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, I’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 get into why people leave, let’s acknowledge why so many stay.

People come to Mexico because they want more sunshine, more freedom, and more peace in their life. They want a chance to actually enjoy their retirement or their remote work lifestyle. They want healthcare that doesn’t leave them stressed. They want food that’s fresh and full of flavor. They want a slower pace of life that lets them breathe again.

One of my readers told me recently, “I feel like I got my life back. Back home I was working just to stay afloat. Here, I can actually live.”

Another couple from Washington shared, “We never expected to feel this at home so quickly. The people are kind, the food is amazing, and we spend half of what we used to.”

These stories are real. They’re the reason thousands of people are choosing Mexico every single year. But even with all this beauty, there are challenges, and I want you to know about them.

---

Cost of Living Isn’t Always What You Expect

Yes, Mexico can be cheaper, but that depends on your location and lifestyle. Cities like Mexico City, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende are seeing prices for housing increase. Not everywhere, but 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 in Mexico
• Eating out regularly adds up- especially in mid to high end restaurants
• Emergency costs can throw off your budget
• The exchange rate can change every month

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

Homes Aren’t Built the Same Way You’re Used To

Building standards in Mexico vary widely. If you rent a home in a local neighborhood, you might notice uneven finishes, cracked walls, or plumbing that’s done differently from what you’re used to. Windows may not seal as tightly, and air conditioning isn’t always standard in every home, even in warmer towns.

This doesn’t mean the home is unsafe.

It just means construction practices here focus on different priorities. And when something breaks, don’t assume it’ll be fixed immediately. Landlords often handle urgent items quickly but take their time on less urgent repairs.

One of our subscribers once told me, “I used to think my landlord was ignoring me. Later I realized he just didn’t view my loose cabinet handle or broken door to the bedroom as a real issue.” Once you adjust to these differences, the transition becomes much easier.

Broken Things Might Not Get Fixed Quickly

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

• Smaller stores with chipped paint or damaged tiles
• Rental homes where non-urgent repairs aren’t done
• Landlords with a different sense of urgency- or waiting until they get their next tenant to fix things.

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

Shopping Is a Different Experience

You’ll notice quickly that shopping in Mexico feels different. You may not find the exact brands you rely on back home, especially in smaller cities. Certain kitchen items, bedding, or electronics might be harder to find or much more expensive if they’re imported. But many people discover that local brands work just fine once they give them a chance.

A woman from our Merida relocation tour told me, “I panicked at first when I couldn’t find the exact shampoo I use in the U.S because I have a very sensitive scalp. But then I realized, calm down…this is part of adjusting. And honestly, now I prefer some of the local brands recommended to me by my amazing hairdresser.”

Power, Water, and Internet Outages Are Part of Life

YES-Even in large cities, outages happen. A strong rainstorm can knock out internet or electricity for a few hours. Water shortages can affect certain neighborhoods for a day or two. This is why choosing the right neighborhood matters just as much as choosing the right city.

I’ve seen people choose a beautiful rental without checking the basics, like water pressure, power stability, or fiber internet availability; only to regret it later. A scouting trip helps you avoid these surprises.

At the very least you should know “What questions to ask before renting in Mexico“

Healthcare in Mexico: Great, But Plan Ahead

Mexico’s private healthcare system is one of the country’s biggest advantages.

You’ll see specialists faster. You’ll pay far less for procedures. And the quality of care, especially in larger cities, is exceptional. I often tell people, “You can walk into a specialist’s office here without waiting three months to be seen.”

But you should know that healthcare access varies. Smaller towns may not have cardiologists, neurologists, or oncology specialists. You may need to travel for certain treatments. And if you’re managing a chronic condition, the distance from family can feel emotionally heavy.

One of our clients in Queretaro said, “I love the hospitals here and my doctor is amazing.”

But knowledge is power! So, I also suggest you know what your healthcare options are in Mexico– because there is the free system, the social security system, and the private system

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.”

Homesickness doesn’t mean you made a mistake. It’s a natural part of moving far from your community and being out of your comfort zone. It means you’re human and it happens to EVERYONE. Regular video calls, visits home, or inviting family to visit you can make a big difference. And embracing local friendships will help you settle faster than anything else.

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. Saying NO can be considered rude in some cases.
• Social greetings and small talk are very important.. we don’t get right to the point.
• 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.”

In many ways, this is 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. It’s very hard for me to see, but I also know that many homes are starting to change this cultural “norm”.

Tip: Spend time in your chosen neighborhood, especially at night, before committing to a long term rental. A week-long stay during a relocation tour can reveal a lot about the city you plan to make your long term home!

The Legal System Works Differently

This one will test your patience… because the legal process in Mexico doesn’t operate the same way as in the U.S. or Canada.

Now, I also want to clarify that crime happens everywhere, including here. But what surprises many newcomers is how the legal system handles it. Cases can take time. Processes may feel unfamiliar.

This is why I always remind people to stay aware of their surroundings, keep their belongings secure, and understand how their insurance works.

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. And whatever you do, DO NOT sign anything that looks like you’re accepting responsibility- especially if you don’t understand what you are signing. If someone suggests a “quick deal” (for example: “we’ll take you to a top hospital if you sign this”), treat it with caution.

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 permit- with a temporary or permanent Mexican residency
• You will need to be registered with SAT and have an RFC
• 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 an income?

Why a Relocation Tour Can Save You Time, Money, and Stress

A relocation tour lets you test-drive daily life in Mexico before making a big decision. You get to see a city at its best and worst.

How it feels during the hottest month, the rainiest week, or the busiest weekend. You’ll learn how the grocery stores compare, whether the internet is fast enough for your work, what you think about the overall vibe, can you handle the altitude if you’re moving to a mountain town, and what neighborhoods match your lifestyle.

I tell people constantly, “If you like a place during its toughest season, you’ll probably love it the rest of the year.” Our private relocation tours are designed to show you exactly that.

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.

And if you need help making the move the right way, that’s why I created the COMPLETE Mexico Relocation Guide. We walk you through the ins and outs of moving to Mexico legally, avoid common mistakes, and connect you with trusted experts across the country- including our amazing private relocation tour guides.

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.