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Guide
Oaxaca, Mexico π²π½
#155
,
Nomad Score:
70%
Essentials
ποΈ City | Oaxaca is a vibrant city known for its rich culture, colorful markets, and stunning architecture. |
π₯ Population | Approximately 300,000 residents. |
π» Internet Speed | Average internet speed is around 20 Mbps, with some coworking spaces offering higher speeds. |
πΈ Currency & Banking | 1 USD β 18.50 MXN. ATMs widely available, but fees may apply. Major banks include BBVA and Santander. |
π° Tap Water | Not drinkable; it's advised to drink bottled water or use purification systems. |
π Power | 127V, 60Hz, π Type A/B sockets. |
πΆ SIM Card | Providers include Telcel and AT&T; prepaid SIMs are available at local shops. |
π³ Banking for Expats | Revolut and Wise work well for transferring money. Local banks like Banorte are also available. |
π Accommodation | Options include Airbnb, Spotahome, and local hostels. Monthly rentals typically start around $300. |
π³ Cashless Friendly | Yes, credit and debit cards are accepted at most places, but cash is still common. |
π Short Term Rentals | Airbnb and local realtors offer numerous short-term rental options. |
ποΈ Budget Accommodation | Hostel La Catrina and Casa de las Bugambilias are popular for budget stays. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Tourists | Centro HistΓ³rico is ideal for tourists due to proximity to attractions. |
ποΈ Best Area to Stay for Digital Nomads | Jalatlaco and Xochimilco are favored by digital nomads for their peaceful environment and coworking spaces. |
Working and Networking
π’ Best Coworking Space | Oaxaca Work Space offers excellent facilities and community for remote workers. |
β Best Cafe for Work | CafΓ© BrΓΊjula is known for its fast Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. |
πΌ Networking Events | Events are often held at Casa de la Ciudad; check local Facebook groups for schedules. |
π₯ Social Events for Expats | Expat Oaxaca is a community group on Facebook that organizes meetups and social events. |
Transportation
π Best Taxi/Ride App | Didi is the most reliable ride-hailing app in Oaxaca. |
π² Bike/Scooter Rental | Bike rentals are available through local shops; electric scooters are becoming popular as well. |
ποΈ Best Beach Nearby | Puerto Escondido is the nearest beach town, about 6 hours away by bus. |
βοΈ Top Regional Airline | Viva Aerobus connects Oaxaca with nearby cities. |
βοΈ Top International Airline | AeromΓ©xico offers flights to major US cities from Oaxaca. |
π£οΈ Highway Access | Major highways including Highway 135 provide access to nearby regions. |
π Main Train/Transit Hub | Oaxaca lacks a train station; buses are the primary mode of transit. |
π Public Transport Passes | Buses and taxis operate without passes; fares are typically under $2. |
βοΈ Regional Travel | Buses to nearby cities are frequent; companies like ADO offer comfortable services. |
Health and Wellness
π₯ Best Hospital | Hospital General Dr. Aurelio Valdivieso offers comprehensive healthcare services. |
π§ Yoga & Wellness Centers | Oaxaca Yoga offers various classes and wellness retreats. |
ποΈ Gyms & Fitness Centers | Total Fitness and GymX are popular for locals and expats. |
π§Ί Laundry Services | Lavaxion is a well-reviewed laundromat offering wash and fold services. |
Food and Drink
π± Best Food Delivery App | Domicilios is a popular food delivery service in Oaxaca. |
π½οΈ Best Local Dish to Try | Mole OaxaqueΓ±o is a must-try local dish known for its complex flavors. |
π± Vegan/Vegetarian Options | El Taller de Culinaria offers numerous vegan and vegetarian dishes. |
π« Best Dessert Spots | La Casa de la Tlayuda serves delicious Oaxacan sweets, especially their chocolate. |
π Affordable Shopping Spots | Mercado 20 de Noviembre is great for fresh produce and local foods. |
π E-commerce/Online Store | Amazon.mx operates in Mexico and is widely used for online shopping. |
π Grocery Delivery | Superama offers grocery delivery service in the area. |
πΈ Bar/Nightlife Area | El Centro offers various bars and nightlife options, especially around Calle AlcalΓ‘. |
π» Local Brewery | Brewery La Cerveza Artesanal offers tours and tastings. |
π· Wine Bars | Wine Bar Cornucopia offers an excellent selection of local wines. |
π² Street Food Stalls | Street tacos from vendors on Jalatlaco Street are highly recommended. |
π Popular International Cuisine | Casa Oaxaca Restaurant serves excellent contemporary Oaxacan and international dishes. |
Culture and Attractions
ποΈ Must-See Landmarks | The ZΓ³calo and Santo Domingo Church are essential stops for culture and photography. |
ποΈ Museums & Art Venues | Museo de las Culturas de Oaxaca showcases the region's rich history. |
π° Historical Sites | Monte AlbΓ‘n, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is in close proximity. |
π Religious Sites | Templo de Santo Domingo is famous for its beautiful architecture. |
π Annual Events | The Guelaguetza festival in July showcases local dance and music traditions. |
π¨ Cultural Districts | The Barrio de Jalatlaco is known for its picturesque streets and local art. |
π Theater Venues | Teatro Macedonio AlcalΓ‘ hosts various performances and cultural events. |
ποΈ Local Markets | Mercado 20 de Noviembre is not only a food market but a cultural experience. |
πΌ Music Scene | Live music can be found in various plazas and local bars, especially on weekends. |
π¨ Street Art | Oaxaca features vibrant murals, especially in the neighborhoods around Santo Domingo. |
π§βπ³ Cooking Classes | Casa de los Sabores offers hands-on cooking classes focusing on Oaxacan cuisine. |
π©βπ¨ Art Galleries | GalerΓa Quetzalli showcases contemporary local artists. |
π°οΈ Historic Buildings | Palacio de Gobierno is an iconic building worth visiting. |
π΄ Local Heritage | The traditional Guelaguetza dance represents indigenous history and culture. |
Nature and Outdoor Activities
π Nearby Nature Escapes | Hierve el Agua offers stunning rock formations and natural mineral springs. |
ποΈ National Parks Nearby | Sierra Norte's forests are perfect for hiking and exploring indigenous communities. |
π² Cycling/Walking Paths | Bicycle paths along the city parks provide great opportunities for outdoor activities. |
π Scenic Viewpoints | Visit the lookout point at Monte AlbΓ‘n for breathtaking views of the valley. |
π¦ Birdwatching Locations | La Ventanilla is known for its rich birdlife, including migratory species. |
π₯ Bonfire-Friendly Spots | Beaches near Puerto Escondido are great for bonfires, though regulations apply. |
Other Services and Amenities
π¦ Parcel Delivery Service | DHL and Correos de MΓ©xico provide reliable shipping services. |
π οΈ Tech Repair Services | iFix offers a range of repair services for devices. |
π Table Tennis Spots | Parks often have tables for public use. |
π§βπ« Language Classes | Spanish language schools such as Instituto Cultural Oaxaca offer immersive programs. |
π Libraries & Study Spots | Biblioteca pΓΊblica central offers quiet places for reading and studying. |
ποΈ Community Centers | Centro Cultural y de InformaciΓ³n offers various cultural events and activities. |
πΉοΈ Gaming Lounges | Local cafes also serve as gaming lounges, primarily on weekends. |
π° Casino & Gaming Halls | Oaxaca does not have casinos; entertainment is generally more cultural. |
Business
π’ Studio Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $48,000). |
π’ Studio Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $800 per mΒ² (e.g., 40 mΒ² = $32,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,600 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $96,000). |
π 1-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,200 per mΒ² (e.g., 60 mΒ² = $72,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (City Center) | Approx. $1,400 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $112,000). |
π‘ 2-Bedroom Purchase Price (Outside City) | Approx. $1,000 per mΒ² (e.g., 80 mΒ² = $80,000). |
πΌ Corporate Tax | 30% |
π΅ Dividend Withholding Tax | 10% |
π¦ Tax System | Tax residents are taxed on worldwide income, non-residents only on Mexican income. |
π Highest Income Tax Bracket | 35% |
π§Ύ VAT | 16% |
π Controlled Foreign Company (CFC) Rules | Yes, there are strict regulations for CFCs. |
π Property Tax | Annual property tax is low, typically 0.1% of the property's value. |
π Property Transaction Tax | Approximately 2-4% on property purchases. |
π» Attractive Tax System for Digital Nomads | No income tax for foreign-sourced income if you stay under 183 days. |