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The world's largest expat community

Your Expat Community in Mexico

  • Connect with fellow expats in Mexico

  • Join exciting events and groups for expats

  • Get information in our expat guides

  • Exchange tips about expat life in Mexico

  • Francois Bertrand

    The last InterNations event was just great: I had some very nice chats with fellow expats (even Canadians like me) in Mexico City.

Our Community of Expats in Mexico Welcomes You!

¡Hola and welcome to our expat communities in vibrant Mexico! InterNations has been created to serve and support people around the globe who are moving to and living another country. Already, expats in Mexico are making the most of their new lives thanks to the mix of resources available on the InterNations platform. Simply join InterNations to find the answers to the questions that have been keeping you up at night as you prepare to move abroad. You may be worrying ʺwhat is the cost of living?”, “how is the tax system differentʺ, ʺis it better to live by the sea or in urban Mexico City?”, or ʺhow about the overall safety for me and my family?ʺ. All of these questions can be answered by the expats in our InterNations Communities in Mexico. They are always keen to help new members, just as they were helped when they first joined. InterNations should be your first port of call when planning your new life in Mexico. Our network is not just active online either, InterNations enables you to meet your new community face to face at local events, too. Mexico is an exciting country and the best way to make the most of your expat life in Mexico is through the InterNations Communities.

With InterNations, you never stand alone. Whether you are moving to another country or going on a business trip somewhere — our communities around the world are there to make you feel at home wherever you are. Feel free to check out our vibrant InterNations Communities in countries like Bahrain or Germany.

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Living in Mexico: Your Questions, Answered

If you're a new or soon-to-be expat in Mexico, you might have some questions about what life will be like in this vibrant country. To help you get started, we've answered seven common questions about living in Mexico. For more specific questions or to share your own experiences, consider joining InterNations, where you'll find a welcoming community of expats who love to help each other out.

1. Is it necessary to speak the local language?
While many people in Mexico speak English, especially in tourist areas and larger cities, it's beneficial to learn Spanish to better connect with locals and navigate daily life. Speaking Spanish will make it easier to handle administrative tasks, shop at local markets, and immerse yourself in the culture.

2. What are the average rent prices in popular expat locations?

Mexico City:

  • Single-room flat: 8,000–15,000 MXN (395–740 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 15,000–30,000 MXN (740–1,480 USD) per month

Guadalajara:

  • Single-room flat: 6,000–12,000 MXN (295–590 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 12,000–22,000 MXN (590–1,085 USD) per month

Playa del Carmen:

  • Single-room flat: 7,000–14,000 MXN (345–690 USD) per month
  • Three-bedroom flat: 14,000–25,000 MXN (690–1,230 USD) per month

3. How safe is Mexico for expats?
Safety in Mexico varies depending on the location. Some areas are safer than others, and it's essential to research the specific area you plan to live in. In general, practice common-sense precautions, such as avoiding poorly lit areas at night, being cautious with your belongings, and staying informed about local security updates.

4. How does the healthcare system work in Mexico?
Mexico has both public and private healthcare options. The public healthcare system, known as IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social), is available to residents with a valid work permit. However, many expats opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and more personalized care. It's essential to have health insurance to cover medical expenses in private facilities.

5. How can I open a bank account in Mexico?
To open a bank account in Mexico, you'll typically need to provide identification (such as a passport), proof of address (such as a utility bill), and a valid visa or residence permit. Some banks may require additional documentation, so it's a good idea to check with the specific bank you plan to use.

6. What is the cost of living in Mexico?
The cost of living in Mexico is generally lower than in many Western countries. Housing, food, and transportation are relatively affordable, although imported goods can be more expensive. As an expat, you can expect to live comfortably on a moderate budget.

7. Can I drive with my foreign driver's license in Mexico?
Foreigners can drive in Mexico using their foreign driver's license for the duration of their tourist visa, which is usually up to 180 days. If you plan to stay in Mexico long-term, you'll need to obtain a Mexican driver's license. Requirements may vary by state, so it's essential to check with your local licensing office for specific details.

Join Our Online and In-Person Events in Mexico

Attend our many events to get to know like-minded expats, both in Mexico and around the world! Our new online events even let you find connection and inspiration without leaving your home.

One of the most beloved and well-known venues: is Pinche Bar Terrace at Pinche Gringo Warehouse. Join us for a super fun evening next Wednesday. Enjoy a welcome drink and delicious American dishes wh
Come join us for our March Newcomers event at this local favorite Condesa pizza restaurant and bar! They serve local craft beer and have been a classic spot for locals to hang out since 2005! Come fo
I am so excited to invite you to the chicest event of the season: a rooftop cocktail at (...) Protected content (...) , the hottest new terrace bar in Polanco, as part of the new Kimpton’s hotel. (
We will talk about how investment in land, in the different “development poles”, within the country, are a great opportunity for profitability for investors, whether national or foreign. Includes ment

Want to see all the upcoming events in Mexico?

Connect with Like-Minded Expatriates in Mexico

  • Community Member
    From Portugal, living in Guadalajara
  • Community Member
    From Costa Rica, living in Mexico City
  • Community Member
    From Switzerland, living in Guadalajara
  • Community Member
    From Germany, living in Guadalajara
  • Community Member
    From United States of America, living in Monterrey
  • Community Member
    From Russia, living in Mexico City
  • Community Member
    From Brazil, living in Guadalajara
  • Community Member
    From Switzerland, living in Mexico City
  • Community Member
    From United States of America, living in Monterrey
  • Community Member
    From Mexico, living in Cancún

Meet other expats like you in Mexico

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Share your hobbies and interests with expats in Mexico

Find Out More about Being an Expat in Mexico

Mexico is famed for its lush tropical beaches, with Los Cabos, for example, one of the largest beaches in the world, with brilliant white sand that stretches for over 20 miles. Mexico’s rich ancient heritage also brings travelers flocking to see various sites such as the famous Mayan pyramids at Palneque. Mexico, along with Egypt and Greece, is fundamental to our understanding of the ancient world and expatriates planning a life in Mexico can look forward to discovering a truly fascinating culture. Mexican food has been exported and copied all over the world, but when you get an authentic taste for it on Mexico’s streets you'll be truly hooked. The country has something for everybody, from the adventurous thrill seeker to the culture vulture. Not only are Mexican people famously friendly, many expatriates also choose to live in Mexico to take advantage of the employment opportunities. Mexico is among the world’s largest economy, with most of its population working in the food and beverages, chemicals, petroleum and clothing industries. Tourism is a main part of Mexico’s prosperity, too, and being an expat there will allow you to take your time enjoying all of the great experiences that tourists from all over the world can only delight in for a few weeks at a time. The cost of living is relatively low compared to many other countries, so opportunities for expats to live well on a small budget are plentiful.

InterNations is the largest global network for expatriates, with communities in 420 cities around the world. Meet fellow global minds in your city of residence or get to know local expatriates before you're moving or traveling abroad and never feel like a stranger. InterNations makes it easy for you to stay in touch with your expat friends, both online and offline, so you can grow your network of friends and contacts from all over the world. Whether they live in Malaysia or Saudi Arabia, InterNations allows you to be close to them even if they are miles away.

Make Friends and Build Your Expat Network before You Arrive in Mexico

InterNations is the world's first community for expats around the globe, and with membership by approval only, it is a safe environment to network and connect with fellow members who are trustworthy, polite, and friendly. So feel free to use InterNations to pose any questions that you need answering about living in Mexico! Keep up your hobbies and interests or learn brand new ones by joining various interest-based groups on InterNations and taking parts in a range of activities organized regularly by fellow members. Whether you live in Mexico City, Cancun, or Monterrey, there is sure to be a get-together close by. Existing groups cover activities such as sizzling hot Latin dancing and invigorating outdoor adventures, but you can always create your own group if your hobby is not yet covered in your city. After all, continuing your favorite activities after moving to Mexico will sure help ensure that your relocation is successful. Lastly, you can also attend the larger get-togethers organized by the InterNations Community and be introduced to some of the most interesting and helpful expats you’ll ever meet!