Is Tijuana the Next Affordable Housing Solution for San Diegans?

With San Diego’s housing prices continuing to climb, more buyers and renters are looking south of the border for affordable living. Tijuana has long been a hotspot for weekend trips and great food, but could it also be the answer to San Diego’s affordability crisis? Let’s break down the pros and cons of living in Tijuana while working or investing in San Diego.

Pros of Living in Tijuana

1. Affordability
• Housing costs in Tijuana are significantly lower than in San Diego. You can rent a modern apartment for a fraction of what you’d pay in downtown SD or even suburban areas like Chula Vista.
• Homeownership is also more accessible, with prices far below San Diego’s median home price.

2. Proximity to San Diego
• The San Ysidro border crossing is just 15-20 minutes from downtown San Diego. Many professionals commute daily, taking advantage of remote work flexibility.
• The Cross Border Xpress (CBX) airport terminal makes travel easier for frequent flyers.

3. Cost of Living
• Everyday expenses—groceries, dining, entertainment—are far cheaper in Tijuana than in San Diego.
• Health care is another major perk. Many residents use Tijuana’s medical and dental services, which are high-quality but much more affordable.

4. Culture & Lifestyle
• Tijuana has a growing culinary and arts scene, with trendy restaurants, craft breweries, and boutique shops popping up.
• The beach town of Rosarito and the wine country of Valle de Guadalupe are just a short drive away, offering an escape from city life.

Cons of Living in Tijuana

1. Border Wait Times
• Commuting across the border daily can be a challenge, with wait times ranging from 30 minutes to 2+ hours during peak hours.
• Trusted traveler programs like SENTRI help reduce wait times, but they require an application process.

2. Legal & Financial Complexities
• Buying property in Mexico can be more complex for foreigners, requiring a bank trust (fideicomiso) or setting up a corporation.
• Financing options are limited, as most Mexican banks do not provide loans to non-citizens.

3. Infrastructure & Safety Concerns
• While Tijuana has safe neighborhoods, some areas still deal with crime, requiring research on where to live.
• Infrastructure like roads, water, and utilities may not be as reliable as in San Diego, depending on the area.

4. Residency & Work Considerations
• Many Americans live in Tijuana on tourist visas, but for long-term residency, you may need a temporary or permanent visa.
• If you plan to work in Mexico, securing the proper permits is essential.

Who Should Consider Living in Tijuana?
• Remote workers who can work from home but want to stretch their dollar.
• Retirees looking for a lower cost of living while staying close to San Diego.
• Investors & entrepreneurs who want to capitalize on the growing demand for rental properties.

Would you consider moving to Tijuana to save on housing? Let’s discuss the best neighborhoods, border-crossing tips, and how to make it work.