In today’s world, possibly more than at any other time in history, people from every country are relocating to other cities and towns around the world! Depending on where you’re moving from, you may find other countries cost more, or less, than your current country of residence. Not only does the cost of living vary by country, but also by state or region within each country. Then even within a specific state or region, whether you live in an urban or rural area typically makes a big difference as well.
Mexico: Lower Cost-of-Living?
If you’re relocating from the United States or Canada, Mexico has a much lower cost-of-living compared to most places within Mexico’s Northern neighbors’ borders. Practically all aspects of daily life in Mexico cost considerably less than in the US or Canada, from food to rent to entertainment. The same “rules” apply in Mexico as larger urban areas and popular tourist locales do cost more, but are still less expensive than in the rest of North America.
How Much Does It Really Cost?
Okay, get to the actual numbers, I get it. In Tijuana and other major metropolitans in Mexico, a comfortable cost-of-living comes in around $1500, but you can cut that pretty easily with creative budgeting. Groceries cost close to half what they cost in the US. Luxury items are more expensive so for cell phones, laptops, and similar purchases, it usually is best to pick those items up in the US. We’ll break down the biggest money-savers next!
By the Numbers: Rent, Entertainment, and More
Rent is probably the biggest money saver when relocating to Mexico. For example, apartment rent is around $450-500 per month, as opposed to anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 per month in the US. You can save even more if you rent a room and not an entire apartment.
Whether an apartment or a room suits your needs just depends on you! Other expenses such as utilities and internet are only a fraction of the cost in the US or Canada.
Entertainment is significantly less expensive. Think: half the cost of what you’d pay in the US. Instead of paying for a $15 movie ticket, you’re likely to only pay $3 for the same new release! Drinks such as cocktails and craft beers? Yep, half the price again. While restaurants aren’t quite as inexpensive as that, you’ll still save around 20 percent over US prices. Additionally, Mexico’s street food is super cheap and delicious!
Healthcare. If you’ve never considered healthcare in Mexico, now is the time to start. The cost of a routine visit to the doctor in the US without insurance is approximately $200, even with insurance you’re still likely to pay $20 or more as a co-pay, on top of paying a monthly premium. In Mexico, that same quick office visit is about $30 without insurance. Dental and eyecare offers similar savings. You should see if your current policy covers Mexico. If it doesn’t, look into Mexican health insurance just in case anything more significant comes up than a quick routine doctor’s visit.
Transportation around Tijuana is inexpensive for the bus or a taxi and many areas are walkable, which is free! However, many expats and retirees choose to bring their cars with them when relocating to Mexico, making transportation across the border to the US easy, as well as taking road trips down the Baja California coast. I mean, if you’re in Tijuana, why wouldn’t you drive along the coast? It’s beautiful! If you do decide to take your car with you, you must have Mexican auto insurance to drive in Mexico. Visit Border Mexican Auto Insurance to get a quote today!