Are We Moving to Mexico? Comparing Mexico and Ecuador for Expats
Lately, we’ve been getting tons of questions asking if we’re moving to Mexico since we started sharing videos from our adventures there.
So, we thought it would be a perfect time to compare Mexico and Ecuador head-to-head and see which one comes out on top for factors that matter most to us (and maybe you as well!).
The Allure of Mexico
Mexico has a lot going for it, especially for expats from the United States and Canada. It’s super close, making traveling to and from home a breeze, with multiple international airports and even the option to drive there!
Pros of Living in Mexico:
- Developed infrastructure (highways, housing, internet, etc.)
- Cheaper goods and more variety (Amazon Prime!)
- Delicious food
- Friendly locals
- Diverse housing options
- Good healthcare (ranked 29th globally by CEOWorld Magazine)
- Rich culture and plenty of things to do
The Not-So-Great Side of Mexico:
Of course, no place is perfect, and Mexico has a few drawbacks too:
- It’s harder to get a visa (compared to Ecuador)
- The peso isn’t as strong as the dollar (Ecuador’s currency)
- Big, crowded cities
- Limited walkability
- Air and water pollution
- Popular expat areas can be pricier
- Crime (Mexico ranks #137 on the safest country list according to World Population Review)
- Hotter climate than Ecuador, especially on the coasts
Ecuador: An Expat Paradise?
Ecuador, a hidden gem tucked away in South America, has been gaining popularity among expats over the past 10+ years. But is it truly an expat paradise?
In this section, we’ll dive into the various aspects that make Ecuador a fantastic destination for those looking to start a new adventure abroad, as well as some of the challenges that come with living in this beautiful country.
Pros of Living in Ecuador:
Ecuador also has a lot going for it, particularly for those from the United States:
- The US dollar is the official currency
- Fantastic climate
- Walkable cities and towns
- Amazing fruits and veggies (high quality and low cost)
- Affordable, high-quality healthcare (ranked 25th globally)
- Low cost of living
- Reliable internet
- Safe drinking water in some metro areas
- Outdoor activities galore
- Friendly locals
- Easy to obtain visas (we have permanent visas!)
Ecuador’s Imperfections:
Ecuador isn’t without its flaws:
- Farther from the US (flights are more expensive and longer)
- Expensive and limited international travel options
- Increasing crime/drug activity (Ecuador ranked #79 on the safest country list in 2022)
- Smaller expat communities compared to Mexico
- Not-so-great beaches (more like the Pacific side of Mexico, not the Caribbean)
- Expensive imported goods and limited variety
Our Verdict: Are We Moving to Mexico?
So, what’s the verdict? The main benefit Mexico has over Ecuador for us is its proximity to the US and our families back home.
However, we think Ecuador ranks higher on a few aspects that matter more to us than a shorter plane ride, like high quality healthcare, better air quality and drinkable tap water (where we live).
Plus, we have permanent visas in Ecuador so we don’t have to worry about being legal or making visa runs!
Although we love to travel and may consider applying for a visa in another country at some point, we’re not moving to Mexico. We’re staying in Ecuador.
Both Mexico and Ecuador are fantastic options for expats and have a lot to offer. If you’re looking to escape the daily grind and try something new, you can’t go wrong with either destination.
Watch Our Video Comparing Mexico and Ecuador
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Hola todos! Welcome to my author bio page! Let's see. Where to begin... I grew up in the country on a lake outside a small Kansas farm town. As soon as I could, I got the hell outta there! Since then, I've lived and/or worked in Kansas City, Washington D.C., Denver, San Francisco, and Ecuador. I started and sold a dotcom, wrote a book about it, started a YouTube channel, and now I write a lot. Amelia and I have embraced the Unconventional Life and we want to help you do it, too!
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