 Baja California is both the northernmost and westernmost state of Mexico. Before becoming a state in 1953, the area was known as the North Territory of Baja California. Baja California has two sea shores. It borders the Pacific Ocean to the west and the Sea of Cortez to the east.
The cool winds from the Pacific Ocean and the cold California Current make the climate along the northwestern coast pleasant year round.
So why choose Baja? One of the main reasons this area is so popular is its proximity to the United States. Rosarito is only about 15 miles to the United States border. Some of the other attractions are endless. History buffs can check out some of the hemisphere’s earliest European settlements. If green –living and blue oceans are your thing, Baja California is one of Mexico’s centers of eco-tourism.
FIND A HIGHER QUALITY OF LIFE IN BAJA
Today, all retirees, especially "BABY BOOMERS," are looking to retire younger. They are seeking a quality of life and a lower cost of living that cannot be obtained in the United States.
To date the U.S. Consulate counts more than 170,000 U.S. citizens as residents of Baja. Some believe the real estimate is closer to 400,000. With the decline of the stock market, and the collapse of pension plans, real estate is the closest thing to wealth that many people possess. A substantial number of these individuals are using their equity to purchase Baja Real Estate property in Mexico.
Due to the high cost of maintenance, taxes, services, and healthcare, many retirees are realizing that they cannot have the retirement lifestyle in the United States they once envisioned. Due to the low cost of services and labor in Baja, the amenities that a retiree can enjoy are far superior to those in the United States. Another major attraction to Mexico is the significantly lower property taxes. A 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath home costing $155,000, located just north of Rosarito and about 2 blocks from the beach, has a yearly property tax bill of under $200.
With satellite television and high speed Internet, you certainly won’t have a feeling of isolation. On the contrary, you can run your business, use your cell phones, and hang onto those old familiar United States phone numbers you've had for years. In addition, many of America's favorite retailers have crossed the border. Signs you are sure to recognize include McDonalds, Smart & Final, Office Depot, Wal-Mart, Home Depot, and Costco, to name a few.
There are developments being built to American standards by both Mexican and American developers. Many developments are offering American title insurance, American Financing and escrows. With these safeguards in place, it's no wonder there is a wave of Americans entering Baja. You can dramatically reduce your current living expenses when you retire in Mexico without sacrificing the conveniences you’ve become accustomed to at home. You might even find you can significantly raise your standard of living.
It’s hard to beat the climate, cost of living, quality of life, and investment potential you find in Baja. But these are far from all the reasons you should consider Mexico. The most compelling reason may very well be the Mexican people themselves. They are a warm, gracious, loving people who openly welcome Americans into their country and their relaxed way of life.
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