Moving to Puerto Penasco, Mexico
Last updated on Jul 06, 2024
Summary: Many expats move to Puerto Penasco, Mexico for its beautiful beaches, warm climate, and low cost of living. The area is known for its vibrant culture, friendly locals, and excellent seafood. Expats also appreciate the easy access to the US border, allowing them to travel back and forth with relative ease. Additionally, Puerto Penasco offers a wide range of activities and attractions, from golfing and fishing to shopping and sightseeing. With its stunning scenery and laid-back atmosphere, Puerto Penasco is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home.
What do I need to know before moving to Puerto Penasco?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Puerto Penasco, they said:
"1. Puerto Penasco is located in the Mexican state of Sonora, close to the United States border. 2. One of the most important things to remember if you are an expat planning on living in Puerto Penasco is to ensure you get all of the necessary paperwork, such as a valid visa, to remain and travel within the country. 3. The language spoken in Puerto Penasco is Mexican Spanish, so if you do not already speak the language it is important to brush up on your skills before arriving. 4. It is also beneficial to learn more about the local culture to better understand the people living there so you can better fit in. 5. Puerto Penasco has a warm climate, so it’s important to bring and wear sun protection and appropriate clothing throughout the year. 6. As Puerto Penasco is a foodie’s paradise, remember to sample some of the local cuisine and restaurant offerings, as they are known to be some of the best in Mexico. 7. Healthcare is also important to take into consideration and Puerto Penasco has numerous medical clinics and hospitals for expats to choose from. 8. Finally, Puerto Penasco is very close to the Perlas Islands, making it easy to escape to the beach or simply enjoying a relaxing day out," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
"Speak to a real estate agent that has experience in the area of Puerto Penasco that you choose. They can locate rentals and what's for sale easily and give you proper information to help make your move go smooth. There is no fee to speak with an agent. They're happy to help," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
How do I find a place to live in Puerto Penasco?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"One option to find a place to live in Puerto Penasco is to search online and view local listings. Many popular websites offer comprehensive listings of rentals and homes for sale in Puerto Penasco, and many real estate agencies have online presences with plenty of listings as well. You may also have luck searching through online expat forums, as those making the move to the area often post about their housing search and point potential renters in the right direction. Additionally, you may consider visiting the area itself, as this can be a great way to scout out potential housing opportunities," replied a member in Puerto Penasco.
"Many expats live in my neighborhood (Mirador) plus it's just a few blocks to the beach," commented one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Puerto Penasco?
"I live in a house. Houses and condos are the typical places expats live in Puerto Penasco," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
"Expat homes and apartments in Puerto Penasco typically offer a taste of luxury living, with many featuring modern and spacious accommodations. Many of the homes and apartments are beachside, with stunning views of the Sea of Cortez, and decks, terraces, and private balconies that overlook the ocean. Many of the rental properties offer private amenities, such as swimming pools and hot tubs. Inside, the apartments feature modern furnishings and air-conditioning. Kitchens come fully equipped with stainless-steel appliances, while bathrooms boast shower/tub combos and modern design," remarked one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
What is the average cost of housing in Puerto Penasco?
If you are thinking about moving to Puerto Penasco, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Puerto Penasco is relatively inexpensive compared to other coastal cities in the country. Rent prices typically range between 500-1,000 USD per month, while the price of purchasing a home is often between 50,000-150,000 USD depending on the size and area," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
Should I buy or rent a home in Puerto Penasco?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Puerto Penasco, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"The decision of whether to buy or rent a home in Puerto Penasco will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Buying a home can provide you with more stability and security, whereas renting can give you greater flexibility and freedom. If you are looking for a long-term investment, then buying may be the best choice. Alternatively, if you are looking for a short-term home or temporary residence then renting may be the most suitable option. Ultimately, the decision should be based on how often and for how long you plan to reside in Puerto Penasco, Mexico," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
What should I pack when moving to Puerto Penasco?
We asked people living in Puerto Penasco to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When packing to move to Puerto Peñasco, Mexico, it is important to take items that will be useful and comfortable in the local climate. A light, long-sleeve shirt is necessary as the sun can be very intense in this region. Additionally, bring items such as sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect your skin from the sun's rays. Depending on the season, a light jacket and closed-toe shoes may also be necessary for cooler nights. Be sure to bring basic medical supplies in case of an emergency, and enough medication in case a prescription needs to be refilled. Lastly, don't forget to bring any items that you might not be able to find in Puerto Peñasco, such as your favorite spices, special snacks, and toiletries," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
"I drive only 3.5 hours to Tucson so I can easily get what I need, being so close, I never had to worry about leaving anything behind," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Puerto Penasco?
We asked people in Puerto Penasco if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be respectful of the local customs and culture in Puerto Penasco. When visiting, it is best to avoid speaking disrespectfully or making jokes that could be deemed offencive. Additionally, be conscious of the local dress code and modesty standards when dressing, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property. Furthermore, be aware that some topics, such as religion and political beliefs, can be sensitive to discuss and should be avoided unless invited to discuss them. Respect for the local environment is also important, and it is important to be mindful of the local wildlife and plants," said one expat in Puerto Penasco.
"First time purchasing toilet paper, I was with a bilingual girlfriend, She couldn't believe her ears. I asked where it was, Now I know it's "Papel para baño" or "papel hygenico", but I originally asked where I could find "papel por culo" (paper for the butt (hole)) my friend freaked out. To this day I am never afraid to try Spanish, plenty of people will correct my errors, I'm OK with that, it's how we learn," said one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
Why do people move to Puerto Penasco?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Puerto Penasco, they responded:
"Puerto Penasco has a lot to offer expats looking to experience a different culture and way of life. The coastal city boasts a wide variety of activities for both day-trippers and longer-term visitors, from fishing and beach-combing to nightlife and culture. Expats can enjoy exploring the vibrant local markets, historic architecture, and delicious seafood cuisine. With its peaceful atmosphere, affordable cost of living and proximity to the U.S. border, Puerto Penasco also offers an excellent opportunity to live near the warm waters of the Sea of Cortez and make the most of a slower pace of life," commented one expat living in Puerto Penasco.
Connect
Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Connect
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
How are healthcare services Puerto Penasco?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Puerto Penasco, they replied:
"Puerto Penasco offers a variety of healthcare services to its residents and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide general medical care, as well as specialized services such as obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. Additionally, there are several pharmacies in the city that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. Puerto Penasco also has a number of private medical practices that offer a range of services, including family medicine, internal medicine, and dentistry. The city also has a number of alternative health care providers, such as acupuncturists, chiropractors, and naturopaths," said one expat.
What are medical services in Puerto Penasco like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Puerto Penasco, they replied:
"Puerto Penasco offers a variety of medical services for both locals and visitors. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide a range of services, including general medical care, emergency services, and specialized care. Many of the hospitals and clinics are staffed by experienced and qualified medical professionals, and they offer a range of treatments and procedures. Additionally, Puerto Penasco has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter remedies. Visitors to the city can also find a variety of medical services, such as dental care, optometry, and physical therapy," stated one expat who made the move to Puerto Penasco.
"Our town does not have a major hospital that I would feel comfortable going to for open heart surgery for example. That is the only issue with medical care here. Anything less than major surgery can be done here. Major surgery would require going to a large metro area either 3.5 hours away or 5 hours away in the other direction. We would just go back to Phoenix because it is 3.5 hours away. That is what our expat friends do," remarked one expat in Puerto Penasco.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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