Escaping the American Dream (and Why That’s Not a Bad Thing)
Once upon a time, the American Dream meant upward mobility — a steady job, a home with a yard, maybe a two-car garage if you really “made it.” But somewhere between rising inflation, $8 lattes, and rent prices that feel like a monthly ransom, that dream turned into a subscription service you never signed up for.
I’ve worked hard. I’ve built a name in the entertainment world. Booked roles. Walked red carpets. Created work I’m proud of. And still, I’ve found myself wondering: Why does freedom feel so expensive?
So lately, I’ve been looking south — toward Mexico. I haven’t made the leap just yet, but I’m strongly considering it. And here’s why I believe escaping the American Dream might be the best decision I’ll ever make.
💰 The Cost of Living in the U.S. Is a Trap with Good Marketing
Let’s talk numbers. The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles is $2,700. The same budget in Mexico could get you a luxury condo with a view, housekeeping, and access to a rooftop pool.
And if we’re being honest, the American economy doesn’t feel like it’s built for sustainability anymore. It feels like a casino where the house always wins.
What’s even crazier? With today’s remote work flexibility, I can keep making dollars while spending pesos — a financial combo that could finally offer the breathing room I’ve been chasing.
Food That Actually Nourishes — Not Just Fills You
In the states, it’s fast food. There, it’s real food fast. Tacos made fresh. Mangoes that taste like dessert. Even the street corn (elote) tastes like it was blessed by the gods.
And it’s not just flavor — it’s freedom from ultra-processed garbage. The kind that leaves you sluggish and craving more. In Mexico, food is still a ritual. It’s still human. It still tastes like care.
What If Rest Wasn’t a Luxury?
In the U.S., “rest” is something you’re supposed to earn. In Mexico, it’s built into the rhythm of the day. It’s not lazy to take a mid-afternoon break. It’s normal.
Imagine finishing your workday with the sun still out, walking to the beach, and not feeling guilty about it. That’s the kind of life I want to lean into. One where rest doesn’t come with guilt, and ambition doesn’t come with burnout.
🎥 Yes, I Work in Entertainment — No, I’m Not Leaving It Behind
Here’s the thing: moving doesn’t mean leaving the industry. In fact, with direct flights to LA, Dallas, or even Atlanta — I can still be fully available for castings, sets, or in-person meetings.
Some of the biggest productions are now happening outside of major U.S. hubs, and Mexico itself is becoming a hotbed for international filming. If anything, this might make me more available — because I’m not emotionally and financially drained from daily survival.
🌎 Make Dollars. Live Free.
The world’s changed. The borders aren’t closed — they’re optional. The only thing stopping most people from living freer is the outdated idea that you have to live in the U.S. to succeed.
I’ve realized that success doesn’t need a zip code. What matters more is how I feel when I wake up — not whether I’m near a Whole Foods.
“But…Is It Safe Though?”
Let’s address the elephant: safety. Yes, Mexico has its sketchy areas — so does Chicago. So does downtown LA. So does literally every city if you don’t pay attention.
But thousands of expats live safely and happily throughout Mexico — many in communities designed for remote professionals, families, and creatives. Like anything else in life, it comes down to discernment, not fear.
More Than a Financial Move — It’s a Mental Shift
You start to realize something the moment you consider leaving the U.S.:
You don’t just want to escape the bills — you want to escape the pace.
The noise. The constant notifications. The pressure to “stay ahead” without ever knowing what the finish line even looks like.
Choosing to live abroad — even part-time — isn’t about turning your back on America. It’s about finding your own version of success without having to sacrifice your health, time, or joy.
🛠️ Escaping the American Dream Isn’t Failure — It’s Freedom
The biggest lie we were sold is that “making it” in America is the only way to be successful. But when the cost of living becomes the cost of living, maybe it’s time to rewrite the rules.
I’m not saying everyone should move to Mexico. But I am saying — ask yourself:
If you had the option to live better, work less, and still pursue your goals… why wouldn’t you?
Because for me? I’m not escaping the dream.
I’m just waking up from it.
