I've been researching the cost of living and safety conditions in Mexico recently and have made some interesting discoveries. Many people want to work remotely or retire early, and Mexico is indeed a good choice, but the key is to find the right location.

I noticed that many people only look at prices; safety is equally important. Based on some previous data analysis, Mexico does have quite a few cities that are both affordable and relatively safe. For example, Mérida in the Yucatán Peninsula has a relatively high safety score. The monthly living expenses (excluding rent) for one person are about $300, and rental options range from $600 to $2,000.

In my opinion, the most overlooked areas are some cities in the northern part of the country. For instance, a few places in Tamaulipas, like Tampico and Matamoros, have very low living costs. Tampico’s monthly expenses for one person are only $716 (excluding rent), with food costs averaging $301 per month. Matamoros is even cheaper; a single person can live well on $700 a month, and a family of four can get by on $1,727 per month. Although these places are not as famous as coastal resort cities, they are hidden gems for those looking to lower their living costs.

Large cities like Guadalajara and Puebla are also worth considering. Guadalajara’s monthly expenses for a family of four are around $2,457 (excluding rent), with a three-bedroom apartment in the city center renting for $885. Puebla is even cheaper, with a one-bedroom apartment renting for $447 per month, and the average house price is around $69,000.

If you enjoy seaside living, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta are good options. Puerto Vallarta’s monthly expenses for a family of four are $2,310 (excluding rent), with a three-bedroom apartment renting for $2,065, though suburban areas can be half that price.

I think the most important thing is to clarify your budget and lifestyle first. Low cost doesn’t necessarily mean low quality; many of these cities offer modern amenities as well as local cultural features. Before making a final decision, it’s best to visit in person to get a feel for the local atmosphere and community.