Where Is The Cheapest And Safest Place To Live In Mexico
Where Is The Cheapest And Safest Place To Live In Mexico
Merida (Yucatán): Recognized as one of the safest places to live in Mexico, Merida is the capital of the Yucatán state. This colonial city is known for its beautiful architecture, friendly residents, and low crime rates. Additionally, Merida has a relatively low cost of living, making it a desirable choice for expats and locals alike.
Tulum: This beach town in Quintana Roo, Mexico, offers affordable living, natural beauty, and safety. Although not as cheap as some other places, Tulum still provides excellent value for those seeking an affordable seaside lifestyle. Its safety is comparable to other cities within the Yucatán Peninsula, providing residents with a comfortable atmosphere.
Oaxaca: Another low-cost city in Mexico, Oaxaca is well-known for its rich culture, historical architecture, and vibrant art scene. While not considered a beach town, Oaxaca’s picturesque mountains and valleys provide the perfect setting for a peaceful and affordable lifestyle. Its cost of living is lower than that of many beach towns, and its safety is also commendable.
Cities in Yucatán outside the tourism circuits: Many smaller cities in the Yucatán Peninsula, far from the bustling tourist spots, offer a great combination of affordability and safety. Since they’re not overrun by tourists, prices remain low, and the crime rates in these areas are often lower as well.
Here is a table comparing these four locations in terms of cost of living and safety:
| City/Region | Cost of Living | Safety |
|---|---|---|
| Merida | Low | High |
| Tulum | Moderate | High |
| Oaxaca | Low | High |
| Yucatán (non-tourist cities) | Low | High |
By considering these options, you can make an informed decision about the cheapest and safest place to live in Mexico that best suits your lifestyle and preferences.
Merida (Yucatán)
Overview of the city: Merida, the fascinating capital city of Yucatán, is known for its rich history, colonial architecture, and vibrant culture. It is located near the northern coast of Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, about 22 miles south of the Gulf of Mexico1.
Things to Do in the city: In Merida, you can explore the historic Centro, visit the city’s impressive cathedral and beautiful plazas, or learn about its past at the Museum of Anthropology. Additionally, you can take a stroll along Paseo de Montejo, lined with stunning mansions and local shops.
Tours and Day Tours: Merida is an excellent base for exploring the surrounding region, with various tours available to visit nearby attractions like Uxmal, Chichén Itzá, and the Celestun Biosphere Reserve.
Best hotels with lots of amenities: Some of the top hotels in Merida include the Hyatt Regency Merida, Fiesta Americana Merida, and Hotel Hacienda Merida.
Alternative towns, cities, and places nearby and tours they offer: Close to Merida, you can find the charming town of Valladolid or the port city of Progreso. Both offer interesting experiences, such as visiting Mayan ruins, cenotes, and beautiful beaches.
Flights available from the United States and nearest airports in the city: Merida has an international airport (MID), with direct flights available from several US cities, including Miami, Houston, and Dallas.
Transportation: To explore Merida and its surroundings, you can choose between hiring a private car with a driver, renting a car, or using private shuttles.
Events, Concerts, and Festivals: Merida hosts numerous cultural events throughout the year, such as the Mérida Fest in January, celebrating the city’s anniversary, and the Yucatán International Film Festival in November.
Safety Tips: Merida is considered one of the safest cities in Mexico. However, it’s essential to follow standard safety precautions, like not flashing valuables and being aware of your surroundings.
| Topic | Details |
|---|---|
| Overview of the city | Capital city of Yucatán, rich history, colonial architecture, vibrant culture |
| Things to Do | Historic Centro, cathedral, Paseo de Montejo, Museum of Anthropology |
| Tours and Day Tours | Uxmal, Chichén Itzá, Celestun Biosphere Reserve |
| Best hotels | Hyatt Regency Merida, Fiesta Americana Merida, Hotel Hacienda Merida |
| Alternative towns/places nearby | Valladolid, Progreso |
| Flights from United States | Direct flights from Miami, Houston, Dallas to Merida (MID) airport |
| Transportation | Private car with driver, car rental, private shuttles |
| Events, Concerts, Festivals | Mérida Fest, Yucatán International Film Festival |
| Safety Tips | Follow standard safety precautions, Merida is one of the safest cities in Mexico |
Footnotes
Tulum
Tulum is a picturesque coastal town in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, known for its stunning beaches, ancient Mayan ruins, and vibrant local culture. With a wide array of activities and attractions, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a cost-effective and safe place to live in Mexico.
Things to Do in Tulum
Tulum offers a variety of things to do, from exploring ancient ruins to relaxing on pristine beaches. Some popular activities include:
- Visiting the Tulum Ruins
- Swimming in cenotes
- Exploring the Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve
- Relaxing on the white sand beaches
- Indulging in local cuisine
Tours and Day Tours
Several tour operators offer guided tours of the area, including day trips to:
- Chichen Itza
- Coba
- Muyil Ruins
- Snorkeling and diving tours to the Great Maya Reef
Best Hotels with Lots of Amenities
Tulum is home to many great hotels that offer a range of amenities. Some of the top options include:
- Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa
- Aldea Tulum
- Papaya Playa Project
- Zamas Hotel
- Villa Pescadores
| Hotel | Amenities |
|---|---|
| Dreams Tulum Resort & Spa | Spa, Pool, Restaurants, Beach Access |
| Aldea Tulum | Pool, Yoga Studio, Garden Areas |
| Papaya Playa Project | Beach Club, Restaurants, Workshops, Cultural Events |
| Zamas Hotel | Restaurant, Beach Access, Bike Rental, Yoga |
| Villa Pescadores | Beachfront Rooms, Restaurant, Eco-friendly |
Alternative Towns, Cities, and Nearby Places
Tulum is conveniently located near several other popular destinations in Mexico, including:
- Playa del Carmen
- Cancun
- Bacalar
- Chetumal
- Valladolid
Flights and Airports
The nearest airport to Tulum is Cancun International Airport (CUN), located 130 kilometers away. Several major airlines operate direct flights from the United States to Cancun, including American Airlines, Delta, and United Airlines.
Transportation Options
Once in Tulum, there are various transportation options to choose from:
- Private cars with drivers
- Car rentals
- Private shuttles
- Taxis
- Bikes for rent
Events, Concerts, and Festivals
Throughout the year, Tulum hosts numerous events, concerts, and festivals that celebrate the local culture, such as:
- Tulum Food, Spirits & Wine Festival
- Tulum Art Festival
- Earth Dance Tulum
- Mayan New Year Celebrations
Safety Tips
Tulum is generally considered a safe destination for expats and tourists. However, you should still take precautions to ensure your safety. Some tips include:
- Be aware of your surroundings
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Don’t flash valuables or leave them unattended
- Use reputable transportation services
In conclusion, Tulum offers a diverse range of experiences for expats seeking a budget-friendly and safe place to live in Mexico. From historical sites to luxurious amenities, Tulum is an excellent choice for your Mexican adventure.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca is a vibrant and culturally rich city known for its colonial architecture, lively markets, and world-renowned cuisine. The blend of indigenous and Spanish influences makes it an attractive destination for those looking to live in Mexico.
While living in Oaxaca, you will have plenty of things to do, including exploring the city’s historic sites, markets, and museums. Additionally, there are various tours and day tours available for you to experience the surrounding natural beauty and cultural highlights.
When it comes to accommodations, Oaxaca offers a range of best hotels packed with numerous amenities, suitable for both short-term visitors and expats looking to settle down. It is crucial to choose your neighborhood wisely as each area has its distinct characteristics.
There are several alternative towns, cities, and places nearby, such as the beautiful beaches of Puerto Escondido or the mountain town of San José del Pacífico. Each destination offers its unique tours and experiences that you can explore during your stay in Oaxaca.
Flights to Oaxaca are available from the United States, with connections often made through Mexico City. The nearest airports in the city are Oaxaca International Airport (OAX) and Mexico City International Airport (MEX).
For your transportation needs within the city, there are options for private cars with drivers, car rentals, and private shuttles. Taxis and ridesharing services are also available for getting around town conveniently.
Oaxaca hosts various events, concerts, and festivals throughout the year, celebrating its rich cultural heritage and traditions. Some notable events include the Guelaguetza Festival and the Day of the Dead celebrations.
As for safety, it is important to follow general safety tips such as avoiding walking alone at night and being cautious with your belongings. While Oaxaca is often considered safe, it is advised always to stay vigilant and informed during your time in the city.
| Topics | Details |
|---|---|
| Overview of the city | Vibrant, culturally rich, colonial architecture, lively markets |
| Things to do | Historic sites, markets, museums |
| Tours and Day Tours | City tours, nature trips, cultural experiences |
| Best hotels | Wide-range of accommodations, various amenities |
| Alternative towns and cities | Puerto Escondido, San José del Pacífico |
| Flights | Connected through Mexico City, OAX and MEX airports |
| Transportation options | Private cars, car rentals, shuttles, taxis |
| Events, concerts, and festivals | Guelaguetza Festival, Day of the Dead |
| Safety tips | Stay vigilant, avoid walking alone at night, secure belongings |
Safest Place in Mexico to Vacation with Family
When planning a family vacation to Mexico, safety is a top priority. In this section, we will discuss some of the safest destinations to consider for your next trip. From beautiful beaches to charming colonial towns, these locations offer fun and memorable experiences for everyone.
Puerto Vallarta is a picturesque coastal city renowned for its marine life, bustling nightlife, and pristine beaches. Known as one of the safest destinations in Mexico, Puerto Vallarta is particularly family-friendly and welcoming for same-sex couples as well.
Los Cabos is another family-friendly destination with stunning beaches, excellent resorts, and various activities for all ages. The area’s low crime rates make it a great option for a safe and enjoyable family vacation.
Heading to the Yucatan Peninsula, Cancun is a popular choice for families. Its beautiful beaches, entertaining water parks, and array of cultural activities make it an exciting and safe option to explore.
Merida, the capital of Yucatan state, is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in Mexico. This charming city boasts rich cultural heritage, lovely parks, and family-oriented attractions.
Oaxaca and Puebla are both historically-rich cities in southern Mexico, offering vibrant cultural experiences in a safe environment. Known for their stunning architecture, colorful markets, and delicious cuisine, these destinations are perfect for families looking to immerse themselves in Mexican culture.
San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with cobblestone streets and well-preserved colonial architecture. Its safety and popularity with expats make it an ideal choice for a family vacation.
Campeche, located on the Yucatan Peninsula, is a beautifully preserved colonial city with a reputation for being one of the safest cities in Mexico. Its historic center, vibrant local culture, and incredible views make it a must-visit location.
Lastly, Huatulco is a beach town situated on the Pacific coast of Oaxaca state. Its calm, secluded bays provide the perfect atmosphere for family vacations, while its commitment to sustainable tourism ensures a safe and eco-friendly experience.
Below is a table summarizing the destinations and their key features:
| Destination | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Puerto Vallarta | Marine life, beaches, family-friendly |
| Los Cabos | Beaches, resorts, low crime rates |
| Cancun | Beaches, water parks, cultural activities |
| Merida | Cultural heritage, parks, safety |
| Oaxaca | Architecture, markets, cuisine |
| Puebla | Historic sites, colorful streets, cuisine |
| San Miguel de Allende | UNESCO site, cobblestone streets, expat community |
| Campeche | Colonial city, historic center, safety |
| Huatulco | Secluded bays, calm beaches, eco-friendly tourism |
These cities offer diverse family vacation experiences while prioritizing safety. Choose the destination that aligns with your family’s interests and enjoy a memorable vacation in Mexico.
Chеаpеѕt Plасеѕ to Lіvе іn Mеxісо fоr Expats
Mexico has a diverse range of affordable places that expats can call home. Here are some of the cheapest locations to consider, whether you’re looking for a beachside paradise or a cultural hub:
- Puerto Vallarta: Known for its stunning beaches and vibrant nightlife, Puerto Vallarta has become a popular expat destination. The cost of living is considerably lower than in the United States or Europe, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious expats.
- Mazatlán: The Pearl of the Pacific, boasts beautiful beaches, historic sites, and delicious seafood. With an affordable cost of living, Mazatlán is another fantastic choice for expats looking to enjoy beachfront living.
- Puebla and Aguascalientes: These two cities offer lower costs of living, with rental rates around $900 and $850, respectively. Both locations are rich in history and culture, with Puebla being famous for its colorful architecture and Aguascalientes known for its hot springs.
- Guanajuato: Nestled in the mountains, this picturesque city is famous for its cobblestone streets and historic landmarks. Prices here tend to be lower than in other parts of Mexico, making it perfect for expats seeking a mix of culture and affordability.
- Merida: A charming and affordable colonial city, Merida is known for its safety and friendly locals. With a lower cost of living compared to other popular destinations in Mexico, it’s a great choice for budget-minded expats.
- Playa del Carmen, Cancún, and San Miguel de Allende: While these locations tend to be more expensive compared to the previous mentioned, they still offer a good value for expats looking for a combination of beach life and cultural experiences.
Below is a table summarizing the rent prices for the mentioned cities:
| City | Average Rent (in USD) |
|---|---|
| Puerto Vallarta | 700 |
| Mazatlán | 600 |
| Puebla | 900 |
| Aguascalientes | 850 |
| Guanajuato | 650 |
| Mérida | 700 |
| Playa del Carmen | 1000 |
| Cancún | 1100 |
| San Miguel de Allende | 1200 |
Keep in mind, when choosing a place to live in Mexico, it’s important to evaluate not only the cost of living but also the safety and quality of life that each location offers. By considering these factors, you’ll be well on your way to finding your ideal home in Mexico.
Cheapest Place To Live In Mexico On The Beach
If you’re looking for affordable beachfront living in Mexico, there are several options that offer a low cost of living without compromising safety and quality of life.
Puerto Escondido is known for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches, particularly for surfers. The cost of living is low, offering a range of affordable housing options. Proximity to the beach and a safe, friendly atmosphere make it an excellent choice for expats seeking a relaxing lifestyle. Learn more about Puerto Escondido.
Progreso is a charming coastal town in the Yucatan Peninsula, boasting a low cost of living and a friendly, welcoming community. Its close proximity to the city of Merida provides access to modern amenities and healthcare services while retaining its tranquil allure. Discover more about Progreso.
In the Caribbean, Mahahual offers tropical ambiance, white sand beaches, and turquoise waters, making it an ideal destination for beach lovers on a budget. Explore Mahahual’s attractions.
La Paz provides a more laid-back atmosphere than other popular Baja California Sur destinations. This tranquil city is known for its safe environment, exceptional outdoor activities, and budget-friendly living options. Find out more about La Paz.
Another popular beach destination is Playa del Carmen. While it may be a little more expensive than other locations on this list, it still offers great value for money with its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and a range of amenities. Get to know Playa del Carmen.
Lastly, consider Loreto for a peaceful and picturesque beach town on the Baja California peninsula. Featuring warm ocean waters, pleasant weather, and a variety of outdoor activities, Loreto also offers an affordable cost of living. Learn more about Loreto.
| Location | Highlights | Cost of Living | Safety |
|---|---|---|---|
| Puerto Escondido | Laid-back vibe, surf-friendly beaches | Low | Safe |
| Progreso | Charming coastal town, proximity to Merida | Low | Safe |
| Mahahual | Tropical ambiance, white sand beaches, turquoise waters | Low | Safe |
| La Paz | Tranquil atmosphere, outdoor activities | Budget-friendly | Safe |
| Playa del Carmen | Vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, range of amenities | Moderate | Safe |
| Loreto | Picturesque beach town, warm ocean waters, outdoor activities | Affordable | Safe |
These options all provide affordable beachfront living with varying costs of living, surrounding attractions, and safety levels. Your choice will depend on your preferences anddesired lifestyle.
Safest Cities In Mexico
When considering a move to Mexico, safety is a top priority. You’ll be pleased to know that there are several cities that offer a secure environment, along with the charm of Mexican culture. In this section, we’ll discuss some of the safest cities to live.
Merida (Yucatán) is a historic city in the Yucatán Peninsula, known for its beautiful architecture and friendly people. It boasts low crime rates and is often referred to as the safest city in Mexico1.
San Miguel de Allende is a picturesque, colonial town nestled in the central highlands of Mexico. This UNESCO World Heritage site2 has attracted expats from around the globe due to its safety, beauty, and vibrant art scene.
Cancun is a popular tourist destination on the Caribbean coast, known for its stunning white-sand beaches. Despite the large influx of visitors, Cancun remains a safe place to live, particularly in the less-touristy neighborhoods3.
Tulum is a laid-back beach town on the Caribbean coast, beloved for its beautiful beaches, Mayan ruins, and bohemian vibe. This growing community offers the tranquility and safety many expats seek4.
Puerto Vallarta, situated on the Pacific coast, is another popular tourism hub with a reputation for safety5. With its cobblestone streets, thriving art scene, and mesmerizing sunsets, this city is often ranked among the best places to live in Mexico.
Mexico City, the country’s capital, might surprise you with its safety. While some areas should be avoided, districts like Polanco, Condesa, and Roma are known to be secure and welcoming, offering a rich cultural scene.
Puebla is a lesser-known gem that offers plenty of safety and affordability to its residents. This colonial city, known for its mouthwatering cuisine and stunning architecture, is a great choice if you’re looking for an authentic and secure Mexican living experience6.
Playa del Carmen is part of the famous Riviera Maya and is a well-established expat haven. With an emphasis on community building, this coastal city is both safe and vibrant7.
| City | Safety | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Merida (Yucatan) | High | Low crime rates, friendly people |
| San Miguel de Allende | High | UNESCO World Heritage site, vibrant art scene |
| Cancun | Moderate | Popular tourist destination, beautiful beaches |
| Tulum | High | Stunning beaches, Mayan ruins |
| Puerto Vallarta | High | Thriving art scene, mesmerizing sunsets |
| Mexico City | Moderate | Capital city, rich cultural scene |
| Puebla | High | Authentic Mexican living experience |
| Playa del Carmen | High | Established expat haven, beautiful beaches |
As you explore your options, keep in mind that personal safety relies heavily on practicing common-sense precautions. By choosing one of these secure cities and taking appropriate safety measures, you can enjoy a peaceful and thriving life in Mexico.
Footnotes
- https://internationalcitizens.com/living-abroad/safest-places/mexico.php ↩
- https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/1274/ ↩
- https://allmexico365.com/blog/how-to-find-safest-neighborhoods-in-cancun ↩
- https://traveloffpath.com/is-tulum-safe-for-travelers-2023-edition/ ↩
- https://myfunkytravel.com/cheapest-cities-to-live-in-mexico.html ↩
- https://www.kcpinternational.com/2023/07/the-5-safest-cities-in-mexico/ ↩
- https://newmiddleclassdad.com/safest-places-to-live-in-mexico/ ↩
Travel To Mexico
As a single woman, I was worried about finding the safest cities in Mexico, the safest place in Mexico to vacation with family, the safest places in Baja California as a tourist, and the safest place, also, in Baja California to live permanently. Baja California is generally safe; it is safer than the rest of Mexico, and the even safer Baja California Sur, which is the safest of Mexico after the Yucatan penisula. This means asking ourselves if Todos Santos is safe or if Rosarito is safe. Also, to come with the family, you have to know the safest all-inclusive resorts in Mexico and the safest all-inclusive resorts in Mexico adults-only.
I have compared and analyzed which is the cheapest and safest place to live in Mexico, meaning to live permanently as a resident, and if you follow my Merida blogs, you know I always recommend the states of Yucatan, Campeche, and maybe Quintana Roo.
Furthermore, I have selected the safest resorts in Mexico within safe cities that offer a semi-closed environment, access control, and safe surrounding areas.
I had the opportunity to eat at some of the best local Yucatan food restaurants, where they have the original Mayan food with ancient Mayan drinks and spices and some fusion dishes representing the new Mexican food.
I have my own list of the best places to visit in Mexico.
I have listed the best mexican holidays and traditions.
Travel To Merida
I am living in Mexico, in Mérida, located in the heart of Yucatan, and I have been to many cities, mostly this safe city of Mérida Yucatán, Merida is a city with a lot of things to do, a city worth visiting, especially all the things to do in Merida at night, what cheap and fun things to do in the centro (downtown) for those lazy days. A whole different story is living in Merida, which is my personal case.
I describe my visit to the Mayan World Museum of Merida, top of my list of the best museums in Merida, and the free walking tour, for which you can only pay a small tip to the guys who organize it. They are super nice. Also, I have listed my favorite and best restaurants in Merida, Mexico which are not the most expensive ones at all. I will show you taquerías that are way better and cheaper than the upscale Kuuk!
Apart from the typical things to do in Merida, within the city, you have a plethora of day trips from Merida, Mexico. The most famous are the numerous Merida to Chichen Itza tours, day trips to Yucatan pyramids, and Mayan ruins in Yucatan, a peninsula encompassing several states. However, there are enough Mayan ruins near Merida, so you do not need to travel to Quintana Roo to visit them. But it is not only ruins, as there are Yucatan tours that include day trips to the cenotes in Merida, the most Instagrammable places in Mexico.
Regarding accommodations, I listed my best hotels in Merida in terms of price and amenities. I know a couple of haciendas in Mérida, and if you prefer downtown instead, maybe you could enjoy any of the boutique luxury hotels in Merida Mexico.
Traveling inside Yucatan is relatively easy. Renting a car in Merida is almost always the best option. I will explain to you how to easily complete the itineraries: Merida to Cancun and back to Cancun to Merida, also, Merida to Holbox and returning back from Holbox with the ferry to Merida.
The city does not have a beach or a port, but I will show you the best Merida beaches that are very near the city, like Progreso. You should visit at least one of the pueblos mágicos in Yucatan through a tour, such as the famous yellow town.
Honeymoon Destinations
I have a list of honeymoon destinations along with my curated, shorter list of the best honeymoon destinations. In these couple of years, I put together a list with honeymoon ideas consisting mostly of hotels and all-inclusive resorts, so it is a similar list.
Apart from the duration and the resort packages, the vacation ideas for couples are very similar, and for us, there is a list of curated destinations too.