Mazatlán has probably been featured in the Overseas Retirement Index more than any other haven, and that’s because for affordable coastal living in Mexico, it just can’t be beat.
Often called “The Pearl of the Pacific,” Mazatlán’s top selling point is its 13 miles of golden beaches with clean, swimmable waters.
The beaches are lined by a vibrant boardwalk known as the Malecón, one of the longest seaside promenades in the world. It’s always abuzz with people walking, exercising, and socializing. Mazatlán is warm year-round, and beyond the beaches, residents can explore offshore islands, hike in nearby mountains, or visit nature reserves to spot wildlife.
People are friendly, and there’s a thriving expat community that is welcoming and supportive, making it easy for newcomers to feel at home quickly.
But what makes Mazatlán different from any other resort town on Mexico’s Pacific Coast?
First, it boasts a sizeable historic district known as the Centro Histórico that is full of charming Spanish-colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and lively plazas.
This is the place to go for a great meal out, drinks and live music, or a theater performance. From museums to festivals to the art scene, there’s always something going on in the Centro Histórico.
Second, Mazatlán is affordable. A monthly budget of $2,069 would cover a couple here. It’s less expensive than its resort-town counterparts like Cancún, Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta. This applies not only to the day-to-day cost of living but also the cost of well-appointed seaside real estate as well.
Rent costs vary, but you can expect to spend anywhere from $800 to $2,000 per month. Real estate is a great investment in Mazatlán. You can buy a nice, ocean-view condo for around $200,000.
Everything from food and entertainment to housing and utilities costs less here than in the States or Canada… You can buy most anything in Mexico that you can in the States, and because many of those goods are made or grown in Mexico, you can get them at a local price.
Third, Mazatlán is more than just a resort town; it’s also a real Mexican city of about half a million people. There’s a sizeable expat community, but it doesn’t
overwhelm the local culture.
This is still a Mexican city, which means that you have the opportunity to immerse yourself and have a culturally authentic experience, if you wish to.
On top of this, Mazatlán has many English speakers, and it offers all the familiarity and convenience that make Mexico the most popular international
destination for Americans and Canadians. You’ll find familiar shops like Home Depot, Sam’s Club, Walmart, and AutoZone here, as well as local chains.
If you find the prospect of launching a new life in a new country daunting, Mazatlán could be your soft landing. It also comes with great weather, sandy
beaches, a sprawling historic center, and a friendly expat community.
Sincerely,
Sophia Titley
Editor, Overseas Living Letter
