Moving to Mexico: The American's Guide (2026)
Mexico is home to more Americans than any other country — and it's the cheapest of the major destinations to live in. This hub gathers our source-checked 2026 guides on Mexican residency, cost of living and taxes for US citizens.
Can Americans get Mexican residency?
Yes. Temporary residency needs about $4,400/month of income or ~$74,000 in savings; permanent residency needs about $7,430/month or ~$299,000. You apply at a Mexican consulate in the US, then complete the INM "canje" within 30 days of arrival.
What does it cost, and how are you taxed?
A single person lives well on about $1,890/month in Mexico City or $1,375 in Mérida. Residents are taxed on worldwide income, but the US–Mexico treaty and the foreign tax credit mean most US retirees owe little Mexican tax on US retirement income; freelancers can use the low-rate RESICO regime.