Retiring in Cancun

Cancun might not be the first place that springs to mind when thinking of retiring in Mexico, but this coastal resort has a lot more to offer than boisterous mega clubs and an army of U.S. springbreakers. As soon as you're out of the hotel zone everything becomes much more sedate, with low-rise buildings and larger public spaces.

The city, although congested, is catching up with providing adequate resources to the growing number of local residents. There are several Wal-Mart stores in the city center along with Blockbusters, Sam's Club, Costco, and Starbucks.

If you're thinking about retiring in Cancun, the immigration authorities offer a rentista visa for foreign retirees aged 51 or over. Applications for rentista status must be accompanied by a letter from a bank, social security agency or financial institution certifying that the applicant receives a certain minimum monthly income.

Foreign retirees can also sign up for the medical IMSS plan (Mexican Social Security). It costs approximately US$300 a year and covers medical, dental and vision care.

Relocation 

There is a very large community of foreign full-time residents as well as seasonal residents who enjoy Cancun's lifestyle and quality of living. Its infrastructure allows for reliable electricity and inexpensive high-speed internet. With the best water treatment facilities in Latin America, this is one Mexican city where you can actually drink the water.

The low cost of living and the unique sense of community that Cancun provides are just some of the reasons why people from all over the world choose to make it their home.

Return to top