Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City for Expats
Mexico’s best neighborhoods such as Juarez, Roma Norte, and Condesa are popular destinations for those looking to work or retire abroad. Mexico City, as the capital of the region, is what you call the perfect combination of diverse communities, cultural traditions, and a comfortable lifestyle.
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Do you want to know what are the best neighborhoods in Mexico City? Do you know what makes a good neighborhood? Are you struggling to pick a single neighborhood for your needs and lifestyle? Are you wondering if you should secure health insurance?
In this Pacific Prime article, we will take a look at some of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for expats, so that you can make informed decisions on where to visit and stay during your trip to Mexico.
Factors Considered when Choosing the Best Neighborhood in Mexico City for Expats
Before we go on to the list, let’s take a look at the ranking criteria we used to evaluate the neighborhood’s suitability for expats, so you understand how we come up with our list of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City.
- Quality of Life: This can include things like the ability to maintain good physical and mental health, access to education, a comfortable environment, and even the opportunity to reach one’s full potential through work satisfaction.
- Cost of Living: Affordability is one major factor to consider for expats. Housing, utilities, transportation, and daily costs should be fairly priced and match the earning potential. When the cost of living is manageable, expats can have a good lifestyle without too much financial stress.
- Safety and Security: People who are foreign to Mexico mostly question the safety and security of the country. Living in a safe neighborhood with a low crime rate allows expats to entirely concentrate on exploring career opportunities and life without needing to worry much.
- Language: Spanish is a totally different language from English. It is important to choose a location where English is also well-understood within your neighborhood to get you settled faster and smoother.
- Size of Expat Community: Having a sizable and friendly expat community means you will get great support as an expat yourself. The locals may be friendly and helpful, and they usually are, but the people who truly understand the needs and feelings of expats are the expats themselves.
The Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City for Expats
The best neighborhoods in Mexico City for expats are Roma Norte, Juarez, Condesa, San Angel, Zona Rosa, Santa Fe, Coyoacan, and Polanco. Each of these places is ideal for different types of expats, described as follows.
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Summary |
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|
Neighborhood |
Suitable for |
Main Features |
| Roma Norte | Socially active young expats embarking on an international venture |
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| Juarez | Adventurous expats who treasure diversity, creativity, and cultural explorations in a dynamic environment |
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| Condesa | Expats seeking an international opportunity with an optimal work-play balance |
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| San Angel | Expats retirees or families who are looking for an upscale and tranquil neighborhood with excellent amenities |
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| Zona Rosa | Young professionals, digital nomads, and party-goers who seek an exciting lifestyle with cultural diversity |
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| Santa Fe | Expats who are looking for a convenient location to work or study |
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| Coyoacan | Expats who value calmness, intellectualism, and cultural immersion |
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| Polanco | Expats who enjoy and can afford a luxurious lifestyle |
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*For more details on each neighborhood, read on!
Roma Norte
For expats who appreciate art, music, and all things creative, Roma Norte is the ideal neighborhood. Abundant art galleries, theaters, independent cinemas, and cultural centers ensure there is never a lack of artistic and creative experiences to indulge in.
The architecture of Roma Norte is also a feast for the eyes. Strolling along the tree-lined streets reveals a delightful mix of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and neoclassical styles. Beautifully restored facades, parks, and plazas combine to create an enchanting atmosphere that is a visual delight.
Plentiful parks and green spaces allow residents to unwind, exercise, and simply enjoy nature. Iconic spots like Parque Mexico and Parque España are popular gathering places, providing a refreshing escape from the bustle of city life.
People from around the globe flock to this neighborhood, cultivating a sense of camaraderie, support, and countless opportunities for cultural exchange. Expats will feel instantly at home and integrate smoothly into the welcoming local community.
Juarez
Juarez, known for its convenient transportation links and close proximity to major business districts, cultural landmarks, and entertainment venues, serves as an appealing blend of diverse cultures, attracting expats from across the world.
The presence of colonial-era architecture, tree-lined streets, and picturesque squares creates an atmosphere of nostalgia and enchantment, beckoning exploration. While strolling through the neighborhood, one is bound to discover hidden gems that leave visitors in awe.
Juarez thrives as a center for artistic expression, boasting numerous art galleries, design studios, and creative spaces at every turn. As daylight fades, the area comes alive with a vibrant nightlife, as bars, clubs, and live music venues fill the streets, offering abundant entertainment choices.
Despite being an urban setting, Juarez doesn’t forget about nature. Nearby parks, such as Alameda Central and Parque España, offer opportunities for outdoor activities, picnics, and moments of relaxation amidst the bustling city ambiance.
Condesa
Condesa emanates a bohemian and fashionable atmosphere that entices expats in search of a vibrant and artistic lifestyle. The area is teeming with trendy cafes, stylish bars, chic boutiques, and art galleries, creating a lively and culturally enriching environment that will invigorate you.
The neighborhood showcases a delightful fusion of Art Deco, neoclassical, and modernist architectural styles. As you meander along its tree-lined streets, you’ll be captivated by the architectural wonders and meticulously preserved facades.
Condesa serves as a focal point for cultural and social events throughout the year. From art exhibitions and music festivals to food fairs and open-air markets, there is always something happening. Expats have countless opportunities to immerse themselves in the dynamic local scene.
Condesa is widely recognized as one of the safest neighborhoods in Mexico City, providing expats with a sense of security and tranquility. With its pedestrian-friendly streets, well-maintained sidewalks, and dedicated bicycle lanes, getting around on foot or by bike is convenient.
San Angel
San Angel radiates a delightful and serene atmosphere. The neighborhood’s colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and vibrant houses, all meticulously maintained, come together to establish a nostalgic and visually delightful environment.
The neighborhood possesses a distinct bohemian essence. Expats will discover a thriving community of artists, writers, musicians, and intellectuals, fostering a milieu of creativity and inspiration. The neighborhood’s laid-back atmosphere promotes a relaxed and artistic lifestyle.
Home to attractions including the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul), the University City (Ciudad Universitaria), and the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), expats have a myriad of choices in accessing first-class education.
Zona Rosa
Zona Rosa beckons a diverse expatriate community, attracting individuals from various backgrounds and nationalities. Expats can take advantage of international schools, medical facilities with English services, and expat-oriented services to guarantee a smooth and seamless transition.
The neighborhood serves as a gathering place for people to embrace its cosmopolitan atmosphere, characterized by international restaurants, cultural events, and social groups that warmly embrace everyone.
As the sun sets, Zona Rosa truly springs to life with its vibrant nightlife and abundant entertainment options. The neighborhood boasts a multitude of bars, clubs, live music venues, and theaters, ensuring that there is never a dull moment.
Thanks to its central location within Mexico City, Zona Rosa offers easy access and excellent connectivity to other parts of the city.
Santa Fe
Santa Fe stands as a prominent hub for business and finance within Mexico City, which makes it an ideal destination for expats with career aspirations. Furthermore, Santa Fe is either home to or located near various esteemed universities and schools, including the New Mexico Highlands University.
However, life in Santa Fe extends beyond work and studies, as the area presents a diverse range of shopping opportunities, encompassing upscale malls, boutiques, and international brands. The neighborhood also boasts an array of entertainment venues, such as cinemas, theaters, and cultural centers.
Nestled amidst the foothills of the Sierra de las Cruces mountain range, Santa Fe offers scenic vistas and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. Expats can indulge in hiking, biking, and exploring nature trails that lie near their residences.
In terms of transportation, Santa Fe benefits from efficient public transit systems, including well-planned bus routes and a dedicated Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system. This ensures convenient and affordable travel both within the neighborhood and to other parts of Mexico City.
Coyoacan
Coyaocan boasts a rich artistic heritage with plentiful museums, art galleries, and cultural centers, providing expatriates with ample opportunities to fully immerse themselves in Mexico’s vibrant arts and cultural scene.
Coyoacan’s charm and beauty are enhanced by its cobblestone streets, colorful colonial houses, and bustling plazas. The neighborhood emanates a relaxed and unhurried atmosphere, creating an inviting and delightful place to call home.
Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Coyoacan’s parks and green spaces. From the iconic Frida Kahlo Park (formerly known as Viveros de Coyoacan) to the tranquil Xicotencatl Park, there are numerous areas for connecting with nature and enjoying leisurely strolls.
From tantalizing street food to trendy cafes and upscale restaurants, Coyoacan offers a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you yearning for more.
As a bonus, the neighborhood is near the metro and bus routes, facilitating easy navigation throughout the city.
Polanco
Polanco is home to refined residential areas, upscale boutiques, high-end restaurants, and designer shops, combining to create an ambiance of elegance and grandeur that will make you feel like royalty.
From the iconic Museo Soumaya and Museo Jumex to captivating performances at Teatro Polanco, you’ll have countless opportunities to immerse yourself in world-class art and culture.
A diverse range of culinary delights from around the world awaits you, from gourmet restaurants to trendy cafes. With Polanco’s proximity to Chapultepec Park, one of the largest urban parks globally, you’ll have a tranquil oasis for outdoor activities right on your doorstep.
A strong emphasis on security measures and a robust police presence ensures a safe living environment. What’s more, the neighborhood provides convenient access to all necessary amenities, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free daily life experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the safest neighborhoods to live in Mexico City?
The safest neighborhoods in Mexico City include Polanco, Condesa, and Santa Fe.
Which neighborhoods in Mexico City offer the best cultural and artistic experiences?
Coyoacan, Roma Norte, and Condesa offer vibrant cultural and artistic scenes with museums, art galleries, and cultural centers.
What are the most desirable neighborhoods in terms of proximity to business districts and amenities in Mexico City?
Neighborhoods like Polanco, Santa Fe, and Juarez are highly desirable due to their proximity to business districts and a wide range of amenities.
Conclusion
Like other big cities around the world, Mexico City has neighborhoods that are every expat’s dream and others that are not too expat-friendly. The list is just for reference, as whether or not a neighborhood is suitable for you very much depends on personal lifestyle and preference.
But one thing for certain is that you can enjoy and explore Mexico City to the fullest when you know your health needs are accommodated, especially in the event of an emergency – and that’s why securing international health insurance is highly recommended.
Pacific Prime has over 20 years of experience in providing expats around the world with health insurance solutions. Our team of expert advisors can support you throughout, from giving impartial advice on your medical needs to getting you quoted by internationally renowned insurers for the best plans.
Contact us today to headstart your insurance journey in Mexico City! Don’t forget to check out other articles that might be relevant to you, including healthcare in Mexico and Income Tax in Mexico for Canadians.
Since joining Pacific Prime, Eric was exposed to a new world of insurance. Having learned about insurance products extensively, he has taken joy and satisfaction in helping individuals and businesses manage risks and protect themselves against financial loss through the power of words.
Although born and raised in Hong Kong, he spent a quarter of his life living and studying in the UK. He believes his multicultural experience is a great asset in understanding the needs and wants of expats and globe-trotters.
Eric’s strengths lie in his strong research, analytical, and communication skills, obtained through his BA in Linguistics from the University of York and MSc in Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) from the University of Bristol.
Outside of work, he enjoys some me-time gaming and reading on his own, occasionally going absolutely mental on a night out with friends.
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