Tijuana, Mexico Report of what it's like to live there - 08/07/25
Personal Experiences from Tijuana, Mexico
Background:
1. Was this post your first expatriate experience? If not, what other cities have you lived in as an expat?
This is my first post as an expat. Initially we moved down to Mexico City, with my husband's family, but after about six months decided to relocate to Tijuana.
2. What is your home city/country? How long is the trip to post from there, with what connections? How easy/difficult is it to travel to this city/country?
We were originally from a very small town near Vancouver, WA, called Camas, WA. My children and myself do not speak Spanish, so we have relied on my husband for everything. I had expected as we live just 15 miles from the US that more people would speak English here, but unfortunately I was wrong.
When I drive into the US, it takes on average three hours each way. I again had made the assumption that I would be able to cross quickly when I obtained SENTRI or "Fast Pass" but I have been told that I would not be eligible for SENTRI. This has been extremely difficult because I am not able work in the US or keep my children in school.
3. What years did you live here?
We moved to 'TJ' at the end of 2023.
4. How long have you lived here?
We have lived in Tiujana for the last two years, although we still have not assimilated much at all. As we rely on my husband to translate and discover, he is unfortunately working six days a week for ten hours a day.
5. What brought you to this city (e.g. diplomatic mission, business, NGO, military, teaching, retirement, etc.)?
My husband was supposed to have 'Dreamer' status, however that changed, and he had to leave the U.S. Initially we moved down to Mexico City, with his family, but after about six months decided to relocate to Tijuana.
Housing, Groceries & Food:
1. What is your housing like? What are typical housing sizes, locations, and commute times for expatriates?
The houses here in our Santa Fe neighborhood are all very small, so small that our one couch nearly touches our kitchen counters. The neighborhood is seemingly safe. We have a gated entrance to the community with a security guard and our street is also gated. Although because these communities are so blocked off, the traffic at peak times gets terribly backed up; there is one main road in and out for probably a thousand houses.
2. How would you describe the availability and cost of groceries and household supplies relative to your home country?
The grocery stores here are okay, however I still make a weekly grocery run to Walmart in the US. Although CaliMax, and Florido tend to have most things. I still haven't found a place with the quality of meat we are used to. They have a Walmart, and Home Depot, although the Walmart is a bit more expensive for poorer quality items.
3. What household or grocery items do you wish you had shipped to post?
I still do a weekly grocery trip to US.
4. What typical restaurants, food delivery services, and/or takeout options are popular among expatriates?
Asian Cuisine and Pizza seem to be the most popular, there is also KFC and a burger place.
5. Are there any unusual problems with insects or other infestations in housing?
Most places here have no screens on the windows, and no insulation or weather stripping on the doors.
Daily Life:
1. How do you send and receive your letters and package mail? Are local postal facilities adequate?
No. The entire street shares a single large mailbox. It's best to get a service.
2. Do you feel that it is safe to walk, run or hike outside? Are there areas where bike riding is possible? What is the availability and safety of outdoor space for exercising? Are these easily accessible?
Our gated community neighborhood is safe to walk around at any time. Although I have heard that there has been gang activity just a few miles down from us.
3. Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Most credit/debit cards are accepted. ATMs are readily available, however if you want a seamless experience, I would get a card that automatically exchanges your funds at point of purchase, because every store sets their own exchange rates, daily.
4. How much of the local language do you need for daily living? Are local language classes/tutors available and affordable?
I have been trying to find a school for my 8 year old son, and my 6 year old is severely autistic. I am desperate to find him a good program, but have yet to do so.
5. Would someone with physical disabilities have difficulties living in this city?
Yes. Any disability here is not at all catered to.
Transportation:
1. Are local buses, trams, trains or taxis safe and affordable?
Yes the taxis, Uber, and "bus"(large van/group taxi) lines are all very affordable.
2. What kind of vehicle(s) including electric ones do you recommend bringing to post, given the terrain, infrastructure, availability of parts, burglary/carjacking risks, etc.? What kind of car or vehicles do you advise not to bring?
The roads here are in disrepair. Many potholes, uneven roads, or even dirt roads are still quite common. A truck or SUV would be best to comfortably navigate anywhere.
Phone & Internet:
1. Is high-speed home Internet access available? How long does it typically take to install it after arrival?
The internet is slow, but works well enough. Still able to stream on our devices, although the are issues quite often. And if it is to windy/rainy/hot... you may lose service, or even power.
2. Do you have any recommendations regarding mobile phones? Did you keep your home-country plan or use a local provider?
I kept my home country provider.
Pets:
1. Are qualified veterinarians and/or good kennel services available? Do animals need to be quarantined upon entry to the country? Are there other considerations regarding pets that are particular to this country?
There are a few veterinary hospitals, and quite a few vet offices. We got our dog here, so I'm not sure about the rules upon entry.
Health & Safety:
1. Are there any particular health concerns? What is the quality of available medical care? What medical conditions typically require medical evacuation?
The medical care is very questionable. I am very grateful I live close enough to be able to cross the border if there are important medical issues.
2. What is the air quality like at post (good/moderate/bad)? Are there seasonal air quality issues? Does the air quality have an impact on health?
There are some air quality alerts, when there are fires near. The water quality is a far greater concern. Do not swim at the beaches in Tiujana!
3. Are there any particular mental health issues that tend to crop up at post, such as Seasonal Affective Disorder (winter blues)?
N/
4. What is the overall climate: is it extremely hot or cold, wet or dry, at any time of year, for example?
It is desert, but fairly mild. It gets cold at night except for maybe a month in the middle of Summer.
Schools & Children:
1. What is the availability of international schools? What has been your general experience with them, if any?
I wish I knew
2. What accommodations do schools make for special-needs kids?
None that I have found. My 6 year old is severely autistic and if anyone knows of a program in this area, PLEASE LET ME KNOW.
3. Are preschools available? Day care? Are these expensive? What has been your experience with them, if any? Do the schools provide before- and/or after-school care?
The schools here seem to cost about $3000/year in tuition. Any and all supplies needed will be additional as well as uniforms, and most of the private schools also list the fastest edition iPad as an essential school supply.
4. Are local sports classes and/or activities available for kids?
Private schools offer team sports and activities, all for additional fees.
Expat Life:
1. What is the relative size of the expatriate community? How would you describe overall morale among expatriates?
I have met very few expats so far.
2. What are some typical ways to socialize, either with local people or with other expatriates? Are there groups or clubs that you can recommend?
Not sure, I don't speak Spanish, and haven't met many that speak English.
3. Is it easy to make friends with locals here? Are there any prejudices or any ethnic groups who might feel uncomfortable here?
Many locals feel that expats are all very well off. I have noticed anywhere I go, I am overcharged, or not given my proper change. The street vendors always quote me much higher prices as well.
4. Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
No. There is very little tolerance for LGBT here.
5. Are there problems with ethnic, race/racial minorities or religious prejudices? Gender equality?
Gender equality is getting slightly better, but this is very much a man's world here.
6. What have been the highlights of your time in this country? Best trips or experiences?
Ensanda is a lovely little beach town, only an hours drive south, safe to swim beautiful beaches, very friendly with expats, tourists, etc. Another 30 minutes south and there is a beautiful wine country.
Words of Wisdom:
1. Knowing what you know now, would you still move to this city?
No.
