Hello! My name is Gordon, and I’m a Canadian expat who’s been living in Bacalar for a few years now. Before moving here, I asked myself the same question you might be wondering: Is Bacalar an expensive place to live? The cost of living for expats in Bacalar is surprisingly affordable. In fact, Bacalar has become a top destination for many Canadians and Americans looking to retire or live abroad because of its low costs.
Let me walk you through why Bacalar stands out in terms of cost, and why so many of my fellow expats are flocking to this beautiful, hidden gem in Mexico.
Cost of Living: What Makes Bacalar Affordable?
Bacalar, known for its stunning lagoon and laid-back lifestyle, offers a much lower cost of living compared to cities in Canada or the United States. When I first started researching, I realized that the day-to-day costs here were substantially cheaper—whether you’re renting, buying groceries, or seeking out medical care.
Here’s a breakdown of some of the major living expenses that will show you just how budget-friendly Bacalar can be.
Housing Costs: Rent or Own, It’s Cheaper
One of the biggest draws to Bacalar is the affordability of housing. Whether you’re looking to rent or buy, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how far your money goes here.
- Renting: A furnished 2-bedroom home or apartment near the lagoon will set you back about $500–$800 USD a month, depending on the location and the amenities. Compare that to the average rent in a major city in Canada or the U.S., and it’s clear that you can get much more for your money here. If you’re open to living just a little outside the main lagoon area, rents drop even further.
- Buying Property: For those looking to invest, buying a home in Bacalar is significantly more affordable than in North America. Depending on the location and type of property, you can purchase a spacious home for $150,000–$250,000 USD—an incredible deal for a place where the beach and nature are at your doorstep.
Cost of Food: Fresh, Healthy, and Affordable
One thing I love about Bacalar is the access to fresh, local food. Weekly trips to the market are not only a great way to mingle with locals but also easy on the wallet. Fresh fruits and vegetables, much of which are grown locally, are affordable and readily available.
- Groceries: A typical grocery bill for two people can be as low as $150–$200 USD per month. Staples like rice, beans, eggs, and tortillas are very inexpensive, and you can get a whole meal for just a few dollars if you shop smart.
- Eating Out: Dining out is another area where Bacalar shines in affordability. You can easily have a delicious meal at a local restaurant for $5–$10 USD per person, including drinks. Bacalar’s restaurants offer a mix of traditional Mexican dishes and international options, so there’s something for everyone, without breaking the bank.
Healthcare: Quality Care at a Fraction of the Cost
One of the biggest concerns for retirees is healthcare. I’m happy to report that the medical care in Bacalar is not only high-quality but also affordable.
- Doctor Visits: A visit to the doctor typically costs around $30–$50 USD. For more specialized care, there are larger hospitals in nearby Chetumal, and even there, costs remain well below what you’d expect to pay in Canada or the U.S. without insurance.
- Prescription Medications: Medications are often available over the counter and are significantly cheaper than in North America. I’ve personally found that many of the medications I was taking in Canada cost a fraction of the price here.
- Health Insurance: Private health insurance in Mexico is surprisingly affordable, especially for expats. For around $1,000–$1,500 USD per year, you can get comprehensive coverage that includes doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency care.
Utilities and Everyday Expenses: More Savings
Daily expenses like electricity, water, and internet are also much cheaper than what you’d find back home.
- Utilities: Expect to pay around $40–$60 USD a month for electricity and water combined, depending on your usage. Internet is widely available and reliable, and costs around $25–$40 USD a month for a high-speed connection.
- Transportation: Getting around Bacalar is easy and affordable. While many locals and expats opt for bikes or scooters, taxis are very inexpensive compared to North American cities. You can also rent a car for road trips, and bus services to nearby towns are cheap and reliable.
Why Retire in Bacalar?
Bacalar is more than just an affordable place to live. It’s also one of the most beautiful and serene locations in Mexico. The *Laguna de los Siete Colores* (Lagoon of Seven Colors) offers endless opportunities for outdoor activities like swimming, kayaking, and sailing, all while being surrounded by nature. The pace of life here is slower, the air cleaner, and the stress level—practically nonexistent.
Expats like myself have also found Bacalar to be a welcoming community. With a growing expat population, it’s easy to make friends, get involved in local activities, and truly feel at home. Plus, being relatively close to Cancun and Tulum means you still have easy access to international airports and the more touristy spots when you want a change of pace.
The Bottom Line: Bacalar Is a Great Choice for Retirees
If you’re considering a move abroad or are simply looking for a more affordable, peaceful place to retire, Bacalar should be high on your list. The cost of living is a fraction of what you’d spend in Canada or the U.S., and the quality of life is unbeatable. With affordable healthcare, low housing costs, and the natural beauty of the lagoon, it’s no wonder so many Canadians and Americans are choosing Bacalar as their retirement haven.
As someone who’s made the move myself, I can wholeheartedly say that Bacalar has been one of the best decisions of my life. So, is Bacalar an expensive place to live? Absolutely not. In fact, it’s a hidden paradise where you can enjoy a high quality of life on a modest budget.
