Living in Mexico as a Digital Nomad

Mexico has become one of the most popular spots for digital nomads worldwide, and for good reason. With its lively cities, gorgeous beaches, delicious food, and affordable cost of living, it’s easy to see the appeal.

Maybe you’re looking at soaking up the surf in Sayulita, wandering the cobblestone streets of Mérida, or perhaps coworking in Mexico City. Whatever it is—there’s a spot for every remote worker here.

As a digital nomad who has spent collective years in Mexico (I lost count!), including extended amounts of time in Sayulita, Puerto Vallarta, and Puerto Escondido—I’ve explored some of what Mexico offers for digital nomads.

But beyond my personal experiences, I’ll also share the must-know details for every digital nomad considering Mexico as their next base.

So, what’s it like to live and work remotely in Mexico? Let’s get into it…

Can I Work as a Digital Nomad in Mexico?

Absolutely. Mexico is one of the most flexible and welcoming countries for digital nomads, especially those from nearby countries like the U.S.

Internet and Infrastructure
Major cities like Mexico City, Mérida, and Playa del Carmen offer fast, reliable internet—perfect for Zoom calls and heavy workloads.

Smaller beach towns like Sayulita or Puerto Escondido can be hit-or-miss, but you’ll often find at least one solid coworking space or cafe with dependable Wi-Fi.

If you plan to stay longer, investing in your own hotspot or data plan can be a good backup.

RELATED: Best International SIM Cards So You Can Have Data Anywhere!

Coworking Spots
Coworking setups vary across Mexico, from trendy hubs like Selina in Playa del Carmen to more local coworking spots like Vallarta Cowork in Puerto Vallarta. The bigger cities and DN hot spots do offer some decent places!

However, Mexico’s coworking culture isn’t as widespread, so you’ll often find nomads working from cafes or making do with their Airbnb’s dining table.

Restaurants in towns like Sayulita sometimes even double as makeshift coworking spaces. If you pay for a certain amount of food, you can get access to faster Wi-Fi and the ability to “camp” without it being weird.

Work-Life Balance
One of the best parts of being a digital nomad in Mexico is the balance of work and play.

Whether it’s a quick surf session in the morning, grabbing tacos for lunch, or hitting up a mezcaleria at night, the lifestyle here encourages productivity and fun. Me encanta!

Is Mexico Good for Digital Nomads?

Short answer: Yes, but it depends on your needs.

The Perks

• Low Cost of Living: Mexico remains incredibly affordable for most nomads, even though prices are rising in hot spots like Sayulita and Tulum.
• Food and Culture: From street tacos to art scenes, Mexico delivers rich, everyday experiences. The vibes in Mexico are just top-notch, in my opinion.
• Various Environments: Beach towns, buzzing cities, and even quiet mountain towns give you a range of lifestyle options.
• Community: Cities like Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta have well-established immigrant and expat communities, making connecting easy.

The Challenges

• Accommodation Costs: Quality accommodations with DN-friendly setups (desks, chairs, good lighting) can come at a premium compared to places like SE Asia.
• Internet Consistency: Fast in urban areas but unreliable in more rural or beach towns. Even 10 minutes outside of Sayulita or 10 minutes from the center of Puerto Escondido, we dealt with wifi going out with some rain or wind. It’s slowly getting better, though!
• Safety Concerns: Often overblown by media, but some precautions are necessary like most of the world.

Overall, Mexico is a solid DN base, especially if you’re looking for a lively and more affordable spot that’s not far from the US, either.

Personally, this is one of my favorite countries I’ve lived in the world.

Mexico Visas for Digital Nomads

6-Month Tourist Visa
The six-month tourist visa for Americans (and others) is one of the longest tourist visas in the world. You simply enter the country, fill out a form, and have your passport stamped at immigration.

Extensions aren’t officially allowed, but many travelers leave and re-enter the country to get a fresh stamp.

Temporary Resident Visa
For those wanting a longer stay, the Temporary Resident Visa is a great option. This visa allows you to live in Mexico for one year, with the possibility of extending up to four years.

Requirements include proof of income or savings (usually around $2,100 monthly income or $35,000 in savings). This is a more involved process but worth it if you’re planning to settle in Mexico longer-term.

Tips:

• Always carry your FMM (the form you get when entering Mexico), as you’ll need it when you leave. (Essentially a small piece of paper they will charge you for if you lose when departing from Mexico—they don’t always check, and this is being phased out)
• Start the Temporary Resident Visa process early if you’re considering it, as it can take several weeks to complete.

Do Digital Nomads Pay Tax in Mexico?

Not usually! Most digital nomads in Mexico fall into a gray area as long as they work for non-Mexican companies and don’t stay long enough to become tax residents.

• 183-Day Rule: If you spend more than 183 days in Mexico within a year, you could be considered a tax resident.
• Short-Term Stays: If you’re here on a tourist visa (6 months for Americans) and working for clients or employers outside of Mexico, you’re typically exempt from Mexican taxes.
• Tips: Keep an eye on your length of stay and consult a tax professional if you’re considering the Temporary Resident Visa or other long-term options.

Coworking Spaces in Mexico

Mexico’s coworking scene is steadily growing, though it varies greatly by location. In major cities like Mexico City, Playa del Carmen, and Puerto Vallarta, you’ll find well-established coworking spaces designed for remote workers.

However, in smaller towns or more rural areas, you might need to get creative with your workspace.

Top Coworking Spaces

• Selina (Playa del Carmen, Mexico City…): Known for its trendy vibe, Selina offers coworking spaces, accommodations, and social events all in one.
• Vallarta Cowork (Puerto Vallarta): A small but reliable coworking spot, great for meeting other nomads.
• NEST Coworking, WeWork… (Mexico City): Modern and spacious coworking hubs in the capital.
• Sayulita Cowork (Sayulita): Honestly, the crappiest space ever, but it has the best internet in town. Check out where to cowork as a digital nomad in Sayulita.

Alternative Workspaces
In towns like Sayulita or Puerto Escondido, coworking spaces might not always be the most practical option. Cafes, Airbnbs with decent Wi-Fi, and even restaurants that charge a small fee for internet access are common alternatives.

Many digital nomads set up shop at home, investing in ergonomic furniture (or not… my back sometimes hurts with the crappy chairs!) and hotspots for reliable connectivity.

Obviously, if you’re here for a bit and in a bigger city, you could take a day and get a whole setup from Walmart or something very easily.

Personally, I usually make working from home work!

Finding an Apartment in Mexico

Whether you’re staying in Mexico for a few months or planning a longer stint, finding the right accommodation is key to a productive and enjoyable work life on the road (trust me!).

Here’s how to navigate the housing scene:

How to Find a Place

• Facebook Groups: Look for local housing groups specific to your destination. “Expats in [City]” or “Housing/Accommodation in [City]” groups are a great starting point.
• Walking Around: Some rentals are advertised with signs. Take a stroll in the neighborhood you want to live in and contact landlords directly.
• Airbnb Hack: Reach out to Airbnb hosts for long-term discounts or deals off-platform. You can book a few nights for a test run even and then handle the rest of the app. There’s a small risk involved here, but I’ve done it around the world for years if it makes you feel better!
• Local Rental Agencies: These are especially useful in larger cities like Mexico City or Mérida, but you don’t need one. If you can’t be bothered with the other options, this is available!

Types of Accommodations

• Short-Term Rentals: Ideal for scoping out an area before committing to a longer lease. Also, you can test the neighborhood to see what you want. You can even go to a hotel for a few days.
• Fully Furnished Apartments: These are more common in expat-heavy areas like Playa del Carmen and Puerto Vallarta.
• Local Rentals: Often cheaper but may lack some comforts like a workspace or strong Wi-Fi. They might be further outside of town, too.

Personal Experience with Accommodation in Mexico as a Digital Nomad

In Sayulita, I rented a two-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment with a massive outdoor kitchen and balcony for $1,000 per month, bills all-inclusive. While this was on the pricier side, it was perfect for working and relaxing.

In Puerto Vallarta, it’s actually a bit more budget-friendly, since there are more options.

Tips:

• Negotiate rent if staying longer than a few months.
• Always check Wi-Fi speed and reliability before committing to a place.
• Look for accommodations with amenities like air conditioning (seriously, don’t forget this depending on the season you visit!) and secure parking if needed.
• Pay a bit more for a few nights at a place to do a test run, and then you can continue for a cheaper extended stay rate.

Safety Tips for Digital Nomads in Mexico

Safety is often a top concern for anyone considering Mexico as a digital nomad destination.

Mexico gets a bad rap in the media sometimes, but staying aware and using some common sense goes a long way.

General Safety Tips

• Choose Accommodations Wisely: Stay in neighborhoods known for being safe and frequented by travelers, at least initially.
• Tech Security: Use a VPN when working online, especially in cafes or public Wi-Fi networks.
• Transportation: Stick to trusted ride-sharing services like Uber in cities, as local taxis can vary in reliability and safety. Public buses are usually safe and affordable.
• Emergency Prep: Save local emergency numbers and tell a trusted person where you are. Especially my solo traveling gals out there!
• Anti-theft Bags: I travel with antitheft, always, everywhere. They give me peace of mind and are the best quality bags I’ve found to date.

Personal Experience
In all my time traveling and living in Mexico, I’ve always felt safe by following common-sense precautions.

Avoiding isolated areas at night, being mindful of belongings, and never drawing attention to myself have kept me out of trouble.

I don’t go out at night very often either, no matter where I am in the world (I’m a daytime person), and I swear that’s more than half the reason I stay safe.

RELATED: Travel Safety Tips—No Matter Where In The World You’re Going

What Are the Best Cities for Digital Nomads in Mexico?

Mexico’s diverse cities and regions offer something for every digital nomad. Whether you’re drawn to beachside vibes, urban energy, or cultural richness, here are the top spots to consider:

Playa del Carmen and Tulum

A favorite among digital nomads, Playa del Carmen offers coworking spaces, reliable internet, and a vibrant community.

Tulum is slightly smaller but has a bohemian vibe with gorgeous beaches and plenty of cafes to work from.

Mexico City

The bustling capital is perfect for urban lovers. With fast internet, countless coworking spaces, and an unbeatable food scene, Mexico City balances work and play seamlessly.

There’s SO much to do, which also makes it an exciting place to explore outside of work hours.

RELATED:A 3-Day Mexico City Itinerary

Mérida

Known for its colonial charm and slower pace, Mérida is a popular spot for those seeking a quieter life.

The Wi-Fi is reliable, and the cost of living is more affordable compared to tourist-heavy areas. Plus, the Yucatán region offers incredible cenotes and Mayan ruins for weekend adventures.

RELATED: Your One Week Yucatan, Mexico Itinerary

Sayulita

A laid-back surf town with colorful streets, Sayulita attracts digital nomads who love the beach life. While coworking spaces here are limited, many nomads make do with cafes or home setups.

The community vibe is strong, making it easy to connect with others.

RELATED:
27 Awesome Things to Do in Sayulita, Mexico
Your Guide To Living In Sayulita – Digital Nomad Life

Puerto Vallarta

This coastal city blends urban amenities with a relaxed vibe. It’s easy to find good coworking spaces, affordable rentals, and delicious food.

The proximity to nature makes it ideal for weekend hiking or beach trips.

RELATED:
31 BEST Things to Do in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico
Where to Stay in Puerto Vallarta: Best Areas and Hotels

Puerto Escondido

A haven for surfers and beach lovers, Puerto Escondido offers a mix of walkable areas and laid-back vibes.

While not as DN-focused as other cities, it’s an excellent spot for those seeking a mix of work and play.

RELATED:
Playa Zicatela + La Punta Zicatela—Puerto Escondido, Mexico
Where to Stay in Puerto Escondido, Mexico—Best Hotels & Areas

Baja Peninsula

Baja, including spots like Cabo San Lucas and La Paz, is quieter but offers stunning landscapes and a more relaxed atmosphere.

It’s perfect for nomads who want a break from crowded destinations.

RELATED: 19 BEST Things to Do in Baja California Sur, Mexico

How Much Does it Cost to Live in Mexico as a Digital Nomad?

Mexico offers a wide range of living costs depending on the city, your lifestyle, and the level of comfort you prefer.

From budget-friendly towns to higher-end coastal hubs, you’ll find your spot somewhere in Mexico!

General Costs to Expect

• Rent:
  • $400–$600/month for a basic apartment in cities.
  • $800–$1,500/month for fully furnished accommodations.
  • Sayulita and Tulum tend to be on the higher end, with apartments often starting at $1,000/month.
• Eating Out:
  • $1–$3 for street tacos or quick bites at local spots.
  • $10–$15 for mid-range restaurants offering Western-style meals.
  • Fancier dining options with cocktails or wine will run $30–$50.
• Groceries:
  • Local markets: $15–$25/week for fresh fruits, veggies, and basics.
  • Larger supermarkets: $40–$60/week for a mix of local and imported goods.
• Transportation:
  • Buses: $0.50–$1 per ride in cities like Mexico City.
  • Uber or InDriver: $2–$7 for short rides, depending on the city.
• Coworking Spaces:
  • $70–$200+/month for unlimited access and other perks, depending on where you’re at.

Personal Experience:
Honestly, Garrett and I often keep our costs under $2,000 USD/month TOTAL for two people in most places we live, including Mexico.

The only higher months are when we’re flying or traveling around more. If we are just living—we can often keep it under $2k.

RELATED: Cost of Living in Mexico: 16 Top Destinations!

Final Thoughts on Digital Nomading in Mexico

Mexico is one of the most versatile destinations for digital nomads, and it simply hits most, if not all, of the marks! At least on my list.

The six-month tourist visa also makes it easy to get started. It’s one of the most generous in the world.

Personally, I have always loved my time in Mexico. It’s a place I continue to visit and live in very often. In fact, I go nearly once a year! Yet— I’ve only scratched the surface.

I can’t wait to return for endless tacos and good vibes! So, in short, I freaking love Mexico as a digital nomad. I hope this breakdown helped you plan your trip!

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