Mexico was able to bump Panama out of the first place spot in the 2007 Top International Retirement Destination rankings by International Living. The reasons they gave for the #1 ranking were first rate health care, beach front property for less than $100,000, low cost of goods and services, and availability of cell phone, cable, and high speed internet. Foreigners can also take part in Mexico’s senior citizen benefit program with a valid residence visa, according to International Living. The program offers discounts on everything from health services to airline tickets. Sign up is available at any local INAPAM office (Instituto Nacional de las Personas Adultas Mayores).

Some additional benefits that they don’t mention are the proximity to the US. and the relative ease of purchasing Mexican beach property. Additionally Mexico’s economy is stronger than most Latin American countries, so they can afford to invest in infrastructure improvements. Business costs are 20.5% lower in Mexico than in the US, according to a March 2008 study by KPMG, which encourages the growth of American retail chains in popular Mexican destinations. Having familiar stores is an appealing benefit to many retirees. Over the past decade, there has been a constant migration of Americans to Mexico, which brings current estimates of the number of Americans currently living in Mexico to approximately 1 million. Having friends from the US to provide support and community is an appealing benefit for retirees moving to a foreign country. Also, foreigners are eligible to enroll in Mexico’s national health care program, IMSS, and receive general health care for a small annual cost.