Living in the best city in Mexico: which city is it?

Moving to Mérida, Yucatán, is synonymous with quality of life and safety. It’s the capital of Yucatán state and is famous for its history and Maya culture, as well as for its closeness to some of the most important archaeological sites in Mexico.

Located a few kilometres from the sea, its climate is tropical, with average temperatures of 26ºC. Cosmopolitan and picturesque, living in Mérida offers the charm of the colonial era, urban vitality and easy access to the best the region has to offer, including art, cultural events, lonely beaches, nature reserves and archaeological treasures.

The heart of the city of Mérida is Plaza Grande, surrounded by streets showcasing cultural centres, museums and neoclassical-style mansions. Many of them painted white. It’s for this reason that, some say, it has long been known as Mérida, the White City.

You’ll also find parks and quiet streets, such as the arteries of the centre, which at weekends become pedestrian: a refuge for strollers, artisans, street artists and tourists.

Living in Mérida — the best city in Mexico?

Moving to Mérida, Yucatán, means living in what’s known as Tierra Caliente, because of its geographical position, high temperatures and closeness to the sea.

In Mérida, affordability and modern comforts, unlike other cities, are two key factors that draw attention, since it offers high-quality modern services.

On the other hand, for lovers of Maya history and culture, far beyond the archaeological sites of Chichén Itzá, Tulum and Uxmal, this region is home to many archaeological ruins. But that’s not all.

Yucatán’s natural environment offers plenty of options for outdoor activities such as birdwatching, diving, caving and hiking. It also gives easy access to several nature reserves.

Buying or renting a home in Mérida

The prices of land and properties in Mérida, as in other parts of Mexico, have risen in the last decade, though they’re still at very affordable levels compared with other cities in this region. Although it all depends on where you live and your lifestyle choices.

Neighbourhoods in the centre such as Santa Ana and Santiago, for example, attract many foreign investors seduced by the old, fabulous mansions in this area.

Most properties are sold through local real estate agents who know the area and the region, as well as directly through the developers who market major property projects. Many of them are in privileged spots facing the sea or in the north of the city, where tall apartment buildings and gated communities with excellent golf courses are already appearing.

However, if you’re moving to Mérida, Yucatán, you can also deal directly with owners who advertise online or with a simple sign on the property that says: “For Sale.”