After nearly nine years of calling San Miguel de Allende home—and working in real estate here—I’ve had countless conversations with families and couples wondering if this magical city is the right fit for their next chapter. If you’re considering relocating to Mexico, let me share some insights that go beyond the glossy travel brochures.
When my husband Tim and I made our first visit to San Miguel in July 2016, we came with a checklist. We weren’t just looking for a beautiful colonial town—we had practical questions like:
“Can we find a great vet for our dogs?”
“Will we be able to get our monthly prescriptions?”
“Is the internet reliable enough for Tim’s remote tech job?”
Now, after all these years—and with a child in the mix—I realize that list barely scratched the surface.
So if you’re dreaming about making San Miguel your new home, here are a few key things to think about:
1. How’s your mobility and tolerance for altitude?
There’s a reason we jokingly refer to San Miguel as “the city of fallen women.” While charming, our cobblestone streets and narrow sidewalks can be treacherous. Add in the altitude (we sit at around 1,900 meters or 6,200 feet above sea level), and you’ve got a setting that’s both beautiful and challenging.
If stairs and steep inclines aren’t your thing—or if altitude affects your health—it’s a good idea to visit before making big plans. From a real estate perspective, be sure to ask about properties with main-floor bedrooms, elevators, or single-level living options. They do exist, and they’re worth the hunt.
2. Do you have a financial cushion?
Let’s be real: life happens. Whether it’s a sudden job loss, an unexpected illness, or simply underestimating your monthly expenses, financial stress is one of the main reasons expats end up returning home sooner than planned.
I’ve seen it happen to lovely people who came with great intentions but weren’t prepared for the unpredictable. Having a clear budget—and a Plan B—can make all the difference in building a sustainable life here.
3. Can you embrace a slower pace (and imperfect outcomes)?
In Mexico, time moves differently. Things often take longer than expected, and while excellence is valued, perfection is not always the norm.
Maybe the paint color isn’t quite what you pictured. Maybe your online order arrives…eventually. Maybe your haircut turns out almost right. Flexibility and kindness go a long way here. The more you can roll with the unexpected, the happier you’ll be.
4. Are you good at pivoting and solving problems?
Despite what some blogs or YouTube channels might suggest, San Miguel is not Disneyland for retirees or remote workers. It’s vibrant and stunning, yes—but Mexico isn’t designed for predictable outcomes. There’s a wonderful element of chaos here. And while it can be frustrating, it’s also part of the charm.
When something goes sideways (and it will), take a breath. There’s a large and supportive expat community here, and most of us are more than happy to share advice, referrals, or a reassuring chat over coffee. Crowdsourcing solutions is practically a local sport.
In Conclusion…
San Miguel de Allende is a place that welcomes dreamers, adventurers, and those looking for a deeper connection to life. But it’s not without its challenges. If you’re thoughtful, flexible, and ready to embrace a new rhythm, this city just might capture your heart the way it did mine.
Thinking of making the move or scouting properties? I’d be happy to share what I know—not just as a real estate agent, but as someone who made the leap and never looked back.
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