Imagine waking up to a world of colorful buildings, mouth-watering street food, and a vibrant culture every day. Now, what if I told you this dream could be your reality in the heart of Mexico? Nestled in the heart of the country, Queretaro offers a unique blend of modernity and tradition, making it a top choice for expats looking for a new adventure. But before you book your one-way ticket, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons of living in this beautiful city. So, let's take a closer look at what Queretaro has to offer, and whether it's the right destination for you.
Queretaro is known for its rich history, which dates back to the pre-Columbian era. During the colonial period, it was an important hub for silver mining and played a significant role in the Mexican War of Independence. The city's unique blend of colonial and indigenous architecture reflects its rich cultural heritage. The past continues to influence the present in Queretaro, making it a fascinating destination for visitors who likes the old-world charm.
What Attracts People to Queretaro?
Queretaro is a hidden gem that offers a wide range of attractions and benefits for travelers and expats alike. Here are some of the reasons why people are flocking to this charming city:
- Pleasant Climate
One of the main draws of Queretaro's climate is its year-round mild temperatures. The average high temperature ranges from 71°F (22°C) to 80°F (27°C) throughout the year, while the average low-temperature ranges from 45°F (7°C) to 57°F (14°C). This means that Queretaro enjoys warm days and cool nights, which is particularly appealing to those who are looking to escape the harsh winters of the north, as I did.
Queretaro's mild climate is not only appealing to those who wish to escape extreme weather conditions, but it also makes outdoor activities enjoyable year-round. The city is surrounded by beautiful countryside, with hills and mountains providing a picturesque backdrop to the urban landscape.
Cyclists can enjoy a range of bike trails in and around Queretaro. The city itself is quite bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes and a bike-sharing program. For those looking for more challenging rides, there are plenty of mountain biking trails in the nearby hills and mountains.
For those looking to cool off during the warmer months, Queretaro's nearby rivers and lakes offer excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing. The Santa Maria River, which runs through the city, is a popular spot for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. There are also several lakes in the region, including the Presa de San Jose, which is popular for fishing and water sports.
Overall, Queretaro's mild climate and beautiful surroundings make it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Budget-Friendly Cost of Living
Queretaro offers a high standard of living at a lower cost than many cities in the United States or Canada. The city offers a range of amenities and services, including excellent healthcare, international schools, and transportation. And the cost of living in Queretaro is generally lower than in major cities such as Mexico City or Guadalajara, which makes it an ideal location for those looking to retire or work remotely.
Housing costs are particularly affordable, with options ranging from modern apartments to historic colonial homes. There are also plenty of affordable dining options, including street food and local markets, where visitors can sample traditional Mexican cuisine.
The city has several world-class hospitals, including the Hospital Angeles Queretaro and the Hospital San Jose de Queretaro, which offer state-of-the-art medical services.
For those seeking educational opportunities, Queretaro is home to several prestigious universities and research centers, including the Autonomous University of Queretaro and the National Polytechnic Institute. These institutions offer a range of academic programs, from engineering and science to social sciences and humanities.
The city has a growing economy with a diverse range of industries, including aerospace, automotive, and information technology. Global giants such as Bombardier, Safran, Honeywell, General Motors, BMW, and Continental Automotive Systems have set up operations in Queretaro, taking advantage of its favorable business environment and access to a skilled labor force. Siemens, IBM, and Hewlett Packard Enterprise have also established operations in Queretaro, fueling the local economy and generating employment opportunities.
This has led to an increase in remote work opportunities and digital nomads choosing to make Queretaro their home. The city has several co-working spaces, cafes, and libraries, providing a range of options for those looking for a place to work outside of their homes. The city's reliable internet connectivity and low cost of living make it an attractive destination for digital nomads and remote workers seeking a high-quality lifestyle at an affordable price.
- Diverse Entertainment
Whether you're interested in exploring the city's historic landmarks, experiencing its vibrant arts and culture scene, or simply enjoying some retail therapy and a movie, Queretaro offers something for everyone.
Queretaro is home to numerous historic sites and landmarks. One must-see attraction is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Historic Center of Queretaro. This area boasts beautifully preserved colonial architecture, including churches, monasteries, and mansions that date back to the 16th and 17th centuries.
The city is also renowned for its vibrant arts and culture scene, boasting numerous museums, galleries, and theaters. Notable among these are the Museo Regional de Queretaro, which features pre-Columbian artifacts and colonial-era art, and the Centro de Arte Bernardo Quintana, a contemporary art gallery and cultural center that hosts a wide range of art exhibitions, concerts, and cultural events. Additionally, the city is home to several annual festivals, including the International Festival of the Arts and the Queretaro International Film Festival, which draw visitors from around the world.
Among others, the city also has several modern shopping malls and cinemas, providing plenty of entertainment options for those looking to keep busy.
Queretaro is also home to a flourishing wine industry, with vineyards stretching across the picturesque countryside. Wine enthusiasts can take tours and tastings at the local wineries, immersing themselves in the art of winemaking and savoring the region's exquisite flavors. From robust reds to crisp whites, Queretaro's wineries produce a wide variety of wines that cater to every palate.
In addition to its wineries, Queretaro is famous for its artisanal cheese production. The region boasts a long tradition of crafting high-quality cheeses, using traditional methods that have been passed down through generations. Visitors can visit local cheese factories and learn about the cheese-making process, from milking the cows or goats to the aging and packaging of the final product. The cheeses of Queretaro are known for their rich flavors and distinct characteristics, making them a must-try for any cheese connoisseur.
- Prime Location
The city's proximity to other major cities in Mexico, such as Mexico City and Guadalajara, not only makes it a convenient starting point for exploring Mexico, but it also offers an ideal place to reside for those who want easy access to the country's major cities while enjoying a more peaceful and relaxed lifestyle.
The city's proximity to major business hubs such as Mexico City and Guadalajara makes it a popular choice for those who work remotely or travel frequently for business.
Moreover, the city's strategic location at the crossroads of several major highways, and other transport routes provides easy access to the country's world-famous beaches, stunning mountain ranges, and ancient ruins. Whether you're interested in exploring the Yucatan Peninsula's stunning coastlines or hiking in the Sierra Madre, Queretaro's central location makes it the perfect base for your adventures. Via the International airport, foreigners can reach Queretaro from the US, Canada, and some Latin American countries, and locals can in 1-2 hours reach multiple main destinations and beach towns in Mexico.
What is more, the city is located in the central part of Mexico and is known for its stable geology. Unlike other regions in Mexico, such as the Pacific Coast or the Gulf of Mexico, Queretaro is not located near a major fault line. This means - no hurricanes and earthquakes in the region.
- Peaceful Living
While every city has its share of crime, Queretaro is considered to be one of the safest Mexican cities. The Mexican government has made significant efforts to improve safety and reduce crime in the area, including investing in police training, equipment, and technology. The city has a low presence of organized crime, such as the Mexican mafia and drug dealers. Pickpocketing does happen, as in any other urban area in places where tourists gather, but they are not as common as in other cities.
As mentioned earlier, the city's geographical location is generally considered safe, although there may be occasional not strong earthquakes that could hit the Queretaro. But the city's infrastructure is designed to withstand the few natural disasters that do occur. For example, the aqueduct that runs through the city was built in the 18th century to withstand earthquakes, and it still stands today. Additionally, the city has an early warning system in place to alert residents of any potential natural disasters, providing ample time for evacuation or preparation.
- People
Finally, my favorite thing about Queretaro is the people. During my time in Queretaro, I was struck by the warmth and friendliness of the local people. From the street vendors to the hotel staff, everyone was welcoming and eager to share their culture and traditions with me.
Queretaro is not only home to friendly and welcoming locals but also a growing community of expats from different destinations (the US, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, Korea, Brazil, and many other Latin American countries).
The blend of cultures and backgrounds creates an exciting and dynamic atmosphere, where you can learn new things and make lasting connections with people from around the world.
As with any city, Queretaro has some drawbacks to living in this charming city:
- Growing Pains
With its recent rapid growth, the city has experienced some infrastructure and traffic problems that can be frustrating for residents. While the increase in traffic is noticeable, it's important to note that the situation is not as severe as in other cities. Furthermore, the severity of traffic depends on the location and time of day.
However, if you are planning to own a car in Queretaro, it's essential to be aware of the heavy rains that occur during the summer and surrounding months. Unfortunately, the city's public infrastructure has failed to keep up with these weather patterns, leading to severe flooding in some areas.
What`s more important is that the city's popularity has led to an increase in demand for housing, which in turn has driven up prices. This can make it challenging for new residents to find affordable housing, particularly in desirable neighborhoods. It's important to work with trusted professionals when buying or renting property, who can help you to consider and explore different alternative neighborhoods.
- Language Barrier
Despite being an increasingly globalized city, with a growing number of foreign residents, English is not widely spoken outside of tourist areas and international businesses. This can make it challenging to navigate day-to-day activities, such as grocery shopping, seeking medical attention, or dealing with government bureaucracy. But, please, note that in the private clinics and hospitals, you always can find doctors speaking good English, as the majority of them received medical education and specialization in the US or in European medical schools.
However, this can also be seen as an opportunity to learn and practice Spanish, which is the predominant language in Queretaro. Embracing the local language and culture can enhance one's experience of living in this vibrant city, allowing for deeper connections with the community and a better understanding of Mexican culture. There are also many language schools (some of them are the best in the country) and resources available for expats who wish to improve their Spanish skills.
- Nightlife
Queretaro is a city that boasts a rich cultural heritage, with an abundance of historic landmarks, museums, theaters, philharmonic and cultural events. There are plenty of restaurants, clubs, several professional and amateur theaters with cabaret. People are learning to dance on the central plaza even during the week evenings and music is coming from all the corners.
However, for those seeking a vibrant nightlife scene, the city's limited options for entertainment and nightlife can be a drawback.
At the same time, this can be seen as a trade-off for the city's more peaceful and relaxed atmosphere. Many residents of Queretaro appreciate the city's slower pace of life, with its numerous parks, plazas, and public spaces offering opportunities for leisurely activities such as picnics, strolling, and people-watching.
Furthermore, Queretaro's proximity to other cities and attractions provides residents with a variety of options for entertainment beyond the city limits. Weekend trips to nearby destinations such as San Miguel de Allende, Guanajuato, or Mexico City can offer additional exciting opportunities for exploration and adventure.
Overall, from its pleasant climate and outdoor activities to its affordable cost of living and diverse entertainment options, Queretaro has something for everyone. And while tourists and expats may have different experiences, they will surely be captivated by the charm of this hidden gem.
If you're considering moving to Mexico or simply looking for your next travel destination, I highly recommend considering Queretaro.
As an international lifestyle consultant, my work takes me to cities across the globe, each with its unique blend of modernity and tradition. From bustling metropolises to quaint towns, I strive to experience each location not only as a tourist but as a potential resident.
In doing so, I seek to gain a deep understanding of the local culture and way of life, as well as identify the key factors that make a particular city attractive to visitors and residents alike. For example, some cities may be known for their vibrant arts scenes, while others may offer excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation or access to top-tier educational institutions.
By approaching each destination with an open mind and a willingness to fully immerse myself in the local culture, I can help my clients find the perfect balance between modernity and tradition, and identify which destinations would best fit their unique needs and preferences.
If you're thinking of moving to Mexico or anywhere else in the world, I'd be happy to lend a hand. Just click the link for a personal consultation and we can figure out the perfect location for you. I'll help you create a step-by-step relocation plan that will streamline your relocation process. Moreover, if you're curious about the diverse regions of Mexico and the expat experiences residing there, remember to follow me on locals. It features compelling narratives and beneficial insights for those pursuing an international way of life, work, and retirement.
