A Practical Guide to the Way of Life in Mexico

Jump right in:

• Pros of Living in Mexico
• Cons of Living in Mexico
• Practical information
• Mexican culture
• Mexican social etiquette
• Driving in Mexico
• Public transportation in Mexico

Pros of living in Mexico

Living in Mexico can be a great experience. Many expats decide to call this country home because of its colorful and rich culture, but there are more practical benefits too.

The weather It’s common knowledge that if the weather is not great, it’s difficult to really enjoy a place. Fortunately, Mexico has great weather most of the time and it’s quite diverse. The country has arid deserts in the north, with some grassy plains in the middle. It also has a temperate climate thanks to its two main mountain ranges and forests. Last but not least, you will find tropical weather with some savannahs along the coast and the south.

The cost of living A significant benefit of living in Mexico is the favorable exchange rates with most countries. You will likely find everything more affordable than in your home country. Bear in mind that prices vary based on region, but overall there are significant cost reductions in transportation, rent, food, and entertainment.

The food Mexico is a foodie haven, whether you are having a late-night treat at a small-town taco stand or a multi-course tasting menu at one of the many fine dining restaurants in Mexico City (also referred to as CDMX). Every plate is a feast of the senses. Make a note of these dishes to try once you arrive: Chilaquiles, Pozole, Tacos al Pastor, Tostadas, Chiles en Nogada, Enchiladas, Mole, and Tamales.

The beaches  Measuring nearly 10,000 km (6,300 mi), this vast country features an extensive and beautiful coastline. Mexico’s beaches stretch along four bodies of water: The Gulf of California, the Gulf of Mexico, the Pacific Ocean, and the Caribbean. This wonderfully diverse coastline has a lot to offer, from secluded spots surrounded by jungles and ancient ruins to white sandy shores with turquoise waters and a myriad of water sports.

The healthcare system This may come as a surprise to some: Healthcare in Mexico is very good. Every medium to large city has at least one first-class hospital. Highly trained doctors usually staff them. The country’s efficient healthcare system consists of public and private schemes. Expats who are employed here will have to contribute to a compulsory public health insurance. For more detailed information, read our section: Health Insurance and the Healthcare System of Mexico Explained.

Cons of living in Mexico

This section covers the disadvantages of life in Mexico; knowing them before your move will help you to better prepare for them or maybe act as a drawback.

Safety concerns Before relocating abroad, many expats think about safety, and Mexico is no exception. The nation came in at number 39 in the Safety & Security category in the 2025 InterNations study. Many expats report feeling secure in their everyday lives, particularly in tourist destinations and well-known expat centers, but others express worries about political stability and criminality in certain places.

The bureaucracy  Mexico moves at a slower pace and all official-type errands require time and patience. If you have to visit a government office, be prepared for the hassle. You will have to talk to several people, make copies of many documents, attend a few appointments, and go to various locations to get that errand done. The system is complicated and unnecessarily bureaucratic. Simply opening a bank account may become a multi-day task.

The service outages Although they are not a regular occurrence, outages do happen in Mexico. Occasionally, the electricity or the water will go out without warning. Even though the outage might last just a few hours, you will not get any notice, so be prepared for this. If you work online, consider having a go-to cafe in case your internet goes down.

Renting When relocating to Mexico, one of your top priorities will be to rent or purchase a home. Usually, expats prefer to get familiar with their surroundings before buying. Therefore, renting is the first option. The issue is that renting in Mexico is a very bureaucratic and complicated process.

Among many other things, most landlords demand a fiador or aval; essentially a guarantor, that is, a third party who will pay your rent if you are unable to do so. Alternatively, you can buy an insurance policy that serves the same purpose, which is called a fianza.

For all the necessary information about housing in Mexico, read our section on Everything You Need to Know About Finding a New Home.

Practical information

When relocating to Mexico, the last thing on your mind will be something bad happening. However, you should always be prepared for an emergency. Having the right numbers is the best place to start.

Emergency numbers Regardless of the emergency you may be facing, the two most important things to have at hand are the local emergency phone numbers and the citizen assistance number of your country’s embassy or consulate.

Like in the United States, the main number for emergencies in Mexico is 911. It is free of charge from both a landline and a cell phone.

Another useful number to have is for the Ángeles Verdes (Green Angels); a roadside assistance service with English-speaking operators, which provides general tourist information and support. You can call them at 078.

Embassies Mexico City is home to most foreign embassies in the country. To be specific, there are currently 86 embassies in the capital. Additionally, many countries have consulates and/or consulates-general in other Mexican cities.

Public holidays in Mexico According to Article 74 of the Federal Labor Law, Mexico has nine official public holidays.

• 1 January – Año Nuevo (New Year’s Day)

• First Monday of February – Día de la Constitución (Constitution Day) Commemorates the signing of the Mexican Constitution of 1917.

• Third Monday of March – Natalicio de Benito Juárez (Benito Juárez’s Birthday) Honors the birth of former president Benito Juárez.

• 1 May – Día del Trabajo (Labor Day)

• 16 September – Día de la Independencia (Independence Day) Commemorates the start of Mexico’s independence movement in 1810.

• Third Monday of November– Día de la Revolución (Revolution Day) Marks the beginning of the Mexican Revolution in 1910.

• 1 December - (every six years) – Presidential Inauguration Day (Transmisión del Poder Ejecutivo Federal)

• 25 December – Navidad (Christmas Day)

• Election Day – Jornada Electoral Held every six years during presidential elections; recognized as a national public holiday on the day of the vote.

Main airports There are more than 60 international commercial airports and over 10 domestic commercial airports in Mexico. Mexico City International Airport (AICM) is the largest in the country, handling the highest volume of total passengers and air operations. Cancún International Airport (CUN) is the most internationally connected, with flights to more than 100 destinations in over 25 countries. Listed below are the 5 most important airports in Mexico.

• Cancún International Airport

• Guadalajara International Airport

• Mexico City International Airport (also known as Aeropuerto Internacional Benito Juárez)

• Monterrey International Airport

• Felipe Ángeles International Airport (AIFA)

Mexican culture

Mexico is the third largest country in Latin America and has one of the largest populations — over 130 million. It is home to more Spanish speakers than any other nation on the planet. Mexico’s culture is heavily influenced by a combination of its Mayan and Aztec ancient civilizations and European colonization. The pride in their native heritage is reflected in their traditions and each region has its unique cultural practices and celebrations. There are many indigenous groups, such as the Mayas, Zapotecs, Tzeltales, Tzotziles, Nahuas, and Otomis, which have all influenced the country’s cuisine, medicine, rituals, and language.

All the above create a colorful and vibrant culture. When you are in Mexico, you will feel, taste, and smell the richness in everything around you.

Family and community In Mexico, family relationships are typically very close and one of the pivotal aspects of life for most Mexicans. One thing you will quickly notice is that hosting parties at their homes plays a huge role in Mexicans’ lives. Being welcoming and making guests feel like part of the household is inherent to the values and customs of the country.

Cuisine and drinks  Mexico’s centennial culinary art will be one of the most joyous aspects of your new life. The country’s cuisine varies between regions, each having its own culinary traditions. There are some foods you’ll find all over the country; for instance, tortillas and other foods made from corn are staples everywhere, as are peppers, tomatoes, rice, and beans. Mexico has a wide range of eating-out options.

We will briefly refer to them here as it is important for you to identify these names:

• Taquerías: Taco stands or small eateries that specialize in the quintessential Mexican fare, filled tacos.
• Mercados: Colorful produce markets, many of which have food stalls.
• Comedores: Canteen-style cheap eats.
• Fondas: Small eateries, usually family-run. They serve comida corrida (fixed-price home-style meals) and budget meals.
• Restaurantes: They range from simple diners serving local dishes to chic establishments with multi-course menus, dress codes, and hard-to-get reservations.

When it comes to drinks, tequila is number 1 in Mexico. The country is well known for this alcoholic drink made from agave. Mexican laws establish that it can only be produced in the state of Jalisco and some municipalities in the states of Nayarit, Guanajuato, Michoacán, and Tamaulipas. If straight Tequila is not your thing, make sure you enjoy a few Palomas in the summer; a refreshing tequila-based cocktail typically made with grapefruit soda, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.

Arts and music  A whole book would cover only the basics on Mexican Art and Music because there is so much to explore in this sphere. Wherever you go in Mexico, you will be amazed by the incredible artistic expression.

Paintings, architecture, and crafts are in every corner of the country; you will see Aztec dancers performing in Mexico City and Mariachis striking up in different venues around the country. Mexico has bestowed the world with iconic artists; look into Frida Kahlo, Diego Rivera, Fanny Rabel, Juan Rulfo, Octavio Paz, Juan Gabriel, and Vicente Fernández, just to name a few.

Sports and adventure

Although everyone’s idea of adventure is a bit different, one thing is for sure: Mexico’s landscapes cater to all. Throughout the country, you will find beautiful and diverse scenery, which you can enjoy on calm hikes or by engaging in daredevil stunts. From bar-hopping in Mexico city, to exploring colonial towns like San Miguel de Allende by foot, rafting down the swirling waters of the Rio Antiguo, or surfing a sand dune in the Algodones, pick any type of adventure you like, and you will be able to find it Mexico.

Some of the most popular sports in the country are soccer, baseball, boxing, and the famous Lucha Libre.

• Soccer, known locally as fútbol is everywhere. From local matches to international championships, the fervor you will experience is intense.
• Baseball gained popularity in certain regions of Mexico when it was imported by US soldiers during the Mexican War.
• Boxing is one of the most popular sports in the country. Mexico has gained great global achievements in this sport, with over 200 world champions; more than any country on the planet.
• Lucha Libre, or free wrestling, is similar to US professional wrestling. It has elaborate storylines and outrageous mask-wearing characters. The luchadores are known for their aerial acrobatics. Although it is not widely practiced as a sport, it holds strong symbolic and cultural significance in Mexico.  You can check out the lineup on the website of the Consejo Mundial de Lucha Libre (CMLL).

Holidays and parties Local celebrations and national holidays provide expats an excellent opportunity to experience Mexico at its most raw. The fiestas and celebrations can be fun, loud, rowdy, and vibrant, but also religious, introspective, and poignant. Make sure you join the Semana Santa y Pascua (Holy Week and Easter) celebrations. They are divided into two weeks: Semana Santa and Pascua. In this time, businesses, universities, and schools close, while families spend time together. The celebrations include parades, ritual ceremonies, and dramatic reenactments.

Another very important period is the world-famous Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead). The yearly celebrations take place on November 1 and 2. The first day is known as  Día de los Angelitos (Day of the Little Angels) and pays tribute to children and infants who have passed away. On the second day, families remember and celebrate their lost loved ones. They visit cemeteries, bringing flowers, favorite foods, and other gifts to those who have passed. Throughout the day, families get together to drink, eat, and reminisce. You will also see beautiful parades with elaborate floats and people in ornate, embellished costumes.

Mexican social etiquette

As you adapt to your life and community in Mexico, you will begin to encounter diverse social situations, and with these come rules of social etiquette.

Language and form of address: In Mexico, it is common to use the formal form Usted (formal, singular “you”) when addressing strangers or people who are your seniors. For friends, and generally people who are close to you, the informal form Tú is preferred.

Business etiquette In Mexico, social and business etiquette are intertwined. Mexicans will only work with you if they like you on a personal level, so developing relationships is pivotal to your business ventures. To form these relationships, you will need to be aware of what is expected from you. We’ve compiled a brief list to help you make a good impression.

• Most Mexican businesspeople speak English; however, make sure you learn basic phrases in Spanish like gracias (thank you), por favor (please), and disculpe (excuse me).
• Do not use first names unless specifically told to do so. Instead, address people by Señor (Mr.), Señora (Mrs.) or Señorita (Miss), followed by their last name.
• While friends hug or kiss each other on the cheek, strangers shake hands when greeting and saying goodbye.
• Although in many cultures it is considered inappropriate to ask personal questions, in order to develop relationships in Mexico, you will have to be friendly and warm. It is usual for people to ask about family, friends, customs, and hobbies, even in business contexts.
• Hierarchy is a crucial part of the business culture. Top executives make the important decisions, and they expect to do business with executives who are at the same level.

Business attire In business contexts, it is advisable to dress more on the conservative side. Dark suits and ties for men are the best option. To be safe, women should also wear formal business attire. Avoid jeans, low-cut shirts, and mini or tight skirts. For more detailed information about working in the country, read our section: Your Guide on Jobs and Finding Work in Mexico.

Social interactions As an expat, you will become aware that learning and adjusting to local customs and practices is vital. Polite and courteous mannerisms are an intricate part of the Mexican social fabric. However frustrating or indignant a situation may be, patience and tolerance are appreciated and rewarded. Even in casual encounters, Mexicans usually address each other with respect and a degree of formality.

Greetings When greeting people in Mexico, some level of physical contact is the norm. Strangers typically greet each other with a handshake, but friends generally say “hello” with a kiss on the cheek. The same is done when saying goodbye. When greeting a group, you will be expected to greet each person individually, instead of addressing the entire group.

Table manners When sharing a meal with others, people usually say “buen provecho” before eating. Buen provecho is the equivalent to the French expression “bon appetit” or the English expression “enjoy!” Be aware that when eating out with friends or acquaintances, it is not common to split the bill among the diners. Usually, one person treats the others, and next time you gather for a meal, another party will be expected to pay.

Tipping In restaurants, it is customary to tip between 10 and 15% of the bill. In bars, a 10% tip is the norm. According to local custom, tipping chambermaids is optional. Bear in mind that these jobs usually pay the minimum wage, so even a small tip can go a long way. At a hotel or airport, it is customary to tip porters between 115 and 230 MXN (approx. 6 to 12 USD), but you are expected to pay more if you have many bags and/or if you are in an upscale hotel.

Although it is not necessary to tip a taxi driver, tips are always welcome. Finally, at gas stations, a small tip of about 5% of the total sale is expected for gas station attendants.

Punctuality You might have heard that time in Mexico is a bit more relaxed, and that’s not entirely wrong. In social situations, showing up late isn’t usually considered rude, as long as it’s within reason. Mexico has a culture where people often prioritize personal connections over strict schedules. That said, being too late, especially without giving a heads-up, can still come off as disrespectful. Just use common sense and avoid stretching it. When it comes to doctor’s appointments, business meetings, or any kind of official event, being on time is definitely expected.

Driving in Mexico

If you’re thinking about driving in Mexico, be prepared for the worst traffic in the world; car trips take over 50% longer than they do under normal conditions. During peak hours, you can expect your average speed to be 5 km/h. If you are someone who plans to heavily rely on automobile trips, be sure to think again and weigh the amount of time you will have to spend stuck in traffic.

In Mexico, the official minimum age to get a full driver's license is 18. However, it’s possible to get a provisional driving permit before that age, usually starting at 15 or 16. These permits often require parental consent and may come with additional conditions, like passing a driving course.

Some states require older adults to meet specific conditions when renewing their license. This can include medical or psychological evaluations, usually starting around the age of 70. Also, in Mexico, if your license is about to expire and you go to renew it, you’ll need to pass a vision test. So if you’re over 70, that exam will be required in order to keep driving legally.

Converting a foreign driver’s license in Mexico

Required documents:

• Passport
• Residency card
• Proof of address
• Foreign driver’s license and certified translation (if it is not in English or Spanish)

Process:

• 1) Book an appointment through your local mobility or traffic authority or visit the physical office.
• 2) Take a written driving test that covers road signs, safe driving practices, speed limits, etc.
• 3) Pay the fee around 500-1,000 MXN (30-60 USD)
• 4) You will receive your license either the same day or within a few days.

Speed limits in Mexico

• Urban Roads: 40–50 km/h (25–31 mph)
• Open Roads: 80 km/h (50 mph)
• Highways: 100–110 km/h (62–68 mph)
• Rural Roads: 70 km/h (43 mph)

Speed limits in Mexico can vary depending on the state and the type of road. In some modern toll highways (autopistas de cuota), the speed limit may go up to 120 km/h (75 mph), but this is not the general rule. Always check local signs, as limits can change due to road conditions, construction zones, or safety regulations.

Renting a car in Mexico

Here are some of the most popular car rental options in Mexico:

• Carflexi
• KAYAK
• Hertz
• America Car Rental
• Uber
• WeCar

Public transportation in Mexico

Mexico is a huge country, so the efficiency of its public transportation varies significantly depending on location. For instance, getting around Ciudad de México in public transportation can be crowded or overwhelming, but it’s highly recommended to avoid the traffic of one of the most congested cities in the world. However, if you are in a small town or the outskirts of a city, where traffic is not as heavy, you could take a taxi or Uber.

types of public transportation in Mexico:

• Buses are the main form of interstate public transportation. They range from modern coaches to retired school buses. The cost will depend on the route, the distance, the type of bus, and the ticket class that you purchase.
• Taxis are common throughout the country. Be aware that although some taxis run on a meter, others don’t, and you are expected to negotiate a price with the driver in advance. If you can, avoid hailing a taxi off the street as they might be unregistered and thus unsafe. Alternatively, you can call a radio taxi or use a sitio (taxi rank).
• Colectivos* are essentially shared taxis or vans. They don’t have an official timetable, take passengers on a fixed or semi-fixed route, and stop anywhere to pick up or drop off people. Fares may vary depending on the route and schedule.
• Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Didi, Cabify, and Bolt are widely available in major Mexican cities. They offer a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional taxis, with prices calculated through the app and paid directly by card or cash.
• Metro systems can be found in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. Mexico City has one of the largest metro systems in North America, and it is a great way to get around the city. You can buy fares in cash at ticket booths or machines, and in some locations, you can use a debit or credit card. Rides cost a flat rate of 5 MXN (approximately 0.25 USD). You can also purchase a tarjeta (smart card) for 10 MXN (0.50 USD). You can recharge your tarjeta with up to 500 MXN (25 USD) at a time.
• Metrobus is a fast transit system with dedicated bus lanes in CDMX. Its addition to the capital’s public transportation network has greatly improved traffic congestion. The fare is 6 MXN (0.30 USD), which you pay by tapping your tarjeta at the barrier. There are cash-only machines to buy or top-up the smart card in all stations.
• Trains are almost non-existent in Mexico. Services have mostly been discontinued, leaving basically two options. You can ride Mexico’s most famous train, known as El Chepe, which is situated in the Copper Canyon Railway. Or, you can catch a tourist train known as the Tequila Express, which goes from Guadalajara to tequila country. The cost varies depending on the distance you are travelling and the ticket class you buy.