Baja California-hows the living?

Question

How is it to live in Baja? Were thinking of moving, and it will be a big change for everyone. Is it expensive or about the same as US living? Right now we live in a lower cost to live State where adverage rent is about $1200.00.

Were on the middle spectrum as far as income is concerned. I'm a professional almost graduated from University. 2 BA's in Education and Psychology. Husband is a Mechanic, and speaks native Spanish. I speak Spanish as well but my native tonque is English.

So with my professional background can I find a high paying job in the Sourrounding areas of Baja or will I need to cross the border? I imagine the hubby shalt have no problems in that area as Mechanics are in high demand.

How are the schools in Baja? Are their Private schools that teach in English or do I need to forget that idea? My kids don't speak Spanish well at the moment due to Doctors recomendationt that we use only one language and stick to it. I imagine they would learn though.

Answer 1

Baja Norte is expensive. You could find a casita for 300 to 500 USD. Here in La Mision, a really nice area, there is no private school. The local school here is very good and I suggest you let kids learn Spanish. don't think of crossing the border every day, way too stressful. It would be great if you could start a private school here.

Answer 2

Moving to Mexico because it's cheap is not a good idea.  College degrees are not the same as experience.  Pay in Mexico is minimal .... so if you want good money you'll have to commute to San Diego.

Your doctors suggestions about language are a bit retarded

Answer 3

I have several friends who split time between here(Orange County) and Baja and they say everything is a better deal there

Answer 4

There are lots of Private schools in TJ- esp. Playas area. Many are bilingual and teach half of the classes in English and Half in Spanish.

Many folks get a SENTRI pass and work stateside-- money is much much better- not even comparable. Some teachers in Baja work second jobs to make ends meet ( one teacher I know drives taxi to make ends meet). Lots of mechanics here- but pay is foolishly low-- a couple dollars an hour--- living is cheaper than US here if you are a high earner and living a luxurious lifestyle (beachfront homes etc) or if you are willing to live in with the Mexican folks in ungated communities it is much much cheaper (rent from $250/month to $800/month for nice ocean view homes).

We buy groceries and walmart stuff in US- it's more expensive here in Mexico...

If you are here- get a SENTRI pass for quick crossings-- otherwise it is crazy- 1-2 hour waits everyday...