Top 10 Tips for Americans Moving to Mexico (From Locals + Expats Who’ve Done It)
I was scrolling Facebook and came across this post and thought — well that’s a great idea for a blog post. So, that’s the inspiration behind this post below, it’s in a private group, but I’ve linked it here, so you can join the group if you’re interested.
Every time an American asks, “What’s the biggest tip for moving to Mexico?” the comments always start polite… and then quickly turn into a group therapy session for people who’ve watched one too many folk show up with a suitcase, a strong opinion, and absolutely no plan.
Just remember, you’re going to a completely DIFFERENT country. You have to basically relearn, retrain, and detach yourself from the way you have lived to transform into how the people in Mexico live. Because when you move somewhere you never want to be the person that comes there and wants to change things for them. Change things? They’ve been doing things a certain way for ages… don’t think that’ll work.
So I pulled the most repeated advice from this thread, my own thoughts, and boiled it down into the 10 biggest truths people want newcomers to understand—especially if you want Mexico to feel like home instead of a long, expensive culture shock.
1) Learn Spanish (and don’t wait until you land)
This was the loudest message by far: Spanish isn’t optional if you want a real life here. Even basic Spanish changes everything—renting, repairs, healthcare, friendships, and not getting “gringo taxed.” This is definitely something I am working on but have had some challenges with it only because I have dyslexia. So it takes me a lot longer to learn basic complex things. If that makes sense. But it is something I am keenly aware of the importance and definitely trying to make an effort here is better than doing absolutely nothing. Now, while some/most people speak Spanish and English in tourist heavy areas, like Puerto Vallarta, its still common courtesy to at least TRY to order things in Spanish or communicate when you can in Spanish.
2) Mexico is not the United States — don’t ask it to be that place
A lot of frustration comes from people expecting American speed, American customer service, American processes, and American logic. Mexico is different, and the faster you accept that, the happier you’ll be. Baby trust me, you will be way happier with the overall way you are treated here when you let this go. Don’t even think you’re going to change everything. Its impossible. Just let it be. Go with the flow. Learn to adapt. Things are ran differently, period. You’ll survive if things don’t go your way. You’ll also want to remember, some unfortunate things may happen to you, here, too. I lost my wallet, and it sucked. I just looked at it diffferently. Read that story here.
3) Understand this: Mexico runs on relationships
People said it over and over: Mexico is more “relationship-based” than “system-based.” Being friendly with neighbors, showing respect, and building trust can get you further than barking demands at a business because you’re used to a different system. I make an effort to speak to all of my neighbors, even if its just a hello or how are you or good morning, just to let them know that I am acknowledging them. It goes a long way… and in Spanish, of course. I have been invited to many of Carne Asadas, Fiestas, and even birthday parties because of this. Its funny because in the US I barely said anything to my neighbors. LOL! But there’s some charm about Mexico that makes you think differently.
Article will continue after this…
4) Use pesos, not dollars
Using pesos is a respect thing—and a practical thing. It reduces confusion, avoids bad exchange rates, and helps you stop moving through Mexico like a tourist who thinks USD is the default. Period. I don’t have anything else to say here. People will try and argue with me on this and it’s not negotiable.
5) Rent first (and try multiple neighborhoods)
The best advice for avoiding regret: rent before you buy. Spend time in the area, test your daily routine, and see how you feel when it’s not vacation mode—especially during the hottest/rainiest season. You truly have no idea what you’re getting inivoled in, so I highly recommend exploring different areas and seeing what you like best. They neighborhoods in Mexico all vary. For instance, I have lived in Puerto Vallarta, and its very different from neighborhood to neighborhood, read about that in my guide here. I live in Zona Romantica now but I have a feeling I am going to find a place to rent next time I am looking somewhere else.
6) Get legal and understand residency before you build a life
Many people warned against treating tourist status like a long-term plan. Residency rules, financial requirements, and consulate processes can be strict—so handle paperwork early and correctly. Under no circumstance, do not ever overstay your travel visa. Don’t ruin it for everyone and make silly mistakes with this. I’m currently working on becoming a temporary resident because I know that I will always have a stay here. But you do what’s best for you, the right and legal way, and good karma will come to you.
7) Don’t move because you think it’s “cheap”
This came up a lot: Mexico isn’t a bargain fantasy, especially in tourist-heavy spots. If your whole plan is “my dollars go further,” you might end up bitter when rent, electricity (hello A/C season), healthcare, and inflation hit. The way I really hate when people say this… I talked more about this in this video here:
8) Drop entitlement and don’t try to change the place
The thread had a clear vibe: don’t show up expecting Mexico to cater to you. Respect the culture, don’t criticize everything publicly, don’t compare constantly, and don’t treat locals like supporting characters in your relocation journey. Period. Again, things are most likely not going to be what you are used to and that should be fine. You should adjust to everyone that lives around you — not try and get people around you that have been there before you to change for you. That’s called entitlement. Don’t be that person. Yuck!
Article will continue after this…
9) Prepare for noise, celebrations, and “Mexican time”
Fireworks, roosters, dogs, parties, live bands, and slower timelines are normal in many places. If you’re moving with the expectation of quiet suburb energy, you’re going to be stressed—and your neighbors are going to be annoyed. Baby a TIME WAS HAD always… They love to party — but not like all the time — but there are a lot of celebrations that I was not accustomed to but got used to them quickly. And, guess what, they are fun! The neighbors around me will awlays invite me to things because I don’t come to their parties to just sit around, baby, I’m joining the karoke and I am cutting up with the Tias and Tios! They are just like family, chile! Its fun AF! If you let your guard down and enjoy.
10) Contribute: support local, show respect, and build community
The best “success stories” in the thread weren’t about loopholes—they were about people who integrated: learning the language, having Mexican friends, supporting local businesses, volunteering, and showing real love for the country. I have my usual places I love to eat, my usual markets where I love to shop, and my usual businesses that I love to support. I make it a point to visit them, and visit them often. They all know me by face. Not always name, but face for sure. People will start to get to know you over time and they will often times treat you like family. Its really nice to feel that joy. Just treat everyone with respect and they will do the same to you. Ignore the US media and enjoy yourself. Ain’t nobody trying to rain on your parade…
The Bottom Line
If you want Mexico to feel magical, you have to show up like a guest who’s trying to belong, not a tourist trying to upgrade their lifestyle. Learn Spanish. Handle residency. Rent first. Use pesos. Respect the culture. And for the love of tacos—stop comparing everything to the U.S. And most of all, baby, ENJOY yourself. Just as you would anywhere in the world.. always always always practice precaution.
And I know you’re probably wondering… Is it safe here? More information about is Mexico safe can be found here or watch the video below to learn more about safety in Mexico:
Looking for the best tacos in Puerto Vallarta? Here’s my local guide to al pastor, seafood, and breakfast tacos—mostly in Zona Romántica.