Why Merida

Thinking of making a move that feels a little crazy—but also kind of perfect? You’re not alone. More and more families are trading in the hustle, the snow boots, and the sky-high cost of living for something…better. Mérida, Mexico has quietly become one of the top destinations for families looking to slow down, live boldly, and give their kids (and themselves) a more joyful, connected life. Here are the top five reasons why families like yours are packing their bags—and maybe a few extra swimsuits.

Founded in 1542 by Spanish conquistadors on the site of the ancient Maya city of T’ho, Mérida is a city with deep cultural roots and a layered past. The Spanish used the existing Maya stonework to build colonial churches and mansions, giving the city its signature blend of European and indigenous architecture. For centuries, Mérida thrived as a center of commerce—especially during the henequén (sisal) boom of the 19th century, when it became one of the wealthiest cities in Mexico.

Today, Mérida proudly showcases its dual heritage. Walk through the city’s historic center and you’ll see colorful colonial facades, grand cathedrals, and vibrant plazas that host cultural events nearly every night. The city’s Maya influence is still deeply felt in the language, cuisine, and traditions of its people. It’s a place where ancient history lives side by side with modern life—and that richness makes it not just a beautiful city to visit, but a truly special one to call home.

Top 6 Reasons Families Should Move to Mérida

1. Safety First (and Second and Third!)

Mérida is famously known as the safest city in Mexico, and the second safest in North America—so safe, in fact, that you might catch yourself double-checking if you left your Toronto-level anxiety at the airport. Streets are clean, neighbours are friendly, and community ties run deep. Kids ride bikes in the neighbourhoods without a second thought, and people greet each other with a warm “buenos días,” not a side-eye. If peace of mind is at the top of your parenting wishlist, Mérida might just be your family’s happy place.

2. Schools That Make You Say “Wow” (and “¿Dónde firmo?”)

Mérida is home to some of the top-rated schools in Latin America, offering bilingual and international programs that rival (and often exceed) what you’d find back home. From Montessori to IB and STEM-focused academies, the educational options here are truly world-class—with a strong emphasis on global learning, critical thinking, and creativity. Class sizes are small, teachers are passionate, and students are encouraged to flourish in and out of the classroom. The best part? You get all this for a fraction of the cost of private education in Canada or the U.S. It’s the kind of school system that makes you wonder why you didn’t make the move sooner.

3. Lifestyle Upgrade: Sunshine Included

Let’s face it—modern family life often feels like a never-ending race against the clock. Between school drop-offs, commutes, packed lunches, and bedtime battles, it’s easy to feel like you’re just surviving the week. But in Mérida, the pace of life is refreshingly slower—and incredibly grounding. Daily routines are more relaxed, people actually pause to enjoy a conversation, and no one gives you the side-eye for taking a mid-afternoon break.The warm climate encourages outdoor living all year round, whether it’s evening strolls through the plaza, impromptu ice cream runs, or weekend escapes to the beach (which is only 20-30 minutes away). Families spend more time together just being, rather than constantly doing. It’s a lifestyle that prioritizes connection, community, and quality time—without sacrificing the essentials like Wi-Fi, good coffee, or grocery delivery. And while the slower pace might take a minute to adjust to, you’ll soon wonder why you ever lived any other way.

4. Lower Cost of Living = Higher Quality of Life

From housing and groceries to childcare and extracurriculars, Mérida is easy on the wallet. Imagine your current grocery bill, then divide it by two and add fresh mangoes. Want a nanny? It’s affordable. Want to go out to dinner as a family and not panic when the bill comes? Totally possible. Families here often find they can live more comfortably—and even save—while enjoying a lifestyle that felt out of reach back home.

5. Culture, Colour, and a Bit of Chaos (the good kind!)

Mérida is a city where history meets fun. It’s bursting with festivals, music, dancing, and street food that’ll ruin you for anything back home (in the best way). You’ll explore ancient Mayan ruins one day and discover a new cenote the next—aka the world’s coolest swimming hole. Your kids will grow up with an appreciation for culture, language, and how to dance at parties without needing “liquid courage.” And let’s face it, as parents, any place where entertainment doesn’t cost $100 and a parking headache is a win.

6. Clean, Fresh Food (You Can Actually Feel Good About)

One of the first things families notice in Mérida is how real the food tastes. That’s because most of it is—real, fresh, and far less processed than what many of us are used to back home. Local markets are brimming with fruits, vegetables, eggs, and meats that are grown or raised nearby, often without the long list of preservatives, hormones, and artificial ingredients that sneak into North American diets. It’s easier to eat clean when your everyday options are naturally better for you. And while your kids may still ask for cookies (they’re still kids, after all), you can rest easy knowing even the sweet treats here often skip the scary-sounding additives.