I’m a recent retiree and moved to Ajijic. My first exposure was seeking affordable dentistry. And I fell in love with this place. The mountains and lake are breathtaking. The weather is near perfect. And I moved from Orlando. The shootings there are legendary, and they continue. It’s heartbreaking. I feel so safe here. And, most important, welcomed.
You are te reason we can't live in our own country. Because prices skyrocket after you came here. Go back to your country, are you become a citizen or you are a "turist".
My family, from both mother and father, are from Chapala and have been there for generations. I've visited Chapala, as well as Ajijic, several times and they're both beautiful and the weather amazing.
I travel Mexico for almost 40 years. I totally agree with you. I feel safer in Mexico than in Los Angeles. I would add Mazatlan to your list of nice places to live.
@@jackbaldwin3649 haven’t lived there but stayed in Centro Historico near the Mercado Organico on Saturdays and it was very chill yet close to the malecon
Mazatlán has this historical down town (Centro Histórico) which is so lovely and relaxing. You can walk through narrow and colorful alleys, visit Plaza Machado, have a nice meal, enjoy cultural activities and much more!
@@jive7391still a lot better than third world american bombas everywhere, mass shootings everywhere, heck!! You can not even know if you are going to comeback alive FROM school, church, shopping mall or supermarket or at least without a bullet, cheezz what a cesspool 😲😲 really scary!!! And even worse!! They even charge You to enter there paying for a Visa!!!! What a Bad Joke!!! 😳😳😳🤯🤯
@@nicolaevans2020 God bless you 🙏🏻 my 3 kids went to school called Oxford , private college with a second language, French or English , they graduate high school with a very good grades to earn a scholarship at the state university There’s private schools at every city , very affordable, some of them are managed by the local church , with catholic education as well, There are some very good schools own by the government , totally free , Best wishes good father 🤗
Safest city i have been to in Mexico is probaply Tlaxcala. Very underrated in my opinion. It doesn’t stand out in anything and yet does many things very well.
Hola friend 👋 👋 Where in Mexico city are you? Absolutely loved my short visit. Looking to move to the area in the future. Currently living in Mérida. Gracias 🙏❤
It's bcoz that's where the govt & politicians are, so they have a massive police & army presence there, plus may not be along cartels' routes etc, though peripheral areas of it may not be as safe.
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I was born and raised in Mérida Yucatán, now I'm in Toronto, and I wouldn't change my beloved hometown for anything. ❤
My Top 15 Best and Safest Cities list : 1-QUERETARO 2-MERIDA 3-MEXICO CITY 4-PUERTO VALLARTA 5-AGUASCALIENTES 6-SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCIA 7-GUADALAJARA 8-AJIJIC 9-SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE 10-ENSENADA 11-CAMPECHE 12-SALTILLO 13-PLAYA DEL CARMEN 14-OAXACA 15-GUANAJUATO CITY
We live in Mexico and have traveled throughout Mexico ( GDL, MOR,PV, LA PAZ, QRO, and much much more ) and we have never had a problem. Things can happen no matter where you live even in safe cities and colonias so just take precautions and don’t travel to places that are known to be extremely dangerous
I lived in Merida for six months, felt very safe and loved it. And I have been to multiple places in Mexico, some of the most beautiful places are the small towns outside of Mexico City. Those places are absolutely lovely if you were looking for a slower pace of life, you do not mention that the weather in and around Mexico City is fabulous year round
@@jackbaldwin3649 it is hot there, but the chilled out vibe is worth it. Have the locals show you the best cenotes to swim, or the really cool raccoon island
I was talking with a friend of mine who is living in Tijuana and he just loves it there. He said it's close enough to come into the states if needed. Also indicated you should just avoid the rough areas and you will be fine. I lived in Chicago for 20 years and never had trouble, but I always tried to avoid rough areas.
I've been to most of the cities you mentioned and felt very safe. I also have my Mexican residency and lived in Guadalajara for 2 years. I really enjoyed it and felt safer in Americana than in the US. When I'm in the US, I'm mindful of mass shootings and avoid places where I think they may occur.
@@DestinationRetirement Did it take you long to acclimate to the heat that everyone seems to complain about? I'm used to summers in California and it can get quite hot here.
@@jackbaldwin3649 I don't live there full time yet. I have been there is the summer but I have not stayed all summer. The end goal is to travel in the summer months.
@@jackbaldwin3649 In Merida the heat with the humidity makes it almost debilitating in summer. Not a dry heat, you will be soaked in sweat or decide to spend all of your days inside one room with the ac booming or spend a good part of your budget just for electricity to cool off your whole home. A $300us to $400us electric bill is not uncommon in summer. I have friends that live there from Florida and they say it's way hotter than what they are used to. It was 105 degrees today with the humidity making it feel like 112, right now at 10:30pm and it's 85 and with the humidity making it feel like 91. Only you can say if you would enjoy that. Not for me but it's a great city to visit in the cooler months. I moved from the western San Fernando Valley to Ensenada where it hovers around 72 to 78 and up a little during the day in summer and a comfortable to sleep in 58 to 64 at night. It's much cooler in the winter. The ocean stays around 58- in winter and goes up to around 64+ in summer keeping the weather nice year round. BTW-My electric bill is $8 to $15us per month leaving much more to spend on other more important things like street tacos!
Playa del Carmen comments are spot on. The city has a neighborhood for every taste and economic level and so close to everting you don’t even need a car. This city has a mix of the comfort and amenities you’re use to in your home country and also has an authentic Mexican and Mayan culture. I can’t say enough about how great Playa is and the endless things you can do living or visiting there.
When I stay in Aguascalientes for extended periods of time, I absolutely feel and am safer than where I lived in California. I was able to walk around downtown past midnight and there will be a lot of people outside, food stands selling, police patrolling around, kids playing outside, people on bikes, etc. I could absolutely never imagine doing that in California, USA. Once it is night time over there, almost all shops close down, almost everyone goes home and stays inside, and the only people outside are homeless and gangsters. Obviously use common sense and have situation awareness. Bad things can happen anywhere, but in my situation, my chances of being in danger in my old hometown in California US compared to Aguascalientes, Ags., MX, the danger for me is higher in California than Aguascalientes
aguascalientes is arguably safer than merida on their list. long standing plants from nissan, texas instruments and mercedes create pro-business culture. better food and cheaper than queretaro. less touristy and fewer expats than queretaro too. easy flight back to u.s.
@@gametime-bw3zk , Not really, why? bcoz all parts of Mexico that are along cartels routes & potential cartels routes could potentially be embroiled or affected by them or their violence at some point, that's not the case for peripheral & relatively peripheral areas such as states of Yucatan, Campeche, Baja Cali. Sur, they are worthless for their routes and their business, most or all the other ones could still be along or near cartels routes unless the govt maintains a very big presence in any of the other ones through massive police & military forces with armaments etc, which is probably the case for most of Mexico City and any important areas near it. On the other hand even in affected states there could be parts that are not affected bcoz some parts may not be along the cartels routes and may not have any much worth for their business or intentions.
Santiago de Queretaro is very safe as well. Beautiful City with friendly people. The city still has a laid back feel even though it has a population of about 2 million. The country side is also very beautiful, people are very friendly and caring. Bernal and Tequisquiapan, Queretaro are two country side towns. Slow pace, very friendly, farm life, but still has many sights to see along with museums, restaurants and many local arts and crafts.
But everything we hear about Queretaro is bad, nothing but an increase in violence and what not. I am Mexican, but live in the USA (26 yrs now), so I keep up with the news. Still have family in Mexico, tho. Not one single family member wanted to move to the USA, lol. So, we all talk about how violence is and how bad certain areas are.
@@c.m.2747 I lived in Queretaro for over a year. I am 65 years old and I walk with a cane. I do not own a vehicle so I walk, by myself, everywhere at all hours of the day and night and I NEVER encountered ANY trouble, violence or stalkers. Not sure where you are getting your information. There may be violence in a very small area of Queretaro. Queretaro is a HUGE Mexican State with about 2 million people. I can guarantee that about 98% of the State of Queretaro is very safe.
I was in Queretaro in April of 2023 and I walked all over the historical center at all times of day and night and never felt unsafe one bit. But I have traveled quite a bit and I am always careful especially at night to see if anyone is following me and I normally try to avoid streets streets where there are very few or no people. But I never felt unsafe AT ALL. Everything I have seen is Queretaro (the capital) is a very safe city. I cannot speak about all areas of the city, but I know there are some very nice neighborhoods.
@@c.m.2747 Are you referring to the STATE of Queretaro or the capital city? If you are referring to the city, I have never heard anything to suggest it is an unsafe city - quite the opposite, that it is one of the safest cities in Mexico and also I have heard one person who has lived in many places in Mexico that it is the absolutely cleanest city in the country as well.
I guess that as long as the state is 'under control' for the sake of those families, the citizens will enjoy some sort of fake 'peace'. @@jefffarris1288
PV itself isn't really "affordable" anymore. The impact of thousands of gringos moving there and buying property has resulted in very high real estate. Same as Chapala/Ajijic which is also very expensive.
Eso es por que el gobierno local no hace nada para controlar los precios de renta pero todos sabemos que no lo hace por que ellos mismos reciben su moche
@@pkaseven I am gonna give you great advice. DO NOT MOVE WITHOUT COMING DOWN HERE AND SEEING BOTH CITIES. Queretaro is far better--FOR ME. You may feel differently. Be smart!!!
I lived in Morelia Michoacán and I never felt unsafe. Yes, cost of living is increasing, but this is happening at a global scale, not just in Mexico and the US.
Michoacan it's one of the most dangerous states in Mexico, with exception to a few parts. The govt is however trying to take more control & to make it safer.
@@noamwolfson935 , bcoz why? why is it safe or you assume that is extremely safe? bcoz not a coveted territory by the cartels? not along cartels routes? no plenty avocados? you can't just say it's "extremely safe" and not give any reasons.
I visited Mexico City recently and fell in love with it. We felt very safe there our entire trip. Living in Los Angeles, it’s gotten so bad and I don’t always feel safe anymore here. So much Crime and homeless now.
I lived in New York City for over 60 years. During the pandemic, I moved to Mexico and feel much safer and happier. I live in Puerto Morelos, but I have visited Merida, Queretaro, and San Miguel de Allende. I am going to visit Puerto Vallarta soon.
It's wonderful to hear that you've found safety and happiness in Mexico! Puerto Morelos sounds like a lovely place. If you're interested, Andrew's father also shares insights and experiences about living in Mexico on his channel. You might find some interesting content there, too: www.youtube.com/@NomadCapitalistDad/
Been living in Los Cabos (San Jose) for 5 years and really enjoy it. It’s safe, high quality of life very similar to California with a still affordable price tag. Cabo is definitely one of the most expensive part of Mexico and prices are rising as it is becoming a hub for high income families yet still much more affordable that the US. 5 stars hotel a growing like mushrooms with amazing dining options. If you are more in a party mood, go to San Lucas, if you prefer quiet and family oriented / suburbs vibe, go to San José. The international airport now have direct connection to Europe and will resume its direct route to Asia shortly.
Oh, thanks for your comment!! I've been wondering about Los Cabos and the cost of living there. Do you think it's difficult to find a rental for under $1,500 (regardless of size)? No, I don't need an ocean view. I don't have one now! lol
I visited Mexico City by myself in April and had a fabulous time. I stayed in Condesa which was beautiful. Visited mostly tourist areas. I felt very safe and the people were warm and friendly.
I'm from the US, and have been living in Morelia, Michoacan for over two years. Have NEVER been approached or victimized by ANY crime in Mexico. I've never been made to feel unwelcome in my new country. If you try to assimilate, mind your own business, and don't get involved with the wrong people, you'll be fine anywhere here. I feel safer than most cities in the states.
I lived in Merida for 3.5 years (from 2017) and it was wonderful; there were some incidents but in the big picture it's the safest city. I currently live in Cd Obregon, Sonora (left Merida 'cause the humidity was bothering my health) and have been here for approximately 2 years. Statistics say it's one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico but I've had no problems and have only seen one incident in those two years. The people here treat me like I'm part of their family, incredibly friendly, and I couldn't feel safer.
@@LarryVanz thank you, I do. I agree about the people, very friendly. I did see a shooting near my house on Coahuila but only incident in two years. Love driving to the farms south of the city to buy fresh produce
Growing up in a family that has been in the construction and real estate development business over the past 100 years on 3 continents, I can say, you're going to have to deal with some shady characters sometimes in the course of doing business. Now in Canada, we're experiencing an explosion of viciousness and street violence that didn't exist in our culture before. Cops are getting killed by ordinary unhinged citizens here now, not just organized criminals. People didn't get knifed to death by teenagers at a coffee shop for some minor perceived slight or assaulted on the subway on a daily basis by the mentally ill homeless drug addict or gang members having shoot outs in the middle of the downtown shopping districts in the past, but that's common now. It's like Lord of the Flies or Mad Max. Then there's the entirely other issues of 40% of the voters running towards totalitarianism and the governments that are more than happy to oblige. Our country is descending into anarcho-tyranny fast on public streets and while some want to stay and save it and others close their eyes and hope it will just go away, I'm already over it and checked out of Hotel Canada. Mexico is like any other country to greater or lesser degrees. The difference is, when required, AMLO will drop 1500 soldiers on the streets and beaches of Cancun to settle things down and make the cartels cool their jets. I can live with that.
The culture that built the West into the most advanced in the world has been oikophobic for decades and is now dead. Discredited, demonized, guilt ridden and emasculated it is bereft of any conviction to enforce its values, providing fertile ground for the conditions you mentioned. The lunacy will continue until a more authoritarian, primitive government that can at least provide some measure of civil stability will be welcomed by a desperate populace.
Im Canadian who lives 45min north of Toronto and it’s a daily occurrence of gun violence and assaults ,robbery. It’s a cesspool of liberal lawlessness and im done with this sinking country. I want out and Mexico or Costa Rica will be my new home.
We have an WEF degenerate in as PM and his whole liberal trash traitors who have decriminalize hard drugs that has caused crime,overdoses to skyrocket. We have a justice system that releases thugs for gun crimes out the same day. Lawlessness is the new Canada and I’m done with this woke country.
The biggest issue with Mexico City 🇲🇽 is not crime but rather air quality (air pollution). It is a lovely place; cosmopolitan, sophisticated, a gourmand’s paradise, and certainly it is much more vibrant and cultured than any city in the USA 🇺🇸. All that being said, it is most decidedly NOT a good option for anyone with respiratory ailments or chronic illnesses in general due to the toll that the polluted air takes on the lungs of its residents ⚠️
I just loved this video!, unlike other news channel...Andrew was very factual and respectful, and that was refreshing, I live in La Paz BCS, and this is a wonderful place to live, we have very hot summers but you will love it here, you are all very welcome whenever you want to visit us!
I've visited Cozumel, Huatulco twice, los cabos, and Playa del carmen. I really love vacationing in Mexico, especially Huatulco and the Yucatan area, I find the Mayan culture so fascinating and the nature is breath taking. And I was so empressed with how clean and polished the Streets were, much cleaner than here in Ontario Canada. I really want to spend some time in Merida, not as a vacationer but to see if I could live there.
You know, in reality, it is all relative. Mexico can be very safe, and Mexico can be very dangerous. I can say the exact same thing, just changing the word ""Mexico"" to the ""United States"". It all depends. period. I have been living off and on for the past 40 years in Mexico, crossing the border at least 4 to 7 times a year. I have lived mostly in the lower class neighborhoods of everywhere from Tijuana, Matamoros, Nogales and Tecate on the US border to living in the large cities of Puebla, Pachuca, Puerto Vallarta, and Taxco in central Mexico, to living in very rural villages of Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Sinaloa and Guerrero states. I currently own a small humble home in notorious Guerrero state. I have used walking, and local public transportation as my primary means of getting around. In 40 years, I was never assaulted, not even once, by civilians in Mexico, vs. being violently assaulted once in the US(Cleveland). However, I was assaulted at gunpoint 5 times in Mexico by uniformed authorities ( 4 times by Mexican police, and once by Mexican military). Once in my hotel room, twice walking along the highway, and twice camped out in the desert. In all 5 cases, I was only briefly detained, and lost nothing except a little dignity, and a very small amount of cash in one of the cases. I have been briefly stopped dozens and dozens of times by American police ( although never at gunpoint). I have earned a living in Mexico over the past 40 years doing everything from begging and odd jobs, to being an itinerant vendor to being made assistant to the general manager of a large tourist establishment ( in Pto Vallarta) to currently being a youtuber. Although I proudly come from the lower class, compared to the 95% of the ex-patriots who are from the middle and upper classes, I have always felt many times safer, even in my precarious life, everywhere I have lived in Mexico. And that is not because of the police presence and their so called security or because President Lopez Obrador says that Mexico is so safe. But rather because of the people. The common people that I live with, that I associate with, that I work, play, and sleep with. THEY bring safety to my life. Something that I have never experienced in cold, impersonal USA. So draw your own conclusions!
Before watching this Andrew, there is a shooting, mugging, robbery where I live in Northern California, Bay Area, everyday😢!! I'm in Baja Mexico right now (San Jose del Cabo) and I couldn't feel SAFER by taking a walk to the beach at the time of sunset here!
Merida....what a great place! As well as CDMX! Love these places and yeah of course neighborhoods make a difference just like "bad areas" or "bad streets" in America
Also visited Chiapas. I drove from Merida to Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas, Tuxla Gutieres, Villahermosa, Campeche, Merida. No problems. I drove from Mexico City to Merida. No problems
In the late 80s and early 90s I drove all over Mexico. Had near zero fear. Unfortunately, can't do that now. But I will be flying in to several cities next month.
Merida was too hot for me, and I took my first plane ride to get out of there. Friends, who ,ive there say the electric bill can be more than the rent.
I live in Ensenada. Costco, Walmart, home Depot, DQ, little Caesars, Carl's Jr., office max, burger king, Applebee's, McDonald's, KFC, plus Chinese buffet (2) Chevron, 15k expats. Totally safe, in the daytime at least. Just like any us City. ❤
Another great video Andrew and I agree Mexico is very safe!! I was in another very safe city -- Queretaro before I met you at Nomad Capitalist last September in Mexico City.
I've been to Morelia a couple of times and I found it is a very beautiful place, very affordable with great regional food. And it is right in between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
@@CashCatz Definitely a broadwalk. We passed by in a boat, so only saw a little of it, however. Gorgeous town square. Probably no developed mountain biking trails but I would imagine miles if bikabke terrain. In that sence I would imagine it is similar to La Paz.
Literraly cameback from mexico in cancun and felt super safe im plannjmg kn living a snowbird lifestyle when j retire and Mexico is definetly a place i would call a second home outside Canada the people arw friendly the vibe is different great food and you can live like a king for a reaonable price
People loose their mind when I say Morelia Michoacán was safer than Stockton and Modesto, CA. But it’s true!! You couldn’t pay me enough to walk around Stockton at night.
I've lived in Oaxaca for 3 years and have never felt unsafe. Certainly safer than when I lived in LA 3 years age! I always take normal precautions but no issues.
Tampico is a city near the Gulf of Mexico and just 6 hours south from Texas. Rated one of the safest since 2020. I was born here and also my kids. Best place to have a family. Schools are very near, grocery stores, hospitals (public and private), even my workplace is just 7 minutes from home. If I had the chance to change something it's the weather: very hot on spring and summer.
I'm surprised that Mazatlan didn't make the list. I have had the pleasure of spending a couple months in Mazatlan each winter. I have never felt unsafe.
We are 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 living in Merida Yucatan. We also lived in Progreso Yucatan and in Chicxulub Yucatán with no problems. We drove to San Cristobal Chiapas (beautiful) for holidays with no issues we also travelled (drove) to Bacalar, Mahahual, Playa Del Carmen. All over the Yucatán Peninsula no issues. I also flew to Mexico city for 1 week with a local friend with no issues. Mexico is beautiful country. We are non drinkers non-druggies, use common sense like anywhere in the world. The problem with Merida is that it's fricken hot 🥵🔥😀 Soon we will be moving to Veracruz Xalapa. Then near or in Mexico city (beautiful place) then eventually to Oaxaca coast. ✌️🇲🇽❤️
I've spent weeks and weeks and weeks - OK, months and months - in Mexico City, Oaxaca(city and coast), Chiapas, Yucatán, Veracruz state, and some in Puebla state. NOT once have I had a negative experience or unpleasant interaction with anyone. Sure, I speak Spanish, and that helps for sure, but I'm definitely not of native fluency.
Been traveling around and living in different places in central Mexico for 7 months, now. Currently in Patzcuaro, Michoacan and we love it. We have not felt unsafe in Mexico but we also use common sense. We avoid places like Acapulco, Cancun, Tulum, and big tourist hubs mostly due to the higher cost of living (for Mexico) and number of scammers. We focus on smaller Mexican towns and cities and some smaller villages.
I've been living 40+ years at the northern state of Sonora and never been a crime victim. I also lived 8 years at Culiacán and didn't even see a gun, shootings, I just went to work and back home, no night clubs, no nothing past midnight. There are plenty of robberies in Mexico, they would steal whatever you leave outside your place or in the car. You would never see a massive random shooting just because someone is thirsty for blood. Shootings are between members of organized crime and other groups or against any force. I live a nice and peaceful life and great family atmosphere. By the way, I've never tried any illegal drug and don't even know'em. Just don't look for troubles because you're gonna find'em.
I lived in the most dangerous neighborhood (Colonia Libertad) of the most dangerous city (Tijuana) in the world at that time. No one ever bothered me. I'm not recommending living there; it was a dangerous place, but I enjoyed it.
Great video, I have loved MX since I was a kid, grandparents from border land on US side. Probably my favorite people and favorite place to visit. Having said all that, the uncontestable truth is that rule of law philosophy is different than say the US. Investigation, enforcement and conviction is not adequate. So as long as you do not need the police or courts, that is fine. There are good police themselves, but the system itself is not reliable. So if you move, make sure you do not need law enforcement services.
I visited playa del carman and I feel safer walking there at night than in Dublin Ireland.. in Dublin four tourists were attacked in the city centre and one American in a coma in the past few months alone..
My wife and I just returned from visiting Ajijic and felt very safe. We were looking into retiring there and did find a few pros and cons as would be anywhere, but never felt afraid. Lots of retired folks enjoying life there. I did notice most homes having electric fences and razor wire around their top perimeter but after asking some locals about it, they mostly said it was a cultural thing??
I lived in 23 different cities in México. Lately, Mazatlan Sinaloa has been my go-to place. It is actually safer than lots of other places in México I think. I agree with Mérida being the safest place. Qurétaro is very safe too.
this is very useful. Thanks. You're quite right about bad neighbourhoods in one's own country. I do like Mazatlan, but the whole province has cartel troubles and Culiacan is too close so i won't go there any more. I'm Canadian and live in Mexico for (you know which) 6 months every year. I go to Oaxaca which is lovely, peaceful and unique. When I need a beach I take a van 3hrs to Puerto Escondido 3 hours away on the Pacific coast. There are 3 nearby communities (Zipolite, San Augustinillo and Mazunte) which are perhaps the chillest places in all of Mexico. Puerto Escondido itself is safe and fun and still quite Mexican when you leave the beach areas. I visited all the places you mention except for Sayulito and Nayarit. Thanks for the suggestions.
Aguascalientes is really safe actually, being the capital of its homonymous state has all of the amenities that you'll need, its population is 1,300,000; the only downside I see is that the regions surrounding the state (not the city, the state) are quite dangerous, if you wanna go in vacation outside the city either you hit the "highway" between 7am - 3 pm or you take an airplane, Aguascalientes is an "oasis" between south Zacatecas and "el Bajio" in north-east Jalisco. As all cities it has its dangerous zones (this one's ubicated in the outskirts of the city), but in general you can be outside in the downton region till 10pm and everything will be fine; thanks to the size of the city and its main 3 “highways” in the form of rings you can go in car from one tip of the city to the other in 25 minutes. The Centennial Miguel Hidalgo Hospital is in the top 50 best hospitals in Mexico. There is various parks in the city, the biggest one being the “Rodolfo Landeros Park” which was previously the state’s airport so it's considerably big and has plenty of Family Recreational Services, in front of this park is a commercial center with a cinema and at a distance of 10 minutes on foot is the “Aguascalientes theater” home of the state orchestra. The Autonomous University of Aguascalientes (UAA) is the 136th best university in all of Latin America and its degrees have validity throughout Mexico and most can be validated in the USA as well. I've lived my whole life in this city, I hope this helps you.
I went to visit my Mother in Law in Michoacan. There is lots of violent events going on, but I felt safe. Most of the crimes are drug related. The time I was there, I had no issues.
I'm a permanent resident and lived in Puerto Vallarta for 5 years. Safe and beautiful but wow the cost of living is really increasing fast! Rentals are thru the roof and even restos are getting expensive, specially for MX. Many things (electronics, clothing, bread, meat, butter etc) are now cheaper where I live part time in Québec then in PV.
@lb9007 yep. I spent 6 months last year in Mexico, and it was 20-1 . Electronics and clothing have always been expensive, I think since i was a little girl I remember seeing my better off family members have the nice stuff while we didn't. Now that I went back for a longer period of time, I noticed how expensive Tvs are, same as before.
Totally, living in Guadalajara. The West side is safer and i can walk in the middle of the night looking for groceries and feeling safe. Obviously you want to avoid the east side or at least try not to go there at night, i guess in the morning it is not bad
I’ve been in living in Ensenada since Feb 2022. I can say that, while I’ve had a few small things stolen/missing, my biggest issues have been with 1) signficant increase in rental prices and cost of living in past year 2) horrible experiences with mexican landlords. I may consider moving within mexican, but I’d be relieved to leave Baja California Del Norte. Any suggestions?
I'm considering Ensenada so I can live closer to my family in Calif. Would you stay in Ensenada if you met a landlord that you liked or would you still prefer to move? Thanks!
If you are complaining about increasing the prices, and it’s difficult for you, imagine for a Mexican in their own country, it is imposible, they can’t afford what you pay, you should be grateful instead of complaining.
@@Lovebubble_01 You have a point but if this person is trying to live off just social security in Ensenada it can be challenging, Mexican Citizen or not. Many, many Americans are not rich and they have to make tough choices about how best to spend their limited budget.
@@jackbaldwin3649 yes, Mexicans are not rich either and they want the same, and guess what? They can’t get it because gringos make it more difficult for them, imagine that someone come to your home, to “visit” and stay at the best room for every and they give you the worst room of the your own house, how about that?!!! Is it fair? I think that person should have their own home, anything they can afford in their country.
I have lived in Cuernavaca Mexico for 7 years. I enjoy it here and as a resident plan to stay for a long time. Enjoy the weather, the people, the food. We have a condo in Playa Del Carmen and spend time there every 2 months and enjoy Playa greatly.
I've been living in Merida, actually in a pueblo near Merida, for the last 2 years. Great place to live. I lived In Vancouver BC and Kelowna before. No comparison
I have been traveling to different parts of Mx over the last 20 or so years, but still reside in the US. I'm working hard to learn the language because for me, that's important. I love the language, I love the people, the food, the culture and I hate the bad rap the US keeps giving Mx and it's citizens as they are lovely, hard working and accepting. I'm not completely convinced I'm going to move but not convinced I won't either. Beginning this year, I'm going to start going down for months at a time and see how feel, want to improve my Spanish and also check out Columbia and Costa Rica. I have several towns in MX on my list: Mazatlan, Nayarit, Los Mochis that I want to check out but also love what you are saying about Guadalajada. Thanks for your video!
Disagree with this and this is exactly what north America does and look at it. Look at multiple European countries that focused on rehabilitation and reform.
January 2014, I came to live in Mexico... Tijuana to be precise. I was 64. On January 2, 2015, I came to Puebla (100km sur de la ciudad de México... CDMX). I came without speaking a complete sentence in Spanish. I self-taught Spanish while living in this beautiful city (4th largest in México). I come to the States at least twice yearly... to the Veteran's Hospital in La Jolla north of San Diego as part of my veteran's medically based pension and to renew my VISA. I would never live anywhere else than Puebla. I live alone, so learning the language is, I know, essential. But, it also gives you a new perstective on just about everything in life. While in the US Navy as an enlisted sailor and as an officer, I've experienced many places in 10 years of honor, obtigated service. (Learn Spanish. Be a good neighbor.) RT sends/mande, Colonia Centrol Histórico, Puebla, México.
Merida is a beautiful city. The climate is nice (at least compared to Cancun and CDMX), and there are trees everywhere. It’s also fairly walkable if you’re near the middle of town. It’s a perfect mixture for me between authentic and tourist-friendly.
It is safe although don't take for granted.. if you mess with the wrong people you can get in big trouble.. I been living permanently in michoacan for the past 13 years and haven't had any unpleasant crime related experiences .
Echo everything stated in this video. If you are watching this video, you're already ahead of the curve as MX is a great place to explore and relocate. My family just got here and we may never go back north to the states.
I’m a recent retiree and moved to Ajijic. My first exposure was seeking affordable dentistry. And I fell in love with this place. The mountains and lake are breathtaking. The weather is near perfect. And I moved from Orlando. The shootings there are legendary, and they continue. It’s heartbreaking. I feel so safe here. And, most important, welcomed.
Thanks for sharing that experience.
Lucky you girl!!
You are te reason we can't live in our own country. Because prices skyrocket after you came here. Go back to your country, are you become a citizen or you are a "turist".
My family, from both mother and father, are from Chapala and have been there for generations. I've visited Chapala, as well as Ajijic, several times and they're both beautiful and the weather amazing.
Ajijic is such a lovely town. You're gonna find nice and affordable medical care.
Moving to Ajijic was a smart choice!
I've been in Mexico for over 5 years. I am not moving, This is as close to paradise as I could ever expect.
where in mexico?
Bold statement. Can you make top 2 reasons?
Where?
you must be mexican
Yes sister! ☺️💗
I travel Mexico for almost 40 years. I totally agree with you. I feel safer in Mexico than in Los Angeles. I would add Mazatlan to your list of nice places to live.
Did you have a favorite neighborhood in Mazatlan? Did you live there? Thanks!
@@jackbaldwin3649 Mazatlán is safe, this city is more safe than many cities from US.
@@jackbaldwin3649 haven’t lived there but stayed in Centro Historico near the Mercado Organico on Saturdays and it was very chill yet close to the malecon
Mazatlán has this historical down town (Centro Histórico) which is so lovely and relaxing. You can walk through narrow and colorful alleys, visit Plaza Machado, have a nice meal, enjoy cultural activities and much more!
@@LarryVanz So hot in summer, like all beach cities.
I have been living in Baja California Sur for 17 years. Widow, 74 and live alone. Love it! Very safe.
Lucky take SS while it's still there. I'll never see that shit for me throwing money in the trash
Which city?
@@CashCatzI've been in a beach town between Rosarito and Ensenada for 3 years. I've never felt unsafe. Ensenada is a wonderful city.
Did 6 months living in Mérida. Ridiculously safe! Safer than my hometown of LA or any other US city if I’m being completely honest.
LA is a shithole. I avoid California as much as possible , the homeless problem and crime is out of control there.
And the "bombas" you get there are just very funny poems with double meanings! 😂
@@jive7391still a lot better than third world american bombas everywhere, mass shootings everywhere, heck!! You can not even know if you are going to comeback alive FROM school, church, shopping mall or supermarket or at least without a bullet, cheezz what a cesspool 😲😲 really scary!!! And even worse!! They even charge You to enter there paying for a Visa!!!! What a Bad Joke!!! 😳😳😳🤯🤯
Safer than LA is not saying much
@jessesewell7922 So safe in Mérida you think your in Heaven. In fact....the locals call Mérida "the gates to Heaven " Entiendo
I'm Australian. Spent all of 2022 in Bucerias, Mexico. Loved it. Going back in January to set up home.
But Australia its so beautiful and safe I would not chance Australia for Mexico and I am mexican
What were your monthly costs? Spent time there about 15 years ago and itching to go back.
@@juanvences3558 now imaging paying 45% taxes and $4,000 AUD for 2br
Is it cheap for land there?
@@yellowdayz1800 si
Expat here, happily living in Mexico for 30 years 🤗🇲🇽
Move here to rise my kids in a safe society and family basis , and we love it 🎉
Stop calling yourselves expats that sounds fucking stupid, you’re just an immigrant living in México
What city/ schools do you recommend I have a 5 year old
@@nicolaevans2020 God bless you 🙏🏻 my 3 kids went to school called Oxford , private college with a second language, French or English , they graduate high school with a very good grades to earn a scholarship at the state university
There’s private schools at every city , very affordable, some of them are managed by the local church , with catholic education as well,
There are some very good schools own by the government , totally free ,
Best wishes good father 🤗
Safest city i have been to in Mexico is probaply Tlaxcala. Very underrated in my opinion. It doesn’t stand out in anything and yet does many things very well.
I like tlaxcala
Shhh, don't let the secret out hahaha. I live here and love it so much. I grew up in NYC.
It's very underrated even for Mexicans (I'm a local)
I’ve been living in Mexico City for a few years now and it’s wonderful. High quality of life at an affordable (yet increasing) price point.
Hola friend 👋 👋
Where in Mexico city are you? Absolutely loved my short visit. Looking to move to the area in the future. Currently living in Mérida. Gracias 🙏❤
My goal is to get back to MXC, Love that place!!
the key is to know which places and cities are not completely controlled by the cartels.
"Great weather, great food, nice people"
It's bcoz that's where the govt & politicians are, so they have a massive police & army presence there, plus may not be along cartels' routes etc, though peripheral areas of it may not be as safe.
I was born and raised in Mérida Yucatán, now I'm in Toronto, and I wouldn't change my beloved hometown for anything. ❤
My Top 15 Best and Safest Cities list :
1-QUERETARO
2-MERIDA
3-MEXICO CITY
4-PUERTO VALLARTA
5-AGUASCALIENTES
6-SAN PEDRO GARZA GARCIA
7-GUADALAJARA
8-AJIJIC
9-SAN MIGUEL ALLENDE
10-ENSENADA
11-CAMPECHE
12-SALTILLO
13-PLAYA DEL CARMEN
14-OAXACA
15-GUANAJUATO CITY
Tu lista esta mal.
Why Ensenada
Been there many times as a stop place to go to valle de Guadalupe
But there is nothing there to do and lots of crime
We live in Mexico and have traveled throughout Mexico ( GDL, MOR,PV, LA PAZ, QRO, and much much more ) and we have never had a problem. Things can happen no matter where you live even in safe cities and colonias so just take precautions and don’t travel to places that are known to be extremely dangerous
I lived in Merida for six months, felt very safe and loved it. And I have been to multiple places in Mexico, some of the most beautiful places are the small towns outside of Mexico City. Those places are absolutely lovely if you were looking for a slower pace of life, you do not mention that the weather in and around Mexico City is fabulous year round
Why'd you leave?
Did it take you long to acclimate to the weather there? Thanks!
@@jackbaldwin3649 it is hot there, but the chilled out vibe is worth it. Have the locals show you the best cenotes to swim, or the really cool raccoon island
@@KangTheDigitalNomad more of the world to see- lived in China a year- loved it!
I was talking with a friend of mine who is living in Tijuana and he just loves it there. He said it's close enough to come into the states if needed. Also indicated you should just avoid the rough areas and you will be fine. I lived in Chicago for 20 years and never had trouble, but I always tried to avoid rough areas.
Almost 40 years living in TJ, so far so good 😊
I've been to most of the cities you mentioned and felt very safe. I also have my Mexican residency and lived in Guadalajara for 2 years. I really enjoyed it and felt safer in Americana than in the US. When I'm in the US, I'm mindful of mass shootings and avoid places where I think they may occur.
I think twice before going to a concert or event in the US anymore as well. 😢 I also feel extremely safe in MX. I have a home in Mérida.
I avoid crowded venues anywhere in the united states.
@@DestinationRetirement Did it take you long to acclimate to the heat that everyone seems to complain about? I'm used to summers in California and it can get quite hot here.
@@jackbaldwin3649 I don't live there full time yet. I have been there is the summer but I have not stayed all summer. The end goal is to travel in the summer months.
@@jackbaldwin3649 In Merida the heat with the humidity makes it almost debilitating in summer. Not a dry heat, you will be soaked in sweat or decide to spend all of your days inside one room with the ac booming or spend a good part of your budget just for electricity to cool off your whole home. A $300us to $400us electric bill is not uncommon in summer. I have friends that live there from Florida and they say it's way hotter than what they are used to. It was 105 degrees today with the humidity making it feel like 112, right now at 10:30pm and it's 85 and with the humidity making it feel like 91. Only you can say if you would enjoy that. Not for me but it's a great city to visit in the cooler months. I moved from the western San Fernando Valley to Ensenada where it hovers around 72 to 78 and up a little during the day in summer and a comfortable to sleep in 58 to 64 at night. It's much cooler in the winter. The ocean stays around 58- in winter and goes up to around 64+ in summer keeping the weather nice year round. BTW-My electric bill is $8 to $15us per month leaving much more to spend on other more important things like street tacos!
Playa del Carmen comments are spot on. The city has a neighborhood for every taste and economic level and so close to everting you don’t even need a car. This city has a mix of the comfort and amenities you’re use to in your home country and also has an authentic Mexican and Mayan culture. I can’t say enough about how great Playa is and the endless things you can do living or visiting there.
I enjoyed my visit there 10 years ago and had planned to return, but life got in the way. This comment does give me food for thought.
When I stay in Aguascalientes for extended periods of time, I absolutely feel and am safer than where I lived in California.
I was able to walk around downtown past midnight and there will be a lot of people outside, food stands selling, police patrolling around, kids playing outside, people on bikes, etc.
I could absolutely never imagine doing that in California, USA. Once it is night time over there, almost all shops close down, almost everyone goes home and stays inside, and the only people outside are homeless and gangsters.
Obviously use common sense and have situation awareness. Bad things can happen anywhere, but in my situation, my chances of being in danger in my old hometown in California US compared to Aguascalientes, Ags., MX, the danger for me is higher in California than Aguascalientes
California it's a very big state, Irving & San Diego are the safest parts of the state and some of the safest in the country.
@@l.k.7940 Yeah, I like San Diego and also NorCal around where Eureka and Arcata is. However, I lived in the Oakland and the Stockton area
aguascalientes is arguably safer than merida on their list. long standing plants from nissan, texas instruments and mercedes create pro-business culture. better food and cheaper than queretaro. less touristy and fewer expats than queretaro too. easy flight back to u.s.
@@gametime-bw3zk , Not really, why? bcoz all parts of Mexico that are along cartels routes & potential cartels routes could potentially be embroiled or affected by them or their violence at some point, that's not the case for peripheral & relatively peripheral areas such as states of Yucatan, Campeche, Baja Cali. Sur, they are worthless for their routes and their business, most or all the other ones could still be along or near cartels routes unless the govt maintains a very big presence in any of the other ones through massive police & military forces with armaments etc, which is probably the case for most of Mexico City and any important areas near it.
On the other hand even in affected states there could be parts that are not affected bcoz some parts may not be along the cartels routes and may not have any much worth for their business or intentions.
👌
As a Mexican I can tell you that Merida is an excellent city for expats and also for Mexicans too.
Safe, Cheap, Beautiful!
Santiago de Queretaro is very safe as well. Beautiful City with friendly people. The city still has a laid back feel even though it has a population of about 2 million. The country side is also very beautiful, people are very friendly and caring. Bernal and Tequisquiapan, Queretaro are two country side towns. Slow pace, very friendly, farm life, but still has many sights to see along with museums, restaurants and many local arts and crafts.
But everything we hear about Queretaro is bad, nothing but an increase in violence and what not. I am Mexican, but live in the USA (26 yrs now), so I keep up with the news. Still have family in Mexico, tho. Not one single family member wanted to move to the USA, lol. So, we all talk about how violence is and how bad certain areas are.
@@c.m.2747 I lived in Queretaro for over a year. I am 65 years old and I walk with a cane. I do not own a vehicle so I walk, by myself, everywhere at all hours of the day and night and I NEVER encountered ANY trouble, violence or stalkers. Not sure where you are getting your information. There may be violence in a very small area of Queretaro. Queretaro is a HUGE Mexican State with about 2 million people. I can guarantee that about 98% of the State of Queretaro is very safe.
I was in Queretaro in April of 2023 and I walked all over the historical center at all times of day and night and never felt unsafe one bit. But I have traveled quite a bit and I am always careful especially at night to see if anyone is following me and I normally try to avoid streets streets where there are very few or no people. But I never felt unsafe AT ALL. Everything I have seen is Queretaro (the capital) is a very safe city. I cannot speak about all areas of the city, but I know there are some very nice neighborhoods.
@@c.m.2747 Are you referring to the STATE of Queretaro or the capital city? If you are referring to the city, I have never heard anything to suggest it is an unsafe city - quite the opposite, that it is one of the safest cities in Mexico and also I have heard one person who has lived in many places in Mexico that it is the absolutely cleanest city in the country as well.
I guess that as long as the state is 'under control' for the sake of those families, the citizens will enjoy some sort of fake 'peace'. @@jefffarris1288
As a Mexican, I can say that along as you stay in the "peninsula de Yucatan," pretty much nothing is going to happen
Eso!
You're not mexican for sure.
Scratch off Tulum.
Just watch out for Jaguars lol
@Chanok69 There's no jaguars anymore, urbanism have taken their entire habitat, there's no dangerous animal anymore
A mi parecer , muchos "pueblos mágicos" entran a la categoría de lugares lindos y seguros , la ciudad de Querétaro también.
PV itself isn't really "affordable" anymore. The impact of thousands of gringos moving there and buying property has resulted in very high real estate. Same as Chapala/Ajijic which is also very expensive.
Eso es por que el gobierno local no hace nada para controlar los precios de renta pero todos sabemos que no lo hace por que ellos mismos reciben su moche
I spent several weeks in Oaxaca. I felt safe and I am very cautious.
We just visited Mexico City and stayed in Benito Juárez which I highly recommend. Very safe and beautiful and not too crowded
Querétaro is amazing, very safe and thriving. I live there and love it.
I was going to say that. We have new arrivals here EVERY DAY. I think we are supposed to be the 2nd safest city in Mx.
Thanks, considering moving there.
I’m torn between Guadalajara and Querétaro… I’ve not been to Guadalajara yet but what is the difference?
@@pkaseven I am gonna give you great advice. DO NOT MOVE WITHOUT COMING DOWN HERE AND SEEING BOTH CITIES. Queretaro is far better--FOR ME. You may feel differently. Be smart!!!
We really like it in Queretaro
I lived in Morelia Michoacán and I never felt unsafe. Yes, cost of living is increasing, but this is happening at a global scale, not just in Mexico and the US.
Yes. People may mention or complain that the cost living is increasing but that is inevitable. Everyone always remembers how it used to be.
Michoacan it's one of the most dangerous states in Mexico, with exception to a few parts. The govt is however trying to take more control & to make it safer.
No mames you have to be Mexican no digas mamadas michoacan is dangerous
Agreed, Morelia is extremely safe.
@@noamwolfson935 , bcoz why? why is it safe or you assume that is extremely safe? bcoz not a coveted territory by the cartels?
not along cartels routes?
no plenty avocados?
you can't just say it's "extremely safe" and not give any reasons.
I visited Mexico City recently and fell in love with it. We felt very safe there our entire trip. Living in Los Angeles, it’s gotten so bad and I don’t always feel safe anymore here. So much Crime and homeless now.
I lived in New York City for over 60 years. During the pandemic, I moved to Mexico and feel much safer and happier. I live in Puerto Morelos, but I have visited Merida, Queretaro, and San Miguel de Allende. I am going to visit Puerto Vallarta soon.
It's wonderful to hear that you've found safety and happiness in Mexico! Puerto Morelos sounds like a lovely place. If you're interested, Andrew's father also shares insights and experiences about living in Mexico on his channel. You might find some interesting content there, too: www.youtube.com/@NomadCapitalistDad/
LOVE LOVE MEXICO 🇲🇽 BEAUTIFUL!!!!
Country beautiful people, an definitely
The best best “ FOOD”
Everrrrrrr!!!!!
Been living in Los Cabos (San Jose) for 5 years and really enjoy it. It’s safe, high quality of life very similar to California with a still affordable price tag. Cabo is definitely one of the most expensive part of Mexico and prices are rising as it is becoming a hub for high income families yet still much more affordable that the US. 5 stars hotel a growing like mushrooms with amazing dining options.
If you are more in a party mood, go to San Lucas, if you prefer quiet and family oriented / suburbs vibe, go to San José.
The international airport now have direct connection to Europe and will resume its direct route to Asia shortly.
Oh, thanks for your comment!! I've been wondering about Los Cabos and the cost of living there. Do you think it's difficult to find a rental for under $1,500 (regardless of size)? No, I don't need an ocean view. I don't have one now! lol
I visited Mexico City by myself in April and had a fabulous time. I stayed in Condesa which was beautiful. Visited mostly tourist areas. I felt very safe and the people were warm and friendly.
My daughter and family live in Condesa and love it! Very beautiful, safe, comfortable place. 😊
I went this year in April for 1 week by myself and had a good time, stayed in historic center….im a guy fyi.
I just came back from Mexico City and felt safer than being in NYC
I've been to both, in fact, I live in Pa and go to NYC quite often just for shits and giggles. Don't see the difference tbh.
We spend half the year in Mexico and really like Queretaro. It5s a nice and safe city with no cartel activity. San Miguel is only 45min away.
I'm from the US, and have been living in Morelia, Michoacan for over two years.
Have NEVER been approached or victimized by ANY crime in Mexico. I've never been made to feel unwelcome in my new country. If you try to assimilate, mind your own business, and don't get involved with the wrong people, you'll be fine anywhere here. I feel safer than most cities in the states.
I lived in Merida for 3.5 years (from 2017) and it was wonderful; there were some incidents but in the big picture it's the safest city. I currently live in Cd Obregon, Sonora (left Merida 'cause the humidity was bothering my health) and have been here for approximately 2 years. Statistics say it's one of the most dangerous cities in Mexico but I've had no problems and have only seen one incident in those two years. The people here treat me like I'm part of their family, incredibly friendly, and I couldn't feel safer.
I live in Hermosillo and travel to Obregón for work. It's a nice city, great food and people. Just use common sense and You'll be ok.
@@LarryVanz thank you, I do. I agree about the people, very friendly. I did see a shooting near my house on Coahuila but only incident in two years. Love driving to the farms south of the city to buy fresh produce
Knowing the safest cities in Mexico for 2023 really helps with travel and relocation plans.
Thank you Andrew! Can you keep doing more videos about mexico?
Growing up in a family that has been in the construction and real estate development business over the past 100 years on 3 continents, I can say, you're going to have to deal with some shady characters sometimes in the course of doing business. Now in Canada, we're experiencing an explosion of viciousness and street violence that didn't exist in our culture before. Cops are getting killed by ordinary unhinged citizens here now, not just organized criminals. People didn't get knifed to death by teenagers at a coffee shop for some minor perceived slight or assaulted on the subway on a daily basis by the mentally ill homeless drug addict or gang members having shoot outs in the middle of the downtown shopping districts in the past, but that's common now. It's like Lord of the Flies or Mad Max. Then there's the entirely other issues of 40% of the voters running towards totalitarianism and the governments that are more than happy to oblige. Our country is descending into anarcho-tyranny fast on public streets and while some want to stay and save it and others close their eyes and hope it will just go away, I'm already over it and checked out of Hotel Canada.
Mexico is like any other country to greater or lesser degrees. The difference is, when required, AMLO will drop 1500 soldiers on the streets and beaches of Cancun to settle things down and make the cartels cool their jets. I can live with that.
The culture that built the West into the most advanced in the world has been oikophobic for decades and is now dead. Discredited, demonized, guilt ridden and emasculated it is bereft of any conviction to enforce its values, providing fertile ground for the conditions you mentioned. The lunacy will continue until a more authoritarian, primitive government that can at least provide some measure of civil stability will be welcomed by a desperate populace.
Im Canadian who lives 45min north of Toronto and it’s a daily occurrence of gun violence and assaults ,robbery. It’s a cesspool of liberal lawlessness and im done with this sinking country. I want out and Mexico or Costa Rica will be my new home.
Interesting info, how did Canada become as unsafe as U.S.A.?
We have an WEF degenerate in as PM and his whole liberal trash traitors who have decriminalize hard drugs that has caused crime,overdoses to skyrocket. We have a justice system that releases thugs for gun crimes out the same day. Lawlessness is the new Canada and I’m done with this woke country.
@@l.k.7940 We ignored the warnings about the slippery slope and gave the keys of the car to the suicidal ideologues.
The biggest issue with Mexico City 🇲🇽 is not crime but rather air quality (air pollution). It is a lovely place; cosmopolitan, sophisticated, a gourmand’s paradise, and certainly it is much more vibrant and cultured than any city in the USA 🇺🇸. All that being said, it is most decidedly NOT a good option for anyone with respiratory ailments or chronic illnesses in general due to the toll that the polluted air takes on the lungs of its residents ⚠️
But still living longer than us in US 😥 , here in USA the food is shit , and if we talk about insurance we know it 😢
I just loved this video!, unlike other news channel...Andrew was very factual and respectful, and that was refreshing, I live in La Paz BCS, and this is a wonderful place to live, we have very hot summers but you will love it here, you are all very welcome whenever you want to visit us!
I've visited Cozumel, Huatulco twice, los cabos, and Playa del carmen. I really love vacationing in Mexico, especially Huatulco and the Yucatan area, I find the Mayan culture so fascinating and the nature is breath taking.
And I was so empressed with how clean and polished the Streets were, much cleaner than here in Ontario Canada.
I really want to spend some time in Merida, not as a vacationer but to see if I could live there.
You know, in reality, it is all relative. Mexico can be very safe, and Mexico can be very dangerous. I can say the exact same thing, just changing the word ""Mexico"" to the ""United States"". It all depends. period. I have been living off and on for the past 40 years in Mexico, crossing the border at least 4 to 7 times a year. I have lived mostly in the lower class neighborhoods of everywhere from Tijuana, Matamoros, Nogales and Tecate on the US border to living in the large cities of Puebla, Pachuca, Puerto Vallarta, and Taxco in central Mexico, to living in very rural villages of Oaxaca, Tamaulipas, San Luis Potosi, Queretaro, Sinaloa and Guerrero states. I currently own a small humble home in notorious Guerrero state. I have used walking, and local public transportation as my primary means of getting around. In 40 years, I was never assaulted, not even once, by civilians in Mexico, vs. being violently assaulted once in the US(Cleveland). However, I was assaulted at gunpoint 5 times in Mexico by uniformed authorities ( 4 times by Mexican police, and once by Mexican military). Once in my hotel room, twice walking along the highway, and twice camped out in the desert. In all 5 cases, I was only briefly detained, and lost nothing except a little dignity, and a very small amount of cash in one of the cases. I have been briefly stopped dozens and dozens of times by American police ( although never at gunpoint). I have earned a living in Mexico over the past 40 years doing everything from begging and odd jobs, to being an itinerant vendor to being made assistant to the general manager of a large tourist establishment ( in Pto Vallarta) to currently being a youtuber. Although I proudly come from the lower class, compared to the 95% of the ex-patriots who are from the middle and upper classes, I have always felt many times safer, even in my precarious life, everywhere I have lived in Mexico. And that is not because of the police presence and their so called security or because President Lopez Obrador says that Mexico is so safe. But rather because of the people. The common people that I live with, that I associate with, that I work, play, and sleep with. THEY bring safety to my life. Something that I have never experienced in cold, impersonal USA. So draw your own conclusions!
Before watching this Andrew, there is a shooting, mugging, robbery where I live in Northern California, Bay Area, everyday😢!! I'm in Baja Mexico right now (San Jose del Cabo) and I couldn't feel SAFER by taking a walk to the beach at the time of sunset here!
I live here in Queretaro Mexico .... Amazing City and state ...
Merida....what a great place! As well as CDMX! Love these places and yeah of course neighborhoods make a difference just like "bad areas" or "bad streets" in America
I've been in CDMX for 6 years. Been to Mérida to visit but too hot 🥵 I love the year round weather in CDMX.
I love Mexico City and Puerto Escondido are places I love and can't what to visit and move to Mexico!!
Also visited Chiapas. I drove from Merida to Palenque, San Cristobal de las Casas, Tuxla Gutieres, Villahermosa, Campeche, Merida. No problems. I drove from Mexico City to Merida. No problems
In the late 80s and early 90s I drove all over Mexico. Had near zero fear.
Unfortunately, can't do that now. But I will be flying in to several cities next month.
Merida was too hot for me, and I took my first plane ride to get out of there. Friends, who ,ive there say the electric bill can be more than the rent.
I live in Ensenada. Costco, Walmart, home Depot, DQ, little Caesars, Carl's Jr., office max, burger king, Applebee's, McDonald's, KFC, plus Chinese buffet (2) Chevron, 15k expats. Totally safe, in the daytime at least. Just like any us City. ❤
You are absolutely right and not only in Ensenada, but also in the rest of the cities in Mexico
I was in playa del Carmen in 1982 from Uk pretty village was in Acapulco 2019 I thought it was lovely and people were friendly and with it
Another great video Andrew and I agree Mexico is very safe!! I was in another very safe city -- Queretaro before I met you at Nomad Capitalist last September in Mexico City.
Mexico is very safe?!
You mean some of Mexico.
I've been to Morelia a couple of times and I found it is a very beautiful place, very affordable with great regional food. And it is right in between Mexico City and Guadalajara.
We drove to La Paz from San Diego and spent three months. Really enjoyed it, would recommend La Paz, and would do it again.
It seems pretty walkable?
La Paz is a great town but nearby Loreto is even better.
@@stephenburnage7687 Loreto looks neat. Is there a boardwalk, swimmable beaches and mountains (for mountain biking) nearby?
@@CashCatz Definitely a broadwalk. We passed by in a boat, so only saw a little of it, however. Gorgeous town square. Probably no developed mountain biking trails but I would imagine miles if bikabke terrain. In that sence I would imagine it is similar to La Paz.
@@stephenburnage7687 There's some developed trails close to La Paz from what I've read. The entire area seems magical but I've never been.
Literraly cameback from mexico in cancun and felt super safe im plannjmg kn living a snowbird lifestyle when j retire and Mexico is definetly a place i would call a second home outside Canada the people arw friendly the vibe is different great food and you can live like a king for a reaonable price
People loose their mind when I say Morelia Michoacán was safer than Stockton and Modesto, CA. But it’s true!! You couldn’t pay me enough to walk around Stockton at night.
Stockton is a shit hole. Every time I go from the Bay Area to Sacramento, I get anxiety driving through Stockton on I 5.
Work in Stockton live in Modesto
Any suggestions on which city’s in Mexico to visit ?
I've lived in Oaxaca for 3 years and have never felt unsafe. Certainly safer than when I lived in LA 3 years age! I always take normal precautions but no issues.
Tampico is a city near the Gulf of Mexico and just 6 hours south from Texas. Rated one of the safest since 2020. I was born here and also my kids. Best place to have a family. Schools are very near, grocery stores, hospitals (public and private), even my workplace is just 7 minutes from home. If I had the chance to change something it's the weather: very hot on spring and summer.
Tampico has a wonderful Christmas celebration.
Another very safe city in Mexico that did not make your list is Campeche.
Love Campeche ❤ We visit often ❤
They forgot about it probably.
safest state in mexico per u.s. state deparment travel adivsory. love the mayan ruins, haciendas and seafood
I'm surprised that Mazatlan didn't make the list. I have had the pleasure of spending a couple months in Mazatlan each winter. I have never felt unsafe.
We are 2 Canadians 🇨🇦 living in Merida Yucatan.
We also lived in Progreso Yucatan and in Chicxulub Yucatán with no problems.
We drove to San Cristobal Chiapas (beautiful) for holidays with no issues we also travelled (drove) to Bacalar, Mahahual, Playa Del Carmen. All over the Yucatán Peninsula no issues. I also flew to Mexico city for 1 week with a local friend with no issues. Mexico is beautiful country. We are non drinkers non-druggies, use common sense like anywhere in the world.
The problem with Merida is that it's fricken hot 🥵🔥😀
Soon we will be moving to Veracruz Xalapa. Then near or in Mexico city (beautiful place) then eventually to Oaxaca coast. ✌️🇲🇽❤️
Xalapa es frío y mex no se diga
@@efrainjimenez5361 lol 😂 perfecto ✌️
@@2GringosOnTheGulf 🇲🇽👊🇺🇲
Just because you’ve had no problem, doesn’t mean it’s safe.
@@mj24672 Yes you better just stay put probably be the best for you 🙏
I’ve been to Campeche city and it felt safe and it had a lot to offer cuisine wise, as well as cultural.
The most dangerous part of Merida MX is the sidewalks/potholes, watch your step…
You forgot the heat 😂🥵🔥
I don’t see the point of being so far yet so close to amazing beaches in a place that is insanely hot.
Sounds like most southern U.S. cities! 😂😊
I've spent weeks and weeks and weeks - OK, months and months - in Mexico City, Oaxaca(city and coast), Chiapas, Yucatán, Veracruz state, and some in Puebla state. NOT once have I had a negative experience or unpleasant interaction with anyone. Sure, I speak Spanish, and that helps for sure, but I'm definitely not of native fluency.
I just moved to playas de Tijuana ,Mexico from Riverside,Ca . This is good info 👍🏾
Been traveling around and living in different places in central Mexico for 7 months, now. Currently in Patzcuaro, Michoacan and we love it. We have not felt unsafe in Mexico but we also use common sense. We avoid places like Acapulco, Cancun, Tulum, and big tourist hubs mostly due to the higher cost of living (for Mexico) and number of scammers. We focus on smaller Mexican towns and cities and some smaller villages.
Very nice. I'm doing the same thing. Been here about 7 months too.
I've been living 40+ years at the northern state of Sonora and never been a crime victim. I also lived 8 years at Culiacán and didn't even see a gun, shootings, I just went to work and back home, no night clubs, no nothing past midnight.
There are plenty of robberies in Mexico, they would steal whatever you leave outside your place or in the car. You would never see a massive random shooting just because someone is thirsty for blood. Shootings are between members of organized crime and other groups or against any force.
I live a nice and peaceful life and great family atmosphere.
By the way, I've never tried any illegal drug and don't even know'em.
Just don't look for troubles because you're gonna find'em.
True about theft!
I lived in the most dangerous neighborhood (Colonia Libertad) of the most dangerous city (Tijuana) in the world at that time. No one ever bothered me. I'm not recommending living there; it was a dangerous place, but I enjoyed it.
Thank you Andrew!
Mexico is looking like a possibility for me
Great video, I have loved MX since I was a kid, grandparents from border land on US side. Probably my favorite people and favorite place to visit. Having said all that, the uncontestable truth is that rule of law philosophy is different than say the US. Investigation, enforcement and conviction is not adequate. So as long as you do not need the police or courts, that is fine. There are good police themselves, but the system itself is not reliable. So if you move, make sure you do not need law enforcement services.
I visited playa del carman and I feel safer walking there at night than in Dublin Ireland.. in Dublin four tourists were attacked in the city centre and one American in a coma in the past few months alone..
My wife and I just returned from visiting Ajijic and felt very safe. We were looking into retiring there and did find a few pros and cons as would be anywhere, but never felt afraid. Lots of retired folks enjoying life there. I did notice most homes having electric fences and razor wire around their top perimeter but after asking some locals about it, they mostly said it was a cultural thing??
Oh yes, my family and I have lived in both Merida and now Chapala near Ajijic. It´s been great and very safe.
It's a "cultural thing" to discourage break ins and robberies! If it walks like a duck, quacks,....
I lived in 23 different cities in México. Lately, Mazatlan Sinaloa has been my go-to place. It is actually safer than lots of other places in México I think. I agree with Mérida being the safest place. Qurétaro is very safe too.
this is very useful. Thanks.
You're quite right about bad neighbourhoods in one's own country. I do like Mazatlan, but the whole province has cartel troubles and Culiacan is too close so i won't go there any more.
I'm Canadian and live in Mexico for (you know which) 6 months every year.
I go to Oaxaca which is lovely, peaceful and unique.
When I need a beach I take a van 3hrs to Puerto Escondido 3 hours away on the Pacific coast.
There are 3 nearby communities (Zipolite, San Augustinillo and Mazunte) which are perhaps the chillest places in all of Mexico.
Puerto Escondido itself is safe and fun and still quite Mexican when you leave the beach areas.
I visited all the places you mention except for Sayulito and Nayarit.
Thanks for the suggestions.
I was in downtown Merida once and there was a pickup truck driving around w soldiers in the back. 30 cal and assault rifles on display.
That's why it is safe 🙂
Thank you, Andrew for all the good information you provide.
Aguascalientes is really safe actually, being the capital of its homonymous state has all of the amenities that you'll need, its population is 1,300,000; the only downside I see is that the regions surrounding the state (not the city, the state) are quite dangerous, if you wanna go in vacation outside the city either you hit the "highway" between 7am - 3 pm or you take an airplane, Aguascalientes is an "oasis" between south Zacatecas and "el Bajio" in north-east Jalisco.
As all cities it has its dangerous zones (this one's ubicated in the outskirts of the city), but in general you can be outside in the downton region till 10pm and everything will be fine; thanks to the size of the city and its main 3 “highways” in the form of rings you can go in car from one tip of the city to the other in 25 minutes.
The Centennial Miguel Hidalgo Hospital is in the top 50 best hospitals in Mexico.
There is various parks in the city, the biggest one being the “Rodolfo Landeros Park” which was previously the state’s airport so it's considerably big and has plenty of Family Recreational Services, in front of this park is a commercial center with a cinema and at a distance of 10 minutes on foot is the “Aguascalientes theater” home of the state orchestra.
The Autonomous University of Aguascalientes (UAA) is the 136th best university in all of Latin America and its degrees have validity throughout Mexico and most can be validated in the USA as well.
I've lived my whole life in this city, I hope this helps you.
I went to visit my Mother in Law in Michoacan. There is lots of violent events going on, but I felt safe. Most of the crimes are drug related. The time I was there, I had no issues.
I'm a permanent resident and lived in Puerto Vallarta for 5 years. Safe and beautiful but wow the cost of living is really increasing fast! Rentals are thru the roof and even restos are getting expensive, specially for MX. Many things (electronics, clothing, bread, meat, butter etc) are now cheaper where I live part time in Québec then in PV.
Peso is getting stronger, that's why. You can't buy as much for the low dollars any more. I feel it when I send money home. lol
@@c.m.2747 exactly. We lost around 18% on the exchange during the last 12 months.
@lb9007 yep. I spent 6 months last year in Mexico, and it was 20-1 . Electronics and clothing have always been expensive, I think since i was a little girl I remember seeing my better off family members have the nice stuff while we didn't. Now that I went back for a longer period of time, I noticed how expensive Tvs are, same as before.
I find many consumer goods (electronics, home furnishings, appliances, clothing, etc.) I buy are more expensive in Mexico than in the USA.
Totally, living in Guadalajara. The West side is safer and i can walk in the middle of the night looking for groceries and feeling safe. Obviously you want to avoid the east side or at least try not to go there at night, i guess in the morning it is not bad
Great presentation.
Toluca, Mexico is also a nice city that' is 45 minutes to Mexico City on a high speed rail line.
I’ve been in living in Ensenada since Feb 2022. I can say that, while I’ve had a few small things stolen/missing, my biggest issues have been with 1) signficant increase in rental prices and cost of living in past year 2) horrible experiences with mexican landlords. I may consider moving within mexican, but I’d be relieved to leave Baja California Del Norte. Any suggestions?
I'm considering Ensenada so I can live closer to my family in Calif. Would you stay in Ensenada if you met a landlord that you liked or would you still prefer to move? Thanks!
If you are complaining about increasing the prices, and it’s difficult for you, imagine for a Mexican in their own country, it is imposible, they can’t afford what you pay, you should be grateful instead of complaining.
@@Lovebubble_01 You have a point but if this person is trying to live off just social security in Ensenada it can be challenging, Mexican Citizen or not. Many, many Americans are not rich and they have to make tough choices about how best to spend their limited budget.
@@jackbaldwin3649 yes, Mexicans are not rich either and they want the same, and guess what? They can’t get it because gringos make it more difficult for them, imagine that someone come to your home, to “visit” and stay at the best room for every and they give you the worst room of the your own house, how about that?!!! Is it fair? I think that person should have their own home, anything they can afford in their country.
I have lived in Cuernavaca Mexico for 7 years. I enjoy it here and as a resident plan to stay for a long time. Enjoy the weather, the people, the food. We have a condo in Playa Del Carmen and spend time there every 2 months and enjoy Playa greatly.
That sounds amazing! Seems like you're living the best life in Mexico!
AGUASCALIENTES a City in central MEXICO, beautiful and safe believe me
I've been living in Merida, actually in a pueblo near Merida, for the last 2 years. Great place to live. I lived In Vancouver BC and Kelowna before. No comparison
Viva La Mexico a love of views, warmth of sun and tacos
To live here is better than the U.S. Good luck with the U.S.
Great Job Andrew
I have been traveling to different parts of Mx over the last 20 or so years, but still reside in the US. I'm working hard to learn the language because for me, that's important. I love the language, I love the people, the food, the culture and I hate the bad rap the US keeps giving Mx and it's citizens as they are lovely, hard working and accepting. I'm not completely convinced I'm going to move but not convinced I won't either. Beginning this year, I'm going to start going down for months at a time and see how feel, want to improve my Spanish and also check out Columbia and Costa Rica. I have several towns in MX on my list: Mazatlan, Nayarit, Los Mochis that I want to check out but also love what you are saying about Guadalajada. Thanks for your video!
No matter where you stay, if the criminals aren't highly punished or removed from society you will always be in a dangerous place.
Disagree with this and this is exactly what north America does and look at it. Look at multiple European countries that focused on rehabilitation and reform.
January 2014, I came to live in Mexico... Tijuana to be precise. I was 64. On January 2, 2015, I came to Puebla (100km sur de la ciudad de México... CDMX). I came without speaking a complete sentence in Spanish. I self-taught Spanish while living in this beautiful city (4th largest in México). I come to the States at least twice yearly... to the Veteran's Hospital in La Jolla north of San Diego as part of my veteran's medically based pension and to renew my VISA. I would never live anywhere else than Puebla. I live alone, so learning the language is, I know, essential. But, it also gives you a new perstective on just about everything in life. While in the US Navy as an enlisted sailor and as an officer, I've experienced many places in 10 years of honor, obtigated service. (Learn Spanish. Be a good neighbor.) RT sends/mande, Colonia Centrol Histórico, Puebla, México.
Merida is a beautiful city. The climate is nice (at least compared to Cancun and CDMX), and there are trees everywhere. It’s also fairly walkable if you’re near the middle of town. It’s a perfect mixture for me between authentic and tourist-friendly.
I live in San Felipe on the Baja in El Dorado Ranch. Great Cheak it out.
It is safe although don't take for granted.. if you mess with the wrong people you can get in big trouble.. I been living permanently in michoacan for the past 13 years and haven't had any unpleasant crime related experiences .
Echo everything stated in this video. If you are watching this video, you're already ahead of the curve as MX is a great place to explore and relocate. My family just got here and we may never go back north to the states.
Lived in Los Barriles for 10 years. Very safe. Moving to Ensañada now!
I live in Mexico City, I walk to the gym every morning at 5 am and I’ve never been robbed. It’s a city that doesn’t sleep and foreigners are welcome,
What a great guide for immigrants that are moving to Mexico.
Merida, Yucatan
Mexico City - Polanca, Roma Norte, near Reforma, Contesa
Guadlara, Oaxaca, San Cristobal de la Cruz
Andrew ,you are the best in what you do ,thank you.
Appreciate that! Thank you.
Ive lived in Playa del Carman. It is a nice little city and I felt completely safe there