13 Safest Places to Live in Mexico in 2025 (Local Expert Guide)

Mexico draws more than 38 million international tourists each year.  Many people who want to move there still worry about safety as they think over the safest places to live in Mexico.  The country’s overall safety index stands at 46.33 out of 100.  But several Mexican cities prove to be remarkably secure places to call home.

Mérida leads the pack as Mexico’s safest destination.  This city ranks second in North America for safety, right behind Quebec City.  The numbers back this up – Mérida’s safety index reaches 75.04.  Its homicide rate stays low at just 1.5 per 100,000 people.  More than 70% of Mérida’s residents say they feel safe going about their daily lives.  Other secure spots include San Pedro Garza García, Saltillo and Puerto Vallarta.  Puerto Vallarta has earned its reputation as one of the safest beach towns around.

The U.S. State Department rates two Gulf of Mexico states – Campeche and Yucatán – at Level 1, which means “Exercise normal precautions”.  All but one of these sixteen Mexican states received the next lowest threat level, with advice to “exercise increased caution”.  This piece explores 13 of Mexico’s safest cities for expats.  You’ll learn about safety stats, expat communities, living costs and lifestyle perks.  These details are the foundations of making smart choices about where to live in Mexico in 2025.

Merida, Yucatán

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Mérida, Mexico’s safest capital city, boasts an impressive safety record with around 100 crimes per 100,000 residents.  These numbers are nowhere near the national average of 632.1 crimes per 100,000 inhabitants.  This colonial jewel in the Yucatán Peninsula ranks as the second safest city in the Americas, with only Quebec City, Canada ahead of it.

Merida Safety Overview

The city’s safety statistics tell a compelling story.  Mérida has managed to keep its homicide rate at just 2.5 per 100,000 residents, while Mexico’s national average sits at 29 per 100,000.  Only 24.6% of Meridanos feel unsafe in their city, substantially below the national average of 58.6%.  The U.S. State Department rates Yucatán at its lowest advisory level, “Level 1: Exercise Normal Precautions” – a difference all but one of these Mexican states share.

Expat Community in Merida

The city’s international community thrives with over 11,000 Americans and Canadians who now call Mérida home.  Young remote workers, families and retirees make up this diverse expat population.  The city’s social fabric comes alive through Facebook groups like “Mexpats Mérida” and “Merida Mexico Expat Community.” The Mérida English Library’s regular social events help newcomers connect with long-time residents.

Cost of Living in Merida

Couples can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on USD 1,500 to USD 2,500 monthly.  Here’s what you can expect to spend:

• Housing: One-bedroom apartments in Centro range from USD 600-800 monthly
• Utilities: Electricity USD 50-200 (AC usage varies), water USD 10, internet USD 30-50
• Healthcare: Doctor visits cost much less than U.S. prices, and many pharmacies provide free consultations
• Groceries: A single person spends about USD 200 monthly

Lifestyle and Amenities in Merida

Colonial charm meets modern convenience in Mérida.  The city’s well-equipped hospitals and numerous medical specialists make it perfect for retirees seeking quality healthcare.  Getting around is easy and affordable – taxis or rideshares cost USD 2.50-5 per trip.  The city’s cultural scene shines through its Yucatán Symphony Orchestra, museums and art galleries.  The historic center’s well-maintained sidewalks and nearby archeological sites like Chichen Itza provide endless adventures.

Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco

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Puerto Vallarta sits on Mexico’s Pacific coast. This beautiful beach destination combines stunning coastline with great safety records.  The city’s safety index of 64.63 (high) beats many major cities in the United States and Canada.

Puerto Vallarta Safety Overview

The city has a low crime index of 34.43.  About 86.56% of people say they feel safe walking alone during daylight.  Night safety scores are also good at 61.71%.  Tourism brings important money to the local economy.  The Mexican government keeps a strong police and military presence throughout the city.

Tourist zones sometimes see petty theft, but violent crime rarely happens.  One young woman said, “I felt perfectly safe in downtown PV by myself… and I never once felt unsafe”.  The biggest problems are property crimes and corruption, not threats to personal safety.

Expat Community in Puerto Vallarta

The expat population keeps growing.  Baby boomers and young remote workers are moving here to set up homes and businesses.  Facebook groups are a great way to get new people connected with long-time residents.  Digital workers enjoy reliable internet across the city.  They can also use dedicated coworking spaces if they want a more structured setup.

Cost of Living in Puerto Vallarta

A couple can live well on USD 2,000-3,000 each month.  Here’s what you might spend:

• Rent (two-bedroom): USD 800-1,000
• Utilities: Electricity USD 150, water/gas USD 30
• Groceries: USD 300 monthly
• Dining out: USD 300 (eating frequently)
• Transportation: USD 80-100

If you have a single income, USD 1,000 monthly works fine.  That’s much cheaper than living in major North American cities.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Puerto Vallarta

The city’s food scene is amazing with restaurants at every price point.  Street tacos cost about USD 1, while mid-range restaurants charge around USD 10 per person.  Modern healthcare facilities charge about USD 40 for doctor visits.  Dental care costs much less than North American prices.

Local busses cost around USD 0.50 per ride.  You’ll find miles-long oceanfront boardwalks (malecón), beautiful beaches and year-round cultural events.  The city also has imported products, modern shopping centers, and an international airport with direct flights to many North American cities.

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San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato

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San Miguel de Allende stands out as one of Mexico’s safest places for expats looking for a rich cultural experience.  This UNESCO World Heritage site draws many international residents with its cobblestone streets and colonial architecture.  The city’s safety record beats many North American cities.

San Miguel Safety Overview

The city shows a safety index of 49.64 and crime index of 50.36.  People feel very safe during the day, with a safety rating of 83.02%.  The safety level drops to 43.94% at night.  Local authorities have added surveillance systems and more police officers in tourist areas to boost security.  The biggest problems are property crimes and corruption, not violent incidents.  Tourist areas sometimes see petty theft, but simple precautions help visitors stay safe.

Expat Community in San Miguel

The city’s expat community makes up 10% of the population, with people from over 60 countries.  Artists, writers, retirees and remote workers create a diverse international mix.  Cultural activities bring the community together and newcomers connect through Facebook groups and the city’s library.  Many expats have called San Miguel home for decades without any safety issues, building a supportive community.

Cost of Living in San Miguel

A couple needs USD 1,657 monthly to live well.  Here’s how costs break down:

• Rent (two-bedroom): USD 800
• Utilities: USD 80
• Groceries: USD 370
• Healthcare insurance: USD 100
• Dining out: USD 100

Housing prices near El Jardín (central plaza) start at USD 350,000 for restored colonial homes.  Apartments away from the center start at USD 169,000.

Lifestyle and Amenities in San Miguel

The city’s art scene, live music, and great restaurants make life here special.  People can walk most places easily, and taxis and rideshares are always available.  Quality healthcare comes at reasonable prices – doctor visits cost about USD 1,300 pesos.  A couple spends roughly USD 30 weekly at local markets for groceries, which costs much less than buying imported items from supermarkets.

Querétaro City, Querétaro

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Querétaro has become one of Mexico’s wealthiest cities.  This economic powerhouse combines industrial growth with exceptional safety standards.  The central Mexican gem remains off the tourist radar but gives expats a sophisticated urban experience with remarkably low crime rates.

Querétaro Safety Overview

The city ranks among Mexico’s safest states with crime rates among the lowest nationwide.  Querétaro scores 37 out of 100 on the Numbeo crime scale and beats cities like Vancouver, Dublin and San Antonio.  Petty crimes rarely happen here, which helps locals and visitors feel secure.  The chances of becoming a crime victim are very low.  Local authorities have invested heavily in law enforcement and infrastructure to keep everyone safe.

Expat Community in Querétaro

The international community here is smaller than in places like San Miguel de Allende or Lake Chapala.  Most expats are business executives, while retirees tend to live in the walkable historic center.  You’ll need to know Spanish to get by since English isn’t common here.  This language barrier can make newcomers feel isolated at first.  Expats don’t cluster in specific areas but spread throughout the city, which leads to natural integration with local culture.

Cost of Living in Querétaro

A family of four can live on about USD 2,723 monthly without rent.  Life here costs 57.3% less than in New York.  Housing costs look like this:

• One-bedroom apartments: USD 580-680 monthly in Centro
• Three-bedroom apartments: USD 800-1,000 in safe areas
• Houses with gardens: USD 1,000-1,500

Monthly utilities run USD 50-100, making Querétaro both affordable and comfortable for most expats.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Querétaro

The city’s mild climate keeps temperatures between 45°F and 80°F year-round, which helps keep utility bills low.  At 5,970 feet elevation, you’ll enjoy comfortable weather with mostly sunny, dry days.  The historic center’s flat streets make walking easier than in other colonial cities with hills.  Healthcare choices are plenty, with both private and public hospitals, including Angeles and Star Médica chain facilities.  Medical care costs 25-50% of U.S. prices.  The lively downtown comes alive on weekends with theater shows, dance performances, art exhibitions and cultural festivals throughout the year.

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Campeche, Campeche

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Campeche, a UNESCO World Heritage city on the Gulf of Mexico, has stood proudly since 1517.  This colonial gem combines baroque architecture with exceptional safety.  The walled historic district provides expats a peaceful lifestyle away from Mexico’s tourist hotspots.

Campeche Safety Overview

Campeche ranks among Mexico’s safest states, matching neighboring Yucatán with the U.S. State Department’s lowest advisory level—”Exercise Normal Precautions”.  The city boasts a low crime index of 27.08 out of 100.  This score is nowhere near New York City’s “moderate” 53.44.  Mexican cities like Guadalajara show higher crime rates at 73.74.  The local government keeps the entire region secure through surveillance cameras and active law enforcement.  Strong community involvement and these security measures make Campeche one of Mexico’s safest places for Americans.

Expat Community in Campeche

Campeche’s expatriate population remains small but growing, with most residents coming from Europe and Canada rather than the United States.  Foreign residents prefer traditional neighborhoods like Guadalupe, San Francisco and San Román.  The expat community consists mostly of retirees over 40 who value the city’s calm atmosphere.  Many buy historic homes between 2-3 million pesos (about USD 100,000-150,000) and renovate these properties.

Cost of Living in Campeche

Living comfortably in Campeche costs around USD 784 monthly.  Here’s a breakdown of expenses:

• Rent: USD 375-625 for a one-bedroom apartment in the old town
• Utilities: USD 50-100 monthly
• Food: USD 200-300 monthly for groceries
• Transportation: Bus rides cost just USD 0.20

Lifestyle and Amenities in Campeche

The city’s compact layout makes daily errands convenient.  The climate stays pleasant except during April’s peak heat.  Two full-service hospitals—Hospital Dr. Manuel Campos and Sanitorio Clinica Campeche—provide healthcare services.  The city’s cultural scene thrives with museums and yearly events, including the Festival del Centro Histórico in November/December and Festival de Jazz in spring.  Campeche attracts people who want an authentic Mexican experience.  Its rich history and coastal charm blend perfectly with a secure environment.

La Paz, Baja California Sur

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La Paz—which means “The Peace” in Spanish—sits beautifully on the Sea of Cortez.  The capital of Baja California Sur lives up to its peaceful name with great safety ratings and budget-friendly coastal living.  About 250,000 people call this charming city home and it draws both tourists and expatriates who want a real Mexican experience away from the tourist traps.

La Paz Safety Overview

La Paz stands out as one of Mexico’s safest cities.  Families feel safe enough to walk along the Malecón (waterfront promenade) late into the night.  The city has earned a low crime index of 1/5 and a safety index of 3.2/5.  Most safety concerns are limited to occasional petty theft, with violent crimes being rare.  The local government keeps a close watch on tourist areas, which makes visitors and residents feel very safe.

Expat Community in La Paz

Thousands of expatriates now live in La Paz.  The community has changed from mostly retirees to a mix of digital nomads, young families and remote workers.  La Paz keeps its authentic Mexican character, unlike many tourist hotspots.  New residents can connect through Facebook groups like “Rentals La Paz BCS” and “Expats in La Paz Mexico”.

Cost of Living in La Paz

A couple needs USD 2,000-2,500 monthly to live well.  Here’s what you can expect to spend:

• One-bedroom apartment: USD 600-800 in Centro
• Utilities: Around USD 100 (electricity, water, internet)
• Groceries: USD 220 monthly at local markets
• Healthcare: Private insurance from USD 95 monthly

Lifestyle and Amenities in La Paz

The city’s marine activities are amazing, with whale watching and beautiful beaches.  Healthcare needs are met by modern hospitals with English-speaking doctors.  The city is easy to walk around for daily errands, and Uber rides cost just USD 3-6.  Remote workers benefit from fiber-optic internet.  The relaxed lifestyle and clean beaches make life here truly special.

Mazatlán, Sinaloa

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Mazatlán, a beautiful city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, strikes a perfect balance between authentic Mexican culture and safety measures.  This seaside destination attracts expatriates despite being in Sinaloa state, which faces security challenges.

Mazatlán Safety Overview

The city maintains a low crime rate of just 8.8%, which is much lower than Culiacán’s 26.7%.  The authorities deployed over 10,000 security personnel after capturing “El Chapo’s” son in 2023.  This action helped revolutionize this once-troubled area.  Most safety concerns relate to occasional petty theft rather than violent crime.  Tourists should take simple precautions and avoid displaying valuables or walking alone at night.

Expat Community in Mazatlán

The expatriate population continues to grow, drawing a variety of retirees, digital nomads and families.  The community has a unique mix of Chinese and Italian residents among North Americans.  New residents connect through Facebook groups like “Mazatlán Expats”.  They can also find many volunteering opportunities through organizations like the “Blue Shirts” tourist aide volunteers.

Cost of Living in Mazatlán

Living costs remain budget-friendly.  A single person needs USD 1,300-1,500 monthly, while couples spend between USD 1,530-2,720.  Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Rent: One-bedroom apartments from USD 600 in centro
• Utilities: USD 70-100 monthly
• Groceries: USD 400-520 monthly
• Restaurant meal: USD 7-25 depending on establishment

Lifestyle and Amenities in Mazatlán

The city enjoys a yearly average temperature of 81°F/24°C.  Quality healthcare is accessible through private clinics and IMSS (public) options.  New infrastructure projects are underway, including a convention center and aquarium.  The historic Centro Histórico showcases colonial architecture, while the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone) features beachfront properties.  Getting around is affordable, and the city’s distinctive “pulmonilla” open-air taxis add local character.

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Chapala, Jalisco

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Chapala, nestled along Mexico’s largest freshwater lake, has emerged as a top choice among the safest places to live in Mexico.  Retirees and expats flock here for its perfect blend of affordability and security.

Chapala Safety Overview

The city’s impressive safety index of 78.76 speaks volumes, with crime rates staying low at 21.24.  The local residents feel confident about their security – 76.92% have no concerns walking alone at night.  Most security issues revolve around petty theft or occasional property crimes instead of violent incidents.  The community shows minimal concern about attacks (7.69%) or robberies (13.46%).

Expat Community in Chapala

The lakeside area boasts Mexico’s largest expat population, with most residents coming from the United States and Canada.  Lake Chapala Society stands as the heart of the community and is a great way to get social activities, clubs, and support networks.  Expats tend to settle in specific areas like La Christiana near the Malecon, La Parota, or secure gated communities such as Chapala Haciendas.

Cost of Living in Chapala

A comfortable lifestyle here costs around USD 1,500-2,000 monthly.  This budget typically covers:

• Housing: One-bedroom apartments from USD 400-550
• Utilities: Electricity USD 45 bi-monthly, water USD 25 monthly
• Groceries: USD 150-200 monthly

Lifestyle and Amenities in Chapala

The city’s climate stays pleasant year-round with temperatures ranging between mid-60s and mid-80s Fahrenheit.  Healthcare costs remain budget-friendly – doctor visits cost about USD 15.  This semi-urban paradise provides quick access to shopping, dining and the beautiful Malecon waterfront promenade.

Valladolid, Yucatán

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Valladolid captivates everyone with its colonial streets, colorful houses and historic plazas.  This charming city in the Yucatán Peninsula’s heart combines magical ambiance with modern infrastructure.

Valladolid Safety Overview

Valladolid stands out as one of Mexico’s safest cities with minimal crime rates.  The U.S. Department of State places Yucatán state at its lowest advisory level—”Exercise Normal Precautions”.  Yucatán recorded just 1.3 homicides per 100,000 people in 2020, nowhere near Mexico’s national average of 26.6.  Families stroll the streets confidently, kids play freely in plazas and a strong sense of community prevails.

Expat Community in Valladolid

Valladolid’s foreign community grows steadily, despite being smaller than other expat destinations.  Americans and Canadians make up most newcomers. INEGI reports a 61% increase in Yucatán’s foreign population.  The “Valladolid Friends” Facebook group connects nearly 4,000 members.  Garden, Irish Pub, and St. Patricks serve as popular meetup spots.

Cost of Living in Valladolid

A couple can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle on USD 1,500-2,500 monthly.  Housing options include:

• Simple apartments starting at USD 220 monthly
• Upscale renovated properties reaching USD 3,500 monthly

Lifestyle and Amenities in Valladolid

Valladolid’s charm extends way beyond the reach and influence of its peaceful atmosphere.  The city sits close to numerous cenotes, nature reserves and archeological zones.  Residents enjoy modern amenities while the city maintains its authentic Mexican character.  The strategic location offers quick access to Mérida, Cancún and Caribbean beaches.

Oaxaca City, Oaxaca

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Oaxaca City captivates expats with its stunning colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage.  The city’s authentic blend of indigenous and Spanish influences makes it one of the safest places to live in Mexico.

Oaxaca City Safety Overview

The state of Oaxaca stands out as one of Mexico’s safer regions and has stayed away from cartel conflicts that affect other areas.  The city faces some challenges with petty theft and street muggings that happen mostly after dark.  Crime rates tend to spike during festivals like Day of the Dead.  Safety experts suggest taking taxis at night no matter the distance.  They also advise staying alert while using phones in public and watching your alcohol intake – that mezcal can really sneak up on you!

Expat Community in Oaxaca City

The international community in Oaxaca is tight-knit and welcoming.  The Oaxaca Lending Library serves as a hub where newcomers connect through weekly “Intro to Oaxaca” presentations and language exchanges.  These language meetups can draw up to 100 people and offer great chances to meet locals and foreigners alike.  Facebook groups like “Expats Oaxaca” and “Expats in Mexico” help members share valuable information and build connections.

Cost of Living in Oaxaca City

A single person’s monthly expenses run about MXN 22,327.  Center city one-bedroom apartments cost between USD 300-800.  Couples who watch their spending can live well on USD 2,000 monthly.  The rental market has seen price increases due to the growing number of foreigners.  Local produce remains budget-friendly and the city’s many free cultural events help stretch your money further.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Oaxaca City

The city’s world-famous cuisine, with its array of mole varieties, delights residents.  Artists thrive in the historic district where painters, weavers and sculptors create their work.  Quality healthcare is available at several hospitals and private doctor visits cost around USD 422.

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Loreto, Baja California Sur

Loreto, nestled along the eastern coast of the Baja California Peninsula, stands out as one of Mexico’s safest places.  The city’s peaceful atmosphere and close community make it an ideal place to call home.

Loreto Safety Overview

Crime rates remain low in Loreto, with few reports of petty or serious offenses.  The U.S. State Department’s classification puts Baja California Sur at “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution”.  This rating matches several European nations like France, Italy and the United Kingdom.  The area’s security benefits from active police patrols that help residents and tourists feel safe.

Expat Community in Loreto

Americans and Canadians make up most of Loreto’s expatriate population, drawn by the relaxed lifestyle.  The international community stays connected through Facebook groups and regular social gatherings at local venues.  Nopolo and Loreto Bay have become popular spots where foreign residents create welcoming neighborhoods.

Cost of Living in Loreto

Living costs depend on your chosen location.  Rental prices start at USD 600 in the city center.  Nopolo’s rental market begins at USD 1,000 monthly, while luxury homes in Ensenada Blanca sell between USD 5-10 million.  A typical lunch costs around MXN 366 and gas runs at MXN 14 per liter.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Loreto

The city’s downtown area features a beautiful malecón where locals enjoy safe walks throughout the day.  Outdoor activities shape daily life here.  Residents can enjoy fishing, hiking and watch whales from January through March.  Local restaurants serve fresh seafood, authentic Mexican dishes and familiar comfort food.

Cozumel, Quintana Roo

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Cozumel stands out as one of Mexico’s pristine island jewels and ranks as one of the safest places to live in Mexico.  This Caribbean paradise gives you a chance to experience an island lifestyle with excellent security.

Cozumel Safety Overview

The island’s crime rates stay well below mainland destinations.  Violent incidents rarely happen, and security concerns mostly involve occasional theft in neighborhoods like Corpus Christi where expats live.  Numbeo’s Crime Index Report gives Cozumel a score of 33 out of 100, where lower numbers mean better safety.  People feel quite secure here – 90% say they’re comfortable walking alone during daylight and 70% feel safe after dark.

Expat Community in Cozumel

A welcoming international community thrives on the island.  The “Expats in Cozumel” Facebook group has over 11,000 members who help newcomers settle in.  The expatriate population consists of retirees looking for peace and younger remote workers who start their businesses.

Cost of Living in Cozumel

A couple’s monthly expenses typically range from USD 2,000-3,000.  Here’s what you can expect:

• Rent: USD 450-800 for one-bedroom condos
• Utilities: Around USD 70 monthly
• Groceries: Cost more than mainland prices

Lifestyle and Amenities in Cozumel

The temperature stays warm throughout the year, ranging from 70°F to 90°F.  Hurricane season runs from September through December.  Costamed Hospital provides quality medical care with English-speaking staff at about USD 80 per visit.  Quality vet services come at reasonable prices on the island.

Sayulita, Nayarit

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Residents feel safe walking alone at night in this bohemian surf town on Mexico’s Pacific coast, making it one of Mexico’s safest places to live.

Sayulita Safety Overview

The town maintains an excellent safety record with a low crime index of just 10.0.  Female travelers can walk home alone at 2-3 AM without worry.  The town’s small size adds to its security.  With only 5,000 residents, everyone knows each other, which creates natural community watchfulness.

Expat Community in Sayulita

Young surfers first discovered Sayulita, but now the town attracts a wider range of expatriates.  The last decade has seen middle-aged digital nomads and retirees moving to this charming coastal haven.  The community connects through Facebook groups and newcomers usually rent before buying property.  Learning simple Spanish helps since many locals outside tourist spots don’t speak English.

Cost of Living in Sayulita

Living expenses here exceed many Mexican locations.  Couples spend around USD 2,000-3,000 monthly, while two-bedroom rentals cost USD 1,350-5,000.  Living costs are about half of U.S. prices.  Sayulita’s prices run high for Mexico but remain affordable compared to coastal California.

Lifestyle and Amenities in Sayulita

The town’s lifestyle combines bohemian culture with Mexican traditions.  Locals enjoy fresh seafood from nearby vendors, yoga classes, wellness activities and art.  Internet reliability remains a challenge, especially for digital nomads who need video calls.  St. Luke’s Hospital handles emergencies, while local clinics take care of minor health issues.

Comparison Table

Enjoy Safest Places to Live in Mexico

Mexico has many safe spots where expatriates can find security, affordable living and a better quality of life.  The safest places in Mexico show some clear patterns.  The Yucatán Peninsula cities of Mérida, Campeche and Valladolid have proven safety records with crime rates much lower than Mexican and North American averages.  The U.S. State Department gives these places their lowest travel advisory level—”Exercise Normal Precautions.”

Safety numbers don’t tell the whole story.  The safest Mexican cities share more than just low crime rates.  You’ll find walkable historic centers, tight-knit communities, visible police presence and economies that rely on tourism or international business.  People feel safe here even after dark.  On top of that, these places have well-established expatriate communities that help newcomers settle in.

Living costs stay affordable in these safe areas.  A couple can live well on $1,500-3,000 per month in most places, though prices change based on how close you are to tourist spots and what amenities you want.  Puerto Vallarta and Sayulita cost more while Campeche and Querétaro give you great value for money.

Healthcare should be a priority for anyone thinking about moving here.  Mérida, Puerto Vallarta and Querétaro have modern medical facilities with English-speaking staff that cost much less than in the U.S.  Doctor visits cost between $15-80 depending on where you go and what kind of doctor you see.

Your ideal Mexican home might come down to the weather you like.  Beach towns like Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlán stay warm year-round, but you need to think about hurricanes.  Highland cities like San Miguel de Allende and Querétaro have mild weather and you barely need heating or air conditioning.

Safe doesn’t mean careless.  Even the safest Mexican cities need the same simple precautions you’d take in any city worldwide.  Tourist areas might have some petty theft, but violent crime rarely happens in these recommended places.

Success in moving to Mexico depends on how well you prepare and what you expect.  Learning basic Spanish, visiting places in different seasons, talking to local expats and getting the full picture of healthcare options will improve your experience.  These thirteen cities are definitely the safest options for expatriates.  Each one offers its own unique culture, climate, and community.

Mexico’s dangerous reputation doesn’t match reality in these thirteen safe havens.  The numbers show these cities are safer than many places in North America.  Americans, Canadians, Europeans and other international residents find friendly communities where they can retire, start businesses or work remotely while experiencing real Mexican culture in a secure setting.

FAQs

Q1. What are some of the safest cities for expats in Mexico in 2025?
Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, and San Miguel de Allende are among the safest cities for expats in Mexico.  These locations boast low crime rates, welcoming communities and strong infrastructure for international residents.

Q2. How much does it typically cost for a couple to live comfortably in Mexico’s safer cities?
In most of the safer Mexican cities, a couple can live comfortably on $1,500 to $3,000 per month.  This includes rent, utilities, groceries and entertainment, though costs may vary depending on the specific location and lifestyle choices.

Q3. What kind of healthcare can expats expect in Mexico’s safer cities?
Many of Mexico’s safer cities offer high-quality healthcare at affordable prices.  Cities like Mérida, Puerto Vallarta and Querétaro have modern medical facilities with English-speaking staff.  Doctor visits typically range from $15 to $80, significantly less than in the United States.

Q4. Are there established expat communities in these safer Mexican cities?
Yes, most of the safer cities in Mexico have well-established expat communities.  These groups often connect through social media, local events and organizations like the Lake Chapala Society.  They provide valuable support and resources for newcomers adjusting to life in Mexico.

Q5. What precautions should expats take even in the safest Mexican cities?
While these cities are considered safe, it’s still advisable to exercise common-sense precautions.  This includes being aware of your surroundings, avoiding displaying valuable items in public, using reputable transportation services at night and learning basic Spanish to communicate effectively in daily situations.