San Miguel de Allende
Mexico's most elegant expat haven—where colonial grandeur meets world-class art and culture
GuanajuatoHighland climate with near-perfect weather year-round. Days 70-80°F, nights 50-60°F. Minimal rain except summer months.
Overview
San Miguel de Allende has topped "World's Best City" lists for years, and the accolades are earned—impeccably preserved colonial architecture, thriving arts scene, excellent restaurants, and Mexico's most established expat infrastructure. The 14,000+ foreign residents have created English-language everything: newspapers, AA meetings, garden clubs, theater groups. The flip side is prices 30-50% higher than comparable Mexican cities and a "bubble" feel that can insulate from authentic Mexican experience.
Highlights
- Perfectly preserved colonial architecture—entire city is UNESCO Heritage
- World-class arts, galleries, and cultural events
- Most established expat community and infrastructure in Mexico
- Excellent restaurants spanning all budgets
- Beautiful year-round highland climate
Best For
RetireesCouplesArtistsCultural EnthusiastsAffluent ExpatsFirst Time Expats