkways, traditional markets, and cultural landmarks like the Cosmovitral. You can live in a colonial home or a modern loft, depending on your budget.
If you love walkable areas, being in the middle of restaurants, museums, and shopping, this is the place for you. But keep in mind — Centro can be noisy. It is where city events happen and where vendors line the streets. So if you want total peace and quiet, this might not be ideal.
Rental prices here vary: exchange rates about $18.80 MXN to 1 USD
- Furnished studios or 1-bedrooms: 6,500 to 8,500 pesos ($350–$460 USD)
- Modern lofts with a gym and security: 11,000 to 14,000 pesos ($595–$750 USD)
- Large, older 3-bed apartments: around 6,000 pesos ($325 USD)
- Renovated 4+ bedroom historic homes: around 20,000 pesos ($1,050 USD)
Colonia Cypres and Colonia Morelos
Located just southwest of the Centro area, these are more peaceful, family-oriented neighborhoods. You get more space, less traffic, and still good access to schools, shops, and restaurants. These areas feel more local and less touristy, which also means lower prices for rent and services.
Housing options here include apartments and single-family homes, often with yards or patios. You are not far from central Toluca but it feels much calmer.
Metepec
Just next door to Toluca is the artsy town of Metepec. This is a “Pueblo Mágico” — a special status given to towns in Mexico known for culture, history, and charm.
Metepec has cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and a strong artisan vibe. It is known for its clay artwork and “Tree of Life” sculptures. You will also find boutique hotels, restaurants, art galleries, and modern shopping centers.
It is walkable, trendy, and still has a small-town feel. This is a great choice if you want a mix of traditional Mexico and modern convenience.
Cost of Living in Toluca
Toluca is far more affordable than places like San Miguel de Allende or Puerto Vallarta. Here is a breakdown of typical costs:
- Rent (1-bedroom in a good area): $350–$750 USD per month
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): $50–$75 USD per month
- Cell phone and internet: $25–$35 USD
- Groceries for two: $200–$300 USD per month
- Eating out: $5–$10 for a casual meal, $20–$40 for a nice dinner for two
- Public transport or Uber: Rides within the city usually cost under $5
One important tip: rent on the lower end of your budget. Exchange rates can fluctuate, and it is always better to have some cushion in your monthly spending.
A couple can easily live in Toluca on less than $1500 USD/Month all in.
Transportation and the New CDMX-Toluca Train
Getting around Toluca is easy. The city is walkable in many areas, especially Centro and Metepec. But when you need to go further, you have several options:
- Public buses and colectivos (shared vans)
- Uber and Didi, which are cheap and easy to use
- Taxis (less common now but still available)
And here is the big news: there is now a high-speed train connecting Toluca to Mexico City. This new train cuts travel time dramatically.
- Train Name: El Insurgente
- Route: Toluca to CDMX (Santa Fe Station. Other stations to be completed soon)
- Travel Time: About 39 minutes
- Cost: 15 pesos per ride (about $0.85 USD)
It is modern, clean, and efficient, making it easier than ever to live in Toluca and work or play in Mexico City.
Healthcare in Toluca
As a state capital, Toluca has great healthcare options. There are public hospitals, private clinics, and specialists across the city. You will also find labs, pharmacies, and imaging centers with short wait times and reasonable prices.
one option is Hospital Mac in Toluca. A private medical facility known for offering modern equipment, professional care, and a wide range of specialty services, making it a reliable option for expats seeking high-quality healthcare.
Many doctors speak some English, and you can access care even without private insurance. That said, many expats choose to purchase private health insurance or pay out-of-pocket as needed.
If you need a specialist not available in Toluca, you are only an hour away from world-class hospitals in CDMX.
What To Do in Toluca
There is plenty to keep you busy here. In the city center, you can visit the Cosmovitral, an old market building turned botanical garden with incredible stained glass. You can also explore:
- Traditional markets like Mercado 16 de Septiembre
- Museums, plazas, and art galleries
- Hiking at Nevado de Toluca volcano (you can even see snow in winter)
- Day trips to nearby mountain towns and natural parks
Toluca is also close to Puebla (known for food and architecture), San Miguel de Allende (for art and culture), and CDMX (for everything else). That makes weekend getaways easy.
Pros and Cons of Living in Toluca
Here is a quick summary of what to expect:
Pros
- Affordable rent and daily expenses
- Cool, pleasant weather all year
- Walkable city with good public transportation
- Close to Mexico City but without the high prices
- Authentic Mexican lifestyle and fewer tourists
- Access to healthcare and modern services
Cons
- Fewer English speakers, so you’ll need to learn at least basic Spanish
- The high altitude can be a problem for those with heart conditions
- Air quality can be a concern on some days
- Nights can get cold, and not all homes have heating
Explore More Cities in Mexico
Still deciding where in Mexico to move? We have detailed guides on several cities. Check out our Ultimate Guide on Best Places to Live in Mexico– which gives you the highlights of some of our top recommended cities across Mexico.
Each city has its own vibe, costs, and benefits. Take your time, explore your options, and when you are ready, we are here to help you move to Mexico the right way.
