It’s the land of sombreros, tacos and margaritas – but it’s not usually the first place that comes to mind when considering relocating abroad.
Yet sunny Mexico has just been ranked as the happiest and most affordable country for Brits to move to in 2026.
So if you’re thinking of swapping the UK for life overseas, it might be the option for you.
With living costs totalling an accessible £1,081 per month and happiness scoring 6.98 out of ten, Mexico offers the cheapest way to enjoy a high-quality lifestyle abroad.
It’s the top spot where Brits can strike the perfect balance of affordability and happiness.
Mexico attracts around 42million tourists each year who come for the bustling white-sand beaches of Cancun, to explore the archaeological sites of Tulum or check into the myriad resort hotels.
And given flights can take up to 12 hours from the UK, prices are reasonable too – starting from just £395 from London to Cancun, according to Skyscanner.
It’s also perfect for soaking up some vitamin D, with the capital Mexico City enjoying an average of 2,529 hours of sunshine annually, according to Weather and Climate.
As well as reasonable flights and living costs, the country has previously been voted among the most welcoming for expats.
Mexico took second place in a 2025 ranking of friendliness, with top marks for its residents.
Some 73 per cent of expats are happy with their social life in Mexico while 85 per cent feel welcome there.
Making local friends is easy according to 67 per cent of expats, while 31 per cent say the majority of their friends are Mexican – much higher than the global average of 17 per cent.
A US expat told InterNations: ‘Social connections seem important to people here, so they are eager to make new friends, including expats.’
Retirees are also welcome in the country.
Mexico, known for its rich culture, vibrant cuisine and natural landscapes, was ranked as one of the best places to retire in International Living’s 2026 Annual Global Retirement Index.
According to local experts, the low cost of living is one of the biggest perks.
It is a diverse country with a range of jungles and rolling hills, snowy peaks and arid landscapes.
For Brits to retire here, you must apply for a Temporary Resident Visa in person at a Mexican consulate in the UK, showing proof of economic solvency, such as a pension or income from savings.
After arriving in Mexico, you will exchange this visa for a Temporary Resident Card and can then apply for Permanent Residency after four years of temporary status.
It should be noted that the Foreign Office advises against all but essential travel to parts of Mexico – so if you are planning a trip you should first ensure the region you are visiting is safe.
The status of happiest and most affordable for Brits to move to in 2026 was handed to the country by international removal company 1st Move International.
The company compared living costs, including monthly rent and estimated day-to-day expenses, across the world’s happiest countries according to the World Happiness Report to reveal which offer the most affordable way for Brits to live abroad.
Mike Harvey, managing director at 1st Move International, said: ‘For many Brits considering a move overseas, finding the right balance between quality of life and cost is key.
‘Trialling life abroad first is a practical way to experience how far your budget really goes in a new country, without the pressure of committing long-term.
‘Whether it’s an extended stay or working remotely as a digital nomad, spending time living like a local allows people to properly understand day-to-day expenses, housing costs, and overall lifestyle, not just what they see on paper.
‘This kind of approach helps Brits identify destinations where they can achieve a happier lifestyle within their means, while reducing both the financial and emotional risks often associated with relocating.
‘For many, that initial experience becomes the foundation for a more permanent move.’