In a world where work has broken free from traditional office spaces and conventional 9-to-5 grind, digital nomadism has become a lifestyle sought after by many. And when it comes to vibrant destinations for expats, retirees, and digital nomads, Mexico City is undoubtedly a shining star on the map.
Picture this: multi-styled architecture, rich history, flavorful cuisine, and warm-hearted locals. It's no wonder the Mexico City lifestyle has captured the hearts of expats from all corners of the globe. It's also relatively affordable, and the cost of living is much lower than in many other major cities and world capitals.
But what makes Mexico City such a great place for digital nomads and expats? Here are a few reasons:
- Excellent infrastructure
Mexico City has a well-developed infrastructure, including a modern transportation system and a reliable electrical grid. Along with the underground subway, taxis/Uber, and buses, the city has recently welcomed a new aerial tramway system known as Cablebus, which offers comfortable seats, legroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi. The first cable car can carry up to 5,000 people an hour between six stations.
CDMX's internet speed is not as fast as some other countries capitals. However, it is still improving, and there are many co-working spaces and cafes in Mexico City that offer faster internet.
- Cost of living
The average cost of living in Mexico City is much lower than in many other major cities. This is a major draw for digital nomads who are looking to save money. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City can cost from $700-$1000 per month, while a similar apartment in New York City would cost several times more. The cost of food, transportation, and entertainment is also much lower in Mexico City than in many other major world capitals. For example, dinner at a lovely Mexican restaurant will cost $10-$20. And getting home by taxi will cost $1 per boarding plus $0.40 for each kilometer.
- Culture
Mexico City has a welcoming culture. Mexicans are generally very friendly and open to foreigners. They're also very proud of their culture, and they're happy to share it with visitors. This makes Mexico City a great place for digital nomads and expats in general who want to experience a new culture and meet new people. Mexico City is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from all over the world. This makes it a fascinating place to live, retire and work, and it's easy to find people from all walks of life in Mexico City (using SM platform groups, multiple clubs, parks, and cafes). Mexico City is proud to have 170 museums in total, making it the second city in the world with the most museums, only behind London.
- Safety
Mexico City is a is a large and relatively safe city. While there is some crime, it is generally not directed at tourists or foreigners. This makes Mexico City a safe place for digital nomads who want to live and work in a vibrant city. However, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions, such as not walking alone at night in such city areas as Doctores, Itzapalapa, Tepito, and Mercado Merced. At the same time, tourists can stroll without hesitations in such areas, as Polanco, Roma (Norte and Sur), La Condesa, Zona Historico, Xochimilco, Coyoacan, San Angel, and Navarro. It is important to do your research in advance and be aware of the different neighborhoods before you go.
- Weather
Mexico City has a mild climate year-round. This makes it a comfortable place to live and work, even for digital nomads who come from colder climates. The average temperature in Mexico City is 72 degrees Fahrenheit. The weather is warm and sunny most of the year, with a few short rainy seasons.
- Visas
Mexico has a variety of visa options for digital nomads. This makes it easy for digital nomads to come and go as they please. The most common visas for digital nomads are FM3 or FM2, depending on your goals and plans for your stay and whether you are interested in obtaining residency. The FM3 temporary visa lets you stay for up to one year, after which you can reapply annually. FM2 visa is like an FM3 visa but allows foreign individuals to apply for permanent residency after four years of renewal.
- Taxes
Basically, if you are here less than six months and have no “vital interests” in Mexico, like a business or investments, you are pretty much off the hook. As a foreigner residing in Mexico for more than 180 days, you are required to register with the Mexican tax authorities (SAT) and obtain a tax identification number (RFC). You must report your income and file annual tax returns, even if you have no taxable income (The same holds true for retiree income, by the way). BUT Mexico has entered into double taxation treaties with several countries to avoid the double taxation of income for individuals who are tax residents in both Mexico and another country. USA and Canada are one of them. So, those Americans and Canadians who work for the company out of Mexico can sigh with relief.
- Communities
One of the things I love most about Mexico City is the people. Mexico is a melting pot of cultures. There are people from all over the world living here. It allows you to learn about different cultures and perspectives, and find people who share your interests or learn from others. Expat communities can help you with things like finding a place to live, getting practical local advice, or learning Spanish. There are a number of events and meetup groups in Mexico City that are specifically for expats and digital nomads. This is a great way to meet new people and learn about the city landmarks and local events in general.
Co-working spaces are also a great place to work, meet other people, and get plugged into the community. Mexico Metropolis is a charming place, where you’ll don’t have any issues finding fascinating individuals and like-minded people, in one of many co-living and co-working areas.
My search for such places brought me to HAAB Project, a social club project and multicultural platform for creators, innovators, and leaders.
HAAB Project, as showcased on their website (https://haabproject.com/), is more than just a shared workspace. It's a vibrant ecosystem that serves as a home for Mexico City's creative international community. Within its walls, you'll discover a sanctuary where ideas flourish, collaborations bloom, and connections are forged.
HAAB's co-working spaces are designed to be both productive and inspiring. They have a variety of workspaces to choose from, including private offices, hot desks, and dedicated desks. They also have a number of amenities, such as high-speed internet, printers, and conference rooms.
HAAB's co-living spaces are a great way to meet other like-minded people and make new friends. They have a variety of room types to choose from, including meeting rooms, private rooms, shared rooms, and studio apartments. They also have a number of amenities, such as a kitchen, laundry facilities, and a rooftop terrace.
In addition to their co-working and co-living spaces, HAAB also offers a number of cultural events and activities that are specifically for their members. These events include networking events, workshops, and talks. They also have a number of social events, such as parties, dinners, and cultural outings. For example, I visited this place on Good Friday and participated in the HAAB April event: "Confession" led by Marko Ayling, a storyteller, originally from the US.
If you are looking for a productive and inspiring place to work, a great way to meet new people or a vibrant social scene, then HAAB Project is a great option for you.
The factors driving the growth of digital nomadism and expats' relocation to Mexico City are numerous. However, as with any place in the world, Mexico has some challenges. Here are some of them:
- Language barrier: While English is becoming more widely spoken in Mexico City, it is still not as common as Spanish. Remember that the official language in Mexico is Spanish :) and learn at least some basic Spanish. This will help you get around and communicate with locals, in addition, will open for you big door of communication with other people from Latin America :). If you are not able to learn Spanish before you go, don`t be afraid. A few basic Spanish phrases, a friendly smile, and some enthusiastic hand gestures will get you a long way.
- Bureaucracy: Mexico City is a large and complex city, and its bureaucracy can be daunting. There are a number of different government agencies that you may need to interact with, and the process of getting things done can be slow and inefficient. So be prepared to wait in line and be patient. If you are enquiring about immigration, taxation, and opening or maintaining your new business matters, connect with me and allow me to connect you with reliable professionals in CDMX.
Ultimately, the decision to make Mexico City a base for your digital nomad journey depends on your individual preferences and priorities. Take the time to thoroughly research and weigh the pros and cons. By doing so, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your goals and sets the stage for a rewarding digital nomad experience in Mexico City.
Reflect on whether you are drawn to the city's vibrant cultural scene, historical significance, and energetic atmosphere. Remember about city size, hectic traffic and commute time. Evaluate the practical aspects as well. Assess your budget and determine if the affordability of living in Mexico City is advantageous for your financial goals. Research the cost of accommodations in selected city areas, transportation, and daily expenses to ensure they align with your budgetary constraints.
If you ask me "Is it worth coming to Mexico City?", I say go for it!
It's an amazing city with a lot to offer. ________________________________________________________________
Ready to embark on your digital nomad journey to Mexico City? For personalized guidance and expert insights on relocating to Mexico, book a consultation with me. As an international lifestyle consultant specializing in Mexico, I'll provide tailored advice to make your transition smooth and hassle-free. Don't miss out on the opportunity to start your exciting new chapter in Mexico City ➡️ Book My Consultation.
