Thinking of Moving to Los Cabos? Here Are My Top Tips for Expat Living

Los Cabos, Mexico – Moving abroad to Los Cabos is a dream for many, but transitioning to daily life in México can be a complex journey. Even if you’ve visited here on vacation a handful of times, nothing compares to what it’s like to fully start over from scratch in a new country.

Having lived in Los Cabos for six years after relocating from Vancouver, Canada, I’ve gained a deep understanding of the ins and outs of life here. I’m excited to share everything I’ve learned with you to help you decide if this decision is right for you too.

Whether you're considering making Los Cabos your new home or simply want to discover tips for living and working remotely in this stunning destination, this guide will offer you insider tips drawn from my own experiences. From the best co-working spots to paying utilities and understanding the local healthcare system, I’ve got you covered on the essentials of expat life in Los Cabos.

Grocery Shopping: Where to Buy and What to Expect

One of the first things you’ll want to learn here is where to shop, as the experience of grocery shopping in Los Cabos can vary widely. Major supermarkets like La Comer, Soriana, Chedraui, and Walmart cater to all your basic needs, offering a wide range of products, from local produce to international brands. You’ll find some products from home, but these supermarkets tend to lean more heavily toward Méxican brands.

If you’re seeking more of an upscale vibe or healthy alternatives, California Ranch Market is a must-visit. This high-end grocery store has locations in Cabo San Lucas and the Shoppes at Palmilla in San José del Cabo, and they also offer free grocery delivery on orders over $2000 MXN. You’ll find an extensive selection of organic foods, gluten-free products, and high-quality supplements. If you're committed to a healthy lifestyle or simply craving some snacks from home, this is my go-to place. You'll find everything from fresh produce and organic meats to specialty items like dairy alternatives and superfoods, making it easier to maintain your dietary preferences while living in Los Cabos. But, just like any other time you shop for organic options, be prepared to spend more here.

One of my favorite things about Los Cabos living is the local farmer's markets with fresh, organic produce and artisanal goods. The Los Cabos Organic Market is one of the most popular, held every Saturday morning from 7:30 AM to noon in the beautiful neighborhood of Pedregal de Cabo San Lucas. This market is a hotspot for health-conscious expats, locals, and travelers alike, with a huge selection of organic fruits, vegetables, dairy products, fresh bread, and handmade crafts. Whether you're looking for farm-fresh eggs, homemade salsas, or natural skincare products, this organic market is a must-visit for anyone visiting or living in Los Cabos.

Getting a Phone Plan in Los Cabos

If you're moving to Los Cabos or planning on working here as a digital nomad, setting up a phone plan is one of the first things you'll want to do to stay connected. Fortunately, there are several options to choose from, depending on your needs and preferences.

For long-term residents, major carriers like Telcel and AT&T Mexico offer reliable coverage and a variety of plans. Telcel is the most popular choice, with extensive coverage throughout Mexico, including Los Cabos. You can visit a Telcel store or authorized dealer to set up a plan. If you're planning to stay for an extended period, a postpaid plan might be the best option, though it usually requires a contract and proof of residency. These plans typically offer larger data allowances and added perks, such as unlimited calls and texts within Mexico and to the U.S. and Canada.

If you prefer more flexibility or are just getting settled, a prepaid plan might be ideal. Prepaid plans allow you to pay as you go, topping up your balance as needed. You can purchase a prepaid SIM card from any major carrier at their retail locations or authorized dealers.

Or, for a quick and easy solution, you can walk into any Oxxo—the most common convenience store in Mexico, found on practically every corner—and buy a pay-as-you-go SIM card. Oxxo carries SIM cards from various carriers, including Telcel and AT&T. This is an excellent option if you want to avoid a contract or are still getting accustomed to life in Los Cabos. Once you've inserted the SIM card into your phone, you can top up your balance at the cashier or online whenever needed. This option is especially convenient for those who want to control their spending or are still figuring out their monthly usage patterns.

How to Set Up and Pay Utilities

Utility management in Los Cabos requires a bit of local knowledge and planning. Electricity, water, and internet services are readily available, but it’s important to set up accounts promptly to avoid interruptions.

CFE (Comisión Federal de Electricidad) handles electricity, while water services are managed by OOMSAPAS. Both can be set up by visiting their local offices with your lease agreement or proof of home ownership. Or, if you’re renting a home that already has these services set up by the owner, you can simply make payments through the CFE or OOMSAPAS app or at one of their offices, or pay your bill in the Oxxo by scanning the barcode on your water or electricity receipt.

Internet providers such as Telmex and Megacable have various packages to choose from, with fiber optic connections now available in many areas. I’ve personally tried both of these companies and found Telmex to be a more affordable and more reliable option. I’m currently paying $349 MXN per month for internet (it’s not “high speed” but has no issues) and cabe with Telmex which works perfectly fine, whereas my high-speed Megacable bill used to be nearly $1000 MXN.

Is Los Cabos Suitable for Remote Work and Digital Nomads?

Los Cabos has become a hotspot for remote workers. It has reliable internet, beautiful surroundings, and a laidback lifestyle full of expats and remote workers.

If you’re seeking a change of scenery from WFH life, there are plenty of co-working spaces to choose from. T1ME & CO is a trendy business that caters to conscious digital nomads in Cabo San Lucas, offering high-speed Wi-Fi, comfortable workspaces, and networking opportunities. They also have a “conscious bar” full of non-alcoholic beverages and adaptogenic coffee to sip on as you work. Grab a day pass for just $25 USD to check it out before committing to a membership.

For those living in San José del Cabo, COLAB is an excellent co-working spot, with locations in El Centro and La Playita. They have a focus on coffee, culture, and community, with day passes for about $24 USD.

If you’re looking for something more quiet, ChezBlue Coffee & Food Bar at the Shoppes at Palmilla and Cochimi Café in San José del Cabo are two of my favorite hidden gems.

The biggest struggle with remote work in Los Cabos? Maintaining a balance between work and leisure can be challenging. To stay productive, establish a daily routine that includes breaks to enjoy the beach or a walk in nature if you can swing it. The time difference (Los Cabos is on Mountain Standard Time) can also be an advantage if your work involves clients or colleagues in different time zones, giving you quiet morning hours to focus.

Do I Need to Speak Spanish?

While English is widely spoken in tourist areas like Cabo San Lucas and the hotel zone in San José del Cabo, if you choose to live like a local then it will require you to embrace the language and customs. Engaging with the local community, attending events, and practicing Spanish daily will enrich your experience and help you feel more connected to your new home. While immersion is the quickest way to learn, don’t be afraid to get an online tutor or take Spanish classes in person.

If you’re looking for a more authentic living experience, you’ll encounter fewer English speakers in neighborhoods (or ‘colonies’) like Magisterial, or El Tezal. I personally have lived in various neighborhoods from Cabo to San José del Cabo, which has been great for improving my Spanish skills. But if you’d rather live near other expats and English speakers, look into areas like El Centro, Pedregal, and the Cabo San Lucas or San José del Cabo Corridors as options.

Opening a Mexican Bank Account

Setting up a bank account in Mexico is another crucial step for managing your finances as an expat. Among the various banks available, BBVA is numero uno in México due to its comprehensive services, including the ability to handle international transfers and easily top up your cell phone balance in the app.

To open a bank account, you'll need to visit a branch in person. The process is straightforward if you have the right documentation. Bring your passport, your permanent residency card, and proof of address, such as a recent utility bill. With these documents, you can typically open your account on the spot.

Most banks in Mexico require an initial deposit, which is usually around $1,000 MXN (about $55 USD). This deposit ensures that your account is activated and in good standing.

While BBVA is a popular choice for its robust online services and ease of use, other reputable banks in Mexico, such as Santander, Banorte, and HSBC, also offer excellent banking options. Each bank has its unique features, so it might be worth exploring different options to find the one that best suits your needs. If you don’t speak Spanish, you may want to get everything set up at an English-speaking branch in an area that caters to tourists and expats.

Medical Services: What to Expect

Healthcare in Los Cabos is a mix of public and private options. Many expats choose private healthcare for faster service and English-speaking doctors, though the public system, IMSS (Instituto Mexicano del Seguro Social), is available with proper registration.

Paying for healthcare out of pocket here is common as well, especially for expats who may not have comprehensive insurance coverage. The costs can vary, but many find it to be much more affordable than in their home countries, particularly for high-quality private care.

I had a baby here in Los Cabos and we paid for a private hospital out-of-pocket in San José del Cabo. Having a C-section cost me about $1000 USD, which is way less than you would pay in places like Canada or the USA without medical coverage. Having a consultation with a doctor only costs about a few hundred pesos as well, depending on where you go. Overall, I’ve had nothing but good experiences with the medical system here and have found it to be relatively on par with Canada’s services, and a lot more accessible.

However, it’s advisable to budget for medical expenses and consider obtaining a health insurance plan that suits your needs. It’s always best to be covered in case an unexpected or costly situation arises.

Staying Connected with Family and Friends Back Home

While it never gets any easier to be away from friends and family, keeping in touch with loved ones while living abroad is easier than ever. Take advantage of apps like WhatsApp, Zoom, FaceTime, and Skype that offer free video calls. Taking the time out of my day to check in with loved ones despite the distance has allowed me to maintain close relationships with the most important people back home.

One perk about living here is the Los Cabos International Airport (SJD), which has direct flights to most major U.S. and Canadian cities. The airport makes travel back home relatively easy and your friends and family can come to visit you as well. Just be sure to check airline policies and travel restrictions, which can change frequently.

Transportation: Getting Around in Los Cabos

Getting around Los Cabos is straightforward, whether you choose to drive, use public transport, or rely on ride-sharing apps.

If you plan to drive, the Carretera Transpeninsular (Highway 1) is the main route connecting San José del Cabo to Cabo San Lucas and beyond. Buying a car involves obtaining Mexican car insurance and registering the vehicle locally, which requires proof of residency and other documentation. (I’m not going to get into legalities in this article, but if you comment below, I’d be happy to connect you with a reliable contact who can help you apply for your Méxican residency).

When it comes to public buses, they are inexpensive and cover most areas. The main bus service in Los Cabos is called Ruta del Desierto. This bus route connects key areas, including the corridor between San José del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, the hotel zones, and Los Cabos International Airport (SJD). It's an affordable and commonly used option for both locals and tourists traveling between these locations.

Uber is another popular for short trips, offering a convenient alternative to taxis, especially in tourist areas. While taxis are readily available, they can be more expensive, so it's best to agree on a price beforehand.

For those who prefer to explore on foot or by bike, areas like downtown Cabo San Lucas and the Art District in San José del Cabo are pedestrian-friendly and easy to navigate.

Thriving as an Expat in Los Cabos

Living and adjusting to life in Los Cabos undoubtedly comes with challenges, but the rewards far outweigh any cons. With its abundance of outdoor activities, beautiful beaches, lower cost of living, focus on wellness, and a growing expat community, it’s no wonder so many choose to call this place home. By understanding the essentials of daily life, from grocery shopping to working remotely, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in Los Cabos. Whether you’re here for a few months or a lifetime, Los Cabos has everything you need to live the life you’ve always dreamed of.