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Relocating to a new country can be both exciting and intimidating.
For Russ, a U.S. retiree from Reno, Nevada, moving to Morelia, Mexico, in 2021 was a life-changing decision. He not only found financial relief but also a vibrant community and exceptional healthcare.
In our latest video, Russ and Gabi share their story, including the key factors that influenced their move, the comparison of the cost of living vs Reno, NV, how he cut his costs in half, and why he loves living in Morelia. Pssst- He also shares how he’s thriving on social security alone.
Why Russ and Gabi Moved to Morelia
Russ and his wife Gabriela decided to move to Morelia to be closer to her family. “We sold everything we had, got on the airplane, and came to Morelia to be with her family,” Russ recalls. While the move was motivated by family ties, they quickly realized the numerous benefits of living in this beautiful Mexican city.
A Warm Welcome in Morelia
One of the first things Russ noticed about Morelia was how welcoming the community is. Despite not being fluent in Spanish, he felt embraced by locals. “Everywhere I go, people are patient with my broken Spanish, and I’ve never experienced any prejudice,” he says.
The city’s charm extends beyond its people. Russ fell in love with Morelia’s stunning architecture and vibrant culture. “The beauty of the city, the history, and the friendliness of the people make it a wonderful place to live,” he adds.
Cost of Living: A Financial Game-Changer
For Russ, one of the biggest advantages of moving to Morelia was the dramatic reduction in his monthly expenses. Let’s take a closer look at the numbers:
Housing
In Morelia, Russ rents a spacious home for 8,000 pesos a month—approximately $400 USD. In contrast, he used to pay $1,500 USD for a small two-bedroom apartment in Reno.
Utilities
Utility costs are another area where Russ saves significantly:
- Electricity: $10 USD per month
- Water: $10 USD every two months
- Internet and Streaming Services: $33 USD per month (includes phone and platforms like Netflix)
Groceries and Dining
Russ and Gabriela frequently shop at local farmer’s markets and dine out. “We eat out a lot, enjoying everything from street tacos to nice restaurants, and it’s still cheaper than cooking at home in the U.S.,” Russ notes.
Total Monthly Expenses
Including rent, utilities, groceries, and dining out, Russ estimates their total monthly expenses to be around $1,200–$1,300 USD. This is less than half of what they spent living in the U.S.!
Affordable Healthcare That Saved Russ’s Life
Another highlight of Russ’s life in Morelia is the access to high-quality, affordable healthcare. Shortly after moving, Russ suffered a stroke and required brain surgery. “The care I received here was outstanding,” he says.
The surgery, which would have cost $325,000 USD in the U.S., was less than $10,000 USD in Morelia.
Russ’s neurologist is one of the top specialists in the city, even consulted by U.S. hospitals for complex cases. “The medical care I’ve received in Mexico is far better than what I ever experienced in the U.S.,” Russ emphasizes.
The affordability of healthcare has been a game-changer for Russ and Gabriela, allowing them to pay for services out of pocket without financial stress.
Safety and Community
Safety is often a concern for those considering a move to Mexico, but Russ has always felt secure in Morelia. “I’ve never been victimized or felt unsafe here,” he shares. His neighborhood is quiet and family-oriented, with close proximity to everything they need, from grocery stores to public transportation.
“Life here is relaxed and enjoyable. We don’t even need a car because everything is within walking distance,” Russ adds.
Finding Fulfillment in Retirement
Russ and Gabriela have fully embraced their new lifestyle. They stay active by exploring the city, attending family gatherings, and even teaching English to local children. “Our life in Morelia is fulfilling in ways we never imagined,” says Russ.
Why Morelia Is a Great Place to Live
Russ’s story highlights why Morelia is an attractive destination for retirees and expats:
- Low cost of living
- Access to high-quality healthcare
- Safe and welcoming community
- Rich cultural and historical significance
For Russ, moving to Morelia wasn’t just about saving money; it was about finding a better quality of life. “I can’t say enough about how happy we are here,” he concludes.
Ready to Explore Morelia?
Are you considering a move to Morelia or just curious about what life is like in this charming city? Our Morelia Relocation Tours offer an in-depth, guided experience to help you see firsthand what makes this city so special.
During the tour, you’ll:
✅ Explore neighborhoods and housing options
✅ Get to know where to do your shopping
✅ Learn about Morelia’s cost of living, healthcare, and lifestyle from a local
💡 Click here to learn more about our tours and how to book yours. Your new life in Mexico could be just around the corner!
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