Affordable health care, low living costs, and warm weather make Mexico an increasingly popular retirement destination.
While Mexico — with its picture-perfect beaches, lush mountains, fascinating culture, world-class cuisine, and friendly people — remains one of the most popular tourist destinations for Americans, the country is also emerging as a retirement haven.
“According to social security data, the number of American retirees in Mexico has nearly doubled since 2016, up from 36,000 to 62,000 retirees in 2023,” said Chet Kittleson, co-founder and CEO of Far Homes, an online marketplace for international real estate. “These folks are drawn to the quality of life, incredible weather, beautiful beaches, lower cost of living, more affordable health care, and the list goes on.” American seniors can save, on average, $44,144 per year, including $8,000 or more on health care alone, if they move to Mexico, Far Homes’ data shows.
So, we asked Mexico-based real estate agents to give us the lowdown on the most sought-after communities for retirees looking to move south of the border.
Merida, Yucatán
“With its safety, cultural richness, recreation, amenities, and health care, Merida provides retirees with an exceptional lifestyle,” Ana Alicia López, a broker with Riviera Maya Sotheby’s International Realty, said, adding that the capital of Yucatán is home to the best health care facilities in southern Mexico. The city is about 45 minutes from some of Yucatán’s most beautiful beaches, including Puerto Progreso, San Crisanto, and El Cuyo, which are just as picture-perfect as those in Riviera Maya, but not nearly as crowded.
López explained that retirees have plenty of options when it comes to property types in Merida — from historic colonial homes with traditional architecture and courtyards in the downtown area to modern condos with resort-type amenities in gated communities like the popular Yucatan Country Club and La Ceiba in the northern part of the city.
She noted that prices also vary depending on the property’s location, size, and condition. Renovated homes in the historic center start from US$700,000, while contemporary residences start from US$300,000, and spacious single-family homes in the suburbs from US$400,000.
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