My son broke his elbow while on a wilderness outing near Guadalajara. Eight paramedics responded and reset his elbow after realizing he had cut off the circulation to his hand, thereby saving his hand. He was rushed to a nearby orthopedic hospital where is was determined that surgery was not advised. He was placed in a cast and returned to the US where he was examined by an orthopedist at UCLA Med., who remarked that the worl done in Mexico was excellent. Total cost in Mexico?...$550 (US).
I had a doctor who studied in Mexico City and received his Doctrine. I had gone to 2 doctors in Los Angeles. I was bleeding heavily back in 2013; I had to go to the hospital weekly to get blood transfusions. I had a doctor tell me that I need to go to Kemo. I said to myself I want another doctor. That is when I met Doctor Shaum. I was reading his credentials while in the waiting room. He got his Doctrine in Mexico City. I told him that the other doctor wanted me to go to Kemo. He thought that is ridiculous especially while I was weak, he helped me get back to normal and I was back at work after 1 year. Anyways now in 2024 I am healthy, retired and walk 1 mile a day at a neighborhood park. Dr. Shaum went back to Mexico, and he really helped me a lot. I just want to thank him for everything. Oh No! I am starting to get teary eyed. May God Bless you Dr Shaum and your family. You are my Angel!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Here's my question about Mexico. It has become the most important one in deciding to live/retire in Mexico. Trump hates Mexico. He is going to set a 20% tariff against Mexico. That has got to hurt. He wants to stop manufacturing from going to Mexico. He is going to deporting lots of people (not the numbers he has been claiming, but, still, lots. How is that going to impact Mexico, at the same time as the tariffs? Perhaps he is doing it to get Mexico to pay for the wall? I just can't see going into the country before I know where this leads.
I live in Rosarito Beach in Baja California and I love it here. You were right about speaking Spanish (I now speak it quite fluently). The locals appreciate it when an American can speak the language and not expect everything to be done in English. Also you might want to mention that the cost of having a caretaker is a lot less expensive here and the helpers are very reliable. I pay a woman to help my brother who is disabled $250 a week to bathe him, cook 2 meals, and she cleans. In the US it would be way more expensive and less reliable ..I love Mexico.
I had my hand cut open in a freak accident at a taco stand in Mexico. I went to a hospital and a hand specialist showed up around 10:00 at night and reconnected the tendon in my finger. It cost about $1000, but the taquero paid half of it. I was told it would have been about $15000-20000 in the USA.
So many positive stories like this! Ernie from " Retired in Mexico, No Bull" where he saved thousands on his cancer surgery ua-cam.com/video/3_rWC2hC30g/v-deo.htmlsi=xo44Lsf6y-08FjrN
@@Conquistadordecielo As an Indian I completely agree that india is very racist not only towards black people but also towards people of East Asian and south East Asian origin. Heck, we are racists towards our own people who are not fair skinned. Although I am not responsible for those acts, but on behalf of my countrymen and women, I sincerely apologize to my black brothers and sisters. God bless you all.
Me too! And I am 73 but have lived in Spain" long ago" and love Spanish people. Will be renewing my language skills but having to learn a different dialect as I learned Castilian Spanish.Exhausted living here in the USA with all of its social issues but mostly the political arena. See you in Mexico!
I spent four hours in an emergency room, being treated for a scorpion sting, in San Pancho (aka San Francisco, named for Francisco Pancho Villa) on the Rivera Nayarit. No charge at all. They told me "Bienvenidos a Mexico!" I was super grateful. Evidently, I didn't cause them too much trouble, so they let me go. Really sweet people, that made me prove I could eat and drink before they would release me
We found a pretty nice 3 bedroom/ 3 bathroom totally furnished stand alone oceanfront home in a small village about 50 miles south of Ensenada for $500 a month rent for a year and that includes our power and water:) You still can live in Mexico on our Social Security if you are careful and lucky🫶 We moved from near Hood River. Love your page🥰
Thanks for sharing! Living near the border on Social Security is a great plan. You can still return to the US for medical care (and that can be your visa run if you're a tourist.)
@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoHola de nuevo Brighton y Kat! If something happens to you in Mexico and you are planning to return to the US to use your Medicare you have to be medically cleared and stable enough to make the trip. That counts out most emergencies and things like a heart attack or something else that's serious. I've got IMSS for those types of things and pay out of pocket for everything else. BTW- If people are planning on coming back to the US to utilize their Medicare coverage you have to figure in the costs for you and maybe someone else to help. That includes your airfare, renting a car for transportation, housing for what could be over a week, meals and still being responsible for 20% of your medical care bill.....Take a knee replacement for example that would cost you anywhere between $7,000us and up to $12,000us in Mexico including your physical therapy without insurance. In the US using Medicare that would cost an average of around $50,000us or more not counting any physical therapy...Just the 20% cost that you would still be responsible for with Medicare is $10,000us. Just saying....Feliz ano nuevo!
Im mexican and I like your videos. I plan to move to La Paz from Mexico City that's how I found your channel. Very interesting your perspective of things. Keep the good work!
I just watched one of your older videos on Querétaro as I am comparing cities for my initial visit in hopes of relocating from the US. A long and complicated process but step by step. Your information and encouragement, uplifting spirit is a breath of fresh air! Thank you from a 73 year old who feels one is never too old to get the heck out of Dodge. Quality of life in my final years is my goal, vs the frustration and consistent/annoying US drama. Tired of being, burdened by "stuff" and bad news every day. Me and my senior - 19 years old Russianblue are at the point of creating change for the good..
My girlfriend lives in Mexico so I am there every 4-5 months. I just sent her one of your videos that was discussing a phrase in Spanish. I was telling her about your channel and how good it is. As a fellow PNW native that will eventually be splitting my time between the US and Mexico, keep up the good work my friend!
@@julietillinghast6971 To be fair, some of the sidewalks were here before the US became a country and they haven't been maintained since then! Buena suerte y feliz ano nuevo!
Great advice and honest! When it comes to health care, I would like to mention that many hospitals require you to pay before you are treated, even sometimes when you have insurance, so if you decide to live in Mexico just remember to keep some funds to the side for that.
This is a great point Cindy! Make sure your credit cards have a decent limit to cover any emergencies. They may not let you leave the hospital until you pay for your stay!
Starting our plans. We live in Salem Oregon. I'm 67, Shannon is 61 and will be drawing ss in Oct next year. Her parents hopefully will move with us. Two homes to sell. They might want to keep theirs for awhile. Are there still 4 bedroom new construction homes in your neighborhood? I watched your newer youtube on the couple that bought one for $157,000.00. We're also considering Huatulco for the beaches (though the water in Lapaz is nice too).
I am retired and just flew back from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I love it. I could not believe how many people from The United States and Canada have made Mexico there home. I have seen Homes and Condos for sale there. Most of them already furnished. The condos on the beach are high rises and really have beautiful with balconies overlooking the Ocean. They also have rooftop decks with Infinity pools overlooking the beach and private beaches for the tenants & for their families who visit. The Beaches there are just Magnificent. I want to buy property there.
Cant wait to see the wonderful changes ! So glad im maga . Fighting fie a better economy , no woke politics , no child gender mutilations , borders open only for immigrants legally coming in , no more wars . Good to see USA waking up to commen sense !!! @AlmostRetiredinMexico
I live in Seattle and am really tired of the fall/winter weather. I'm 65 and still working, but doing what you're doing would be so nice. I have friends who live there, and they love it.Great video and information, thank you! Gives me hope that I could afford it.
If you can afford to live in Seattle, you can afford to live part-time in Baja California. I have a video coming soon with a guy who lives 3 months in Seattle and 9 months in Mexico. And he rents his Seattle house out while he's gone - making a nice profit. We rent out our Portland house for about 75% of our mortgage, but we only rent out one floor - the 2nd floor is where we keep all our stuff while we are gone!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you for your reply. I'm actually a renter so it's a little different for me. The landlords here are very strict and would not allow me to have others here. But that isn't stopping me from leaving. I'm not quite at retirement age. I haven't been to La Paz in about 10 years, and I know it's changed. I plan on visiting soon. I like the area because it's close to the border and flying home would be easier. I have friends that live there too and own a business called La Paz Yachts. For work I'm not sure what I'd do there. I was looking to get my residency but put that on hold last year because of the employment issue. I'm not a remote worker and probably won't need to work but staying busy is a must and so is learning Spanish 😎
@@gg6ft7 I could stay busy just learning Spanish. But my brain would be mush. Maybe start a UA-cam channel? I can guarantee it will keep you busy! I hope La Paz hasn't changed too much!
@@gg6ft7 La Paz was a spur of the moment decision. We came for a weekend visit (we'd never heard of it before) and we ended up buying a house. Not our normal mode of operation, but we have zero regrets. I only wish we'd explored inland a bit more - places we could live comfortably year round and also had more colonial architecture.
Thank you for this valuable information! I live just outside Portland Oregon. I’m still working but looking to retire somewhere more affordable as divorce caused financial reset. I’ve been looking at Italy. However, it is a big distance. Living sic months or even 8 months out of the year in another country allows for a nice break from the insane “hurry up” mentality in the US! When I visited a few countries in the Mediterranean area, I would be in line making a purchase and have conversation with the shop steward. As soon as someone else got behind me, I’d start to hurry and stop talking. I remember the lady helping me put her hand on my hand and said “it’s okay. You don’t have to hurry”. That was so kind. I realized I live in a hurry up mentally here and it causes stress.
Thanks for sharing - I love the idea of being in line and talking with the shop keeper. It's so much less transactional - even when it's a transaction.
I’m in Welches not far from you, I have a house in Guadalajara where my husband and I spent 4 months last year ..we had a great time. I’m Mexican but lived in the US 48 years so the US is home to me, my husband of 28 years is also an immigrant but from England. Please reach out to me if you have any questions, having spent time in Mexico recently allowed me the opportunity to learn and familiarize with life there. We are leaving to Guadalajara this January and back home in May, the original plan was to spend our springs there but we are now thinking about spending more time there and less time here. Best wishes.
@@adrianasoldevila630 Adriana I would love to talk to you about your living arrangements. I am going to work a few more years so I am looking now. I have thought about Mexico too because it’s so much closer to my adult children.
Several months ago, I bought a run down fixer upper on a solar lot at Eldorado Ranch in San Felipe. While rustic, I'm looking forward to spending the winter there and fixing it up. The juxtaposition of the ocean and desert is one of the things that I really like about Baja and San Felipe seems "come as you are" instead of a glitzy suburb of L.A. as the Cabo Corridor has become. I enjoy your channel.
Hi Brighton, after having spent a combined 6 months the last two years in BCS , my wife and have decided to continue this trend and live there 6 months out of the year. However to fully enjoy all the outdoor possibilities we noticed the need of owning a 4X4 vehicle, either a SuV or a truck. Do you know what’s the best way to do this? Any restrictions or requirements you may be aware of? Note that we hail from Switzerland. Any recommendations will be very welcome!!!!
A 4x4 is a great vehicle to have to fully enjoy Baja. Ideally one with Low and High gears. You'll want to buy a car with Mexican plates. And lots are listed on Facebook Marketplace. Or they just have a phone number to call on the windshield. Used car lots are not very common.
I have just heard that the financial requirements have been waived for the remainder of 2024 basically . As long as you have travelled to Mexico between 2015-2022 and visit again and have your FMM expire you can apply for Temp Res without financial requirement
Love your channel. My thought is that if you are unhappy in the United States, you will bring your unhappiness to Mexico, No matter what your politics. If you are happy in the United States, your happiness will follow you Mexico as well. Most Mexicans want happy neighbors... At least from my experience. Get happy, don't worry about things so much..... And move to Mexico -- so you can be MY neighbor. ❤😊
@@JosephHurtsellers The complaining unhappy liberals stick out like a sore thumb. They're constantly complaining, road rage, don't want to learn spanish. They have serious RBF syndrome, and don't even like to greet people on the street, as is mexican custom. Always complaining on FB expat pages too. That's a liberal for you. They even yell at Mexican kids for playing too loud.
@@JosephHurtsellers Liberal Gringo expats in Mexico exhibit discriminatory attitudes and biases against Mexicans and their culture. Complaints include: - Expecting English language use over Spanish. - Yelling at small mexican children in public because their peace and quiet is disrupted - Exclusive expat-only gated communities, by refusing Mexicans to move in. - Road rage in small towns through rude gestures and yelling. - Constant grievances on Facebook expat pages. - Inability to share public spaces, like large tables at street taco stands. These attitudes demonstrate disrespect and cultural insensitivity toward the local community.
Well I understand BUT if and when you arrive and you like the experience you will eventually calm down and learn to enjoy the manana way of life. Or you'll leave running. My money is you'll learn to appreciate it more.
Good morning Brighton, My husband and I leave today. We are ready to go in our van Olive. Yesterday was a very bad day tho as we had to put our beloved dog of 14 years down. We cherished Gracie and I was so hoping she would get to swim in the Sea of Cortez. Even tho we are in an emotional state, we are leaving as we have worked and planned for this adventure for years. Will be looking at the La Paz area to see if it is a right fit for us moving forward. The goal is to be in Mazatlan for Thanksgiving, then ferry over to La Paz. Thanks again Brighton, as always your videos are super helpful and informative. Also, thanks for the tips on politics. We are ready to leave U.S. politics behind as it has been exhausting.
It would be so great for a UA-camr to go into the Guadalajara area and look at and show us some high-rise living. Not everybody wants to live on the beach. There’s just not a lot of information out there for people wanting that type of lifestyle. Thanks Brighton.
The regularlization program is still available for Temp-residency ...1-4 yrs ...which at 4 yrs you can roll it into permanant status. No solvency is needed. It varies from City to City , State to State in Mexico ...Some have it some don't
Yes - as long as you have been to Mexico in the recent past and you have an expired FMM, you should be eligible for this program. There is no reason for anyone to be living in Mexico illegally now.
Glad I lived in Mexico in my 60s and now that I'm in my early eighties I'm glad I live in the United States... It's all about healthcare. I know there are excellent doctors and hospitals especially in the larger cities in Mexico. And at bargain prices compared to the United States. However, distance to a big city hospital and travel time in the event of a medical emergency such as stroke or heart attack has to be considered. I'm in my 80s and returning to Mexico is my plan B. Medicare made a lot of sense to me.
I can't afford without Medicare the costs of my medical expenses. Unfortunately my Medicare doesn't cover me in Mexico thus I live in US and visit Mexico.
Great video! Fellow Oregonian here. Took a scouting trip to BCS last April. Plan move to there in May/June to teach English after completing a TEFL course in Guadalajara. 😊
New follower here. Moving to Mexico is very high on our list to move to. Your info is so helpful. Loved your orange juice tasting in another video. Thanks for this really great video.
Your video really cheered me up as the el@ctions were like 😒. I’m really happy I’ve been studying Spanish daily for the last 5 years. Also you handled sensitive topics really well. 😊😊
I see you only live part time in La Paz. How would the weather be if you lived there year around ? Is it comfortable enough in the summer to tolerate it ?
It's hot in the summer. AC is a requirement, and our house has a palm-thatch roof, so AC isn't a great option. It's a dry heat, but most folks go out in the morning and evening and retreat to the AC mid-day.
I’ve been in Mexico for over 4 1/2 years and one thing you didn’t mention is that if you want to live here and not do the 180 day thing, you need to get a temporary residency which lasts for four years. It’s not cheap. And then after the four years, you have to pay another fee to become a permanent resident.
We’re going to retire in Italy. We’re so excited and even started a channel to document it all. 😊We’re going to move full-time. How exciting for you though.
A question I have about staying beyond your 6 month visa.I thought I heard Mariana (Mexico Relocation Guide) state that you can get a temporary residency by over staying and then applying? Have you heard that too?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thanks. Been to Mexico many times and lived in SMA for 2 years. But traveled in and out every 6 months. I'd rather not have to do that. Loved your video with Joe in Oaxaca. Visited there multiple times as well. Love that place.
I have lived, off and on, in Mexico for about 18 years total. I have had many great experiences. I have also been robbed three times. Well, two times, the third they got nothing. I lived in Tijuana ten years ago and paid $200/month rent for a one bedroom with a great view of the U.S. I will be returning in February. I just moved across the border, no visa. I will do it again. I just wandered back and forth, working on the U.S. My cost was 1/3 of San Diego. Property ownership is TRICKY. You can NOT own on an island or within a certain distance from the shore. If you prepare your own food, you can live on $500/month. My ex-wife is Mexican. Our two oldest were born in Tijuana ('86) and ('87) for $500 between the two. That was expensive at the time. When I lived in Tijuana, it was the MOST DANGEROUS CITY IN THE WORLD. I was fine. I had no problem.
How safe is it for single retired females to live alone?Not in the middle of everything, just a little bit out of town? Like within bicycling or walking distance. My friend is very interested in retiring to Mexico. But she doesn't want to live in cities, and she likes to garden, and she has three cats.
Howdy Brighton, I am a single retired California guy who is seriously considering moving to Mexico. I am going on a cruise to BC and will be in La Paz on December 18, 2024. Are you available for a personal consultation on that day? I certainly would compensate for your time. If not, can you recommend someone I can consult with ion that day?
Owning a noise-cancelling machine is as important as having a good night's sleep. They go hand in hand. And I've lived in Mexico for seven years and love it.
Do you have a favorite brand/model major tom - or Brighton? - the ruidoso issue is the central issue I must mull over . . . que lastima que soy tan sensitivo, pero es la verdad aquí.
Always enjoy your video and u mentioned the temp and perm. Cards. I just got my PR card and I’ll be flying back to Mexico soon. So with these cards do you have to
Another great video. The only noise that bothers me is dogs barking. I think it's the pitch as I have sensitive ears/hearing to certain pitches. What kind of noise machine do you have? I sometimes listen to music or something on my cell phone to help drown out the train in my backyard. I'm thinking I best make my move from Canada to Mexico soon. Thank you for your great videos. ☺♥
FYI, I got my temporary residency the first of the year. I had to prove I had a minimum balance of about $81k per month in savings for the 12 months previous to my consulate appointment. (There are other routes. This was the path I chose.) Permanent residency requirements were much higher, and you have to be retired for at least 1 year now for permanent.
@AlmostRetiredinMexico I went through the Seattle consulate. They had changed from 6 months proof to 12 months. I see where it may vary by the consulate you choose.
BRIGHTON!! That intro hat OMG you frightened me 🤣🤣🤣 I really enjoyed this video ~ Lots to take away from this ✔️ I wonder though, when you speak of “lack of efficiency”, does that go hand-in-hand with the amount of patience someone might benefit from possessing. Your thoughts?
Sorry to scare you with the hat (although I'm keeping it just in case it's a requirement to cross back into the US in the future.) Totally true about lack of efficiency and patience. Life in Mexico demands that you learn patience. And patience is a virtue! A good skill to learn!
Ooooh, it was the time to move to Mexico at while ago for me, but after this past week...is is Definitely high time for that to happen, 🤣! I've got 2-3 years and I will be there. BTW, I have an upcoming trip to La Paz soon, any recommendations for good restaurants or tourist events?
I hope to meet you at one of my Sunday happy hours. As to restaurants, there are so many to choose from. But Tatanka is high on my list. Also Estrella for the atmosphere. Sunset is supposed to be great too, but I've never been. Visit Balandra beach and maybe get a snorkeling tour that stops there and also covers Espiritu Santo. Enjoy the Malecón on a Sunday night.
Thanks for sharing! Can we get temporary residence without having an address there? I was thinking (if possible) I would get it now to get it handled and out of the way. Not ready just yet to move there full time nor part time. I have to work another five years.
I’ll believe it when I see it. Immigrants are a very important part of the US economy and people aren’t excited about inflation - especially at the grocery store.
Permanent Residency is also for family. I received Permanent Residency straight away from my kids.They are double citizens due to my husband/their father being a Mexican Resident.
I obtained permanent residency through my son who at the time had his own permanent residency... It was very easy, without financial requirements or visit to a Mexican consulate in the United States.
We live in the Seattle area and thinking about how to live longer term in Mexico in the coming years. We're about to check out Puerto Vallarta and possibly San Miguel De Allende later on in 2025. I love your videos and the information it provides. They are very helpful.
Best of luck with your exploratory trips! Kat and I are going to San Miguel de Allende in January (and Queretaro and Guanajuato - which are two really cool nearby towns.)
@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoYou should interview Meagan Burns an artist in SMA before she leaves to give a workshop in California in January. Her channel @meagan_burns_
@@brightflyerart Thanks for the suggestion. Unfortunately, Kat and I will only be in SMA for a few hours on our trip from QRO to Guanajuato. We aren't even spending a night. So I won't have time for interviews in SMA.
thank you! i am wanting to know if I can live in Mexico w/temp residency (non permanent) and still maintain my job in the US remotely if I find the answer I'll come back and type it i have a feeling there are many like me looking for that answer :)
There are many in your situation already in Mexico. The big question is, “are you supposed to pay Mexican income tax?” And you’ll find any answer you’d like. Most people say that if you aren’t making money from Mexican sources, then you don’t need to pay Mexican income tax.
It's up to the company you currently work for if they allow you to work remotely. You only pay income taxes to the US on your income from the US. Only if you make money from a Mexican company in Mexico you would have to pay an income tax in Mexico. Buena suerte!
Great information, Brighton, as always. I’m sorry some people just can’t put the politics away for a minute. Jeez! Keep rocking your excellent channel! ✌🏻
Is it safe to move to Mexico? I was raised in a tourist town in Guerrero. I have lived in the USA for over 30 years. Although I have considered going back, my town feels unsafe now because Narcos run it. My family said, "They only kill each other, you'd be Ok." Not very reassuring. I'm also scared of kidnappings because they might think I have $$$ if I'm gringa. Are my fears unreasonable? I do lean towards being over cautious and am an anxious person.
I’d personally choose somewhere other than Guerrero. Check out the map in this blog post: almostretiredinmexico.com/are-you-safe-in-mexico-live-happy-hour-discussion-with-luis-martinez/
I’m American-Mexican and I’m terrified every time I visit family and friends in Mexico, I always write out a will (it may not be legally binding but at least my loved ones would know what I wanted.) Kidnapping, murders, cutting limbs and heads off, extortions, they send your served body parts to your family in the mail, Mexico is no joke no matter what color you are. The cartels blade cut white and brown skin.
I don't think it will happen. Immigrants are too important to the US economy. Inflation would go through the roof and the last presidential election showed how much people dislike inflation.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico of course it’s going to happen. He promised. Gas is going to go down, groceries are going to go down, Insurance is going to go down, housing is going to go down, everything is going to go down because that’s what he promised.
Yup. I have some friends living off grid about 1 hour from downtown La Paz. Nearest neighbor is a goat farm. They watch the dolphins and whales every morning.
I have lived in Mexico for over a decade now. I went the permanent -> citizen route. Here are my thoughts as I watched your video (which I appreciated by the way). Medical / hospital expenses while less that in the US _are expected to be paid at time of service_. If you spend a week in the hospital someone likely will visit your bedside looking for payment. Everyone should probably have a decent sized emergency fund. Whether or not politics are a part of your life may depend in part on your circle of friends. A lot of well educated Mexicans are very concerned, and vocal, about politics. If you are a resident of Mexico there are some things you want to avoid. Correct me if I am wrong but I believe you are not allowed to participate in political protests and such. You do not even want to be seen standing nearby watching. More people may have guns, legal and illegal, than you let on. Yes, while the day to day exchange rate varies, you can get a much better rate of return on your funds in Mexico (like in the area of 11% on a T-Bill equivalent). Wasn't there a pretty impactful hurricane in the La Paz area recently ? Yes - while there is no avoiding barking dogs at night (for the most part), you likely don't want to move next to a cantina.
Loving your videos and they are inspiring me to choose Mexico to retire. Was wondering if artists can sell their work there. Would that be considered working in Mexico?
I was planning on spending Northern hemisphere summers in the southern hemisphere (not necessarily picky about where). Just too damn hot here. Anywhere English or Spanish is spoken. Again, not too picky, I can speak either language well enough to get by. The interesting thing was not necessarily being able to count on getting a visa every time I want one. Makes sense, but I hadn't considered it. Thinking about Chile. It's a "2" on the Travel Advisory, and there are cheap places to winter there when it's the off-season.
Baja Sur is ridiculously expensive - $1 million homes are almost the norm, hiring a gardener or maid you'll pay at least $15 an hour, and food costs are higher. Just FYI.
You are mostly correct. It's definitely more expensive here. But I'd say $500k homes are more the norm, and gardeners and maids are closer to $7-9 an hour. All more expensive than the mainland.
We’re looking for information on American senior married to Mexican National with green card moving to Mexico and how do I get my SS benefits. Can you refer information for us. I’m lost and nervous about it. My husband loves the new President there. Can I move my own furniture there? Ps … we love your videos!!❤And we live in PDX …🫶🏻
Send me an email and I'll add you to my PDX happy hour mailing list. I have at least one event each summer. brighton@gen-mex.com. I have a video about marrying a Mexican but not with the specifics you are looking for. SS is easy to get in Mexico. You can even have it deposited into Mexican bank account. As a Mexican National, I think you get to move furniture in one time in your life without paying import taxes, but I'm not sure. ua-cam.com/video/UqvmoyB1NQY/v-deo.html
So many options and criteria. Good weather, altitude, accessibility (sidewalks, etc.) hospitals, walkability, entertainment. Ajijic is very popular with older Americans. As is San Miguel de Allende. But neither is very accessible and both are high altitude.
Can you please talk about is cannabis legal in Mexico? I live in Southern Oregon which is legal and used for medical purposes. Will I be able to purchase and use legally? Thanks ❤❤
Ugh - it's a tough topic. It *should* be legal because the Supreme Court said it should be legal. But the legislature hasn't written a law making it legal. So it's not possible to get legally (at least not in Baja California Sur.)
Absolutely not! It’s overdue for the Mexican Congress to start legislating and putting the brakes on Colonizing and Gentrifying States, Cities and Towns! I am pleased that Congress is starting to look into this!
I'd love to hear how you propose this work? Currently, temporary and permanent visas require quite a bit of income, making Mexican residency too expensive for most Americans.
I rent my beautiful 3 bed/2 bath home, completely enclosed property for $12000 pesos a month. It’s in beautiful Chapala Mexico. My tenant has 5 dogs and a motor home there. It’s a good price for a brand new house
Well, if you like and can live minimalistic, you just need 500 dollars a month, to pay rent, food, services, etc... Doctors are everywhere and medications also for few dollars! A lot of American and Canadian Senior Citizens moved to México living in small towns and they're happy in all the They're not worried about money. Mexicans we are very friendly, specially with foreign people.
Yes - if you want to live longer than 6 months at a time, you need to meet the income requirements, which are tried to the minimum wage. And the minimum wage has been going up 20% per year for the last 4 or 5 years.
@@anniesshenanigans3815 Just a technical point - they require $1,000 of PASSIVE income in Panama. At a reasonable return of 7%, it would require a savings of over $170,000 to generate that passive income. The savings requirement in Mexico is only $130,000.
I’ve been seeing videos of expats who say they are getting increasing negativity because now there’s too many foreigners there hurting local economies. Have you personally felt or seen any backlash? We’ve been researching for a few months now but that kind of talk makes me nervous and now with all this new interest it could get worse.
I've been wanting to do a video on gentrification - and I'm still collecting information. IMO, it's worst where people are more likely to rent their homes instead of own them. Homeownership rates in Mexico are very high. But certain areas like Mexico City are different. I think there are things we can do to not-contribute to gentrification. Like only purchasing houses or condos that are built for the foreign market. But this involves skipping the best deals on rentals in the inner cities. We can also shop local, support charities, adopt the Mexican culture, stay at hotels or AirBnB's sharing space with locals (instead of renting an entire house,) etc. I haven't personally felt any backlash. But I've seen graffiti in bigger cities telling gringos to go home.
My son broke his elbow while on a wilderness outing near Guadalajara. Eight paramedics responded and reset his elbow after realizing he had cut off the circulation to his hand, thereby saving his hand. He was rushed to a nearby orthopedic hospital where is was determined that surgery was not advised. He was placed in a cast and returned to the US where he was examined by an orthopedist at UCLA Med., who remarked that the worl done in Mexico was excellent. Total cost in Mexico?...$550 (US).
I had a doctor who studied in Mexico City and received his Doctrine. I had gone to 2 doctors in Los Angeles. I was bleeding heavily back in 2013; I had to go to the hospital weekly to get blood transfusions. I had a doctor tell me that I need to go to Kemo. I said to myself I want another doctor. That is when I met Doctor Shaum. I was reading his credentials while in the waiting room. He got his Doctrine in Mexico City. I told him that the other doctor wanted me to go to Kemo. He thought that is ridiculous especially while I was weak, he helped me get back to normal and I was back at work after 1 year. Anyways now in 2024 I am healthy, retired and walk 1 mile a day at a neighborhood park. Dr. Shaum went back to Mexico, and he really helped me a lot. I just want to thank him for everything. Oh No! I am starting to get teary eyed. May God Bless you Dr Shaum and your family. You are my Angel!
Wow - thanks for sharing your story! $550 - I love hearing things like this!
@@thomasfranco5997 Thanks for sharing! The doctors in Mexico are amazing!!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Here's my question about Mexico. It has become the most important one in deciding to live/retire in Mexico. Trump hates Mexico. He is going to set a 20% tariff against Mexico. That has got to hurt. He wants to stop manufacturing from going to Mexico. He is going to deporting lots of people (not the numbers he has been claiming, but, still, lots. How is that going to impact Mexico, at the same time as the tariffs?
Perhaps he is doing it to get Mexico to pay for the wall?
I just can't see going into the country before I know where this leads.
The USA is gouging people, and no one can do anything about it. Sad. Actually criminal.
I live in Rosarito Beach in Baja California and I love it here. You were right about speaking Spanish (I now speak it quite fluently). The locals appreciate it when an American can speak the language and not expect everything to be done in English. Also you might want to mention that the cost of having a caretaker is a lot less expensive here and the helpers are very reliable. I pay a woman to help my brother who is disabled $250 a week to bathe him, cook 2 meals, and she cleans. In the US it would be way more expensive and less reliable ..I love Mexico.
Thanks for sharing your story! I love how affordable personal services are in Mexico!
I had my hand cut open in a freak accident at a taco stand in Mexico. I went to a hospital and a hand specialist showed up around 10:00 at night and reconnected the tendon in my finger. It cost about $1000, but the taquero paid half of it. I was told it would have been about $15000-20000 in the USA.
So many positive stories like this! Ernie from " Retired in Mexico, No Bull" where he saved thousands on his cancer surgery ua-cam.com/video/3_rWC2hC30g/v-deo.htmlsi=xo44Lsf6y-08FjrN
Wow - thanks for sharing and glad you had a good experience!
Luckily, the clever was very sharp and made a clean cut, and the Dr was excellent.
@@Conquistadordecielo As an Indian I completely agree that india is very racist not only towards black people but also towards people of East Asian and south East Asian origin. Heck, we are racists towards our own people who are not fair skinned. Although I am not responsible for those acts, but on behalf of my countrymen and women, I sincerely apologize to my black brothers and sisters. God bless you all.
May I ask which town, por favor? And, congratulations : ). Hope your digit is good to go.
Hell Yes! I've actually had been contemplating and now I'm serious.
Me too! And I am 73 but have lived in Spain" long ago" and love Spanish people. Will be renewing my language skills but having to learn a different dialect as I learned Castilian Spanish.Exhausted living here in the USA with all of its social issues but mostly the political arena. See you in Mexico!
@@margw2930if you're 🇺🇸 citizen, are you required to pay taxes in 🇺🇸? Or in the new country you live?
@momoreno944 do you still love democracy?
I spent four hours in an emergency room, being treated for a scorpion sting, in San Pancho (aka San Francisco, named for Francisco Pancho Villa) on the Rivera Nayarit. No charge at all. They told me "Bienvenidos a Mexico!" I was super grateful. Evidently, I didn't cause them too much trouble, so they let me go. Really sweet people, that made me prove I could eat and drink before they would release me
We found a pretty nice 3 bedroom/ 3 bathroom totally furnished stand alone oceanfront home in a small village about 50 miles south of Ensenada for $500 a month rent for a year and that includes our power and water:) You still can live in Mexico on our Social Security if you are careful and lucky🫶 We moved from near Hood River. Love your page🥰
Where did you come across this property? Like how did you search for it? Online? what site? asking for a friend....haha.
Thanks for sharing! Living near the border on Social Security is a great plan. You can still return to the US for medical care (and that can be your visa run if you're a tourist.)
@ I have a knack for finding amazing places to live:)
The felon will kill social security in six years
@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoHola de nuevo Brighton y Kat! If something happens to you in Mexico and you are planning to return to the US to use your Medicare you have to be medically cleared and stable enough to make the trip. That counts out most emergencies and things like a heart attack or something else that's serious. I've got IMSS for those types of things and pay out of pocket for everything else. BTW- If people are planning on coming back to the US to utilize their Medicare coverage you have to figure in the costs for you and maybe someone else to help. That includes your airfare, renting a car for transportation, housing for what could be over a week, meals and still being responsible for 20% of your medical care bill.....Take a knee replacement for example that would cost you anywhere between $7,000us and up to $12,000us in Mexico including your physical therapy without insurance. In the US using Medicare that would cost an average of around $50,000us or more not counting any physical therapy...Just the 20% cost that you would still be responsible for with Medicare is $10,000us. Just saying....Feliz ano nuevo!
Im mexican and I like your videos. I plan to move to La Paz from Mexico City that's how I found your channel. Very interesting your perspective of things. Keep the good work!
Awesome! Thank you!
I just watched one of your older videos on Querétaro as I am comparing cities for my initial visit in hopes of relocating from the US. A long and complicated process but step by step. Your information and encouragement, uplifting spirit is a breath of fresh air! Thank you from a 73 year old who feels one is never too old to get the heck out of Dodge. Quality of life in my final years is my goal, vs the frustration and consistent/annoying US drama. Tired of being, burdened by "stuff" and bad news every day. Me and my senior - 19 years old Russianblue are at the point of creating change for the good..
I wish you the best of luck on your trip south. It's never too late to correct course and get to a more fun country!
Well, this was super. Ive watched about 20 moving to Mexico videos, and yours was so concise and informative. Thanks!
Glad it was helpful!
My girlfriend lives in Mexico so I am there every 4-5 months. I just sent her one of your videos that was discussing a phrase in Spanish. I was telling her about your channel and how good it is. As a fellow PNW native that will eventually be splitting my time between the US and Mexico, keep up the good work my friend!
Thanks for sharing! What part of Mexico is your girlfriend in?
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico You bet! San Luis Potosi. Can't wait to be back for Christmas.
Excellent video -- up to date, diplomatic, and honest. Nicely done.
Thank you!
Solid information, Brighton! Someone told me, when I first moved here, that most dangerous thing about La Paz are the sidewalks. Accurate 😂
So true. I wanna make a video called "I was nearly killed in downtown La Paz!" and have it be about stepping in a hole or running into barbed wire.
@ Mr almost walked through a cable noose one time. Good thing it was daytime and we could see it.
ps- that red cap really does not suit you!
We call sidewalks “gringo traps” down here 😂
@@julietillinghast6971 To be fair, some of the sidewalks were here before the US became a country and they haven't been maintained since then! Buena suerte y feliz ano nuevo!
subbed, excellent info, ty!
Great information here. I appreciate your content so much as I am considering a move to Mexico full time. ❤
Thanks Nancy!
Great advice and honest! When it comes to health care, I would like to mention that many hospitals require you to pay before you are treated, even sometimes when you have insurance, so if you decide to live in Mexico just remember to keep some funds to the side for that.
This is a great point Cindy! Make sure your credit cards have a decent limit to cover any emergencies. They may not let you leave the hospital until you pay for your stay!
Good to know! Thanks.
I love that the new president stood up to rump good for her! ❤
Trump *
Chump*
Thanks!
You’re welcome and thanks for the donation!
I've just started the very beginning of moving to La Paz. Your videos, Brighton, have been my inspiration. I just can't wait!
I look forward to meeting you soon.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Me too!
Starting our plans. We live in Salem Oregon. I'm 67, Shannon is 61 and will be drawing ss in Oct next year. Her parents hopefully will move with us. Two homes to sell. They might want to keep theirs for awhile. Are there still 4 bedroom new construction homes in your neighborhood? I watched your newer youtube on the couple that bought one for $157,000.00. We're also considering Huatulco for the beaches (though the water in Lapaz is nice too).
I am retired and just flew back from Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. I love it. I could not believe how many people from The United States and Canada have made Mexico there home. I have seen Homes and Condos for sale there. Most of them already furnished. The condos on the beach are high rises and really have beautiful with balconies overlooking the Ocean. They also have rooftop decks with Infinity pools overlooking the beach and private beaches for the tenants & for their families who visit. The Beaches there are just Magnificent. I want to buy property there.
Still too close to ‘Merica. Thailand is where I’m headed.
@@Trace-l7k Hopefully 'merica will be in a different position in 4 years, but it will likely take longer than that to get to a good place.
Puerto Vallarta is a wonderful place. And it has something for everyone too - condos, houses, local areas, tourist areas, gay areas, less-gay areas...
@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoyeah, it’s going to take some time to try and deprogram people who only listen to right wing media
Cant wait to see the wonderful changes ! So glad im maga . Fighting fie a better economy , no woke politics , no child gender mutilations , borders open only for immigrants legally coming in , no more wars . Good to see USA waking up to commen sense !!! @AlmostRetiredinMexico
I live in Seattle and am really tired of the fall/winter weather. I'm 65 and still working, but doing what you're doing would be so nice. I have friends who live there, and they love it.Great video and information, thank you! Gives me hope that I could afford it.
If you can afford to live in Seattle, you can afford to live part-time in Baja California. I have a video coming soon with a guy who lives 3 months in Seattle and 9 months in Mexico. And he rents his Seattle house out while he's gone - making a nice profit. We rent out our Portland house for about 75% of our mortgage, but we only rent out one floor - the 2nd floor is where we keep all our stuff while we are gone!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you for your reply. I'm actually a renter so it's a little different for me. The landlords here are very strict and would not allow me to have others here. But that isn't stopping me from leaving. I'm not quite at retirement age. I haven't been to La Paz in about 10 years, and I know it's changed. I plan on visiting soon. I like the area because it's close to the border and flying home would be easier. I have friends that live there too and own a business called La Paz Yachts. For work I'm not sure what I'd do there. I was looking to get my residency but put that on hold last year because of the employment issue. I'm not a remote worker and probably won't need to work but staying busy is a must and so is learning Spanish 😎
@@gg6ft7 I could stay busy just learning Spanish. But my brain would be mush. Maybe start a UA-cam channel? I can guarantee it will keep you busy! I hope La Paz hasn't changed too much!
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you. That's not a bad idea. I appreciate your reply and videos. So how come you chose La Paz over other places?
@@gg6ft7 La Paz was a spur of the moment decision. We came for a weekend visit (we'd never heard of it before) and we ended up buying a house. Not our normal mode of operation, but we have zero regrets. I only wish we'd explored inland a bit more - places we could live comfortably year round and also had more colonial architecture.
Thank you for your information. From PNW, viviando en Nayarit ahora.
Thank you for this valuable information! I live just outside Portland Oregon. I’m still working but looking to retire somewhere more affordable as divorce caused financial reset. I’ve been looking at Italy. However, it is a big distance. Living sic months or even 8 months out of the year in another country allows for a nice break from the insane “hurry up” mentality in the US!
When I visited a few countries in the Mediterranean area, I would be in line making a purchase and have conversation with the shop steward. As soon as someone else got behind me, I’d start to hurry and stop talking. I remember the lady helping me put her hand on my hand and said “it’s okay. You don’t have to hurry”. That was so kind. I realized I live in a hurry up mentally here and it causes stress.
Thanks for sharing - I love the idea of being in line and talking with the shop keeper. It's so much less transactional - even when it's a transaction.
I’m in Welches not far from you, I have a house in Guadalajara where my husband and I spent 4 months last year ..we had a great time. I’m Mexican but lived in the US 48 years so the US is home to me, my husband of 28 years is also an immigrant but from England. Please reach out to me if you have any questions, having spent time in Mexico recently allowed me the opportunity to learn and familiarize with life there. We are leaving to Guadalajara this January and back home in May, the original plan was to spend our springs there but we are now thinking about spending more time there and less time here. Best wishes.
@@adrianasoldevila630 Adriana I would love to talk to you about your living arrangements. I am going to work a few more years so I am looking now. I have thought about Mexico too because it’s so much closer to my adult children.
@@adrianasoldevila630 Welches is a great little area. Beautiful! Glad you're able to split your time between Oregon and GDL!
You are exceptionally good at this.
Thank you!
Hi. Enjoy your channel. What about the people in assisted living? Do they also have to leave every 180 days? Thank tou
Several months ago, I bought a run down fixer upper on a solar lot at Eldorado Ranch in San Felipe. While rustic, I'm looking forward to spending the winter there and fixing it up. The juxtaposition of the ocean and desert is one of the things that I really like about Baja and San Felipe seems "come as you are" instead of a glitzy suburb of L.A. as the Cabo Corridor has become. I enjoy your channel.
Congrats on your purchase. I agree that Cabo is becoming LA south. Luckily La Paz has been pretty isolated from that. Thanks
Hi Brighton, after having spent a combined 6 months the last two years in BCS , my wife and have decided to continue this trend and live there 6 months out of the year. However to fully enjoy all the outdoor possibilities we noticed the need of owning a 4X4 vehicle, either a SuV or a truck. Do you know what’s the best way to do this? Any restrictions or requirements you may be aware of? Note that we hail from Switzerland. Any recommendations will be very welcome!!!!
A 4x4 is a great vehicle to have to fully enjoy Baja. Ideally one with Low and High gears. You'll want to buy a car with Mexican plates. And lots are listed on Facebook Marketplace. Or they just have a phone number to call on the windshield. Used car lots are not very common.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico I love my Subaru! I've taken it on many soft sand beaches in Baja. I've even pulled a few stuck 4x4's out of the sand.
@@davidsebastianelli1326 Wow - I'd never thought a Subby could pull a stuck anything from the sand. Go Subaru!
I have just heard that the financial requirements have been waived for the remainder of 2024 basically .
As long as you have travelled to Mexico between 2015-2022 and visit again and have your FMM expire you can apply for Temp Res without financial requirement
That's correct. I think they call it regularization.
Hi. You answered my question thank you... Love your channel
Happy to help! Thanks for watching!
Love your channel. My thought is that if you are unhappy in the United States, you will bring your unhappiness to Mexico, No matter what your politics. If you are happy in the United States, your happiness will follow you Mexico as well. Most Mexicans want happy neighbors... At least from my experience. Get happy, don't worry about things so much..... And move to Mexico -- so you can be MY neighbor. ❤😊
This is great Joseph. Thanks for sharing!
@@JosephHurtsellers The complaining unhappy liberals stick out like a sore thumb. They're constantly complaining, road rage, don't want to learn spanish. They have serious RBF syndrome, and don't even like to greet people on the street, as is mexican custom. Always complaining on FB expat pages too. That's a liberal for you. They even yell at Mexican kids for playing too loud.
Wherever you go, there you are!
@@JosephHurtsellers Liberal Gringo expats in Mexico exhibit discriminatory attitudes and biases against Mexicans and their culture. Complaints include:
- Expecting English language use over Spanish.
- Yelling at small mexican children in public because their peace and quiet is disrupted
- Exclusive expat-only gated communities, by refusing Mexicans to move in.
- Road rage in small towns through rude gestures and yelling.
- Constant grievances on Facebook expat pages.
- Inability to share public spaces, like large tables at street taco stands.
These attitudes demonstrate disrespect and cultural insensitivity toward the local community.
Well I understand BUT if and when you arrive and you like the experience you will eventually calm down and learn to enjoy the manana way of life. Or you'll leave running. My money is you'll learn to appreciate it more.
Great video Brighton. So much useful info! ❤
Thank you Julie!
Informative and helpful. Thank you.
Thanks for watching!
It sounds like a fun adventure there. I would also love how colorful the buildings are.
I love the color here too! The brighter the better!
Good morning Brighton, My husband and I leave today. We are ready to go in our van Olive. Yesterday was a very bad day tho as we had to put our beloved dog of 14 years down. We cherished Gracie and I was so hoping she would get to swim in the Sea of Cortez. Even tho we are in an emotional state, we are leaving as we have worked and planned for this adventure for years. Will be looking at the La Paz area to see if it is a right fit for us moving forward. The goal is to be in Mazatlan for Thanksgiving, then ferry over to La Paz. Thanks again Brighton, as always your videos are super helpful and informative. Also, thanks for the tips on politics. We are ready to leave U.S. politics behind as it has been exhausting.
I'm so sorry to hear about Gracie. But I'm sure you gave her a great life! I hope to meet you at a Sunday happy hour when you are in La Paz!
@ Thank you for your kind words. We are feeling better now. 😌We looking forward to attending your happy hour. 😀😀
It would be so great for a UA-camr to go into the Guadalajara area and look at and show us some high-rise living. Not everybody wants to live on the beach. There’s just not a lot of information out there for people wanting that type of lifestyle. Thanks Brighton.
The regularlization program is still available for Temp-residency ...1-4 yrs ...which at 4 yrs you can roll it into permanant status. No solvency is needed. It varies from City to City , State to State in Mexico ...Some have it some don't
Yes - as long as you have been to Mexico in the recent past and you have an expired FMM, you should be eligible for this program. There is no reason for anyone to be living in Mexico illegally now.
Great video, Brighton! Very informative and I appreciate your “take” on certain topics.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Glad I lived in Mexico in my 60s and now that I'm in my early eighties I'm glad I live in the United States... It's all about healthcare.
I know there are excellent doctors and hospitals especially in the larger cities in Mexico. And at bargain prices compared to the United States. However, distance to a big city hospital and travel time in the event of a medical emergency such as stroke or heart attack has to be considered. I'm in my 80s and returning to Mexico is my plan B. Medicare made a lot of sense to me.
I'm glad you can afford healthcare in the US! So many people can't afford it :-(
I can't afford without Medicare the costs of my medical expenses. Unfortunately my Medicare doesn't cover me in Mexico thus I live in US and visit Mexico.
Great video! Fellow Oregonian here. Took a scouting trip to BCS last April. Plan move to there in May/June to teach English after completing a TEFL course in Guadalajara. 😊
Nice! Best of luck on your journey back to BCS!
New follower here. Moving to Mexico is very high on our list to move to. Your info is so helpful. Loved your orange juice tasting in another video. Thanks for this really great video.
Thanks Pamela - I hope to see you in Mexico soon.
Ive been researching on moving and watching many videos. Loved your vibe and info even to the tp detail😂
Awesome! Thank you!
Your video really cheered me up as the el@ctions were like 😒. I’m really happy I’ve been studying Spanish daily for the last 5 years. Also you handled sensitive topics really well. 😊😊
Thanks Bonnie - I hope you can move south and put all that language learning to work!
I see you only live part time in La Paz. How would the weather be if you lived there year around ? Is it comfortable enough in the summer to tolerate it ?
It's hot in the summer. AC is a requirement, and our house has a palm-thatch roof, so AC isn't a great option. It's a dry heat, but most folks go out in the morning and evening and retreat to the AC mid-day.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you so much.
I’ve been in Mexico for over 4 1/2 years and one thing you didn’t mention is that if you want to live here and not do the 180 day thing, you need to get a temporary residency which lasts for four years. It’s not cheap. And then after the four years, you have to pay another fee to become a permanent resident.
Sorry - I meant this video as a high level intro. Thanks for adding this!
Thank You for your public service announcement!
Appreciate it.
@@hotrox2112 Happy to share!
We’re going to retire in Italy. We’re so excited and even started a channel to document it all. 😊We’re going to move full-time. How exciting for you though.
Best of luck with your adventurous retirement - and with your UA-cam channel!
A question I have about staying beyond your 6 month visa.I thought I heard Mariana (Mexico Relocation Guide) state that you can get a temporary residency by over staying and then applying? Have you heard that too?
Yes, but you need to have visited Mexico prior to 2023. mexicorelocationguide.com/regularization-program-residency-in-mexico/
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thanks. Been to Mexico many times and lived in SMA for 2 years. But traveled in and out every 6 months. I'd rather not have to do that. Loved your video with Joe in Oaxaca. Visited there multiple times as well. Love that place.
I have lived, off and on, in Mexico for about 18 years total. I have had many great experiences. I have also been robbed three times. Well, two times, the third they got nothing.
I lived in Tijuana ten years ago and paid $200/month rent for a one bedroom with a great view of the U.S.
I will be returning in February. I just moved across the border, no visa. I will do it again. I just wandered back and forth, working on the U.S. My cost was 1/3 of San Diego.
Property ownership is TRICKY. You can NOT own on an island or within a certain distance from the shore.
If you prepare your own food, you can live on $500/month.
My ex-wife is Mexican. Our two oldest were born in Tijuana ('86) and ('87) for $500 between the two. That was expensive at the time.
When I lived in Tijuana, it was the MOST DANGEROUS CITY IN THE WORLD. I was fine. I had no problem.
Thank you for sharing your story!
The most dangerous place in the world was said by right wing American racists,nothing more !!
How safe is it for single retired females to live alone?Not in the middle of everything, just a little bit out of town? Like within bicycling or walking distance. My friend is very interested in retiring to Mexico. But she doesn't want to live in cities, and she likes to garden, and she has three cats.
Lots of single women live in El Centenario where I live (25 minutes for downtown La Paz.) lots of space for gardening and pets.
Howdy Brighton, I am a single retired California guy who is seriously considering moving to Mexico. I am going on a cruise to BC and will be in La Paz on December 18, 2024. Are you available for a personal consultation on that day? I certainly would compensate for your time. If not, can you recommend someone I can consult with ion that day?
I could meet with you on the 18th. Send me an email to brighton@gen-mex.com
Owning a noise-cancelling machine is as important as having a good night's sleep. They go hand in hand. And I've lived in Mexico for seven years and love it.
Definitely. My wife got ours stuck on the "turn off after 2 hours" setting so we've been waking up every 2 hours to turn it back on 😂
Do you have a favorite brand/model major tom - or Brighton? - the ruidoso issue is the central issue I must mull over . . . que lastima que soy tan sensitivo, pero es la verdad aquí.
No te gusta el ruido? No vengas!
Somos culturalmente ruidosos, es decir, estamos vivos.
@@javieresparbe5582 Sensitive much?
@@javieresparbe5582 Or buy a white noise machine and enjoy everything else Mexico offers.
Always enjoy your video and u mentioned the temp and perm. Cards. I just got my PR card and I’ll be flying back to Mexico soon. So with these cards do you have to
Thanks Brighton, seriously thinking about it
Good to hear it! I hope this video gets you one step closer to making it happen!
Very well done content, thanks. I'd imagine it's nearly impossible to do a video like this, without sounding like a salesman for Mexico.
I lived in Merida Yucatan it was very safe and affordable
Merida is where I have been researching moving to. I can’t wait to go there for at least the 180 day stay to check out what I’ve looked into.
Another great video. The only noise that bothers me is dogs barking. I think it's the pitch as I have sensitive ears/hearing to certain pitches. What kind of noise machine do you have? I sometimes listen to music or something on my cell phone to help drown out the train in my backyard. I'm thinking I best make my move from Canada to Mexico soon. Thank you for your great videos. ☺♥
I like using the White Noise app on my iPhone. The best setting is “brown noise.”
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico Thank you so much. I will see if I can get that on my android. Have a wonderful weekend ☺♥
FYI, I got my temporary residency the first of the year.
I had to prove I had a minimum balance of about $81k per month in savings for the 12 months previous to my consulate appointment. (There are other routes. This was the path I chose.)
Permanent residency requirements were much higher, and you have to be retired for at least 1 year now for permanent.
Thanks for sharing this update!
Is it of retirement age or just retired even if one is younger?
That's not super clear. And I think it depends on which consulate you apply to in the US. Some are strict others are loose.
@AlmostRetiredinMexico I went through the Seattle consulate. They had changed from 6 months proof to 12 months. I see where it may vary by the consulate you choose.
@DavidMedina4All the only thing it stated was "retired for a year" & able to meet financial solvency requirements. They did not give an age.
BRIGHTON!! That intro hat OMG you frightened me 🤣🤣🤣
I really enjoyed this video ~ Lots to take away from this ✔️
I wonder though, when you speak of “lack of efficiency”, does that go hand-in-hand with the amount of patience someone might benefit from possessing.
Your thoughts?
Sorry to scare you with the hat (although I'm keeping it just in case it's a requirement to cross back into the US in the future.)
Totally true about lack of efficiency and patience. Life in Mexico demands that you learn patience. And patience is a virtue! A good skill to learn!
Ooooh, it was the time to move to Mexico at while ago for me, but after this past week...is is Definitely high time for that to happen, 🤣! I've got 2-3 years and I will be there. BTW, I have an upcoming trip to La Paz soon, any recommendations for good restaurants or tourist events?
I hope to meet you at one of my Sunday happy hours. As to restaurants, there are so many to choose from. But Tatanka is high on my list. Also Estrella for the atmosphere. Sunset is supposed to be great too, but I've never been. Visit Balandra beach and maybe get a snorkeling tour that stops there and also covers Espiritu Santo. Enjoy the Malecón on a Sunday night.
I know Mexico pretty well but have been considering Asia, VietNam, Bali however the distance is one expats is the first thing they need to overcome
Asia is great - but that distance can be tough if you still have ties to the US.
Thanks for sharing! Can we get temporary residence without having an address there? I was thinking (if possible) I would get it now to get it handled and out of the way. Not ready just yet to move there full time nor part time. I have to work another five years.
I think you may need an address, but it can probably be an Airbnb. I’d ask an expert to be sure.
Believe me there are about to be a lot of people coming (back) to Mexico.
I’ll believe it when I see it. Immigrants are a very important part of the US economy and people aren’t excited about inflation - especially at the grocery store.
Permanent Residency is also for family. I received Permanent Residency straight away from my kids.They are double citizens due to my husband/their father being a Mexican Resident.
Awesome!🇲🇽❤️
I obtained permanent residency through my son who at the time had his own permanent residency... It was very easy, without financial requirements or visit to a Mexican consulate in the United States.
We live in the Seattle area and thinking about how to live longer term in Mexico in the coming years. We're about to check out Puerto Vallarta and possibly San Miguel De Allende later on in 2025. I love your videos and the information it provides. They are very helpful.
Best of luck with your exploratory trips! Kat and I are going to San Miguel de Allende in January (and Queretaro and Guanajuato - which are two really cool nearby towns.)
@@AlmostRetiredinMexicoYou should interview Meagan Burns an artist in SMA before she leaves to give a workshop in California in January. Her channel @meagan_burns_
@@brightflyerart Thanks for the suggestion. Unfortunately, Kat and I will only be in SMA for a few hours on our trip from QRO to Guanajuato. We aren't even spending a night. So I won't have time for interviews in SMA.
thank you! i am wanting to know if I can live in Mexico w/temp residency (non permanent) and still maintain my job in the US remotely if I find the answer I'll come back and type it i have a feeling there are many like me looking for that answer :)
There are many in your situation already in Mexico. The big question is, “are you supposed to pay Mexican income tax?” And you’ll find any answer you’d like. Most people say that if you aren’t making money from Mexican sources, then you don’t need to pay Mexican income tax.
It's up to the company you currently work for if they allow you to work remotely. You only pay income taxes to the US on your income from the US. Only if you make money from a Mexican company in Mexico you would have to pay an income tax in Mexico. Buena suerte!
On healthcare. I was partial to San Miguel, but maybe Lake Chapala might be better because it’s closer to Guadalajara. Something to thing about!
Great point!
Isn't Canada about to be the 51st State?
@@SA-cn4jcAgree!!!
Great information, Brighton, as always. I’m sorry some people just can’t put the politics away for a minute. Jeez! Keep rocking your excellent channel! ✌🏻
Good video...thanks!
Glad you liked it!
Is it safe to move to Mexico? I was raised in a tourist town in Guerrero.
I have lived in the USA for over 30 years. Although I have considered going back, my town feels unsafe now because Narcos run it. My family said, "They only kill each other, you'd be Ok." Not very reassuring. I'm also scared of kidnappings because they might think I have $$$ if I'm gringa. Are my fears unreasonable? I do lean towards being over cautious and am an anxious person.
I’d personally choose somewhere other than Guerrero. Check out the map in this blog post: almostretiredinmexico.com/are-you-safe-in-mexico-live-happy-hour-discussion-with-luis-martinez/
I’m American-Mexican and I’m terrified every time I visit family and friends in Mexico, I always write out a will (it may not be legally binding but at least my loved ones would know what I wanted.) Kidnapping, murders, cutting limbs and heads off, extortions, they send your served body parts to your family in the mail, Mexico is no joke no matter what color you are. The cartels blade cut white and brown skin.
Yes 🙌🏽 they are unreasonable especially if you visit places like Oaxaca and Merida. Nonsense feeling that US is safe.
Oregonian here but from Salem. Live in Colorado. Hubby and I tired of nonsense and are checking out Ajijic where we have friends.
Best of luck to you in Ajijic - it's a wonderful town for expats.
Great video, Brighton!
Thanks Lisa!
Shared.
I've followed your tours of Mexico..I've decided on the Lake Chapala area..
Wonderful. I really enjoyed Lake Chapala!
Quite a few youtubers have mentioned the 180 tourist visa is not necessarily 180 dsys- some people have been given far fewer days.
Any thoughts on potential concerns if the USA mass migrant removal occurs?
I don't think it will happen. Immigrants are too important to the US economy. Inflation would go through the roof and the last presidential election showed how much people dislike inflation.
@@AlmostRetiredinMexico of course it’s going to happen. He promised. Gas is going to go down, groceries are going to go down, Insurance is going to go down, housing is going to go down, everything is going to go down because that’s what he promised.
How about Puerto Peñasco (Rocky Point)? I am thinking it will be a lot like San Felipe. Anyone with experience down there?
I’ve heard good things, but I have no personal experience
Is it possible to live in the middle of no where? It's what I want, no matter where.
Yup. I have some friends living off grid about 1 hour from downtown La Paz. Nearest neighbor is a goat farm. They watch the dolphins and whales every morning.
Very well done.
Thank you! Cheers!
Politics will be more important for so many ex pats who depend on soc sec while living in Mexico or anywhere else.
Great talk
Thanks!
I have lived in Mexico for over a decade now. I went the permanent -> citizen route. Here are my thoughts as I watched your video (which I appreciated by the way). Medical / hospital expenses while less that in the US _are expected to be paid at time of service_. If you spend a week in the hospital someone likely will visit your bedside looking for payment. Everyone should probably have a decent sized emergency fund. Whether or not politics are a part of your life may depend in part on your circle of friends. A lot of well educated Mexicans are very concerned, and vocal, about politics. If you are a resident of Mexico there are some things you want to avoid. Correct me if I am wrong but I believe you are not allowed to participate in political protests and such. You do not even want to be seen standing nearby watching. More people may have guns, legal and illegal, than you let on. Yes, while the day to day exchange rate varies, you can get a much better rate of return on your funds in Mexico (like in the area of 11% on a T-Bill equivalent). Wasn't there a pretty impactful hurricane in the La Paz area recently ? Yes - while there is no avoiding barking dogs at night (for the most part), you likely don't want to move next to a cantina.
Loving your videos and they are inspiring me to choose Mexico to retire. Was wondering if artists can sell their work there. Would that be considered working in Mexico?
I’m guessing that would be considered making money and you’d need to pay taxes and have a work permit.
Very helpful
Glad you liked it!
I was planning on spending Northern hemisphere summers in the southern hemisphere (not necessarily picky about where). Just too damn hot here.
Anywhere English or Spanish is spoken. Again, not too picky, I can speak either language well enough to get by. The interesting thing was not necessarily being able to count on getting a visa every time I want one. Makes sense, but I hadn't considered it.
Thinking about Chile. It's a "2" on the Travel Advisory, and there are cheap places to winter there when it's the off-season.
I've never been to South America - I stopped at Panama. But yours sounds like a good plan!
ACAPULCO sounds amazing
I haven’t heard much about it lately.
Baja Sur is ridiculously expensive - $1 million homes are almost the norm, hiring a gardener or maid you'll pay at least $15 an hour, and food costs are higher. Just FYI.
You are mostly correct. It's definitely more expensive here. But I'd say $500k homes are more the norm, and gardeners and maids are closer to $7-9 an hour. All more expensive than the mainland.
We’re looking for information on American senior married to Mexican National with green card moving to Mexico and how do I get my SS benefits.
Can you refer information for us. I’m lost and nervous about it.
My husband loves the new President there.
Can I move my own furniture there?
Ps … we love your videos!!❤And we live in PDX …🫶🏻
Send me an email and I'll add you to my PDX happy hour mailing list. I have at least one event each summer. brighton@gen-mex.com.
I have a video about marrying a Mexican but not with the specifics you are looking for. SS is easy to get in Mexico. You can even have it deposited into Mexican bank account. As a Mexican National, I think you get to move furniture in one time in your life without paying import taxes, but I'm not sure.
ua-cam.com/video/UqvmoyB1NQY/v-deo.html
I live in a 24 hr guard gated community in Orlando, and people still break into our cars.
Time to move to Mexico 😉
Oops. Sorry so with these cards do we stand in the same immigration line with all the US and Canadians of can we go thru where the Mexicans go thru ?
You're clear to use the Mexican citizen line when you have your residency card. It's so much fun - especially in tourist destinations!
@ thanks for getting back so soon. Look forward to passing thru immigration without the huge line. Keep up the videos.
Safest places to live in Mexico for older Americans please
So many options and criteria. Good weather, altitude, accessibility (sidewalks, etc.) hospitals, walkability, entertainment. Ajijic is very popular with older Americans. As is San Miguel de Allende. But neither is very accessible and both are high altitude.
Can you please talk about is cannabis legal in Mexico? I live in Southern Oregon which is legal and used for medical purposes. Will I be able to purchase and use legally? Thanks ❤❤
He'll no
Ugh - it's a tough topic. It *should* be legal because the Supreme Court said it should be legal. But the legislature hasn't written a law making it legal. So it's not possible to get legally (at least not in Baja California Sur.)
@@kastnostones Hell No
@AlmostRetiredinMexico hum! I saw someone on LinkedIn say it was legal. I will do some research. I also heard they have a female president 💓👊
@kastnostones I just went to Algadones ( below Yuma). A big sign that says Marijuana ( medical or otherwise) is ILLEGAL as well as Guns & Ammo
Hi no one talks about Internet speed
Starlink is an option anywhere. I get 200mbps up and down usually. But I could buy fiber internet up to 500mbps in La Paz. But I pay fur 50mbps fiber.
What if you’re a Mexican national that has been deported but grew up really American, is there opportunity to make a decent life in Mexico,
Yes, especially if you’re bilingual, though it’s helpful to have family here too, to help with the transition.
I know a guy in PV in the same situation and now is a successful realtor. He deals mostly with Americans and Canadians.
@@triplel1580 I’ve been hearing some success stories like that, my daughters coworker got deported and now he runs a winery somewhere in Baja,
Absolutely not! It’s overdue for the Mexican Congress to start legislating and putting the brakes on Colonizing and Gentrifying States, Cities and Towns!
I am pleased that Congress is starting to look into this!
I'd love to hear how you propose this work? Currently, temporary and permanent visas require quite a bit of income, making Mexican residency too expensive for most Americans.
I rent my beautiful 3 bed/2 bath home, completely enclosed property for $12000 pesos a month. It’s in beautiful Chapala Mexico. My tenant has 5 dogs and a motor home there. It’s a good price for a brand new house
Wow. That’s a great deal!
How hard is it to find a reantal with PETS.
It can be difficult - especially if you have more than one or two pets. But it's possible - you just may pay more.
I’m antsy to move!!
Well, if you like and can live minimalistic, you just need 500 dollars a month, to pay rent, food, services, etc... Doctors are everywhere and medications also for few dollars! A lot of American and Canadian Senior Citizens moved to México living in small towns and they're happy in all the They're not worried about money. Mexicans we are very friendly, specially with foreign people.
I agree. Except you can’t legally stay in the country past 6 months if you don’t qualify for residency.
Yes!
You need to make a lot of money each month in order to get a visa to live in Mexico. The income requirement is ridiculous.
You can also qualify through savings / retirement investment (401(k)).
Yes - if you want to live longer than 6 months at a time, you need to meet the income requirements, which are tried to the minimum wage. And the minimum wage has been going up 20% per year for the last 4 or 5 years.
Panama only requires 1000 a month income if you are retired. "pensionado visa".
@@anniesshenanigans3815 Just a technical point - they require $1,000 of PASSIVE income in Panama. At a reasonable return of 7%, it would require a savings of over $170,000 to generate that passive income. The savings requirement in Mexico is only $130,000.
@davidmalone9022 Thanks David! I didn't know that.
I’ve been seeing videos of expats who say they are getting increasing negativity because now there’s too many foreigners there hurting local economies. Have you personally felt or seen any backlash? We’ve been researching for a few months now but that kind of talk makes me nervous and now with all this new interest it could get worse.
I've been wanting to do a video on gentrification - and I'm still collecting information. IMO, it's worst where people are more likely to rent their homes instead of own them. Homeownership rates in Mexico are very high. But certain areas like Mexico City are different. I think there are things we can do to not-contribute to gentrification. Like only purchasing houses or condos that are built for the foreign market. But this involves skipping the best deals on rentals in the inner cities. We can also shop local, support charities, adopt the Mexican culture, stay at hotels or AirBnB's sharing space with locals (instead of renting an entire house,) etc.
I haven't personally felt any backlash. But I've seen graffiti in bigger cities telling gringos to go home.
Noise machine?
White noise machine