Fairfield Glade
Crossville, Tennessee
Cancun, Mexico
What It Is Like to Retire in Cancun
Cancun is a new and major resort city in southeastern Mexico on the Yucatan Peninsula. The population has grown rapidly to over 600,000. The city began as a tourism project in 1974 as an Integrally Planned Center, a pioneer of FONATUR (Fondo Nacional de Fomento al Turismo, National Fund for Tourism Development). Since then, it has undergone a comprehensive transformation from being a fisherman's island surrounded by virgin forest and undiscovered shores to being one of the two most well-known Mexican resorts. the downtown part of which is known as "El Centro," follows a master plan that consists of "supermanzanas"(superblocks), giant trapezoids with a central, open, non-residential area cut in by u-shaped residential streets. These open centers usually have walkways and 'sidewalks' around a central garden park.
Where to Retire in Cancun and Home Prices
There are a variety of types of homes suitable for retirees in this resort community, ranging from beachfront condos to secluded villas. Prices will range widely depending on size, proximity to the ocean, and quality. We have seen 1 bedroom units for sale for around $100k (US), 2 and 3 bedroom condos in the mid $200's, and estates into the millions. Part of the choice depends on your budget and desire to be right on the water.
What Is Special about Cancun
This is a popular resort with a wide range of amenities and restaurants, plus it is easy to get to. It is relatively safe and the sea is beautiful. El Centro, the old city center, is interesting and provides more than your usual tourist town. There are some small Mayan vestiges of the pre-Columbian Maya civilization in Cancún. El Rey (Las Ruinas del Rey) is located in the Hotel Zone
What Is Not Special about Cancun
A number of hurricanes have passed through here including Gilbert, Wilma, and Dean. Because it is more popular with North Americans, real estate is more expensive than some other parts of Mexico.
Who Will Like Retirement in Cancun
People who love the beach, being in a tourist destination, and who enjoy living in Mexico might like it here.
Local Economy Is Driven by
Tourism is the main driver of the economy.
Climate and Physical Environment
Cancun is located at the tip of the Yucutan Peninsula on the Caribbean Sea. It is surprisingly close to the southeastern U.S. The city is warm year-round, and moderated by onshore trade winds, with an annual mean temperature of 27.1 °C (80.8 °F). It receives about 53' of rain each year. May through Sept are the hottest months, although sea breezes tend to keep temperatures from getting too hot.
Restaurants & Cultural Scene
As a large city and very popular tourist destination there is no shortage of restaurants. Many people are interested in the Mayan ruins and attractions in El Centro.
Crime
There is crime in Cancun but most of it is the type you would expect in a major city of 600,000 people with a tourist area. The drug related violence of other parts of Mexico is not as prevalent here. Generally expats who stay in tourist areas and the old downtown will not be exposed to much but petty crime.
Medical facilities
Being part of a large city you will find every type of medical care here. Expats rave about the high quality and low cost of medical care here, including house calls by doctors. Since Medicare is not honored here you should consider purchasing the relatively affordable medical insurance.
Transportation
Cancún is served by Cancún International Airport, which has many flights to North America, Central America, South America, Asia, and Europe.
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