With its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and welcoming people, Mexico offers a unique experience for those seeking adventure and a change of scenery.
It has also become a popular destination for digital nomads looking for a safe and affordable place to work remotely.
From the bustling metropolis of Mexico City to the tranquil beaches of Tulum, there is something for everyone in this vibrant country.
So the question is, where should you set your sights if you were to move to Mexico?
Let’s explore these best cities & towns in Mexico that are ideal for digital nomads.
But before that, I am sure that you have this safety question in mind.
Is it safer than US…???
The Reality: Safety in Mexico vs. Safety in The US
According to the statistics, Mexico is a lot less dangerous than the United States.
There has been a lot of flack in the news regarding the violence (mostly due to drug cartels) that has been occurring in Mexico.
However, the reality is that many areas of Mexico are safe and have a lower crime rate than some cities in the United States.
In general, it is recommended to research the specific location and take necessary safety measures, such as avoiding certain areas at night and being aware of the surroundings.
We do take all these precautions in the US as well.. Right!!
With that said, let’s discuss a bit about the environment of Mexico for remote workers..
What is living in Mexico like as a remote worker?
Mexico is an attractive destination for digital nomads for several reasons..
It offers a mix of modern amenities, affordable cost of living, and rich local culture.
In addition, Mexico has a good infrastructure for remote work, with reliable internet and coworking spaces available in many cities.
You can enjoy the flexibility of working from anywhere while experiencing the local culture and cuisine.
When some folks go to Mexico to see what it’s like, they usually remain for a year or more since the pace of life suits them better.
So, what are these places that I’m talking about?
The safest places to live in Mexico
Here you are about to find out why the widespread belief that the entire country is dangerous is simply not accurate,…
Our first best city is….
Merida
Mérida, the Yucatán peninsula’s capital city, is rich in colonial heritage while also offering the modern advantages of a big city.
The cost of living in Merida is relatively low compared to other major cities, making it an affordable option for remote workers.
If you’d like to mingle with other ex-pats, the city is home to a sizeable expatriate community.
Additionally, Merida is considered to be one of the safest cities in Mexico, with a low crime rate and friendly locals.
Querétaro
It is undeniable that Querétaro is among the safest cities in Mexico.
This is true not only for having a low rate of criminal activity but also for the fact that it is situated away from the earthquake zone.
After the devastating earthquake that struck Mexico City in 2017, many of the city’s more affluent people decided to relocate to this more remote city to the north.
They love the city’s superior air quality, safer neighborhoods, and more stable footing.
There are quaint cafes, buzzing restaurants, engaging museums, and a wealth of hiking spots in the surrounding area.
It also has that beautiful weather that you experience in other areas in the central region, such as Guanajuato and Mexico City.
Playa del Carmen
Although it is a busier tourist destination, and spring break does hit this spot quite hard, this location offers everything.
Plus, it’s only a stone’s throw away from the beach!
Convenience, fantastic shopping, coworking spaces, plenty of curb appeal, and close proximity to the beach: all of these things can be found in this location.
Does this sound too busy?
Tulum
Tulum is a bohemian beach town that is characterized by swaying palm trees that droop over white-sand beaches and blue seas that wash the shore.
It’s considered one of the most secure beach resort areas in Mexico and is a “must visit” Yucatan Pueblo Magico (magic town).
The beach clubs in Tulum have a bustling environment, with infinite cocktail options, top-notch service, and wonderful aesthetically designed spaces.
Oaxaca
Are you looking to live in a foodie city?
Then set your sights on Oaxaca.
Oaxaca City, located in the foothills of the Sierra Madre Mountains, draws millions of visitors every year due to its awesome cuisine.
You will have a difficult time finding a better mole or mezcal anywhere else in the world.
For those who want to live there, it will cost around 25% less than living in Mexico City.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara has recently emerged as a place that is comparable to Silicon Valley in the United States.
There has been an influx of IT employment and new businesses.
Both digital nomads and retirees will find the city itself to be an ideal place to set up shop and call home.
As we are talking about Mexico, let’s hear this story about wise Mexican fisherman, who knew how to balance business and life.
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta has a lot of beaches, lively nightlife, speedy internet, and a ton of incredible prices on places to stay, especially during the off-peak times of the year.
Fortunately, this area has not been entirely corrupted by tourism, and the city itself is still pretty laid-back.
The backdrop is breathtakingly beautiful, the water is crystal clear, and the cuisine is really outstanding.
Activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, horseback riding on the beach, and snorkeling are among the local hobbies you could get into.
Oh and do you love massages?
Several resorts in the area offer massages at a pretty reasonable cost.
If you like to explore some other remote work friendly locations near/close to the US, here is my article on best such places in Puerto Rico.
Ensenada
Everything you could possibly want is in Ensenada.
This includes delectable seafood, local wines, incredible craft beer, and a beach with perfect weather for nine months of the year.
Because of its proximity to Tijuana, Ensenada provides convenient access to other parts of Mexico as well as affordable air travel to the United States.
A stroll along the Malecon is one of the city’s most enjoyable activities.
There is a busy fish market in the area.
Not only can you eat freshly prepared seafood there, but you can also purchase some seafood to take home and prepare yourself.
In addition to the fish tacos from Baja, you should also try some smoked clams.
La Paz
La Paz is a charming and lively popular tourist destination located on the Pacific coast of Mexico, in the state of Baja California Sur.
In general, the entire Baja Peninsula, including La Paz, is considered to be one of the safest cities in all of Mexico.
Sayulita
Just an hour’s drive to the north of Puerto Vallarta is the sleepy fishing village of Sayulita.
Sayulita went from being a tranquil fishing village to becoming a little town that is cherished by artists, yogis, hipsters, and surfers over the course of several decades.
The town has a vibrant and friendly atmosphere thanks to the festive papel picado flags that hang from one side of the street to the other.
The charming streets of Sayulita are lined with bars, restaurants, boutique shops, and outdoor mercados (markets), all contribute to the town’s lively ambiance.
Huatulco
On the southwestern coast of Mexico, in the state of Oaxaca, is a place called Bahias de Huatulco, which literally translates to “Bays of Huatulco.”
The municipality is well regarded as having nine bays and 36 beaches.
This makes it one of the most desirable beach destinations in all of Mexico.
At Huatulco’s various beaches, some of the most popular things include swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.
Because it has the atmosphere of a little town, visitors will find that Huatulco is a very safe and pleasant area to live in or pass by.
San Pancho
Another lovely beachfront hamlet on Mexico’s Riviera Nayarit is San Francisco (also known as San Pancho).
It is located just to the north of Puerto Vallarta and not far from Sayulita.
It is a haven for people who want to get away from conventional tourist destinations.
A few years back, I spent 06 weeks in Guatemala as a digital nomad and enjoyed it thoroughly…
Puebla
Puebla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that retains its colonial ambiance.
Although located at an altitude, I would still suggest living in Puebla for the quality of the food, the breathtaking scenery, and the relatively low volume of tourists.
It offers moderate prices for dinners out, low prices for coworking passes, and some of the least expensive rental prices on this list.
Mazatlan
Mazatlan is home to a number of breathtaking beaches and is consistently ranked as one of the best beach towns in Mexico.
In spite of the image that many people have of the state of Sinaloa, where Mazatlan is, you can be confident that this city is a secure location.
Cozumel
The atmosphere of Cozumel is laid back and tropical, the water is almost always warm, and the locals are very welcoming.
It is only a short ferry journey away from Playa del Carmen, yet it feels like you’ve been transported to a different universe.
Snorkeling is widely regarded as one of the most enjoyable activities available in Cozumel.
Cozumel is an integral part of the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef, the world’s second-largest reef system after the Great Barrier Reef.
Everyone is inviting, which might be one of your priorities if you’re looking to relocate with kids.
People in Mexico are often willing to provide a helping hand because they place a high value on the importance of family in their culture.
Also while staying in Cozumel, you can try out these side hustles and make money there as well.
Santiago de Querétaro
If you are hunting for a large city in Mexico that isn’t Guadalajara or Mexico City, then Santiago de Querétaro might be the perfect place for you.
There is a major international airport located within a half-drive hour from the heart of the city, which will make traveling here that much simpler.
Living near the historical center continues to be an economical option for ex-pats searching for housing.
The going rate for a one-bedroom apartment that is completely furnished is only between $300 and $400 per month!
Guanajuato
This is the location for you if you want to experience a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, eye-catching architecture, and modern conveniences.
It has a bustling nightlife, a thriving arts and cultural sector, and a flourishing dating scene as well.
This might be where you find your next whirlwind romance!
Escondido
When you visit Puerto Escondido, you’ll find that instead of the cobblestone streets and historical landmarks, you’ll find quaint beach roads and opportunities to go snorkeling.
This is a haven for surfers that exudes a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere and takes pleasure in its more leisurely pace of life.
If you’re an advocate of a cleaner lifestyle, you’ll do well in Escondido, with its many activities and healthy food options.
Morelia
Morelia, which is found in the state of Michoacan in the central area of Mexico, is considered to be one of the safest places in Mexico.
Folks go there to enjoy spring-like weather all year round, colonial architecture, and superb Mexican cuisine.
Morelia provides all of the conveniences that one might expect to find in a larger city.
You’ll have access to excellent food markets, respectable medical facilities, and an airport.
You may also take a flight to Mexico City, which will connect you to the rest of the country, or you can take a bus to the coast of the country.
Both of these options are not too far away.
Valladolid
Valladolid is all about visual treats.
It’s not a beach town, but it’s not too far from Tulum, and it doesn’t have any of the hallmarks of a tourist hotspot, either.
Travelers and ex-pats are more likely to find themselves at home here than the average beachgoers.
Isla Mujeres
Isla Mujeres is a beautiful island that is only a few minutes boat ride away from the shore of Cancun.
It has a relatively low population, and the people who live there are easygoing and hospitable.
Isla Mujeres, often known as the “Island of Women,” was a Mayan pilgrimage site where women went to worship Ixchel, the goddess of the moon, childbirth, and fertility.
About 13,500 people call Isla Mujeres their permanent home.
This number includes several hundred ex-pats, the majority of whom are from the United States and Canada.
The island itself is only 6.5 kilometers in length and 1 kilometer in width.
Golf carts, scooters, and bicycles are the most convenient modes of transportation on the island.
Nonetheless, the majority of the island can be traversed on foot.
Even late into the night, there is a bustling amount of activity, and it is pretty safe and easy to walk to and from the local restaurants and bars.
Bacalar
The distance from Bacalar to Cancun is around three to four hours.
Bacalar is a quaint little town and an ideal place to go if you want to get away from social media and unwind on a hammock while sipping a cocktail.
It would be fulfilling just to take in some of the most breathtaking scenery in the world.
The luckiest folks get to call this place their home.
Ok so….
These were my handpicked cities/towns from Mexico. Let’s talk about what you should keep in mind before moving there.
Moving to Mexico – Keep these in mind…!!!
- Rent before buying.
- Transporting your furniture there will cost a fortune.
- You will still have to fulfill your duties as an American citizen and pay your taxes.
- You might want to learn Spanish.
- Get your health insurance in order.
- Mexican bureaucracy can be frustrating at times.
- Double-check your visa situation.
- Online banking isn’t a thing yet in Mexico.
- Prepare yourself for the weather changes because Mexico has many microclimates.
- Colonial towns might not have the amenities you’re used to.
- Mexico is a deeply Catholic country.
- LGBTQIA+ people may face some challenges.
- The healthcare system might NOT meet your standards.
- Mexican humor may take some getting used to. It is full of double entendres, sass, and darkness.
- The food is different but delicious!
- Don’t drink tap water in Mexico!
- Soccer is a big deal in this country.
- The legal drinking age in Mexico is 18.
The Safest Places In Mexico – FAQS
What is Mexican Weather Like?
In Mexico, the year-round temperature ranges from 24 degrees Celsius (75 degrees Fahrenheit) to 28 degrees Celsius (83 degrees Fahrenheit).
How Do You Get Around in Mexico?
Most people would advise you to avoid driving into Mexico and instead fly there. There’s no better way to get about than to fly.
Uber’s presence in Mexico is steadily rising, so if you have the option, I’d say this is your best pick for traveling about the country.
At the airport, Cancun transfers (shuttles) or vehicle rentals at the airport are your best options.
Mérida and Progreso each have their own airport, making it convenient for visitors.
What is The Internet Like in Mexico?
The speed and condition of internet access in Mexico are stable and fast enough to meet the needs of an average internet user.
What are safest Mexican resorts?
The safest resorts in Mexico are located in cities such as Merida, Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, Cozumel, Campeche, Puebla, Puerto Penasco/Rocky Point, and San Miguel de Allende
Final Thoughts
Yes, Mexico has a relatively poor reputation.
And yes, this reputation is not entirely unjustified because there ARE dangerous regions in Mexico.
However, most of the Mexico is safe.
The awful stories that we hear about are isolated incidents.
With a good infrastructure for remote work and a growing community of expats and digital nomads, Mexico is a great place to live and work as a remote worker.
So why not explore the places on this list and discover the beauty and diversity of Mexico for yourself?
