The 9 Safest Places to Live in Mexico

In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the safest places to live in Mexico from a personal finance perspective. We will discuss why these areas are great places to call home, as well as some of the pros and cons of living in each one. So if you're thinking about making the move to Mexico, be sure to read on for more information!

Safety Concerns about Living In Mexico

The first thing that many people think about when they hear "Mexico" is safety. And while it's true that there are some areas of the country that are more dangerous than others, overall, Mexico is a very safe place to live. In fact, many of the safest places to live in Mexico are also popular tourist areas!

Although it is relatively safe, some concerns should be addressed when thinking about living in Mexico. The first is a crime. While the overall crime rate in Mexico is low, some areas have higher rates of violence and theft. It's important to do your research and know what the crime rate is like in the area you'll be living in.

Car break-ins: Car break-ins are also common in Mexico. Be sure to park in well-lit areas and don't leave any valuables visible in your car.

Robberies: Robberies do happen, but they are not as common as other crimes. If you are going to be living in Mexico, it's important to have a good security system in place.

Theft from homes: Home burglaries are relatively rare, but they do happen. Be sure to have a good security system in place, and don't leave any valuables out in the open.

Assaults: Assaults are not common, but they can happen. Be aware of your surroundings and don't put yourself in situations where you could be a target.

Petty theft: Petty theft, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, is common in Mexico. To avoid petty crime, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and keep your valuables safe.

Corruption: The second concern is corruption. Unfortunately, corruption is a problem in Mexico. This means that it can be difficult to get things done and that the rule of law is not always followed. However, this is not necessarily a reason to avoid living in Mexico. There are many areas of the country where corruption is not a major issue.

Drug cartels: The third concern is the drug trade. While drugs are a problem in Mexico, they are not as prevalent as some people think. In fact, most of the drug-related violence takes place in areas that are far away from the major cities where most ex-pats live.

Mexican Cities with High Crime Rates:

• Tijuana
• Juarez
• Ciudad Victoria
• Torreon
• Chihuahua City

While there are plenty of safe places to live in Mexico, some areas have high crime rates. If you are considering living in one of these cities, it's important to do your research and be aware of the risks.

Natural Disasters: On top of crime, there is also the safety concern of natural disasters. Mexico is located in an area that is prone to earthquakes and hurricanes. While these disasters are not common, they can happen, and it's important to be prepared.

Diseases: Health problems such as Dengue fever, West Nile virus, Chagas, and Zika virus are also a concern in Mexico. These diseases are spread by mosquitoes, so it's important to take precautions to avoid them. Some things you can do to protect yourself from these diseases include wearing long sleeves and pants, using mosquito repellent, and staying in well-ventilated areas.

Financial Dangers: Finally, the personal finance danger of not being able to find a job. If you are not employed, it can be difficult to make ends meet. Make sure you have a solid plan in place before making the move to Mexico. If you are one of many digital nomads exploring moving to Mexico, be sure to have a steady stream of income before making the move.

The Mexican economy is growing, and there are many opportunities for ex-pats to find work. However, it's important to be aware of the risks before making the move. Some of the most in-demand jobs in Mexico are in the following industries:

• Technology
• Manufacturing
• Tourism
• Health care

Inflation: Another economic concern is inflation. Inflation has been a problem in Mexico in recent years, and it's something to be aware of if you are living on a fixed income. Inflation is when the prices of goods and services increase, and it can erode the value of your savings. To protect yourself from inflation, it's important to invest in assets that will appreciate in value.

As you can see, there are many factors to consider when deciding if Mexico is the right place for you. If you are considering moving to Mexico, be sure to do your research and be aware of the risks.

However, don't let these safety concerns deter you from living in this beautiful country. There are many safe and wonderful places to live in Mexico. With a little planning and research, you can find the perfect place for you.

Common Sense Safety and Financial Tips

When traveling to Mexico, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Don't flash large amounts of cash or expensive jewelry in public.
• Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas.
• Keep track of your belongings, and don't leave them unguarded in public areas.
• Be cautious when accepting rides from strangers.
• Research the area you'll be visiting before you go, and familiarize yourself with the local laws and customs.
• It's important to have a solid understanding of the local language before making the move, as English is not widely spoken throughout the country.

If you're planning on living in Mexico, there are a few additional things to keep in mind from a financial perspective:

Housing Costs: The cost of living in Mexico can be very reasonable, especially if you live outside of the major cities. Staying at resorts can be expensive, but there are plenty of affordable apartments and homes available for rent. When it comes to owning your own property, it's important to do your research and work with a reputable real estate agent. There are many scams associated with buying property in Mexico, so it's important to be careful and know what you're doing.

Utilities: Electricity, water, and gas can be expensive in Mexico, so it's important to budget for these costs. This is because the country's infrastructure is not as developed as other places in the world. Many homes are not connected to a utility provider for gas so you will also need to occasionally change out the gas tank in your home for one that is full. Depending on how often you use gas, this could be every month or every quarter. For many visitors from the US, tap water isn't suitable to drink in Mexico so be prepared to purchase bottled water to drink.

Internet: Internet service can be expensive and unreliable in Mexico, so it's important to research your options before making the move. With solutions like Starlink becoming more and more available in a few years internet shouldn't be a concern. Many ex-pats use GoogleFi as a solution as they have a great plan for traveling (or living) outside the United States.

Healthcare: Healthcare is generally affordable and of good quality in Mexico. However, it's important to have travel insurance in case of any unforeseen medical emergencies. This is true although you still have to be vigilant of the hospitals you use as some of them are not up to the same standards that you would expect back home.

Street Vendors: Street vendors are common in Mexico, and they can be a great source of cheap and delicious food. However, it's important to be aware of the hygiene standards of each vendor before purchasing anything. Watch for how the vendors are preparing and serving food, and remember that a tasty treat isn't worth a night of misery.

Public Transportation: Public transportation is widely available and relatively inexpensive in Mexico. However, it's important to be aware of the safety concerns associated with using public transport and take precautions accordingly. Make sure to know where the bus line is going, and try to avoid traveling after dark. However, as you get to know the area you are living in you'll be surprised how safe it actually is.

Grocery Costs: Grocery costs can be reasonable in Mexico, but it's important to shop around for the best deals. Many supermarkets offer discounts for bulk purchases, so it's worth considering if you'll be doing a lot of cooking at home. There are Walmarts in Mexico just like in the US, so there are stores that you'll be familiar with when you recently move to Mexico. Usually, you can find better deals at Mexican chain stores like Soriana or MEGA.

Income Taxes: Income taxes are relatively low in Mexico, but there are a few things to be aware of. First, foreigners are only taxed on their income from Mexican sources. Second, there are a few deductions and exemptions available, so it's important to talk to a tax advisor before filing your taxes.

How To Have a High Quality of Life In Mexico

Now that we've looked at some of the dangers and financial costs, let's take a look at why Mexico is a great place to live. In fact, many people retire in Mexico because it's such a great place to live.

Weather: One of the best things about living in Mexico is the weather. The climate is tropical, so it's warm all year round. There are also many beach towns to choose from, so you can enjoy the sun and the white beach sand whenever you want.

Exciting Local Culture: Mexico is a very culturally rich country, and there are many things to do and see. From the ancient ruins of the Maya to the colonial architecture of Mexico City, there is something for everyone.

Festivals: If you are more into celebrations and festivals, Mexico is the perfect place for you. With many different fiestas celebrated throughout the year, there is always something to do. For example, the Day of the Dead is a very popular holiday that is celebrated with food, music, and dancing.

The Food: Mexican food is some of the best in the world, and you'll never get tired of it. There are also many regional specialties to try, so you'll always have something new to eat. Some popular cuisines are Mole Poblano, Cochinita Pibil, and Tamales.

The People: The people of Mexico are some of the warmest and most welcoming people you'll ever meet. They are always willing to help, and they will make you feel like part of the family.

Perfect for Nature lovers: Mexico is also home to many beautiful natural attractions. The country has over 30 National Parks, which offer a variety of activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching. One of the most popular national parks is the Sierra Gorda Biosphere Reserve, which is home to a diverse range of plant and animal life.

Wonderful Historical Sites

If you are interested in exploring ancient ruins, Mexico is the perfect place for you. There are many historical sites to visit, such as the ancient city of Chichen Itza or the Maya site of Palenque. The cost of exploring these sites is relatively low, and you can often find discounts if you purchase a tourist pass. These archaeological sites will give you a better understanding of Mexico's rich history.

Architectural Heritage

In addition to the ancient ruins, Mexico also has beautiful colonial architecture. The city of San Miguel de Allende is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial buildings. If you are interested in learning more about Mexico's colonial history, this is the perfect place for you.

The cost of a day trip to one of these historic sites is very reasonable and you can even find tours that include transportation from Mexico City. San Miguel de Allende is not the only place in Mexico with beautiful colonial architecture. Oaxaca city is another UNESCO World Heritage site and is known for its Zapotec ruins.

Oaxaca is also home to Monte Alban, which is the oldest known Zapotec site. This archaeological site is considered to be one of the most important in Mesoamerica.

This rich history is a great low-cost reason to live in Mexico. Not only will you be able to explore ancient ruins, but you can also expand your understanding of Mexico's colonial past.

Mexico’s Pacific Coast

Mexico is also home to many popular tourist destinations, such as Cancun and Puerto Vallarta. These locations are known for their beautiful beaches and resorts. Although the cost of living in these areas is higher than in other parts of Mexico, the crime rate is very low.

If you are looking for a place to retire, Mexico's Pacific Coast is the perfect place for you. With its beautiful white-sand beaches and crystal-clear waters, you'll never get bored. In addition, the resort towns offer a wide variety of activities, such as golfing, fishing, and snorkeling.

The climate on the Pacific Coast is also very pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit. This means you don't have to pay for snow tires, shovels, or other winter gear.

With its stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and friendly people, Mexico is a great place to call home. Whether you're looking for a place to retire or just want to experience a different way of life, Mexico is a perfect choice.

Safest Cities with Low Crime Rates In Mexico

If you are looking for the best places to live in Mexico, here is a list of nine of the safest places to live in Mexico.

Mérida

Frequently Mérida is referred to as the safest city in Mexico and even all of Latin America! Mérida is the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán and is known for its rich Mayan heritage. The focus point for the entire city is the Plaza de la Independencia which is next to the Mérida Cathedral and the Iglesia de la Tercera Orden. Both of these churches were constructed during the Colonial era and were built with relics from ancient Mayan temples.

The food in Mérida comes highly recommended, so make sure to enjoy some tamales when you are there. After picking up some street food don't miss the museums, markets, and the multiple UNESCO archaeological sites.

Playa del Carmen

The city of Playa del Carmen is a coastal town in Mexico. It is located near beautiful cenotes and various Mayan ruins. Tourists flock to Playa del Carmen every year to enjoy its white beaches and sparkling blue waters. Many visitors head to nearby Tulum for snorkeling and caving. Due to the relative safety of Playa del Carmen, you'll notice travelers by themselves or with their families.

The nearby city of Tulum suffers from violence due to drug cartels, however that shouldn't be of concern to the average traveler. The state of Quintana Roo (Mexican state that includes Playa del Carmen and Tulum) is relatively safe and welcomes visitors from around the world. Don't put yourself into situations where you could be in trouble and you won't be finding it. That includes refraining from recreational drugs and being out late at night.

Mexico City

Mexico City is the largest city in all of Mexico boasting over 12 million inhabitants. Like most large cities it has a reputation of violent crime in dangerous neighborhoods. However, if you are in the city center you are much safer, than the dangerous places in the city like the northern or southern neighborhoods after dark. The safest area would be either the Centro, Roma, or Condesa districts. As a safety precaution avoiding the Tepito and Merced districts is recommended, especially if you are wanting to go there after dark. If you have plans to visit the popular La Merced Market, visit during the day and leave anything valuable behind.

Puerto Vallarta

Another safe city in Mexico is Puerto Vallarta. Located on Mexico's Pacific coast, Puerto Vallarta is a popular resort town with stunning beaches and plenty of activities to keep visitors entertained. The city has low crime rates and is considered one of the safest places to live in Mexico.

The cost of living in Puerto Vallarta is lower than in Mazatlan, and the city offers a wide range of job opportunities. You can also find affordable apartments for rent starting at $500 per month.

San Miguel de Allende

Finally, another safe city to live in Mexico is San Miguel de Allende. This historic town is located in the central highlands of Mexico and is known for its colonial architecture and beautiful scenery. The town has low crime rates and is considered a safe place to live. There are over 8,000 British, Canadian, and American ex-pats that call San Miguel de Allende home. It is located only a three-hour bus ride northwest of Mexico City.

For about $600 per month, you can find an apartment to rent in San Miguel de Allende. The town also has plenty of job opportunities because it is a popular tourist destination.

Sayulita

Sayulita is 30 miles northwest of Puerto Vallarta. It is a great spot for surfers and those that truly can be themselves in nature. Because tourism drives the local economy in Sayulita it is safe and friendly. Most locals are extremely welcoming and have a good grasp of the English language.

There is a friendly culture in the small town of Sayulita that ranges from local markets, yoga, surfing, artisans, and more. The weekly Friday Mercado del Pueblo (Town Market) focuses on natural, organic, and local products. The market and streets offer many handmade crafts as well to take home with you. Sayulita is a hub for yoga. There are multiple world-class yoga studios across town, that offer many varieties and styles of yoga.

If you are looking to try out Sayulita for a few days, there are Airbnbs that range from $30 a night to $188 a night. That means you can be able to try out a few different areas of the city on a budget and be able to make a more informed decision of what areas of town you prefer over others.

Huatulco

What beach town is located in Oaxaca that offers numerous water activities and surf spots? Huatulco of course.

Huatulco is a fantastic family-friendly beach vacation destination. Popular opinion states that Huatulco is a safer place than many US cities. An important note is that there is known organized crime between Oaxaca City and Huatulco.

The region of Huatulco provides a blast from the past of the rich heritage of Oaxaca. Almost one in two residents still speaks indigenous languages. The region is not as popular a destination as Cabo San Lucas, Cancún, Puerto Vallarta, or the Riviera Maya, but that's kinda the point isn't it?

Quickly glancing through Airbnb you can find monthly stays ranging from $231 - $1,091 depending on what amenities are areas you are looking for.

Mazatlan

If you're looking for a safe place to live in Mexico, one of the safest cities you can choose is Mazatlan. With a population of over 400,000 people, Mazatlan is a beach town that is a popular tourist destination with beautiful beaches and rich history. The city is a safe place to live and raise a family due to its low crime rates.

The financial benefit of living in Mazatlan is that the cost of living is relatively low. You can find a two-bedroom apartment for rent for as little as $800 per month. The city also has a variety of job opportunities, so you can easily find work to support yourself and your family.

Campeche

The city of Campeche is on the less-visited side of the Yucatan Peninsula. It has beaches to explore, a UNESCO center, as well as fantastic Mexican food. It has fresh-caught seafood, busy nightlife, and fortresses built upon the rolling hills. The museums, historical sights, and ancient ruins make this a hidden gem that is a wonderful place to visit off the beaten path.

Airbnbs in Campeche range from $41 a month to $700 a month and every price in between. That means there are affordable places to stay and for you to begin your journey or new life in Campeche. At the very least you can slow travel and enjoy what this wonderful city has to offer.

So, if you're looking for a safe place to live in Mexico, these nine cities are some of the safest places you can choose. With low crime rates and plenty of things to do, these cities are great places to call home. If you are interested in making the move but are unsure if you can do so financially, here are some of the advantages.

Personal Finance Advantages of Moving To Mexico

If you're looking for a change of scenery and want to move to a popular tourist destination with low crime rates, Mexico is a great choice. Here are some personal finance advantages of moving to Mexico:

• Cost of living. The cost of living is significantly lower than in the United States or Canada. You can easily find affordable housing and utilities. Real-estate inflation is low, so your property value is likely to increase over time. There are many opportunities to earn extra income through freelancing or side hustles. With a little creativity, it's easy to make your money go further in Mexico. You can also become a digital nomad and work from anywhere in the world.
• Location Arbitrage. Mexico does have a high rate of inflation, but if you own assets that generate U.S dollars, such as investments or rental income, your purchasing power will actually increase.
• No estate tax. There is no estate tax in Mexico, so your heirs will be able to inherit your property without having to pay any taxes. This is a major benefit if you own a home or other property in Mexico.
• Easy for retirees. If you're retired, you can live very well on a small budget in Mexico. There are many affordable retirement communities where you can enjoy a high quality of life. There are vibrant ex-pat communities in Puerto Vallarta.
• Excellent healthcare. The healthcare system in Mexico is excellent and much cheaper than in the United States. You can find high-quality medical care at a fraction of the cost.
• Great climate. The climate is warm year-round, which means you can save on heating and cooling costs. And, there's no need to worry about snow shoveling!

Overall, moving to Mexico can be a great financial decision. With a lower cost of living and no estate tax, you can keep more of your hard-earned money. And, there are many opportunities to earn extra income. If you're looking for a change of pace, Mexico is definitely worth considering.

Financial Checklist Before Moving To Mexico

Before you make the move to Mexico, there are a few financial considerations to take into account:

• Make sure you have health insurance. The healthcare system is excellent, but it's still a good idea to have health insurance in case of an emergency.
• Make sure you have enough money saved up to cover your moving expenses and living expenses for at least the first few months.
• Consider setting up a Mexican bank account to make it easier to pay your bills and transfer money.
• If you're moving from the United States, make sure you understand the tax implications. You may be required to file a Mexican tax return.
• Make sure you have all the necessary documents to live and work in Mexico. This includes a visa, if necessary.
• Learn as much as you can about Mexican culture and the Spanish language. This will make it easier to adjust to your new surroundings.

If you're considering a move to Mexico, be sure to do your research and plan ahead. With a little preparation, you can make the transition smoothly and enjoy all that Mexico has to offer.

Pros and Cons of Living in Mexico

To summarize, let's take a look at some of the pros and cons. Make sure to bookmark and review this article before making your decision.

Pros:

• The cost of living is relatively low.
• There are many opportunities to earn extra income.
• The healthcare system is excellent and much cheaper than in the United States.
• The climate is warm year-round.
• The Mexican culture is extremely rich.
• There is no estate tax in Mexico. Cons:
• The inflation rate is relatively high.
• You may need to file a Mexican tax return.
• There is a risk of crime.
• The language barrier can be challenging.
• The infrastructure is not as developed as in the United States.

Final Thoughts - Safest Places To Live In Mexico

From a personal finance perspective, living in Mexico can be very affordable. The safest places to live in Mexico are also some of the most popular tourist destinations, so you can rest assured knowing that you and your family will be safe while enjoying all that Mexico has to offer.

If you are considering a move to Mexico, be sure to research the safest places to live in Mexico before making your decision. Review the checklist offered in this article and use it as a guide to help you find the perfect place to call home.

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