Top Safe Destinations in Mexico: Where to Live Affordably and Securely

Thinking about relocating to Mexico? You’re not alone. Retirees, remote workers, and expats increasingly choose Mexico as their home, drawn by its warm climate, diverse landscapes, and remarkably affordable living costs. However, safety remains a top concern for anyone considering a move south of the border. The good news: Mexico has numerous thriving communities where you can enjoy both security and comfort without breaking the bank.

Based on data from the Mexico Peace Index and multiple cost-of-living databases, we’ve identified the most secure locations where expats successfully build new lives. These cities combine low crime rates, reasonable housing costs, and vibrant local cultures—offering the best of both worlds for those seeking a change of scenery.

Northern Coast Havens: Tampico, Altamira, and Ciudad Madero

The Tamaulipas region offers some of Mexico’s most secure communities. These three cities consistently rank at the top of safety indices, with Tampico leading the way.

Tampico is home to a well-established expat community and boasts impressive security metrics. Monthly living expenses for one person average around 11,985 MXN ($716 USD) without rent. Food costs approximately 5,038 MXN ($301 USD) monthly per person. Property values remain remarkably affordable at roughly 14,806 MXN ($884 USD) per square meter.

Ciudad Madero, just minutes away, offers even more budget-friendly options. A family of four can live comfortably on 28,908 MXN ($1,727 USD) monthly excluding rent, with flexible food budgets ranging from 4,720 to 12,336 MXN ($282-$737 USD) depending on household preferences. Single occupants average 11,717 MXN ($700 USD) monthly.

Altamira serves as an excellent middle ground, home to over 212,000 residents who enjoy both affordability and superior safety ratings. Home prices here range from 950,000 to 3,545,000 MXN ($56,730-$211,694 USD), making it accessible for various budgets.

Colonial Charm Meets Safety: Puebla and Mérida

These inland destinations offer cultural richness alongside genuine security.

Puebla combines historical significance with modern affordability. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center starts at just 7,485.71 MXN ($447 USD) monthly. Property purchases average 1,155,664 MXN ($69,039.38 USD), with per-square-foot costs around 1,219.34 MXN ($72.84 USD). The city’s safety score reflects its stable, welcoming environment for long-term residents.

Mérida, capital of the Yucatan Peninsula, stands out as one of Mexico’s most secure cities. Housing flexibility ranges from 10,043 to 334,784 MXN ($600-$2,000 USD) monthly for rentals, while property purchases average 3,097,813 MXN ($185,063 USD). Monthly food costs per person hover around 5,021 MXN ($300 USD), making it an excellent choice for retirees and remote workers.

Pacific Paradise Options: Puerto Vallarta and Mazatlan

Both coastal destinations attract expats seeking beach lifestyle combined with safety and comfort.

Puerto Vallarta offers a vibrant expat community and established infrastructure. A family of four typically budgets 38,646 MXN ($2,310 USD) monthly for living expenses (excluding rent). Three-bedroom apartments in the city center rent for approximately 34,571.62 MXN ($2,065 USD)—though living outside downtown can reduce costs by roughly half. Basic utilities add only 1,351 MXN ($80 USD) monthly.

Mazatlan, with its population of roughly 502,000, provides urban amenities with accessible pricing. One-bedroom apartments in the city center rent for about 10,333.33 MXN ($617 USD) monthly. Property costs average 2,615.32 MXN ($156 USD) per square foot. A family of four budgets around 37,596 MXN ($2,246 USD) monthly with rent included.

Central Mexico’s Affordable Winners: Guadalajara and Aguascalientes

These inland cities deliver exceptional value alongside impressive safety credentials.

Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, offers metropolitan advantages at bargain prices. Families of four budget roughly 41,102 MXN ($2,457 USD) monthly excluding rent. Three-bedroom apartments outside city limits typically cost 14,823.53 MXN ($885 USD) monthly. Basic utilities run just 821 MXN ($49 USD).

Aguascalientes wins the affordability award. One-bedroom apartments rent for 4,700 MXN ($280 USD) monthly, while three-bedroom options start at 9,712.50 MXN ($580 USD). Average home prices stand at 892,205 MXN ($53,300 USD), making homeownership genuinely accessible. Monthly food costs average 3,448 MXN ($206 USD) per person.

Ocotlán, another Jalisco gem, offers similar advantages. Three-bedroom, two-bathroom homes sell for approximately 1,100,000 MXN ($65,714 USD), while rentals range from 6,511 to 13,391 MXN ($389-$800 USD) monthly.

Understanding Safety Metrics and What They Mean

Mexico’s Peace Index evaluates cities across multiple security dimensions: homicide rates, violent crime incidents, firearm-related activity, organized crime presence, and detention practices. The safest places in Mexico consistently demonstrate low scores across these categories.

The northern Tamaulipas region (Tampico, Altamira, Ciudad Madero) exhibits the strongest security metrics overall, with combined safety scores around 0.86560. These cities maintain effective local governance and established expat infrastructure, contributing to their appeal.

Mérida stands alone with the lowest overall safety score (1.00767), particularly excelling in violent crime prevention and firearm-related incidents. The Yucatan Peninsula’s distinct geography and local governance contribute to this distinction.

Making Informed Decisions About Mexico’s Safest Neighborhoods

Relocating to Mexico requires research beyond just safety statistics and costs. Consider proximity to healthcare facilities, internet reliability for remote work, local amenities, and cultural fit. The safest places in Mexico offer excellent value, but personal preferences should guide your final decision.

Before committing to any location, spend time there if possible. Rent short-term, explore neighborhoods, connect with local expat communities, and assess whether the city matches your lifestyle expectations. Monthly costs vary based on individual preferences—some prefer luxury living, others embrace minimalist budgets. All figures presented reflect data from 2023; current prices may vary, so verify costs with local sources before relocating.

Mexico continues welcoming international residents to its safest, most comfortable communities. Whether you prioritize beachfront living, colonial architecture, or urban conveniences, these destinations deliver the security, affordability, and quality of life that attract thousands of expats annually.