Comparison
Teacher set on Latin America deciding between the two largest ESL markets.
Mexico has the larger market; Colombia is growing faster. Both offer informal hiring, low cost of living, and Spanish immersion. Mexico is closer to the US and easier visa-wise; Colombia has cheaper rent and stronger demand growth in business English.
Low barrier to entry, year-round hiring, growing demand for business English.
Language schools: 12k to 22k MXN per month. Business English contracts: 250 to 400 MXN per hour. Universities: 18k to 30k MXN per month. Cost of living is low enough that most teachers live comfortably.
Many teachers work informally on tourist visas, though this is technically not allowed. Legal employment uses the Temporary Resident visa with work permission, which the school sponsors.
Teachers wanting Latin America experience, Spanish immersion, and proximity to the US. Not a market for high savings.
Booming demand, low cost of living, growing tech-economy classes.
Language institutes: 1.8M to 3M COP per month. Universities: 2.5M to 4.5M COP. Corporate contracts: 30k to 60k COP per hour. Cost of living is among the lowest in popular ESL markets.
TP-4 visa for sponsored teaching positions. Many teachers also use the digital nomad visa or remain on tourist visas while doing private classes informally.
Teachers who want Latin American immersion, a low cost of living, and access to a growing market. Pay is modest but lifestyle is rich.
Mexico
Many language schools will hire you without one if you are a native speaker, but a TEFL opens better-paying business roles and university work.
Mexico
Mexico City, Guadalajara, Querétaro, and Mérida are the most popular among foreign teachers. Avoid border cities and certain northern states unless you have a specific reason.
Colombia
Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena are well-trafficked by foreign teachers and considered safe with normal urban precautions. Rural areas and certain neighborhoods carry more risk.
Colombia
Less for the classroom (English-only is standard) but more for daily life than in Spain or Mexico. Colombia has fewer English speakers in service jobs than larger expat hubs.