In recent years, Guadalajara, the capital city of Jalisco state and the second-largest city in Mexico, has emerged as a hotspot for digital nomads seeking an affordable yet vibrant destination to live and work remotely.

The area, earlier known internationally as the birthplace of tequila and mariachi, is now becoming popular as a Mexican tech hub. During the last decade, Mexico's Silicon Valley has attracted 15 large corporations, mainly from the United States, such as:

There are also some 600 small and medium-sized companies, many start-ups that export 70% of their materials and content. 

Guadalajara's appeal goes beyond its business opportunities. Educational institutions in the city are highly regarded, attracting students and professionals from all over Mexico and even drawing some back from America.

In my previous article, I talked about what makes Guadalajara an excellent and affordable place for retirement. But due to its growing startup scene, fast internet, and affordable cost of living, Guadalajara has also become an attractive destination for international remote workers. 

In this article, we will look at how much it costs to live in Guadalajara for a digital nomad and remote workers.

Housing

One of the biggest expenses for remote workers is housing. In Guadalajara, you can find various housing options to suit your budget and needs. Unlike retirees who may opt for long-term rentals or property ownership, digital nomads often lean towards short-term accommodations that offer flexibility. Popular options for digital nomads include:

Airbnb Rentals

Guadalajara has a wide selection of stylish and affordable Airbnb listings; prices for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can range from 800 USD to 1,500 USD per month, while those outside the city center may offer more budget-friendly options at 500 USD to 1,000 USD per month.

Co-living spaces

Co-living spaces are becoming increasingly popular in Guadalajara. They offer a mix of shared and private spaces, as well as access to amenities such as gyms, laundry facilities, co-working spaces, lounge rooms, coffee shop, bars, restaurants and community events. Prices vary but typically range from 500 USD to 1,200 USD per month, depending on the location, time of the year and amenities. 

Food and Dining 

Guadalajara offers a diverse range of food options, from street tacos to high-end restaurants. Here's an estimate of food and dining expenses:

Groceries for a month: 300 USD - 500 USD

Dining out and street food: 10 USD - 20 USD per day

Coffee shops and cafes: 1 USD - 4 USD per coffee

Transportation 

Getting around Guadalajara is easy and affordable. Popular transportation options include:

Public transport 

Buses and the Tren Eléctrico Urbano are both reliable and budget-friendly, with a single bus ride costing just 6 Mexican pesos (about 0,30 USD) and a monthly pass is approximately 20 USD; a single TEU ride costing 7 Mexican pesos (about 0,35 USD).

Biking

Guadalajara has an extensive bike-sharing program called MiBici, with rental prices starting at around 2 USD per day.

Uber or taxis

Taxis are available 24/7 and cost around 150-200 Mexican pesos (approximately 7-10 USD) for a short-distance ride. Uber also operates in the city, but fares are typically slightly higher than other taxi fares.

Mobile Network & Internet

Most American and Canadian mobile network operators allow for free roaming in North America, but roaming speeds are annoyingly slow. So it`s better to get a Mexican SIM card - you will thank yourself later. 

Anyone living in Mexico can buy a Mexican SIM card from the mobile network operators in their stores or from resellers (like convenience stores) without any restrictions. The most popular are Telcel, Movistar and AT&T. There are also Mobile Virtual  Network Operators such as Oui Movil, OXXO CEL, Unefon and Weex. The following are approximate prices for Mexican SIM cards:

• Telcel - 4,61 USD
• Movistar Mexico - 3,50 USD
• AT&T Unidos Mexico - 5,84 USD, 8,76 USD & 11,68 USD
• Oui Movil - the SIM card is free, but you should also purchase plan
• OXXO CEL - 4,61 USD
• Unefon - 2,92 USD, 5,84 USD & 8,76 USD
• weex - 2,92 USD

But for using the internet at home and for work, it's better to consider two other options: fiber optics or satellite internet. 

Fiber optics is the best stress-free option in Guadalajara. The only problem is that in some newly built neighbourhood, there is no lines installed. It's worth saying here that it's not as bad as it sounds. In fact, municipality has made significant investments in recent years to ensure that its citizens have access to the highest quality internet. In 2019 was launched “Gigabit City” initiative which aimed to bring fiber-optic internet access to all citizens. So, if you chose a newly built neighborhood you probably just won't have much choice between providers. 

On average, prices range from around 75 USD to 150 USD per month for speeds of up to 1,000 Mbps.

The second option is satellite internet. Customers purchase a special modem and then take up a monthly plan, which ranges from 15 USD to 40 USD depending on the speed and  amount of data you require per month. The minus of this option is that service craps out when a rainstorm comes through, or the wind blows. 

Healthcare and Insurance

Guadalajara boasts modern hospitals and clinics.

The health insurance starts from 150 USD per month. So, you can expect to pay less for health insurance in Mexico than in the USA and Canada, even for comprehensive coverage. However, it's crucial to assess your healthcare needs and choose a plan that suits your lifestyle. 

If you think of getting some additional medical or esthetic services while staying in Mexico, I highly recommend reading my article about medical tourism in Mexico, which is becoming more and more popular among Americans and Canadians. 

Leisure and Entertainment

Guadalajara offers plenty of affordable and enjoyable entertainment options for digital nomads. Here's an estimate of some of the expenses:

• There are several gyms in the city that offer affordable monthly memberships; starting at around 30 USD per month you can get an access to the gym, yoga, pilates, box and many other classes. 

• Remote workers can access coworking spaces across the city, with monthly fees ranging from 70 USD to 200 USD, depending on the location and amenities.

• Many museums and cultural events in Guadalajara are either low-cost or free to attend. And also considering that Guadalajara has some sort of festival almost every month, you'll have something to do. Budget around 50 USD to 100 USD per month for leisure activities.

• Guadalajara has a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and clubs that offer drinks and entertainment. One bottle of beer cost from 2,50 USD to 8 USD, cocktail roughly 5 USD to 18 USD. 

Visa

It's also crucial to consider visa requirements and associated expenses when planning to stay in Guadalajara. In this guide, you can find what are the easiest visas for Americans and Canadians in 2023.

Overall, the cost of living in Guadalajara is very affordable.  You can find a comfortable place to live, eat delicious food, and enjoy various activities and amenities without breaking the bank.

Here is a sample average budget for a digital nomad living in Guadalajara:

• Housing: 800 USD per month
• Food: 250 USD per month
• Transportation: 50 USD per month
• Internet: 75 USD per month
• Phone: 10 USD per month
• Entertainment: 150 USD per month

Total: 1335 USD per month

This budget is just a starting point, and your actual expenses may vary depending on your lifestyle and needs. However, it is a good indication of how affordable it is to live in Guadalajara as a remote worker.

If you're considering other destinations within Mexico for your journey, be sure to check out my article on "Mexico City: Digital Nomad Paradise or Chilli Pepper Challenge?" for insights into the lifestyle in the capital city. Mexico City offers its unique charm and opportunities for remote workers, and comparing the two can help you decide which Mexican city best suits your nomadic lifestyle.

For personalized assistance with your relocation to Guadalajara or any other location in Mexico, please feel free to book a consultation with me. I specialize in helping people navigate the intricacies of moving to Mexico, from visa requirements to finding the perfect place to call home. Your smooth transition to Mexico awaits – book your consultation today!

For many Americans and Canadians who are looking for affordable and comfortable places to spend their golden years, Mexico has become an enticing destination for retirement due to its favorable climate, rich culture, and affordable cost of living. 

Mexico caters to a diverse range of preferences, lifestyles, and budgets, boasting rustic villages, luxurious resorts, extensive coastlines, snow-capped mountains, and charming Spanish colonial cities. 

There are several promising cities that offer a high quality of life at a lower cost compared to the USA or Canada. 

In this article, we will look at the cost of living in the second-largest and most important city in Mexico, also known as the “Silicon Valley of Mexico”, Guadalajara.

With its affordable cost of living, ideal climate, world-class healthcare, rich cultural heritage, and safety, Guadalajara provides retirees the opportunity to stretch their pensions further while enjoying a high quality of life. Diverse housing options, friendly locals, and proximity to nature add to its allure, making it a perfect base for retirees seeking an enriching and fulfilling retirement experience in Mexico.

Housing 

One of the most significant expenses retirees need to consider is accommodation. 

In Guadalajara, you'll find a variety of housing options, ranging from renting and choosing between short-term or long-term arrangements to buying property. Each option comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. 

Renting provides the flexibility to change locations easily if you wish to explore different parts of Mexico. Renting is an ongoing expense, and rental prices can increase over time, especially as Mexico becomes a more and more popular destination for expats. 

As of autumn 2023, here's what you can expect to rent in Guadalajara (prices vary based on location, size, and amenities):

Short-term renting: 

The price for the one-bedroom apartment in Guadalajara city center: 1000 USD - 2000 USD per month.

The price for the one-bedroom apartment outside Guadalajara city center: 500 USD - 1000 USD per month.

Long-term renting: 

The price for the one-bedroom apartment in Guadalajara city center: 400 USD - 1500 USD per month.

The price for the one-bedroom apartment outside Guadalajara city center: 300 USD - 1000 USD per month.

While renting for long-term might be cheaper, the rental requirements in Guadalajara can be strict, so there are some pitfalls you should know about and be prepared for: 

1. As in many countries, landlords in Mexico often require a security deposit equivalent to a month or two of rent.

2. It is also common for landlords and renters to use real estate agents to help find rental apartments, who can charge a commission of up to 15% of the yearly rent. Be sure to clarify who will pay the agent's fee before signing any agreements.

3. Many landlords in Guadalajara may ask for a fiador, which is a person who co-signs your lease. This can be difficult for expats, as the fiador must live in the same city and own an unmortgaged property. If you cannot find a fiador, you may be asked to pay a higher deposit amount instead. Some landlords may even require a year's worth of bank statements and 10 personal and professional references, which is insane! But take your time and search for more options without fiador, maybe even in other neighborhoods. 

Food and Grocery Expenses

One of delights of retiring in Mexico is the delicious and affordable cuisine. Here's an estimate of food and grocery expenses for a couple per month:

Groceries for a month: 300 USD - 500 USD

You can eat cheaply in Guadalajara if you go to a neighbourhood mercado (Eng. market). They have way better fruit and vegetables than any supermarket, and prices are also way better.

Dining out occasionally: 200 USD - 300 USD

• Street food and fast food joints: 2 USD - 5 USD per meal

• Local restaurants: 5 USD - 15 USD per meal

• Mid-range restaurants: 15 USD - 30 USD per meal

• High-end or luxury restaurants: 30 USD - 100+ USD per meal

It really doesn`t matter what your budget is, you're sure to find delicious food in Mexico. From street tacos to gourmet cuisine, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Transportation Expenses

Flights

Guadalajara International Airport (GDL) is the main airport serving the city of Guadalajara. It is the third busiest airport in Mexico, handling over 14 million passengers per year and offering convenient connections to other domestic and international destinations.

Many airlines, including major carriers and low-cost airlines, operate flights to Guadalajara from cities such as Los Angeles, Miami, Houston, Dallas, Chicago, Toronto, and Vancouver.

One-way flight for one person from the US or Canada to Mexico starts at 250 USD and can go up to 1500 USD and higher. It all depends on how far in advance you book your tickets, what airline you use, and how many stops there will be.

Public Transport

The bus system is the most popular form of public transportation in Guadalajara. There are over 200 bus routes that cover the entire city and its metropolitan area. Buses are frequent and reliable, and they are very affordable.

 A single bus ride costs just 6 Mexican pesos (about 30 US cents), monthly pass costs around 20 USD.  

Guadalajara also has a two-line light rail system called the Tren Eléctrico Urbano (TEU). The TEU connects the city center with the suburbs and some of the most popular tourist destinations, such as the Guadalajara Zoo and the Tlaquepaque artisan market. 

A single TEU ride costs 7 Mexican pesos (about 35 US cents), but the price can vary depending on the route and time of day.

Taxi

The average price of a taxi ride in Guadalajara is around 150-200 Mexican pesos (approximately 7-10 USD) for a short-distance ride. 

Make sure, however, to decide on a rate at the outset, and keep in mind that fares tend to inflate by 25 percent between the hours of 10 p.m. and 6 a.m. Taxis are available 24/7, and you can easily hail one in the street, walk to a taxi stand, or call a phone dispatch company. Uber also operates in the Guadalajara area.

Healthcare and Insurance

Access to quality healthcare is crucial during retirement. Guadalajara is home to a robust healthcare system that includes modern hospitals, clinics, and medical facilities. It has several world-class healthcare facilities, including the Puerta de Hierro Medical Center, San Javier Hospital, and the Hospital Civil de Guadalajara. All of them have international accreditations, ensuring high standards of care.

Retirees from the USA and Canada who reside in Guadalajara have several healthcare options available to them:

1. Mexico has a government-sponsored program known as Seguro Popular, which provides access to public healthcare services for Mexican citizens and permanent residents. So, foreign retirees with permanent residency in Mexico may be eligible for this coverage, although the program does not cover all medical conditions, and there may be long wait times for certain services.
2. Many retirees from the USA and Canada choose to obtain private health insurance in Mexico. Private health insurance can cover various healthcare services, including doctor visits, hospitalizations, medications, and specialized treatments. The cost varies based on several factors, including age, medical history, coverage level, and insurance provider.The average health insurance for a couple is 300 USD - 600 USD per month. So, you can expect to pay 30% less for health insurance in Mexico than in the USA and Canada, even for comprehensive coverage.
3. At the same time, there are a number of international insurance companies with plans available for retirees from the USA and Canada. These plans offer flexibility and peace of mind for those who split their time between Mexico and their country of origin. But when choosing an international insurance plan, it is important to consider your needs and to understand the extent of coverage while residing in Guadalajara.

To know more about medical and health tourism in Mexico, read my previous article, where I uncover the reasons behind Mexico’s increasing popularity for medical tourism, explore the diverse range of medical services it provides, and offer essential considerations for those considering a journey to this healthcare and medical tourism haven.

Entertainment and Leisure

Retirement is not just about saving money; it's about enjoying your golden years! Mexico offers numerous affordable entertainment options that won't strain your budget.

• Walking tour - 30 USD - 50 USD 

• Interactive Full-day Private Tour: 100 USD - 200 USD

• Cultural events and museums: Typically low-cost or even free

• Movie ticket: 3 USD - 5 USD

• Fitness Club Monthly Fee: 25 USD - 40 USD

In this enchanting Mexican metropolis, your retirement can truly be a chapter of fulfillment, adventure, and the pursuit of lifelong dreams. The reasonable cost of living, coupled with the cultural richness and welcoming atmosphere, allows baby boomers to experience an enjoyable and fulfilling retirement in this beautiful city.

By considering the expenses outlined in this guide, you can figure out how much it's going to cost in this welcoming and culturally rich country. If you want assistance in your relocation to Guadalajara, please book a personal consultation with me. I will help you create a budget that fits your needs and lifestyle and provide you with all the information and insights you need to make a smooth transition to your new home.

Moving to a new country is a big decision, and there are a lot of factors to consider. But what about the non-obvious factors? The ones that you might not think about until it's too late?

Here are four non-obvious factors to consider when choosing a country to relocate to:

• Time zone

The time zone of your new country can have a big impact on your life. Except that you may need time to adjust your sleep schedule, it can significantly impact communication, especially if you need to maintain regular contact with family, friends, or business associates in different time zones. Choose a location with a time zone that aligns well with your needs for convenient communication, minimizing potential challenges in coordinating schedules or conducting timely business transactions. 

My client, Mike, once told me an interesting story. He was eager to explore new horizons and expand his business network in Singapore. However, he encountered an unexpected challenge: the significant time difference between Canada and Singapore. 

As most of Mark's current clients were based in Canada, Mark found himself struggling to balance his sleep schedule and accommodate the time difference for important discussions and project updates. Despite his efforts to adjust, he realized that he was losing touch with some of his valued clients. At the same time, he was facing difficulties in finding new business prospects or exciting projects in Singapore. 

This experience taught Mark an important lesson about the importance of considering a location with a time zone that aligns well with your needs. 

• Travel distance

Assess the travel distance between the prospective country and other important destinations such as your home country, family members, or key business centers. Consider the frequency, overall tickets and travel insurance costs, transportation and connections options,  and nature of travel you anticipate, including family visits, business meetings, or access to essential services.

• Mandatory military service

In case you are considering obtaining citizenship in a new country, investigate whether the prospective country enforces mandatory military service for its new citizens. This requirement varies from country to country and may impact your personal preferences and plans. Understanding the obligations related to military service will enable you to make informed decisions regarding your long-term commitment and potential implications for your lifestyle and career aspirations.

• Privacy and reporting requirements

Different countries have different privacy and reporting requirements. You'll want to make sure that you understand the privacy and reporting requirements in the country you're moving to. This will help you protect your privacy and ensure that you're compliant with the law. Plus, staying on the right side of the law always makes for a smoother and more enjoyable experience in your new home.

I hope this post has given you some food for thought. If you're thinking about relocating to Mexico, I encourage you to do your research and consider all of the factors involved. Remember, knowledge is power, and it's always better to be well-prepared and compliant, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable transition to your new home.

But if you don`t know how to start, or if you're feeling overwhelmed, don't hesitate to reach out to me. I can help you navigate the process and find the perfect place for you.

Book My Consultation ➡️ https://emilybron.com/product/1-hour-consultation-60-mins/