It is a well-known fact that Mexico is the number one retirement destination for Americans outside of the USA by far with the vast majority living in the greater Guadalajara area specifically in Ajijic on Lake Chapala. 
Lake Chapala, Mexico nestled in a mountain valley just 50 minutes south of Guadalajara and 25 minutes from the international airport, is the largest inland body of water in Mexico. It is 90 km long and 20 km wide and is situated on the border between the states of Jalisco and Michoacan and approximately a 3 ½ hour drive from the Pacific Ocean.
Lake Chapala Mexico has become a retirement paradise for Americans, Canadians, and Europeans; people from all over the world come to enjoy the warm days and cool nights along the shores of our beautiful lake. Crimson sunrises and golden sunsets serve to heighten their enjoyment of each majestic day.
Lake Chapala has been the number one destination for U.S. Veterans since World War II when GIs started moving into the lake basin setting up homesteads, shops, businesses, and even the Lake Chapala Society along with a branch of the American Legion.
There are so many reasons to move to Lake Chapala and Mexico, here’s a top 10 list for you.
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Top 10 reasons: Why so many people choose Ajijic, Lake Chapala, Mexico to Retire
- Near-perfect weather – little or no humidity, average temperature 78 F (25.5 C) – year-round.
- A safe and secure environment.
- Accessibility – The international airport is 30 minutes away, making travel easy.
- Established infrastructure. Many of the conveniences you are used to are available in Chapala and everything you want, in Guadalajara (2nd largest city) a scant 50-minute drive.
- Excellent communications: phone, high-speed internet, satellite TV, news and information from home
- High-quality health care, and pharmacies, with many bilingual professionals trained in the US or Canada.
- Lower cost of living – estimated to be at least 30% lower if not more than is most of the USA
- English spoken – you can get by without Spanish, although it is fun to learn at least a little.
- Stunning beauty, rich culture and history, breathtaking sunsets over the lake, and majestic mountain views.
- Beautiful and unique homes – still offering great value (you get a lot for your money).
So many other reasons to retire and live in Lake Chapala include a diverse cultural experience where you’ll meet up with intellectuals, artists, educators, lawyers, doctors, judges, and so many more super interesting people is such a small village. Just join a civic group or sit in at a local cafe and you’ll hook up fast. This is not a resort town its’ a place to live and enjoy so the locals are permanent, not transient. You love it. It’s amazing, and fun, and every day brings a new surprise. Exhilarating!
So if you are ready for a whole new lease on life, you are invited to experience their little pocket of paradise in Lake Chapala Mexico. Join Focus on Mexico on their 8-Day Educational Focus on Mexico program for a life-changing experience.
Related Resouces
- Access Lake Chapala
- Retirement & Cost of Living in Lake Chapala
- Focus on Mexico
- Lake Chapala Society
- American Legion Guadalajara
- Follow the Money: Why US Mainstream Media is Attacking Mexico
Charles Bivona Jr aka “Coach JP Money”, is the founder of Coach JP Money. He is a seasoned expert in financial coaching and wealth-building. A multifaceted visionary, Charles is also a writer, global citizen, eco-activist, musician, artist, entertainer, entrepreneur, investor, life coach, and syndicated columnist.
Charles’ journey began with a solid education in accounting, finance, and business at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and California State University, Fullerton. At just 17, he made his first real estate investment with no money down, igniting a lifelong passion for financial independence. By 1998, he had achieved debt-free status and has been building wealth ever since.
As an entrepreneur, Charles owned and operated five national newspapers in the U.S. before transitioning to digital media. He founded and managed influential online platforms, including HireVeterans.com (2004–2020) and VT Foreign Policy (2004–2023).
A proud expat since the late 1990s, Charles resides in Baja, Mexico, with his wife whom he married in 1985. Together, they have three adult children and seven grandchildren. Their eco-conscious home, built with sustainable super-adobe techniques, is now a luxury retreat known as Hacienda Eco-Domes.
Under his music alias Johnny Punish, a name coined during his days fronting the underground punk band Twisted Nixon, he continues to inspire through his art and advocacy through his newest musical adventure; Punish Studios.
Today, as “Coach JP Money” Charles dedicates his life to helping others achieve financial mastery and personal success, sharing decades of experience and wisdom through his coaching, writing, and creative endeavors.
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