Retiring in La Paz: Everything You Need to Know
Thousands of American and Canadian retirees have discovered what makes La Paz, Baja California Sur, one of Mexico’s best retirement destinations. Year-round sunshine, affordable healthcare, a welcoming expat community, and real estate prices that let your retirement savings go further.
Real Estate Snapshot: 926 properties available in La Paz, from $595K to $70.0M. Median price: $997K.
Cost of Living in La Paz
Retirees in La Paz typically spend 30–50% less than they would in comparable US or Canadian locations. Here’s a rough monthly budget for a couple:
| Expense | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Housing (rent or mortgage) | $800 – $2,500 |
| Groceries & dining | $400 – $800 |
| Healthcare & insurance | $100 – $400 |
| Utilities (electric, water, internet) | $100 – $250 |
| Transportation | $100 – $300 |
| Entertainment & activities | $200 – $500 |
| Total | $1,700 – $4,750 |
Healthcare in La Paz
Mexico offers high-quality healthcare at a fraction of US costs. Many doctors in La Paz are US-trained and speak English. Options include:
- IMSS (public healthcare): Available to residents for ~$500/year per person
- Private insurance: Comprehensive plans from $1,200–$4,000/year
- Out-of-pocket: A doctor visit costs $30–$50 USD, dental cleanings $40–$80
Visa & Residency Requirements
Mexico offers two main visa types for retirees:
- Temporary Resident Visa (1–4 years): Requires proof of monthly income of ~$2,800 USD or savings of ~$46,000 USD
- Permanent Resident Visa: After 4 years as temporary resident, or with proof of ~$4,600 USD monthly income
Both allow you to own property (via fideicomiso), open bank accounts, and access healthcare.
Real Estate Options for Retirees
Houses: 400 available from $220K. View listings →
Condos: 119 available from $180K. View listings →
Land: 400 available from $240K. View listings →
Commercial: 7 available from $210K. View listings →
The Expat Community
La Paz has a warm, tight-knit expat community centered around the Malecón. Regular social events, volunteer groups, and cultural activities make it easy to build a social network. Many expats appreciate that La Paz feels authentically Mexican while still being accessible.
Start Your La Paz Retirement Journey
With years of experience serving international retirees in Baja California Sur, Baja Sur Realtors understands the unique needs of retirement buyers — from low-maintenance oceanview condos to homes in exclusive gated communities.
- Search all 926 properties →
- Phone: +1 (213) 719-2121
- WhatsApp: +52 1 624 622 3489
Data from Los Cabos MLS, updated March 2026.
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