Why Aguascalientes Should Be on Your Radar

If you’re considering moving to Mexico for a more affordable and peaceful life, Aguascalientes is a hidden gem that deserves your attention.

Known for its history, pristine beauty, and welcoming community, this city offers a high quality of life that many expats are starting to discover.

In our latest video, we’ll give you an overview of why Aguascalientes could be the perfect place for your new home, including cost of living breakdowns, top neighborhoods, medical services, and more.

Overview of Aguascalientes

Aguascalientes, located in the Central North of Mexico, is one of the 32 states that make up La Republica Mexicana.

The city of Aguascalientes, the capital of the state, sits in a valley about 6,200 feet above sea level. Known for its pleasant climate and semi-dry weather, the city enjoys a hot season from April through June, with temperatures reaching up to 90°F (32°C). The cool season lasts from late November to February, with average lows of 39°F (4°C). Even during the coldest months, temperatures remain comfortable.

This city has a population of about 950,000, while the metro area is closer to 1.1 million. It has been growing steadily due to internal migration and the influx of industries like auto parts manufacturing, especially since Nissan opened an assembly plant here.

Despite its growth, it maintains a calm, laid-back vibe, making it a perfect choice for those seeking a slower pace of life.

Clean, Safe, and Welcoming

One of the first things you’ll notice about Aguascalientes is how clean and well-maintained it is. The streets are tidy, the air is fresh, and the roads are smooth. Whether you’re walking through working-class areas or upscale neighborhoods, cleanliness is a constant.

Also, the locals are very friendly, often greeting you with a warm “Buenos días” or “Buenas tardes.”

Crime rates are relatively low, especially in the downtown area (Centro), which has a strong police presence due to its importance as a business and tourist hub. If safety is a priority for you, Aguascalientes stands out from other less safe cities in Mexico.

Cost of Living Breakdown

Aguascalientes is known for being affordable, especially when compared to more popular expat destinations in Mexico. Here’s a quick breakdown of typical living costs in the city:

Housing Costs:

• One-bedroom furnished studio: 6,000 to 7,000 pesos per month ($300 to $350 USD)
• Four-bedroom house (needing some work): 10,000 to 12,000 pesos per month ($500 to $600 USD)
• Nicely remodeled four-bedroom house: 20,000 to 22,000 pesos per month ($1,000 to $1,100 USD)

Utility Costs (for a two-person household):

• Water: $400-$600 pesos per month ($20 to $30 USD)
• Electricity (without air conditioning or heating): $300 to $500 pesos every two months ($15 to $25 USD)
• Gas (30-liter tank): $600 to $700 pesos per month ($30 to $35 USD)

Even high-end areas in Aguascalientes are reasonably priced compared to similar neighborhoods in other Mexican cities.

For example, in the northern suburbs, luxury homes with amenities like golf courses and gyms can range from 15,000 to 30,000 pesos per month ($750 to $1,500 USD).

But all in all, we think it is very reasonable for a couple to live in Aguascalientes on $1,500-$3,000 USD/Month!

Best Neighborhoods to Live In

If you’re considering moving to Aguascalientes, you’ll find a variety of neighborhoods to suit different lifestyles and budgets. Here are the top three regions:

1. Downtown (Centro):
   • Centro offers a mix of historic charm and modern convenience. It’s home to five traditional “barrios” (neighborhoods) dating back to the 19th century, as well as mid-20th century buildings. You’ll find everything from small studios to large houses.
   • Pros: Highly walkable, close to shopping, restaurants, and medical services.
   • Cons: It can be noisy, especially with church bells and traffic.
2. Northern Suburbs:
   • This suburban area is known for its luxurious gated communities, wide streets, and upscale amenities like golf courses and pools. It’s the wealthier part of the city, offering a quiet, family-friendly environment.
   • Pros: High-end living with large homes and green spaces.
   • Cons: More expensive, and you’ll likely need a car.
3. Western and Southwestern Suburbs:
   • These newer suburbs are more affordable than the northern region but still offer a great quality of life. Two-story, three-bedroom homes are the standard here, and many gated communities provide amenities like gyms and playgrounds.
   • Pros: More budget-friendly, perfect for families or those seeking a quieter life.
   • Cons: You’ll need a car or rely on taxis/Uber, as public transportation is less frequent.

Medical Services in Aguascalientes

Aguascalientes has no shortage of medical services, from public clinics to private hospitals.

You’ll find most clinics and practices concentrated in the downtown and northern areas. Pharmacies are also widespread, many offering walk-in services where a doctor can treat minor illnesses and write prescriptions on the spot.

For those who enjoy staying active, the city offers fitness and wellness centers, tennis and paddle courts, golf courses, and parks. There’s no excuse not to stay healthy while living in this beautiful city.

Shopping and Entertainment

The shopping options in Aguascalientes vary depending on where you live. In the downtown area, you’ll find traditional markets to buy fresh produce, meats, and other essentials.

The northern suburbs offer big-box stores like Walmart, Costco, and HEB if you prefer larger supermarkets.

Aguascalientes is also home to one of the most famous events in Mexico, the Feria Nacional de San Marcos. This annual event attracts millions of visitors and is filled with concerts, food, and cultural exhibits.

Besides the fair, the city offers plenty of entertainment options, from dining in upscale restaurants to enjoying a night out at one of the many wine bars or nightclubs.

Book Your Private Relocation Tour

Aguascalientes is a city that offers a peaceful, affordable, and high-quality lifestyle. Whether you’re drawn to the clean streets, friendly locals, or low cost of living, it’s a place where you can truly thrive. Take the time to explore the city through a relocation tour, and you just might find your next home in Mexico.

There’s no better way to explore the city than on an Aguascalientes relocation tour.

Our tours are led by locals who can show you around the neighborhoods, introduce you to local culture, and give you a real feel for what it’s like to live here.

Before making the big move, it’s essential to scout the city for yourself. Book a private tour today and see why Aguascalientes is becoming a top destination for expats looking for affordability, safety, and a high quality of life.

To book a tour, you will first have to purchase our COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide. When you purchase the guide, you get instant access to our step-by-step guide for moving to Mexico and our directory of verified contacts.