Where to Settle Comfortably in Mexico: Safest Mexican States With Affordable Living Costs

Mexico continues to attract relocators worldwide, from retirees seeking year-round sunshine to remote workers exploring new horizons. The appeal is clear: favorable climate, rich culture, and remarkably low living expenses. Yet safety remains a primary consideration for anyone planning to move. While crime varies across regions, Mexico’s safest Mexican states still offer secure communities where residents can enjoy high-quality living without straining their wallets.

Using data from the Mexico Peace Index and verified cost-of-living sources, here’s a comprehensive look at where you can establish roots in Mexico while maintaining both comfort and security.

Northern Gateway: Tamaulipas State

The northeastern region presents an intriguing option for budget-conscious relocators. Three cities in Tamaulipas rank among Mexico’s safest destinations, offering remarkable value.

Ciudad Madero sets the standard for affordability. Monthly living expenses average around $700 USD per person (excluding housing), with groceries ranging from $282 to $737 depending on household needs. For a family of four, expect approximately $1,727 monthly for general expenses. The safety metrics here are notably strong, with significantly lower violent crime and homicide rates compared to national averages.

Tampico and Altamira follow similar patterns, offering comparable safety profiles and pricing. In Tampico, basic monthly costs hover near $716 per person, while food expenses average around $301 monthly. Home purchases in the region range from $56,730 to $211,694, providing diverse options for different budgets.

Yucatan Peninsula: The Tropical Balance

Mérida, located in Yucatan, distinguishes itself with exceptional safety ratings—particularly low violent crime and organized crime indicators. Housing flexibility is notable: rentals span from $600 to $2,000 monthly, while property purchases average $185,063. Monthly food costs per person typically reach around $300, making it an appealing choice for those valuing both security and lifestyle.

Western Hub: Jalisco State

Three major cities in Jalisco offer varying lifestyle experiences while maintaining solid safety standards. Guadalajara serves as the economic center, where families of four budget approximately $2,457 monthly (excluding rent). A 3-bedroom apartment outside central areas rents for roughly $885. Utilities remain economical at approximately $49 monthly.

Puerto Vallarta attracts those seeking coastal living. Monthly family expenses reach about $2,310 (excluding housing), with utilities at $80. A 3-bedroom downtown apartment rents for approximately $2,065, though suburban options cut costs significantly.

Ocotlán provides the most budget-friendly Jalisco option. Rental properties range from $389 to $800 monthly, while purchasing a 3-bedroom home costs around $65,714.

Central Regions: Aguascalientes and Puebla

Aguascalientes delivers exceptional value with 1-bedroom apartments renting for approximately $280 in the city center or $580 for 3-bedroom units. Average home prices sit around $53,300, with monthly food costs per person at roughly $206—among Mexico’s lowest.

Puebla offers comparable affordability. 1-bedroom rentals average $447 monthly, downtown property purchases run $72.84 per square foot, and average home prices hover around $69,039.

Pacific Coast: Mazatlán, Sinaloa

For coastal lovers seeking balance, Mazatlán presents an option. Monthly 1-bedroom rentals in central areas cost approximately $617, while per-square-foot property prices reach $156. Families budgeting $2,246 monthly can comfortably cover all expenses including housing.

Key Takeaways for Potential Relocators

Safety scores across Mexico’s most desirable states demonstrate that secure living needn’t be expensive. Northern Tamaulipas cities excel in affordability with strong safety metrics, while Yucatan’s Mérida emphasizes balanced living. Western Jalisco provides lifestyle diversity, central states offer exceptional value, and coastal Mazatlán suits those prioritizing seaside communities.

Before relocating, research extends beyond statistics. Visit prospective areas, connect with existing expatriate communities, and verify current local conditions. Mexico’s safest Mexican states offer genuine opportunities for comfortable, economical living—but informed decision-making remains essential for a successful transition.