You didn't mention weather which is a big thing for me from Washington State. Cost of living will depend on your life style and what you think you need. I don't go out alot, cook in house most of the time and just about everything is cheaper here except electricity. Nice 3 brdrm 2 bath house a block from the beach for less than $400. I feel no need to buy at the moment.

Mexico is NOT stress free but it has a lot fewer rules and regs. Plus you are a stranger in a strange land and thus have an excuse not to conform as much as if you were back home. Even with the obvious language and cultural differences, I find Mexicans more open than the average person on the street up north.

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