Mexico

City choice in Mexico is arguably more important than in most countries. The differences between CDMX and Oaxaca are larger than the differences between, say, Lisbon and Porto. Here's where expats actually end up — and why. --- ### 🏙️ Mexico City (CDMX) **Best For:** Digital nomads, younger expats, urban professionals, people who want maximum cultural and culinary richness **Vibe:** Massive, cosmopolitan, chaotic in the best way. More museums than Madrid. World-class food. Incredible public transit. Altitude will hit you. **Population:** ~9 million city proper, ~22 million metro **Average 1BR Rent:** MXN 7,000–18,000/month (~USD $410–1,050) — varies enormously by neighborhood | Neighborh

Let's be specific. "Affordable" is meaningless. Here's what things actually cost. ### Food & Groceries **Street food** is where Mexico shines. **Street tacos: MXN 15–25 each (~USD $0.90–1.50)**. A full lunch at a local comida corrida (set menu): MXN 80–150 (~USD $4.70–8.80). A meal at a mid-range restaurant: MXN 200–500 (~USD $12–29) for two. A nice dinner with wine in Roma Norte: MXN 800–1,500 (~USD $47–88) for two. **Mercado shopping** (local market) runs 30–50% cheaper than supermarkets for produce, meat, and basics. A week of fresh produce for one person: MXN 300–500 (~USD $18–29). **Supermarkets** (Walmart, Chedraui, La Soriana) are fine for branded goods. **Costco** exists in most m

Mexico's immigration system is more straightforward than most countries, but it still requires attention to detail. Here are the three real paths — and one informal reality check. --- ### Option 0: Tourist Visa (FMM — Forma Migratoria Múltiple) **The reality for most Americans:** You just... show up. Americans do not need a visa to enter Mexico as a tourist. You get stamped in at the border or airport for up to **180 days** — though immigration officers sometimes stamp less, so if the officer writes "30" on your form, politely ask for the full 180. **What you can do on a tourist visa:** Live in Mexico, rent an apartment, travel freely. What you cannot do: work for a Mexican employer, acc