Resources Mentioned:
- We can help you with relocating to Mexico, immigration, tax planning real estate and more. Book a Relocation Consult here.
- Just getting started in online business? Check out our Get Your First High Paying Client Online Bootcamp here.
- Learn how we use YouTube to generate leads and sales for our online business here.
If you’re searching for moving to Mexico tips, you might have already encountered a lot of wild myths about Mexico — myths that can scare people away or give a completely distorted picture of what life here is actually like. In today’s post, we’re going to break down these misconceptions and share some surprising facts that will help you make a smarter, more confident move.
At Entrepreneur Expat, we specialize in helping people navigate every step of moving overseas, from handling immigration and taxes to setting up businesses and investments. And we’re here to make sure your journey isn’t sidetracked by misinformation.
Moving to Mexico Tips: Is Mexico Really Dangerous?
One of the most common myths we hear is that Mexico is extremely dangerous. Stories circulate about violence happening everywhere, but the reality is much more nuanced. Like any country, Mexico has safe areas and areas you probably shouldn’t wander into — just like the U.S., Canada, or Europe.
Here’s the real data: According to FBI crime statistics, 4.8 Americans per 100,000 are “unalived” in the United States. In contrast, according to the U.S. State Department, only 2.1 per 100,000 Americans visiting Mexico faced the same fate. That’s less than half the rate!
Tourist hubs like Cancun, Puerto Vallarta, and Mexico City are statistically safer than major U.S. cities like Philadelphia or Chicago. For example:
-
Guadalajara: 17.1 per 100,000
-
Puerto Vallarta: 8.8
-
Cabo: 3.7
-
Mérida: 1.5 (one of the safest cities in the world)
In contrast, Philadelphia clocks in at 33 per 100,000, Houston at 19, and Chicago at 22.8. When planning your move, one of the best moving to Mexico tips is to research the specific areas you’re considering — just like you would if moving to any major city worldwide.
(Watch the video above for all the graphs)
Moving to Mexico Tips: Understanding the Economy and Education
Another stubborn myth is that Mexico is poor and undereducated. In reality, Mexico is the second-largest economy in Latin America (after Brazil) and is classified by the World Bank as an upper-middle-income country.
Mexican cities like Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara boast thriving middle classes, luxury malls, high-end restaurants, and top-tier universities. It’s not unusual to meet Mexicans investing $2 million USD in real estate or business opportunities.
One of the top moving to Mexico tips is to treat Mexicans with the same respect you would extend anywhere else — assuming they are poor or uneducated not only makes you look ignorant but can hurt your ability to build strong local relationships, whether personal or business.
Moving to Mexico Tips: Respect the Laws and Culture
Some expats make the mistake of believing Mexico is the “wild, wild West” — a place without rules where you can do whatever you want. This is simply not true. Mexico has laws, and while enforcement can vary by region, it’s essential to obey them.
For example:
-
Seatbelt laws are enforced.
-
There are cash transaction limits on real estate purchases.
-
Immigration laws are tightening — overstaying a visa can get you detained.
Another key moving to Mexico tip: Mexico is enforcing immigration rules much more strictly than in the past. The days of overstaying a tourist visa indefinitely with no consequences are over. Be sure to plan your visa situation carefully, and work with qualified professionals to stay on the right side of the law.
Moving to Mexico Tips: Don’t Assume You Can Navigate Alone
Because there are fewer regulations than in the U.S., Mexico offers fantastic investment opportunities — but it also opens the door for scams and mistakes. We’ve seen cases where foreigners lost tens of thousands of dollars due to fraudulent real estate deals or false promises about residency programs.
Among the most critical moving to Mexico tips: work with vetted professionals. Whether you’re buying property, setting up a business, or applying for residency, having a trusted team (including real estate agents, attorneys, and immigration experts) can save you massive headaches and protect your investment.
Moving to Mexico Tips: Final Thoughts and How We Can Help
The truth about Mexico is far different from the fear-mongering media headlines. When you understand the real safety data, the thriving economy, and the importance of following the law, you realize Mexico is an incredible place to live, invest, and enjoy life — if you do it the right way.
At Entrepreneur Expat, we’ve built a vetted network of experts across Mexico to help you with every step — whether you’re looking for real estate, immigration solutions, business setups, or investment opportunities.
If you’re serious about making your move, book a consult with us at EntrepreneurExpat.com/consult. We’ll guide you through the process, connect you with trusted professionals, and help you avoid costly mistakes.
And don’t forget: grab our free Moving to Mexico Guide to get started with the basics.
Moving to Mexico tips aren’t just about finding a cheap place to live — they’re about understanding a new culture, respecting the local environment, and making smart decisions that can set you up for a fulfilling and prosperous new chapter abroad.
See you in Mexico!