Moving to Cuernavaca- Land of Eternal Spring

Are you curious about what it’s like to live as an expat in Mexico?

In our latest video, we sit down with Graeme, a Scottish expat who has made Cuernavaca his home for the past 6 years.

Graeme’s story is one of love, adventure, and a deep appreciation for the Mexican way of life. From a chance encounter during a salsa lesson to finding the perfect home in this part of Mexico, his journey offers a unique glimpse into expat life in this beautiful city.

You May Be Interested: Cuernavaca: Why You’ll Fall In Love.

Why Cuernavaca?

You might wonder why Cuernavaca? Nestled just a couple of hours from Mexico City, this city is often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring.” The city boasts a near-perfect climate year-round, with temperatures that rarely dip below 20°C (68°F). This makes it ideal for those who enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring nature, and living a laid-back lifestyle.

For Graeme and his wife, Cuernavaca offered the right mix of tranquility and community. After years of moving around the world—from Korea and Germany to Qatar and Spain—they decided to settle in Cuernavaca, drawn by its natural beauty and welcoming atmosphere.

As Graeme shares, “We wanted to be somewhere that was a little bit quieter, offered a little bit higher quality of life in terms of being able to get out in nature and explore the country.”

A City with a Unique Expat Experience

Living here also comes with its own set of unique experiences.

According to Graeme, one of the standout features of the city is its diverse microclimates. You can experience cooler temperatures in the northern part of the city and warmer climates in the south, all within a short drive. This diversity makes it easy to find a spot that suits your preferences, whether you enjoy cooler or warmer weather.

The city is also a popular destination for people looking to learn Spanish.

The city is home to several renowned language schools that attract students from all over the world. This influx of international visitors adds a cosmopolitan flair to the city, creating a unique blend of cultures.

However, this also means that expat friendships can be quite fluid—people often come and go, providing opportunities to make new connections regularly.

As Graeme notes, “Your friends move on or your friends move to different locations, which gives you great holiday options but also means that you are changing your friendship groups on a regular basis.”

Navigating Life in Cuernavaca: Tips and Insights

One of the most valuable parts of Graeme’s story is his insights into navigating living in Mexico. Here are some of his key tips:

• Building a Social Network: The expat community in Cuernavaca is diverse and welcoming. While friendships may be more transient, the community is supportive, and there are plenty of opportunities to connect with both locals and other expats.
• Learning the Language: While many locals speak some English, learning Spanish is crucial for a smoother experience. Graeme emphasizes the importance of engaging with the local culture and language to feel at home truly.
• Adapting to the Local Culture: Mexico has a rich cultural heritage, and Cuernavaca is no exception. From local festivals to day-to-day interactions, embracing the local customs and traditions can enrich your experience.
• Feeling Safe in Cuernavaca: Despite its reputation for crime, Graeme mentions, “In the years I’ve been here… I’ve never experienced that side of Mexico.” His experience suggests that Cuernavaca is a safe and secure place to live, especially for expats who take normal precautions.

Cost of Living in Cuernavaca: What to Expect

Living here can be affordable compared to other parts of Mexico or many U.S. or European cities.

Here’s a breakdown of the costs Graeme shared in the video. All prices are in USD.

• Housing and Community Fees: USD $1,282 – $1,795 per month. This includes mortgage payments, home insurance, and community maintenance fees, which cover services like garbage collection, gardening, and security.
• Groceries: Around USD $1,231 per month. This cost can vary depending on your shopping habits and whether you shop at local markets or larger supermarkets.
• Utilities (Electricity): USD $77 – $128 per month. The cost of electricity can fluctuate depending on your usage, particularly if you use air conditioning.
• Pet Care: USD $15 – $103 per month, depending on the services needed. Vet visits are very affordable, and pet care costs are generally lower than in many Western countries.
• Dining Out and Takeout:USD $31 – $41 per meal. Eating out is reasonably priced, with a variety of restaurants offering everything from local Mexican cuisine to international dishes.
• Sky TV: USD $52 per month. Entertainment costs are relatively low, and there are plenty of options for TV and internet packages.

Graeme also highlights the affordability of living: “For us, cost of living in Cuernavaca… you’re looking at between $25k- $35k pesos for all of that.” That is equivalent to a range of $2,688 and $3,350 USD a month.

The Ups and Downs of Expat Life

Like any place, living abroad comes with its pros and cons. Graeme talks candidly about some of the challenges, such as dealing with fluctuating friendships within the expat community and the occasional inconvenience of navigating local bureaucracy.

However, he also emphasizes the incredible benefits: the welcoming community, the stunning natural environment, and the overall high quality of life.

Why Cuernavaca is a Great Place to Live

Graeme believes that Cuernavaca is one of the best places to live in Mexico, especially for those who value a mix of outdoor activities, cultural engagement, and a slower pace of life. The city’s perfect climate, combined with its natural beauty and friendly atmosphere, makes it an attractive option for expats looking for a new adventure.

From stunning views and lush gardens to lively local markets and festivals, Cuernavaca offers a rich tapestry of experiences.

“It’s a very nice, sociable, happy community,” Graeme remarks, describing the sense of belonging he feels in his neighborhood.

Considering a Move? Explore Cuernavaca with a Private Relocation Tour!

If Graeme’s story has piqued your interest in Cuernavaca, why not explore it further?

Check out our private relocation tours tailored to your needs. They will help you experience the city firsthand and discover if it could be the perfect place for your next chapter. Whether you’re looking to retire, work remotely, or simply enjoy a new lifestyle, Cuernavaca has so much to offer.