Atlixco-Jalisco Mexico House Rentals on US $400 a Month (Contact before buying)

Atlixco, often referred to as the City of Flowers and the Town of Eternal Spring, is a stunning town that feels like it was plucked from a postcard. If you’re looking for a more authentic, quieter alternative to the more popular expat destinations like San Miguel de Allende or Ajijic, this could be your perfect fit. With its perfect year-round weather, charming ambiance, and proximity to larger cities, Atlixco offers a unique and affordable lifestyle.

Where Is Atlixco?

Atlixco is a pueblo mágico (magic town) located in the state of Puebla, nestled in a lush valley beneath the famous Popocatépetl volcano—one of Mexico’s most iconic volcanoes. This town offers a rare blend of small-town charm and easy access to the big city. It’s just 30 to 40 minutes from Puebla, meaning you can enjoy tranquil living while being close to modern amenities such as world-class hospitals, shopping centers, and an international airport.

Weather in Atlixco

The weather is one of Atlixco’s biggest attractions. Known as the City of Eternal Spring, the climate is mild and comfortable throughout the year. Thanks to its lower altitude compared to other nearby cities, the weather stays in the 70–80°F range year-round. It’s warm enough to enjoy outdoor activities but without the unbearable humidity typical of coastal areas. During the rainy season, short afternoon showers refresh the atmosphere and encourage more vibrant blooms. Winters can get chilly at night, and since homes lack insulation, locals often rely on space heaters and heavy blankets to stay warm during these few cold nights.

Patrick, a Minnesota native who moved to Atlixco, shared: “After 75 years of shoveling snow, I can’t tell you how good it feels to walk outside in January and be comfortable in just a light sweater.”

What’s the Vibe in Atlixco?

Life in Atlixco is laid-back. The streets are lined with colorful flowers, and you’re constantly treated to breathtaking views of the towering Popocatépetl. Time feels like it slows down, and the local community is tight-knit. While there is a small but growing expat community, Atlixco remains predominantly a working Mexican town. The locals know each other, and the town’s pace isn’t dominated by tourist-driven businesses.

Unlike more touristy destinations, English isn’t spoken everywhere, which makes it an excellent place to practice Spanish. This is an authentic experience—ideal if you want to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and language. If you enjoy walkable neighborhoods, vibrant markets, and a slower pace of life, Atlixco might be the perfect fit.

Best Neighborhoods in Atlixco

Here are a couple of the most popular neighborhoods in town:

Centro Histórico:
The heart of Atlixco. This area is the epicenter of local life, with markets, shops, cafés, and plenty of community events. It’s highly walkable but can get a bit noisy, especially during festivals.

Rental Example: A 3-bedroom, 1-bathroom unfurnished home rents for around $10,500 MXN per month (approximately $570 USD).

Solares Grandes & Solares Chicos:
These residential areas are just outside the Centro, offering a quieter lifestyle while remaining within walking distance of the town square. The area is a mix of locals and new residents looking for more space.

Rental Example: A 2-bedroom apartment here rents for about $6,700 MXN per month (roughly $360 USD).

Rentals in Atlixco are generally 30–50% cheaper compared to more famous expat towns in Mexico.

Cost of Utilities

A significant benefit of living in Atlixco is the minimal need for air conditioning or central heating, making utility costs low. For a two-person household, the typical monthly breakdown looks like this:

- Electricity (CFE): $400–$600 MXN every two months ($11–$16 USD/month)
- Water: $200–$300 MXN ($11–$16 USD/month)
- Gas (for cooking and hot water): $600 MXN ($32 USD) every 2–3 months
- Internet/Phone: around $500 MXN ($27 USD) per month

Altogether, you can expect to spend around $50–$80 USD per month on utilities.

Patrick, who moved from Minnesota, shared that his total monthly expenses in Atlixco—including rent, food, and utilities—amount to about $1,500 USD. “I’m living comfortably on just my Social Security,” he said, “and I still save about $700 a month. That wasn’t possible back in Minnesota.”

Grocery Shopping

Grocery shopping in Atlixco is a delightful experience. You’ll find fresh produce, meats, and local goods at various markets:

- Mercado Benito Juárez: The central market is the go-to spot for fresh produce, meats, and cheeses.
- Weekly Tianguis: On Tuesdays and Saturdays, Atlixco hosts one of the region’s largest open-air markets, where you can find everything from fresh fruits to clothing and street food.
- Neighborhood Tienditas: Small family-run shops on nearly every street offer everyday essentials.
- Supermarkets: For modern shopping, you can find stores like Chedraui, Bodega Aurrerá, and Soriana.

For vegans and vegetarians, Atlixco is a dream due to its abundant variety of fresh fruits and vegetables year-round.

Healthcare in Atlixco

Atlixco is well-equipped for day-to-day healthcare needs, with plenty of local doctors, specialists, and pharmacies. The largest hospital in town is Complejo Médico Gonzalo Río Arronte, a modern facility that can handle most emergencies and health issues.

For more specialized care, Puebla—just a short drive away—has some of Mexico’s best hospitals, offering peace of mind knowing that world-class medical services are nearby when needed.

Transportation

You likely won’t need a car in Atlixco, as it’s an extremely walkable town. Most daily errands—grocery shopping, visiting friends, and enjoying local cafés—can easily be done on foot.

For trips across town, combis (shared vans) are commonly used and cost just a few pesos. Uber and Didi are also available and affordable, making it easy to get around.

While a car might be useful for exploring the countryside, it’s not necessary for daily living.

Cons of Living in Atlixco

While Atlixco is a fantastic place to live, it has a few downsides:

- Crowds during weekends and festivals: Many families from Puebla visit on weekends, and during major events like the Villa Iluminada, the streets can become packed.

- Small-town limitations: For larger shopping malls, vibrant nightlife, or specialized healthcare, you’ll need to venture into Puebla.

- The Volcano: Living next to Popocatépetl means occasional ashfall and rumbling. While locals consider it part of everyday life, it’s something to be aware of.

Final Thoughts

Atlixco is one of Mexico’s best-kept secrets. With its mild weather, affordable cost of living, fresh local markets, and walkable neighborhoods, it offers a great lifestyle for expats who want a slower, more authentic pace of life. Patrick summed it up perfectly: “I came to Atlixco for the weather, but I stayed for the people. The community here is warm, welcoming, and genuine. I couldn’t imagine a better place to spend this chapter of my life.”

Thinking About Moving to Mexico?

If you’re serious about exploring life in Mexico, whether in Atlixco or somewhere else, the best next step is to book one of our private relocation tours.

On these tours, we’ll introduce you to trusted local contacts, show you neighborhoods, and answer your specific questions about residency, healthcare, and lifestyle.

We’ve helped thousands of people move to Mexico with confidence—and we’d love to help you too.