Why Mexico Isn’t for Everyone — And That’s Okay

Moving to Mexico can be a dream come true for many people. There’s sunshine, friendly locals, delicious food, and a lower cost of living. But if you’ve been following us at Mexico Relocation Guide for a while, you know this already: we don’t just talk about the pretty parts—we tell you the full picture.

The truth is, Mexico isn’t for everyone, and that’s okay.

We’ve helped thousands of people move to Mexico successfully. Many love it and never look back. But we’ve also talked to folks who realized after a few months—or even a few years—that it just wasn’t the right fit. Some moved back home. Others chose a different city in Mexico that matched their needs better.

In this blog post, we’ll talk about the real reasons people leave Mexico. We’ll also share tips to help you avoid common surprises. And most importantly, you’ll see why doing a scouting trip before you move can make all the difference.

Why People Love Living in Mexico

Before we jump into the challenges, let’s remember why so many people choose Mexico:

• Warm weather year-round (especially in the highlands and beach towns)
• Lower cost of living (depending on where and how you live)
• Affordable healthcare and faster medical services
• Friendly and welcoming people
• Incredible food and rich cultural traditions
• A more relaxed, slower pace of life

These are life-changing benefits for many. But they come with trade-offs—and that’s where some people get caught off guard.

Cost of Living Isn’t Always What You Expect

Yes, Mexico can be cheaper—but that depends on your location and lifestyle. Expensive cities like Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende are seeing higher prices, especially in neighborhoods popular with foreigners.

One of our customers, Mike from Oregon, thought $1,500/month would be plenty. But between rent, groceries, and eating out, he quickly found himself spending closer to $2,000/month. And when the exchange rate changed? His budget got even tighter.

Here’s what to watch for:

• Rent in popular areas is rising fast
• Imported goods (electronics, food, tools) cost more
• Eating out regularly adds up
• Emergency costs can throw off your budget
• The exchange rate can change every month

Tip: Rent under your ideal budget to give yourself breathing room. The peso doesn’t always work in your favor.

Building Standards and Repairs Vary

In some places, building regulations aren’t enforced the same way. You may see:

• Cracked walls or uneven finishes
• Exposed wires or unusual plumbing setups
• Homes that aren’t insulated or sealed the way you’re used to

That doesn’t always mean something is unsafe—it’s just different.

Broken Things Might Not Get Fixed Quickly

In Mexico, people often focus on whether something works, not how it looks. You may see:

• Stores with chipped paint or damaged tiles
• Rental homes where non-urgent repairs take time
• Landlords with a different sense of urgency

It’s a cultural difference, not a lack of care.

Shopping and Brands Are Different

Don’t expect to find your favorite brands easily—especially in smaller towns. Be prepared for:

• Fewer choices in bedding, kitchenware, or electronics
• Higher prices for imported goods (sometimes 3–5x more)
• Local brands that are just as good once you get used to them

Power, Water, and Internet Outages

Yes, even in large cities. It’s part of life. A strong storm can knock out power or internet for hours. In some neighborhoods, water shortages are common. This is why location—and your specific neighborhood—matters a lot.

Healthcare in Mexico: Great, But Plan Ahead

Mexico has excellent private hospitals, especially in bigger cities like Guadalajara, Merida, and Mexico City. Wait times are much better than in Canada, and costs are far lower than in the U.S. But if you need specialized care and live in a smaller town, you may need to travel to get it.

Things to consider:

• Big cities offer better hospitals and specialists
• Private insurance is highly recommended
• Being sick far from family can be emotionally hard
• Language barriers can make medical visits stressful

Tip: Ask expats in your chosen area about their experiences with doctors, clinics, and hospitals.

Homesickness Is Real—and Can Be Tough

When you first move, everything is exciting. But after the honeymoon phase wears off, you might start missing family, friends, and familiar routines.

One woman told us, “When I saw photos of my grandkids at Christmas without me, it really hit me. I wasn’t ready for how homesick I’d feel.”

How to manage homesickness:

• Make regular video calls a part of your routine
• Try to visit home once or twice a year if possible
• Invite family to come visit you in Mexico
• Get involved in your community—volunteering helps
• Join local groups, clubs, or charities

Tip: Even if your Spanish isn’t perfect, greeting neighbors and chatting with locals can go a long way toward building connections.

Cultural Differences Can Be Challenging

Mexican culture is warm, friendly, and rich in tradition. But it’s also very different from what you may be used to in the U.S. or Canada. Here’s what often surprises newcomers:

• Life moves at a slower pace (“mañana culture”)
• Appointments and repairs don’t always happen on time
• People often say “yes” to be polite—even if they can’t follow through
• Social greetings and small talk are very important
• Bureaucracy can involve multiple visits, unclear steps, and lots of patience!

Janet from Florida shared, “I used to get so frustrated when things didn’t happen on time. Now I’ve learned to just go with the flow. It’s actually helped me slow down.”

That’s why we created our COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide. It saves our customers hours of research, and helps you avoid surprises along the way. Plus, you get instant access to our directory of vetted contacts across Mexico that can help you save time and headaches!

Tip: Come with an open mind. Let go of the idea that everything should work the way it does back home. The more flexible you are, the easier it’ll be to adjust.

Noise, Pets, and Everyday Life

Mexico is full of life—and sometimes, that means it’s noisy. Fireworks, barking dogs, roosters, church bells, and late-night parties are normal in many places.

Also, attitudes toward animals can be different. While many Mexicans love their pets, you might still see dogs tied up on rooftops or left outside without much attention. It’s a cultural shift that’s slowly changing, but it can be tough for animal lovers to witness.

Tip: Spend time in your chosen neighborhood—especially at night—before committing to a rental. A week-long stay during a scouting trip can reveal a lot.

The Legal System Works Differently

Mexico isn’t as dangerous as the news often makes it sound, but yes—crime happens. What’s more surprising is how the legal system handles it. You may not get the resolution you’d expect.

What to remember:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Secure your belongings (especially phones and wallets)
• Don’t expect the legal process to be quick or familiar
• Insurance is essential—know what’s covered

Tip: If you’re in a car accident, do not move your vehicle. Wait for the police and your insurance agent to arrive. The person who moves their vehicle assumes the fault.

Working in Mexico Isn’t Easy for Everyone

If you’re retired or working remotely, great. But if you plan to find work locally, it can be tough. Many businesses prefer to hire family and friends—what we call the “Primo Effect.”

One expat, a professional videographer, told us he tried reaching out to wedding venues but never got a reply. “It wasn’t about my pricing or my work—it’s just that I wasn’t someone’s cousin,” he said with a laugh. Now he works only with other expats and tourists.

Here’s what to expect:

• You’ll need a valid work visa
• Local jobs may pay much less than you’re used to
• It’s hard to break into local networks as a foreigner
• Remote or freelance work gives you more flexibility

Tip: If you’re not retired, ask yourself: Can I bring my work with me? If not, how will I earn income?

Why a Relocation Tour Is So Important

A scouting trip or relocation tour gives you the chance to “test drive” life in Mexico. You can learn:

• What the weather is like at its worst
• How noisy or quiet your chosen neighborhood is
• What it’s like to shop, cook, drive, and get around
• Whether the internet and cell service meet your needs
• How your pets react to the environment

If you like a place during its toughest season, you’ll probably love it the rest of the year.

Final Thoughts: It’s Okay If It’s Not For You

Mexico isn’t the U.S. or Canada—and it’s not trying to be.

That’s part of its charm. But it also means adjusting your expectations. The people who thrive here are the ones who stay curious, stay flexible, and keep a good sense of humor.

If you’re ready to roll with the punches, Mexico can offer a beautiful, affordable, and deeply fulfilling life. But if you realize it’s not for you, that’s okay too. The important thing is making the right decision for you.

Need Help Planning Your Move?

That’s what the Mexico Relocation Guide is here for. We’ll help you plan your scouting trip, avoid common mistakes, and connect you with trusted experts across the country.

You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. It’s not about moving perfectly—it’s about moving the right way.