With all of the political turmoil in the U.S. since Trump got elected—and even before—many Americans have been asking the same question: how can I start moving to Canada? It’s often painted as a dreamland, free from U.S. politics, with more freedoms and a better lifestyle. But the reality isn’t quite so simple, and for many, Mexico or other parts of Latin America may actually be a more practical option.
Moving to Canada vs. Moving to Mexico: What You Need to Know
When Americans think of escaping political tension, moving to Canada feels like the obvious answer. But immigration pathways have become increasingly restrictive. Unless you have a high-paying job, a significant business, or substantial financial backing, gaining long-term residency in Canada can be a slow and difficult process.
By contrast, Mexico offers a straightforward and much faster residency process. As of 2025, showing proof of around $4,200 USD in monthly remote income—or sufficient savings—can get you a residency permit in as little as 90 days. This makes Mexico one of the most accessible countries for Americans seeking a fresh start abroad.
Cost of Living: Why Mexico Beats Moving to Canada
Another key factor is cost. Moving to Canada often means higher overhead, with taxes, housing, and daily expenses climbing every year. In Mexico, however, couples or small families can comfortably live on $2,000–$3,000 per month, often saving 20–70% compared to U.S. or Canadian costs.
This lower overhead not only allows you to stretch your income further, but also creates space for building businesses, enjoying travel, and investing in a higher quality of life.
Time Zones and Lifestyle Advantages
Moving to Canada keeps you in familiar North American time zones, but so does Mexico and most of Latin America. Unlike Europe or Asia, you won’t face late-night or early-morning calls if you run a remote business or work for a U.S. employer.
Lifestyle is another major differentiator. In Mexico, you’ll find year-round warm weather, walkable towns, and vibrant local communities. By contrast, much of Canada has long, harsh winters and sprawling cities where you’ll often rely heavily on a car.
Soft Freedoms: The Hidden Cost of Moving to Canada
One overlooked aspect of moving to Canada is what I call “soft freedoms.” These are the little everyday frictions that affect your quality of life. Canada has a complex administrative system with GST/HST tax registration, payroll remittances, and strict compliance rules. For freelancers and small business owners, these burdens can pile up fast.
In Mexico, you can set up a business in 15–30 days, and while there is some bureaucracy, the process is faster and more straightforward. Daily life feels freer—fewer small rules, less government surveillance, and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
Taxes: The Financial Edge of Mexico
Canada’s marginal tax rates reach over 53% in some provinces, and capital gains taxes are set to rise again in 2026. Moving to Canada often means higher taxes compared to the U.S., especially if you’re a high earner.
Mexico, on the other hand, offers more flexibility. If you’re not a tax resident (spending fewer than 183 days per year there), you generally won’t pay taxes on worldwide income. Even those who become residents often find their effective tax burden is lower than in Canada or the U.S.
Why Mexico May Be the Better Move
At the end of the day, moving to Canada might seem like the safer or more obvious choice, but Mexico and Latin America often provide greater benefits:
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Faster and easier residency options
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Lower cost of living
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Similar time zones to the U.S.
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Warmer climate and walkable communities
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More soft freedoms and fewer bureaucratic hurdles
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Potentially lower taxes
My wife and I have lived in Mexico for more than three years, and the lifestyle, opportunities, and quality of life continue to exceed our expectations.
If you’re serious about exploring life in Mexico, I’ve put together a free Moving to Mexico Guide you can download at entrepreneurexpat.com/mexico. For personalized guidance, you can also book a consultation at entrepreneurexpat.com/consult.
✅ Final Note: Moving to Canada is still possible, but before you commit, consider whether Mexico or another Latin American country might give you the freedom, lifestyle, and opportunities you’re really seeking.
Moving Abroad Resources:
👉 Moving Abroad Relocation Roadmap Guidebook that walks you through the five phases of moving abroad ($27): https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/relocate
👉 Moving Abroad Relocation Blueprint Course which offers step by step guidance on everything from choosing the right country to immigration to taxes and everything in between: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/blueprint
👉 Want us to handle the details of your move abroad? Apply for our white-glove relocation services here: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/consult
👉 Free Moving to Mexico Guide: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/mexico
👉 Free Moving Abroad Checklist: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/abroad
Remote Work and Online Income Resources:
👉 Expat Income Accelerator course which shows you the multiple ways you can make money globally based on our 15+ years of experience in online business, investing internationally and living in multiple countries: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/income
👉 Get Your First High Paying Client Online Bootcamp which walks you through the first four foundational steps of creating and monetizing an online business based on 15+ years of experience in online business: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/firstclient-yt
👉 YouTube Mastery Workshop which shows you how we’ve built two YouTube channels that bring clients and passive income from digital course sales (including turning Entrepreneur Expat into a six-figure business in six months): https://www.YouTubeMasteryWorkshop.com
👉LinkedIn Mastery Workshop which shows you how to use LinkedIn to find remote work, clients and connect with recruiters based on Justin’s experience building a six-figure business and finding remote work on LinkedIn: https://www.entrepreneurexpat.com/linkedin
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