Property
Mexico — Property: Rental Market
Mexican rental law is generally considered pro-tenant. Leases are governed by each state's Civil Code and must specify duration, rent, payment terms, and termination causes. Tenants in good standing typically receive a one-year statutory renewal right under most civil codes, and landlords must maintain habitable conditions. A change of property ownership does not terminate an existing tenancy — the new owner cannot use the sale as grounds to end the lease early. Security deposits standardly run one month's rent (no cap in Mexico City) and must be returned within 30 days of lease termination if the property is in satisfactory condition and rent is current. In Mexico City, landlords must give 30 days' written notice before any rent increase, referencing the inflation-rate justification; a dedicated Tenant's Ombudsman Office was established there in 2024 to resolve disputes. As of early 2026, average rent for a 2-bedroom Mexico City apartment is ~MXN 20,600 (~$1,175 USD)/month.
Key facts
- Mexican rental law is broadly pro-tenant; leases are governed by state-level Civil Codes.
- Tenants in good standing get a one-year statutory renewal right under most civil codes.
- Property sale does not terminate an existing tenancy — new owners must honor the lease.
- Mexico City: 30 days' written notice required before rent increases; Tenant's Ombudsman Office (est. 2024) resolves disputes.
- Average 2-bedroom Mexico City rent (early 2026): ~MXN 20,600 (~$1,175 USD)/month.
Costs
- Standard security deposit: 1 month's rent
- Average 2-bedroom Mexico City rent: ~MXN 20,600 (~$1,175 USD)/month
Timelines
- Security deposit return after lease termination: within 30 days
- Mexico City rent increase notice period: 30 days
Common mistakes
- Assuming a property sale terminates existing leases — Mexican law protects sitting tenants regardless of ownership change.