If you’re someone who loves the sun, sand, and sea, San Jose del Cabo, Mexico is just the perfect place for you.
Nestled on the Baja California Peninsula, San Jose del Cabo is a charming coastal city renowned for its world-class surf spots, exceptional amenities, luxurious real estate options, and a vibrant, active community. These attributes have firmly established San Jose del Cabo as one of the most desirable destinations in the entire Baja California region.
Thinking of relocating to this stunning slice of Mexico? Continue reading as we explore the many reasons why San Jose del Cabo could be the perfect place for your new home.
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SAN JOSE DEL CABO: AN OVERVIEW
San Jose del Cabo, situated on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California Peninsula, is a tropical destination best known for its rich history, captivating geography, and vibrant culture.
Founded by the Spanish in 1730, San Jose del Cabo is the oldest Spanish colonial town in the area and serves as the official seat of the Los Cabos municipality. Despite being relatively small, San Jose del Cabo boasts an abundance of well-preserved historic buildings, including its town hall, mission church, and town square which are stunning reminders of the region’s colonial past.
Given its location on the Baja California Peninsula, San Jose del Cabo is blessed with a stunning natural landscape, with the city flanked by the azure waters of the Sea of Cortez and rugged desert mountains. Pristine beaches offer opportunities for relaxation and adventure, from snorkeling and surfing to whale watching. The nearby Sierra de la Laguna Mountains provide a backdrop for hiking and eco-tourism, making it a wonderful destination for those who love the great outdoors. San José del Cabo is also close to Reserva Ecológica Municipal Esteró de San José del Cabo, a protected estuary and bird sanctuary that’s considered one of the most important – and most threatened – wetlands in Northwestern Mexico.
Much like its surroundings, San Jose del Cabo’s cultural scene is extremely vibrant. Its art district is filled with galleries and studios showcasing the talents of local and international artists. The city also hosts several annual festivals and events like the Art Walk and the San Jose del Cabo Music Festival, celebrating its artistic and musical heritage.
9 REASONS TO RELOCATE TO SAN JOSE DEL CABO
Let us lay down the reasons why San Jose del Cabo is a place worth considering for your big move.
Strategic Location
With San Jose del Cabo strategically located at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, it serves as a gateway between the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez.
As part of the popular Los Cabos tourist area, San Jose del Cabo enjoys easy accessibility thanks to its proximity to Federal Highway 1. This scenic route stretches along the peninsula, connecting San Jose del Cabo to other Baja California Sur towns and cities.
In addition, San Jose del Cabo is located within driving distance of Los Cabos International Airport, making travel outside of Mexico convenient.
Strong Economy
Bolstered by a flourishing tourism industry, a burgeoning real estate market, and farming, San Jose del Cabo boasts a robust economy that provides its residents with a high quality of life.
The cost of living in San Jose del Cabo is considered significantly cheaper in comparison to the US and Canada. Everyday expenses like groceries, utilities, and transportation are much lower compared to what one might pay on average in the US. However, residents should expect higher prices at restaurants and shops in popular areas due to the influx of tourists.
Cultural Attractions
San Jose del Cabo is rich in cultural attractions that highlight its history, artistry, and culture.
The historic downtown area’s Art District, filled with colorful colonial buildings and art galleries, reflects the essence of San Jose del Cabo’s artistic soul.
Other notable cultural attractions include:
- PLAZA MIJARES. Located in the heart of San Jose del Cabo, this bustling plaza is lined with colorful colonial buildings, many of which house shops and restaurants. One of the most-visited places in San Jose del Cabo, Plaza Mijares is where various annual festivals are held that celebrate local art and music.
- SAN JOSE DEL CABO CATHEDRAL. Located a stone’s throw from City Hall, Plaza Mijares, and the Gallery District, the San Jose del Cabo Cathedral is one of the most important landmarks in San Jose del Cabo. Also known as the Mission San José del Cabo, construction for this particular cathedral was started in 1730 by the Jesuit priest Nicolás Tamaral, with the cathedral known to have moved to different locations before its completion in the 1940s.
In addition to its many historical spots, San Jose del Cabo also hosts several cultural events, the most notable of which is the Art Walk. Held every Thursday evening from November to June in the city’s Gallery District, this event features local and international artists, offering visitors the opportunity to explore galleries, meet the creators of the displayed artworks, and enjoy live music and street performances.
Another important cultural highlight is the San José del Cabo Jazz Weekend Festival which is usually held in February. This festival showcases renowned jazz musicians and offers free concerts in the historic downtown area, creating a lively atmosphere for music lovers, particularly jazz enthusiasts.
Much like the rest of Mexico, San Jose del Cabo also celebrates the Day of the Dead in early November. Noted for its colorful altars, traditional music, and cultural activities, this event honors Mexican traditions and provides visitors and new residents with a glimpse into local customs.
Top-Rated Schools
Families considering relocation will be pleased to know that the city is home to several excellent educational institutions.
Among the top schools in San Jose del Cabo is Colegio Montessori Terrae, a well-regarded private school offering the highest standards of Montessori education from preschool to high school. Other notable schools include Picacho McGregor School, Universo Montessori, and Olson Bridge Academy, all of which provide excellent education and various extracurricular activities.
Stable and Diverse Housing Market
San Jose del Cabo’s real estate market offers a range of options, from luxurious oceanfront villas to charming colonial-style homes. The housing market is diverse, catering to different tastes and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a vacation home, a retirement retreat, or a permanent residence, San Jose del Cabo has properties that suit every need.
In recent years, the real estate market in San Jose del Cabo has seen a significant increase in demand. This is due in part to the area’s growing reputation as a top vacation destination, as well as its relatively affordable property prices compared to other resort towns in Mexico.
At present, single-family homes make up a huge chunk of available homes in the area, followed closely by apartments and condominiums. Properties in this section of Los Cabos range in price from around $600,000 to $9.5 million, depending on their size, location, and features.
Exciting Dining Scene
Food lovers will be delighted by San Jose del Cabo’s vibrant dining scene. The city boasts a wide array of restaurants offering everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare.
Here are some of the dining spots in San Jose del Cabo that you shouldn’t miss:
- ACRE RESTAURANT & COCKTAIL BAR. Located in the foothills of the Sierra de la Laguna mountains, Acre is a farm-to-table restaurant that boasts a globally-inspired menu with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. This upscale restaurant’s signature dishes include the soft shell crab taco, wagyu beef street taco, and fish a la Talla, as well as their charcoal-fired favorites such as octopus, rib-eye, and New York prime.
- LA LUPITA TACO & MEZCAL. Found in the heart of San Jose del Cabo’s art district, this restaurant is famous for its gourmet tacos and artisanal mezcal selection.
- THE HANGMAN SURF & TACOS. This is where you may embrace the laid-back surfer vibe and indulge in delicious tacos and refreshing cocktails served in a casual, open-air setting. One of the best-rated restaurants in San Jose del Cabo, The Hangman serves traditional favorites like adobada, carne asada, and lengua, as well as modern vegan ones like the nopales and champiñon.
Shopping Opportunities
San Jose del Cabo offers a variety of shopping experiences, from local markets to upscale boutiques. Here are some top retail picks:
- SAN JOSE DEL CABO MERCADO ORGANICO. This vibrant farmers market brims with fresh, locally sourced produce. Rows of stalls overflow with seasonal fruits and vegetables, cultivated using organic practices. Some vendors also offer an array of local treats and goods like homemade jams and jellies, artisanal breads, and unique handcrafted items. It’s open from November to April.
- PLAZA ARTESANOS. Located in Paseo de Las Missiones, this shopping destination is a haven for souvenir hunters and those looking to get handcrafted merchandise like jewelry, tapestries, and ceramics. Home to well over 75 shops, Plaza Artesanos is a place that encourages friendly bargaining, making it perfect for those looking to get good deals on their purchases.
- THE SHOPPES AT PALMILLA. For a more upscale shopping experience, head over to the Palmilla resort community just outside of San José del Cabo and put your shopping face on. The Shoppes At Palmilla is a luxury boutique carrying some of the biggest designer brands. and offers an assortment of high-end restaurants and dining spots, making it a one-stop shop for residents and visitors looking to experience sophisticated ambiance and impeccable service.
- PLAZA DEL PESCADOR. This outdoor shopping and entertainment center is within walking distance of San Jose del Cabo’s historic downtown area. It offers a variety of restaurants, shops, and services. While not your typical mall, it’s still a good spot for those who want to enjoy live music, browse through a wide assortment of merchandise, or simply relax at a cafe.
Active Lifestyle Options
Given its geographic location, stunning landscapes, tropical climate, and natural underwater treasures, San Jose del Cabo presents various options for outdoor activities that cater to a broad spectrum of people from thrill seekers to those who desire relaxation.
Water activities are a significant draw in San Jose del Cabo, thanks to its location along the Sea of Cortez and the Pacific Ocean. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular, particularly in the Chileno and Santa Maria Bay diving spots due to their healthy coral reefs and abundant marine life. For those who prefer to stay above water, kayaking and paddleboarding are great ways to explore the coastline, with opportunities to spot dolphins and manta rays in their natural habitat.
Surfing is another popular activity in San Jose del Cabo, mainly because of the consistent waves near the coastline. It’s for this reason that surf schools and rental shops also began popping up in San Jose del Cabo, making it easy for beginners to take lessons and for experienced surfers to find the right gear.
Whale watching is another worthwhile activity, especially from December to April when gray and humpback whales migrate to the warm waters of Baja California. Numerous boat tours offer close encounters with these majestic creatures, often accompanied by informative, well-trained guides who share insights about whale behavior and conservation.
For those who prefer land-based adventures, the surrounding desert and mountain landscapes provide excellent opportunities for activities like hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The Sierra de la Laguna Mountains, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, offer trails that wind through diverse ecosystems.
Birdwatchers may also explore the San José del Cabo Estuary, considered one of the most important and most threatened wetlands in northwestern Mexico. Considered a State Ecological Reserve and declared a Natural Protected Area in 1994, it serves as a sanctuary for a variety of bird species like Belding’s yellowthroat, Xantus’s hummingbird, Virginia rail, white-faced and white ibis, and yellow-crowned and black-crowned night herons. In addition to birdwatching, residents and visitors may rent a kayak to navigate the waterways independently.
Cultural and eco-tours are also available, offering insights into the local heritage and the efforts to preserve the region’s unique environment. These guided tours often include visits to historical missions, local markets, and traditional artisan workshops, providing participants with a well-rounded and close-up look at San Jose del Cabo’s rich culture and history.
Safe and Secure Environment
Safety and security are paramount in San Jose del Cabo, where a strong emphasis on community policing and vigilant law enforcement ensures residents and visitors alike will enjoy peace of mind. Low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere contribute to a sense of well-being and contentment.
The dedication of the local police force to ensuring the safety of the community is evident in initiatives such as the Safe Neighborhood Program, which fosters collaboration between law enforcers and residents to prevent crime and promote a sense of unity and trust within the community.
MAKE THE MOVE TO SAN JOSE DEL CABO TODAY WITH FINN
Deciding to relocate is a big step that requires a lot of consideration and preparation. But when you choose San Jose del Cabo for your next home, know that there are many great things to expect from this ciudad muy hermosa. We at FINN are just the real estate team to help you in your journey to homeownership in this Mexican paradise.
FINN is the premier brokerage in Los Cabos that possesses the expertise and tools to aid you in navigating the intricacies of the area’s thriving market. Our knowledge of the area stems from almost two decades of doing business here, as well as planting our own roots in the area.
Ready to get started? Reach out to us at 624.124.3533 or send us an email. You may also take a look at our exclusive listings to see all your options.