Myths Debunked: The Truth About Living in Mexico

Mexico City offers a wide range of options across budgets—from strong public universities to well-regarded private schools. For families and students looking for an international approach, there are bilingual and international programs with globally oriented curricula, plus institutions with long-standing reputations in research and professional training.

Mexico is modern, diverse, and deeply multicultural. In Mexico City you’ll find a global metropolis shaped by Indigenous heritage and generations of international communities, alongside contemporary design, art, and daily life that feels far closer to “big city” than “tourist postcard.” Traditional hats exist, but mostly in the contexts where they belong, not as everyday costume.

Mexico is not just desert scenes or Cancún beaches. Beyond the coast, you’ll find snow-capped volcanoes, mountain ranges, cloud forests, tropical jungles, cenotes, and freshwater lagoons, often within a short flight or drive. The country’s geographic range supports exceptional biodiversity and radically different climates, depending on the region and elevation.

Día de Muertos is a uniquely Mexican tradition focused on remembrance, not fear. Families honor loved ones with ofrendas (altars), marigolds, candles, photos, and the foods they enjoyed—welcoming their memory back into the home. It’s cultural, symbolic, and deeply meaningful, with public displays that are beautiful rather than “spooky.”

Mexico is a middle-income country with major industries, world-class companies, and a large, modern consumer economy, alongside serious inequality. Like any big global city, Mexico City has highly affluent neighborhoods and areas that are less developed or higher risk. The reality is mixed: meaningful opportunity and quality of life, plus challenges that vary a lot by zone and context.

Mexico City can be more affordable than many U.S. and European cities, but it depends on your lifestyle and neighborhood. Some things are cheaper (services, local dining), while others can be similar or higher (cars, electronics, imported goods). The city offers a wide range, from simple meals to world-class restaurants, so “cheap” isn’t the full story.

Mexico is not one single experience. Safety varies widely by region, city, and even neighborhood. While some areas face serious crime, many parts of Mexico City operate like any major global capital: busy, modern, and highly livable—especially in well-known residential zones. The key is choosing the right area and navigating the process with clear information and local context.Yes, like any large country, there are areas, especially in the north and some western parts, that experience higher levels of violence due to drug cartel activities. However, vast regions of Mexico, including many parts of Mexico City, are as safe as any other global city.

While Mexico does experience higher levels of violence compared to some countries, much of this is concentrated and related to cartel activity. It's important to note that most violent incidents involve conflicts between rival cartel members, not the general public. As a foreigner not involved in these activities, the likelihood of being affected by such violence is minimal, similar to avoiding gang areas in U.S. cities.

Furthermore, cartels, which operate as businesses, recognize that harming foreigners is detrimental to their interests. Incidents involving foreigners can provoke international backlash and disrupt local economies, especially those reliant on tourism and expatriates. Therefore, foreigners in Mexico generally receive high levels of protection from the community and even, indirectly, from those involved in illicit activities.

Mexican cuisine is diverse, not uniformly hot. Many dishes are mild by default, and spice is often added at the table with salsas and you control the heat. Flavors vary widely by region, from citrusy and gentle to bold and spicy, and it’s very different from Tex-Mex. There’s something for every palate.

A lot of Mexico sits at high elevation, with a temperate climate. Mexico City, Guadalajara, and San Miguel de Allende are in the highlands, cooler than many people expect, especially at night and during parts of the year. Beach destinations exist, but they’re only one slice of the country’s geography and daily life.

Mexico City’s public transit is widely used and can be a practical way to move around especially in busy daytime hours. The Metro is generally reliable; like any major city, stay aware of your belongings and avoid empty cars late at night. For women, women-only cars can add comfort.

For rides, app-based services (like Uber) are typically more consistent and safer than taking street taxis.

Mexico City has a strong private healthcare system that many expats find high quality, accessible, and far more affordable than in the U.S. Many physicians are internationally trained, appointments can be more personal, and it’s common to have easier direct communication than you’d expect back home.

The key is choosing the right hospitals and specialists. Public care exists and can be uneven depending on location and demand, but private clinics and major hospitals in Mexico City can offer excellent standards for most everyday and specialist needs.

For minor, non-emergency issues, many Mexico City pharmacies have an on-site doctor (consultorio). You can walk in, get a quick assessment, and if needed a prescription, usually for a modest fee. It’s a practical option when you want fast guidance without a hospital visit.

In Mexico City, some foreigners do stand out, especially at first. You may get extra looks, questions, or curiosity in public spaces, and it can be more noticeable for women. It’s usually interest rather than hostility, and most people adjust quickly once they learn the local rhythm and neighborhoods that fit their lifestyle.

Most people eat well here without issues. The simple rules help: drink bottled or filtered water, start with reputable restaurants, and be selective with street food. Busy stands with high turnover are usually a good sign, and fresh, hot food is the safest bet.

On the U.S. State Department’s travel advisory, Mexico City is listed as “Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution.” That’s the same advisory level used for countries like France and the United Kingdom—different risks, same level. The practical takeaway is simple: choose neighborhoods wisely, stay aware at night, and follow basic big-city precautions.

Spanish helps, but it’s not required. In many central neighborhoods, hotels, restaurants, and major attractions often have English-speaking staff, and translation apps cover the rest. Learning a few basics goes a long way, but you can navigate day-to-day without being fluent.

One of the best-kept secrets about living in Mexico is just how captivating it can be. From the warm, welcoming people to the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant daily life, many expats and visitors find themselves completely enamored. It's a common sentiment among those who've made the move. Once you've experienced the charm of Mexico, you might find yourself not wanting to live anywhere else!