Finding Home in Lake Chapala

For several years, Joe and I have been exploring Mexico, searching for the perfect place to settle. We’ve loved so many places, but none had quite felt like home—until now. When we accepted a housesitting opportunity in Lake Chapala, we didn’t expect to fall in love with the region.  In fact, we expected to check it off our list! We were excited to care for four sweet dogs—Polo, Dot, Lola, and Frida—but we had no idea this stay would become the place we would decide to soon move to.

From the moment we arrived, Lake Chapala started checking all the boxes. The people are genuinely warm and welcoming—they talk to you, invite you in, and dance freely. The town is vibrant yet laid-back, with a stunning lakeside setting that adds to its charm.

The location is perfect—close to Guadalajara’s international airport and bustling city, with beaches just a few hours away by car or a quick flight. It’s a place where we can enjoy a slower pace but still have easy access to everything we need.

Beyond that, the affordability is unbeatable. Fresh fruit and vegetables are abundant, local markets thrive, and the overall cost of living is far lower than many other places we’ve considered. Add in the walkability, bike-friendly streets, reliable public transportation, and year-round perfect weather, and it’s hard to imagine a better fit.

What started as a short-term housesit turned into something much bigger—we’ve found our home. By the end of the year, we’ll be making it official. Lake Chapala is where we belong.