19 Jun Why More Digital Nomads Are Choosing Guadalajara, Mexico.
A City on the Rise
Guadalajara’s becoming a top choice for digital nomads. It offers a laid-back atmosphere, bright culture, great weather, and neighborhoods you can actually walk through without stress. There’s a charm in the slow pace and how easy it feels to be part of the local rhythm.
Living Well Without Overspending
Neighborhoods like Colonia Americana give you streets full of cafés, art, and energy. Rent’s decent, food is flavorful and cheap, and you won’t burn cash just getting around. It’s one of those places where you can settle in quickly without feeling overwhelmed.
Top Places to Stay for Remote Workers
Colonia Americana: Trendy and Full of Life
A mix of old-school architecture and new-school creativity. Expect coworking spaces, small art galleries, and cool cafés all within walking distance.
Providencia: Quiet Comfort
Want something more relaxed? Providencia’s a calm, upscale spot. It’s leafy, clean, and a bit pricier, but worth it if you want to stay in a quieter area.
Chapalita & Santa Tere: Local Flavor, Lower Prices
These neighborhoods feel more lived-in, more “real.” They’re cheaper, but still safe and full of good food, markets, and growing creative scenes.
Getting Work Done in Guadalajara
Coworking for All Budgets
You’ve got lots of options. From budget-friendly hubs like Create Cowork and Colabora Chapultepec, to more polished places like WeWork Guadalajara, there’s something for every setup.
Internet That Gets the Job Done
In the city, fiber-optic is standard. Speeds usually hit somewhere between 50–200 Mbps, so Zoom calls and big uploads won’t be a problem.
Cafés Where Laptops Are Welcome
Spots like PalReal, Matraz Café, and El Terrible Juan strike that balance—good coffee, stable WiFi, and no weird stares if you hang around a while with your laptop. But really, many cafés in the city offer WiFi and a welcoming vibe for remote workers. You’ll also find plenty of Starbucks locations scattered across Guadalajara if you’re looking for a familiar setup.
Read: A Complete Guide to Explore Guadalajara
More Than Just Work: Culture, People, and Fun
Meeting Folks
The digital nomad community is growing here. Try Facebook groups or meetups around Chapultepec Avenue—it’s a hub for both locals and travelers.
Real Culture, Real Life
This is Jalisco’s capital, after all. Between mariachi, local crafts, and visits to the town of Tequila, you won’t run out of weekend plans. On Sundays, streets like Avenida Vallarta turn into open spaces for biking, dancing, and food.
Getting Involved
Language exchanges, salsa nights, volunteer projects—there are plenty of ways to blend in with the local crowd. There’s also a strong calendar of events: think book fairs, film screenings, and weekend markets.
What to Know Before You Go
Visa Stuff
Most visitors can stay for up to 180 days without a visa. Want to stay longer? Look into the Temporary Resident Visa, which gives you up to 4 years.
Check the official Mexican government site for the most up-to-date rules.
Basic Monthly Costs (in USD)
- Airbnb: $600–$900
- Coworking: $150–$250
- Groceries: $150–$200
- Eating out: $6–$15 per meal
It’s more affordable than Mexico City or Playa del Carmen, and still delivers a great quality of life.
How to Get Around
- Uber is everywhere and won’t cost much.
- MiBici (the bike share system) is great for short trips.
- Public buses and light rail work, but might take some getting used to.
- Walking? Totally doable in most central neighborhoods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Choose Guadalajara Over Mexico City?
It’s smaller, calmer, and keeps more of that Mexican feel. You still get modern comforts but with less noise and more room to breathe.
Can I Find Coworking Spots With English Speakers?
Yes. Most of the major coworking spaces cater to an international crowd, and the staff usually speak some English.
What’s the Weather Like?
Mostly warm and sunny—think 70–85°F (21–29°C) during the day. Nights get cool. The rainy season is from June to September, but it usually just rains in the afternoons.
Guadalajara is waiting for you
Guadalajara might not be the loudest name in the digital nomad world yet, but it checks all the boxes. Strong internet, good food, vibrant culture, and a pace of life that feels just right. If you’re after a place that lets you work and live fully, this city’s worth a closer look.
Also see: Discover Guadalajara: A Complete Guide to Explore the Jewel of Jalisco