Moving to Mexico City

"Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting place to live, but expats should prepare themselves for living in a lower-cost of living than other popular expat destinations. Familiarizing yourself with the local language (Spanish) and culture is essential for a smooth transition to expat life. It's important to research the different neighbourhoods and understand the security situation so you can find the safest place to live. In addition, it's essential to look into reliable banking and medical resources to ensure you're well taken care of for the entirety of your stay. Additionally, it's wise to build a social circle of other expats to provide support and advice throughout your relocation," said one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"If you are lucky enough to have your company pay for a Relocation company you wont have any problems since they know very well were you should live. But if this is not the case, I recommend you get advice from someone in your company to recommend areas close to work that meet your budget. Once you know the names of the areas you can then serach on the local newspapers for apartments," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"My company assisted us by hiring a Relocation company. In Mexico City it is very important to know where you will work in order to find your home. Commuting time can be terrible if you do not consider this important issues," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"The first step in finding a place to live in Mexico City is to decide on the type of accommodation that you prefer. Are you looking for a single rental unit, a room in a shared house or apartment, or a fully furnished flat or house? You can search for rental listings online by searching for websites such as VivaStreet Mexico and EasyRoommate Mexico. You can also consult with a local real estate agency and speak with a realtor who knows the area and can show you a variety of options. Additionally, you can join local expat Facebook groups or browse the classifieds section of local expat websites to get an idea of what’s available. Once you’ve identified potential properties, you should visit each in person to get a better feel for them before you make a final decision," said one expat in Mexico City.

"Apartments are the most recommended housing for expats. One reason is security, and also you can make friends easier on the social areas like swiming pools, tennis courts, etc," replied a member in Mexico City.

"Most expat homes or apartments in Mexico City are typically modern and comfortable, with amenities such as high-end appliances, high-speed internet, and cable TV. The size of the home or apartment varies, but most provide spacious living areas and bedrooms. Some homes are also equipped with private terraces or balconies and a garden area where expats can take in the endless views of Mexico City's breathtaking skyline. Many buildings also provide access to a gym, a pool and other modern amenities, so expats can pursue an active lifestyle without ever leaving the comfort of their home," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"The cost of housing in Mexico City varies depending on the neighborhood and size of accommodation, but the average price for a mid-range apartment is likely to be around 45,000 to 55,000 Mexican Pesos a month," replied a member in Mexico City.

"Mexico City is an expensive city to live in. I am lucky to have my company pay for it, but to give an idea: A three bedroom apartment can go from US$2,500 - 5,000 per month plus utilities," commented one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"Whether to buy or rent a home in Mexico City, depends on your individual circumstances and preferences. Buying is generally more expensive in the short-term, as you must pay for the cost of the property, closing costs, and any necessary renovations. Additionally, if you buy, you will also have to pay for ongoing maintenance and repairs for the home. Renting, on the other hand, typically requires a lower initial expenditure, and you will not be responsible for the cost of any upkeep or repairs. Ultimately, you must decide which option is best for you, taking into account your financial resources, desired lifestyle, and future plans," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"It is important to pack clothing suitable for Mexico City's climate and terrain, especially for the warm months; sturdy shoes for walking and plenty of water is no less important. Be sure to pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect from the sun. Depending on your individual lifestyle and needs, other essential items may include a lock for your suitcase, a flashlight (preferably rechargeable), and any necessary medication. Don’t forget to bring power adapters compatible with Mexico City's electricity outlets. Documents such as valid proof of identification and insurance information should also be brought. It is beneficial to have a small travel guide or Spanish phrase book to help navigate the city. Additionally, a first aid kit can be helpful to have on hand," remarked one expat who made the move to Mexico City.

"I wish I had brought with me all family & friends photo albums. They are of great help whenever you are crossing through the cultural shock. It helps by reminding you of friends and family. I also wish I had brought my stereo, dvd, etc since Mexico has the same electric outlet as USA. The last but not less important thing I wish I had brought with me is literature about Mexico (touristic sites, etc). since you can find them in Mexico but they are very expensive," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"When visiting Mexico City, it is important to be respectful of the local culture and customs. Avoid any behavior or conversation that could be interpreted as offensive or inappropriate. Refrain from making rude or disrespectful comments about the culture, people, or religion. Additionally, be mindful not to wear clothing that is too revealing or make disrespectful gestures. It is also important to avoid pointing with the index finger, as this gesture can be considered rude," explained one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"When you meet someone for the first time, you usually say the formal address of you, which is "usted". Once you know them, saying "usted" is almost an insult! I've done that a few times. Now I call everyone "tu", which is the informal "you", and everyone welcomes it," said one expat in Mexico City.

"Mexico City offers an eclectic blend of cultures, art, and entertainment, making it an appealing destination for expats seeking a vibrant and lively environment. The city boasts an excellent array of educational and employment opportunities, allowing expats to take advantage of the city’s bustling economy. The comparatively low costs of living, in comparison to other major cities, is another great motivator for expats looking to move to Mexico City. Added to this, the city's warm climate, friendly locals and wide selection of shopping, dining and nightlife options appeal to many expats looking for a rewarding and vibrant lifestyle. Mexico City also regularly tops lists for having one of the most liveable cities in the world for expats," replied one expat when asked about moving to Mexico City.

"Mexico City offers a wide range of healthcare services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is provided by the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and the Mexican Institute of Social Security (ISSSTE). These public institutions offer a variety of services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services. Private hospitals and clinics are also available, offering a range of services from general practice to specialized care. Mexico City also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and rehabilitation centers. Additionally, Mexico City is home to a number of pharmacies, providing both prescription and over-the-counter medications," said one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.

"Traditional medicine is widely available and accessible in Mexico city. However, eastern and homeopathic medicine isn't as common and therefore not as reliable," said one expat.

"Mexico City offers a wide range of medical services, including both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public hospitals are generally well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, while the private hospitals offer more specialized services and often have shorter wait times. Mexico City also has a number of specialized medical centers, such as cancer treatment centers, fertility clinics, and pediatric centers. Additionally, Mexico City is home to a number of medical research centers, which are dedicated to advancing medical knowledge and treatments," said one expat living in Mexico City, Mexico.