Live the Alpine Dream in Mazamitla, Mexico for Just $142,000

Mazamitla, Mexico
Mazamitla has been designated a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town). |©iStock/Ivan de Jesus Lomeli Morales

Imagine waking up to crisp mountain air, surrounded by towering pine forests and the echoes of a charming cobblestoned town below. It’s not the typical Mexico most people imagine, but that's the allure of Mazamitla, nestled 80 miles south of Guadalajara, Mexico, in the picturesque Sierra del Tigre Mountain range—a place known as “The Switzerland of Mexico.”

This quaint mountain town is about 80 miles south of Guadalajara, Mexico. This isn’t the hot, beachfront Mexico many think about. Mazamitla is more than 8,000 feet above sea level—higher than Denver, Colorado—and is known for its cool climate, picturesque, cobblestoned town, and the dense pine forests that line the surrounding hills. The constant smell of pines and the red-tiled roofs give Mazamitla a distinctly alpine feel.

The town has long been a favored weekend getaway spot for residents of bustling Guadalajara, who come to escape the stifling city heat and hike in the refreshing mountain air.

Just note that in my entire time here I haven’t seen another foreigner. That means there’s no visible expat community… yet.

But Mazamitla is tied to Guadalajara, which means the town will prosper as the city continues to sprawl and becomes more congested. This could lead to growing demand for weekend homes to buy or rent in a quiet, cool retreat.

It also means Mazamitla could very well be the next Ajijic, a town about 90 minutes’ drive north on the shores of Lake Chapala that’s become a popular expat destination. As the expats arrived in Ajijic, they pushed rents and resale prices higher, creating the potential for investment profits.

Mazamitla’s Chalet-Style Homes

A big part of Mazamitla’s allure is the chance to stay in the chalet-style homes that dot the hills around the town. So, like many who come to Mazamitla, I booked a cabin here.

I reserved mine through Airbnb and found myself in a small community nestled in a pine forest on the outskirts of town. Though they’re generally described as cabins, the mountain homes around Mazamitla are far from basic accommodations. Most are multi-story structures with expansive living spaces and large windows to take in the views of the forests.

On weekends in summer, short-term rental rates for these cabins start at about $150 per night…and can go up sharply from there.

At the top end, you’ll find options for renting for $400 to $750 per night. This Airbnb is a spectacular-looking three-bedroom, two-bathroom apartment that costs around $600 per night, including cleaning and service fees.

Many of the cabins in Mazamitla are large and luxurious with all mod cons.

At the center of this network of forested cabin communities is the town of Mazamitla itself.

Dating back to the 12th century, the town has been designated a Pueblo Mágico (Magical Town). It’s a way of saying the place is special…culturally rich…beautiful. There are less than 200 of these towns in all of Mexico.

Wander the town, and you’ll understand why it earned this title…

Mazamitla is made up of a charming network of winding, cobbled streets lined with white-washed adobe buildings. The centerpiece of the town is the eclectic Parroquia San Cristobal church, which is noted for its unusual architectural style, which includes Chinese influences.

I wiled away a few happy hours strolling around the town and had a very nice meal of a rib-eye steak and French fries for $10.

The red and white Parroquia San Cristobal church sits at the heart of Mazamitla.

While scouting the local real estate scene, I found several interesting listings for cabins and homes in the $140,000 to $220,000 range.

Parroquia San Cristobal church
©iStock/Wirestock

Real Estate in Mazamitla

The first is a three-bedroom, two-bath cabin in Sierra Encantada, a community located in a forest about a 10-minute drive from the center of town. It’s on the market for 3 million pesos, or around $180,000. The second is a three-bed, five-bath detached house with some nice features, including a fire pit and a large terrace. The price is lower—2.35 million pesos, or about $142,000. I also found a white-washed, three-bed, three-bath house near the town. It has a covered external dining space and views out over the hills. It’s on the market for 3.6 million pesos, or about $217,000. As we go through these properties, keep in mind what prices are like in the States these days, for example. It’s almost unbelievable to see the quality and beauty of homes you can own overseas at these prices… Let’s dive in.

Property 1: Sierra Encantada Cabin

©VECORE Real Estate Advisors

First up, we have this charming three-bed, two-bath cabin located in the serene community of Sierra Encantada, just a 10-minute drive from the town center. Priced at $180,000, this cabin offers an ideal retreat for those seeking tranquility and natural beauty. As we step inside, we're greeted by warm wooden accents and cozy furnishings. The spacious living area is bathed in natural light from the floor-to-ceiling windows. Just stunning views. Curl up by the fireplace on chilly evenings, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast on the private terrace overlooking the verdant landscape.

The fully equipped kitchen features modern appliances and ample counter space. You’ll notice the stunning tilework here and the large windows, which continue to give incredible natural light throughout the home. Wherever you go, you’re surrounded by panoramic views of the surrounding mountains.

The Master bedroom is comfortably sized and equipped with an ensuite, and then you have two secondary bedrooms with space for up to 2 beds each. The bathrooms are appointed with luxurious amenities, including spacious showers. This is a perfect arrangement for families looking to rent for a week in the mountains, meaning there are sizeable rental yields awaiting the new owner.

Step outside, and you’re immediately among nature. The expansive deck is an ideal spot for al fresco dining, and since this property sits on the very top of the hill, the views are 360 and just breathtaking.

To recap, we have a three-bedroom, three-bath, 1300-square-foot cabin tucked nicely in the woods, but it is still just 10 minutes from the town center of Mazamitla. The price is 3 million pesos, a very affordable $180,000.

  • Living room with wooded views

  • Dining room

  • Equipped kitchen

  • Laundry area

  • Fire pit area and large garden

  • Master bedroom with full bathroom

  • Two secondary bedrooms with space for up to two beds each

Just everything you could need to spend part of your year here or to rent out for extra income, for $180k—and we should note that price is negotiable.

Property 2: Hermosa Cabana with Modern Master Suites

©Carranza Grupo Inmobiliario

Next on our list is this spacious three-bedroom, five-bath detached house boasting unique features such as a fire pit and a large terrace. With a price tag of $142,000, this modern home offers luxury and comfort in a serene setting. It's the kind of place that feels like home the moment you arrive—and it’s perfect for large or multiple families to rent, with a capacity of 14 people.

The living area is a perfect place to kick back and relax, with its inviting fireplace and comfy furnishings. It's the ideal spot to unwind after a day of exploring everything Mazamitla has to offer.

The kitchen is a dream come true for any aspiring chef. With modern appliances and plenty of space, you'll feel right at home here. And the dining area is the ideal setting for sharing meals and making memories with your loved ones.

As we make our way to the bedrooms, you'll find three master suites, each sized to fit two queen beds with a connected bathroom. This setup is perfect for multiple families or for vacationers in larger groups.

But the real magic happens outside! The cabin boasts a spacious deck where you can soak up the sun and take in the breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. A pool table, outdoor entertainment center, and outdoor kitchen make the patio a full-use space.

To recap—This cabin has three bedrooms and five bathrooms and is just over 2500 square feet—very sizable for just $142,000. Again, you’re tucked comfortably in the woods here but still just an 8-minute drive to the main plaza.

  • Beautiful living room - dining area with sofa bed for two people, bathroom, TV, and fireplace to heat the entire cabin

  • Fully equipped kitchen

  • Large terrace with a spectacular view and with TV, Outdoor Fire pit for gathering, and a roofed fireplace-type grill

  • Pool table

  • Six parking spaces

  • And Capacity for 14 people

This is a dream for vacationers, which means if renting for an income source is something you want to consider, this property is a terrific candidate.

Property 3: White-Washed Hillside House

©Mazamitla Real Estate

Our third property is this elegant white-washed three-bed, three-bath house perched on a hillside overlooking the breathtaking scenery of Mazamitla. Priced at $217,000, this Mediterranean-inspired home offers a perfect blend of style and tranquility.

Step inside, and you'll be surrounded by a design that immediately evokes warmth and comfort. The living area is cozy and inviting, with rustic furnishings and a crackling fireplace, perfect for relaxing and winding down after a day exploring the area.

The kitchen is simple yet functional, with everything you need to whip up a delicious meal. And the dining area? Well, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a homemade feast or a leisurely cup of coffee while soaking in the beauty of the forest.

As we make our way to the bedrooms, the rustic interior continues. Earthy tiles, native wood finishes that echo the natural landscape of Mazamitla, and ample space for queen or king-size beds. Each of the three bedrooms is on a different floor, giving you space to spread out. Two of the bedrooms are equipped with a full bathroom ensuite, while the other has access just outside the door.

But the real magic happens outside. This home was designed for outdoor living. You’ll experience a built-in grill, fire pit, and dining area while breathing in the fresh mountain air. It's the perfect place to relax with a good book or enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature's beauty. There’s storage built underneath the home, and two parking spots on-site.

Quick recap… three bedrooms, three bathrooms, and our most expensive option— though only $217,000 USD and a Mediterranean-inspired oasis in the middle of the Mazamitlan forest.

  • Three bedrooms and three full bathrooms:

  • Room #1 (Main). Low level. It has closets and a full bathroom.

  • Room #2: Ground Floor. Full bathroom outside the room.

  • Room #3: Upper floor. Full bathroom.

  • + Equipped kitchen.

  • + Dining Area.

  • + Living room with fireplace.

  • + Terrace overlooking the garden.

  • + Campfire Area.

Conclusion

Each of these properties offers its own unique charm and amenities, but they all share one thing in common—the promise of a serene and fulfilling lifestyle in the heart of Mazamitla—at incredible prices.

Investment is clearly flowing into this location, hardly a surprise given the booming economy in nearby Guadalajara, dubbed the “Silicon Valley of Mexico” for its thriving tech industry.

In the community where my chalet was located, I found a bunch of cool new homes under construction.

Many follow the A-frame style, in which the sides slope up from the ground and meet in a point at the top, in the shape of an A. This style is becoming popular for hotel cabins in other destinations I’ve scouted recently, such as the beach town of Todos Santos on the Pacific side of the Baja California peninsula.

As I’ve shown so far, you can get a nice home here for $150,000 to $200,000. It’s also a lovely place to spend time…whether you’re strolling around the charming town center or exploring the surrounding hills. And the cost of living is extremely low—a fraction of what you’ll pay in Mexico’s resort destinations.

As a lifestyle play, Mazamitla stacks up if you’re into activities like hiking, and the setting would provide enough to fill your days. I know there are many people who would fit into that category. If you’re among them, it’s worth considering. I plan to return to Mazamitla to scout this mountain town again…I hear when the rains come, it truly explodes in color.

Share