Country Overview
Economic Overview
Currency: MXN — 17.2563 per USD (-15.8% vs 1yr ago) Inflation: 3.8% current CPI (January 2026) · 5.3% 5yr avg
Property & Ownership
Freehold ownership: Yes Mechanism: Bank trust (fideicomiso) with Mexican bank as trustee, typical term 50 years, renewable Restricted zones: 100 km strip along international borders and 50 km along coastlines Recent changes: No major changes 2022‑2026; provisions unchanged
Visa & Residency Options
Tourist (Visitante sin permiso para realizar actividades remuneradas)
- PR path: Not applicable
- Stay up to 180 days without work authorization.
Temporary Resident (Residente Temporal)
- Min income: Approximately US$3,000–4,000 monthly income (based on UMA)/month USD
- Investment: Approximately US$70,000–$86,000 in savings/investments (varies by consulate; verify current UMA-based threshold)
- PR path: Eligible after 4 years of temporary residency
- Requirements based on UMA; thresholds may differ by consular post.
Social Security & Tax
SSA benefits portable: Qualified Totalization agreement: None — SSA agreements overview US expat taxes: Greenback Tax Services — Mexico guide
City Guides
Each city guide covers local cost of living, healthcare, queer safety, disability access, race and ethnicity, and key risks specific to Mexico City (CDMX) and San Miguel de Allende.
At a Glance
Most affordable
San Miguel de Allende — ~$1,772/mo
Most queer-friendly
Mexico City (CDMX) — more protective legal framework