Cheapest Places to Live In Mexico

By PropertyClub Team
Jan 31st 2024
With its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities, Mexico has long been a magnet for expats and budget travelers. But beyond the tourist hotspots, countless charming towns and cities offer an incredibly affordable lifestyle, making Mexico a dream destination for those seeking a low-cost escape.

hash-mark15 Most Affordable Places to Live in Mexico 

  1. Saltillo
  2. Ensenada
  3. Veracruz
  4. Oaxaca City
  5. Valladolid
  6. San Luis Potosí
  7. Tulum
  8. Puerto Vallarta
  9. La Paz
  10. Ajijic
  11. San Cristóbal de las Casas
  12. Puerto Morelos
  13. Guanajuato
  14. Playa del Carmen
  15. Mazatlan

hash-markSaltillo

Saltillo is a budget-friendly city that is the cheapest place to live in Mexico due to its extremely low cost of living. As the capital and largest city of Coahuila in the northeast, it's home to around 879,958 people. Saltillo is a hub for the automotive industry, having some of the biggest automobile plants in Mexico. 

Living costs are low, with the rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center priced at just $264.94, making it an economical choice for residents.

hash-markEnsenada

Ensenada, a budget-friendly city on Mexico's Pacific Coast, is known for its affordable cost of living. With an average monthly rent of only $338.53 for a one-bedroom apartment, it offers an attractive option for those seeking an economical lifestyle. Its population is 279,765. 

The city's warm climate and proximity to the Pacific Ocean make it a popular tourist destination. Ensenada's affordability and pleasant environment make it another inexpensive place to live in Mexico.

hash-markVeracruz

Veracruz, also called Heroica Veracruz, is a Mexican city by the Gulf of Mexico, known for its affordability as another cheap place to live in Mexico. With a population of 607,209, it's the country's oldest, largest, and historically significant port. 

The average rent in Veracruz is $367.97 per month, making it an economical choice for residents. The city's coastal charm and historical importance add to its appeal as a budget-friendly living option in Mexico.

hash-markOaxaca City

Oaxaca City, often known as Mexico's culinary capital, is also a budget-friendly place to live. With an average rent of $406, it offers affordable living compared to many other cities in the country. 

This vibrant city, with a population of 715,000, was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1987, showcasing its rich cultural and historical significance. The colorful streets, colonial architecture, and lively markets make Oaxaca City a unique and charming destination for both residents and visitors alike.

hash-markValladolid

Valladolid, a charming town in Mexico, is known for being an affordable place to live, with a population of 56,494 people. The cost of living is quite reasonable, making it a cheap option for residents. One of the notable sights in Valladolid is the Convent of San Bernardino de Siena, a beautiful church that adds to the town's cultural richness. 

For those looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle, Valladolid offers an average rent of around $466, making it an attractive choice for those seeking an economical and picturesque place to call home.

hash-markSan Luis Potosí

San Luis Potosí, Mexico, is next on our list of cheapest places to live in the country. With a population of 824,229, it is commonly called San Luis or SLP. The city is a major industrial hub in central Mexico, known for its thriving manufacturing sector. The average rent here is $534, making it an affordable option for those looking to live in a bustling and industrious city.

hash-markTulum

Tulum, a town on Mexico's Caribbean coast, is a cheap place to live, with an average rent of $543. It's famous for its beautiful beaches and ancient Mayan ruins. The well-preserved remnants of a Mayan port city add a historical touch to the scenic coastline. Tulum offers an affordable living option for those seeking a laid-back lifestyle with easy access to both nature and history.

hash-markPuerto Vallarta

Puerto Vallarta is a Mexican beach resort city and an affordable place to live, with an average rent of $550. It's known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant tourist scene, where almost 80% of the workforce works in jobs related to tourism. Despite its popularity, poverty continues to be a challenge for some residents in Puerto Vallarta.

hash-markLa Paz

La Paz is a budget-friendly city located in Mexico, making it another affordable place to live in the country. It is the capital city of the Mexican state of Baja California Sur, with a population of around 250,141 people. 

The city is served by the Manuel Márquez de León International Airport, which facilitates easy travel. For those considering a move, the average monthly rent in La Paz is approximately $670, making it an economical choice for residents.

hash-markAjijic

Ajijic, Mexico, the 10th city on our list of cheapest places to live in Mexico, offers an affordable lifestyle. With an average monthly rent of $700, it attracts residents seeking budget-friendly living. 

The town's population stands at 11,439, creating a close-knit community. Ajijic boasts a moderate climate throughout the year, making it a pleasant destination for those who enjoy consistent weather.

hash-markSan Cristobal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas, nestled in Mexico, is another affordable place to live, with an average rent of $789. The town thrives on commerce, services, and tourism, making these the key economic sectors. 

Back in the day, it used to be the state capital until 1892, and today, it holds the title of the cultural capital of Chiapas. The city center retains its Spanish colonial design and many historic buildings, providing a charming glimpse into its rich past.

hash-markPuerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos is a budget-friendly town in Mexico, just a quick twenty-minute drive from Cancun's airport. With a population of 9,188, it offers an affordable living option with an average rent of $800. 

The town is known for its charming atmosphere and is home to attractions like the National Reef Park of Puerto Morelos and El Faro Inclinado. Whether you're looking to enjoy the local culture or explore natural wonders, Puerto Morelos provides an inexpensive yet delightful place to call home.

hash-markGuanajuato

Guanajuato, a city in Mexico, is known for being an affordable place to live, with a population of 194,500. The average rent is around $941, making it a budget-friendly option. One of its attractions is the Mummy Museum, where visitors can see naturally mummified bodies. 

Guanajuato also hosts the Festival Internacional Cervantino, a lively event that brings together artists and performers from around the world. This vibrant city offers a mix of history, culture, and affordability, making it an appealing destination for both locals and visitors.

hash-markPlaya del Carmen

Playa del Carmen is a budget-friendly spot in Mexico known for its affordability. It's a resort city by the Caribbean Sea with a population of just over 300,000 people. Situated in the Riviera Maya region, it's a hot tourist spot. People are drawn to its sandy beaches and lively atmosphere. Rent is reasonable, averaging around $1,161, making it another economical choice for living in Mexico.

hash-markMazatlan

Mazatlan is a budget-friendly city in Mexico, making it another cheap place to live. With a population of 438,434, it offers a relaxed lifestyle for its residents. Known as a popular tourist destination, Mazatlan's beaches are adorned with resort hotels, attracting visitors from around the world. 

Despite its tourist appeal, the average rent in Mazatlan is affordable at $1,200, making it an attractive option for both locals and expatriates seeking an economical living experience.