Mexico City is experiencing a moment of urban change that no one can ignore. Colonies such as Roma, Condesa, Juárez, Escandón, Anzures, San Rafael and Santa María la Ribera have undergone a profound transformation in recent years, going from being areas with great historical and cultural value to become benchmarks of the new high-end urban lifestyle.
These changes have opened up extraordinary opportunities for those who wish to invest or live in high-potential areas, but they have also sparked public debates on issues such as gentrification, access to housing and the role of foreigners in the city. In this article we explore the evolution of these neighborhoods with a balanced and proactive vision.
What is urban transformation and how is it experienced in CDMX?
Urban transformation refers to the process by which certain areas of a city undergo structural, social and economic changes. It may include the renovation of infrastructure, the arrival of new services, the increase in real estate supply, and the integration of new demographic profiles.
In the case of the CDMX, this phenomenon has been especially visible in central neighborhoods where historic heritage, strategic location and growing interest from investors and new residents, both national and foreign, converge.
1. Roma Norte and Roma Sur: heritage, diversity and added value in the heart of the capital city
Located in the heart of Mexico City, the Roma neighborhood is a jewel that has been able to reinvent itself without losing its essence. Founded at the beginning of the 20th century on the former Potreros de la Romita, this neighborhood was conceived as an elite neighborhood with European influence, thanks to the vision of businessman Edward Walter Orrin. His legacy is manifested in the design of streets named after cities of the world, wide boulevards, and an architecture that combines Gothic, Italian and French styles.
Today, Roma Norte and Roma Sur are positioned as two of the most sought-after areas to live and invest in luxury properties. Its strategic location, between key avenues such as Insurgentes, Chapultepec and Viaducto, and its easy connection to the entire city, make it a benchmark for good living in the city.
Roma Norte: the bohemian and cosmopolitan heart of the city
Roma Norte is home to a vibrant community of artists, entrepreneurs, expatriates and creatives. Its bohemian atmosphere is reflected in its cafés, galleries, bookstores, and signature restaurants, which coexist with restored historic buildings and high-end real estate developments. With a population of approximately 27,700 people and more than 5,200 businesses, it generates an estimated economic output of 35 billion pesos annually.
This dynamism has attracted significant investments, generating a constant capital gain that ranges between 20 and 30% per year in some of its most sought-after streets. The multicultural profile and continuous cultural offerings make Roma Norte an ideal destination for those seeking a rich, connected and forward-thinking living experience.
Roma Sur: urban serenity with growing value
In contrast, Roma Sur maintains a more familiar and quiet character, but no less attractive for that reason. With close to 17,000 inhabitants and a strong presence of the health and education sectors, this area has modernized without losing its residential essence. In recent years, its gastronomic and cultural offerings have grown stronger, reaching levels comparable to those of its northern neighbor.
With more than 3,700 establishments in operation and an economic output of 49 billion pesos annually, Roma Sur offers an excellent relationship between quality of life, tranquility and return on investment. It is ideal for families, seniors and professionals seeking stability and community in a consolidated urban environment.
2. Condesa and Hipódromo Condesa: history, sophistication and green life.
The Condesa and Hipódromo Condesa neighborhoods make up one of the most emblematic and desirable areas of Mexico City. With origins dating back to the eighteenth century, when it was part of the Condesa de Miravalle hacienda, this neighborhood has positioned itself as a benchmark of livability thanks to its friendly layout, its urban parks and its architectural mix that ranges from Art Deco to contemporary minimalism.
In 2025, the average cost of an apartment in the Condesa will be between $6,500,000 and $6,700,000 MXN, depending on the type of property, with prices per square meter ranging from $55,000 to $90,000 MXN. This value responds not only to the privileged location of the neighborhood, a stone’s throw from Chapultepec Park and avenues such as Insurgentes and Circuito Interior, but also to the very high demand of nationals and foreigners delighted by the lifestyle.
Lifestyle in balance
La Condesa stands out for its cyclist- and pedestrian-friendly lifestyle, its nightlife and its diverse community, which includes families, young couples, creatives, digital nomads and a large foreign population. This diversity has enriched the offer of stores, services and experiences, making it a lively neighborhood practically 24 hours a day.
The presence of parks such as Parque México and Parque España, together with the quality of recent real estate developments, make it one of the areas with the highest added value in the capital. According to Nolab’s internal data, it has recorded an annual increase in value of between 5% and 7% in recent years.
Living or investing in Condesa is, today more than ever, a decision that combines passion for the city, quality of life and an intelligent property strategy.
3. Juarez: from abandonment to boutique renaissance
Colonia Juárez, and especially the area around Londres Street, near the Angel of Independence, has undergone a remarkable reconversion. It went from being a decaying office area to become a boutique design district, signature hotels, gourmet cafés and luxury vertical developments.
The mix of restored historic buildings with new projects has generated a solid real estate market, ideal for those looking to invest in properties with high equity value and sustained returns.
4. Escandón: the new hidden gem south of Condesa
Escandón has gained notoriety in the last five years thanks to its strategic location, quiet atmosphere and relatively affordable prices compared to more consolidated areas such as Roma or Condesa.
Although it maintains its residential character, there are more and more premium housing projects thanks to the vibe emanating from its tree-lined streets, attracting young families, creative professionals and foreigners in search of authenticity without giving up connectivity.
5. Anzures: discreet elegance next to Polanco and Reforma.
Neighboring Polanco and Reforma, Anzures combines the best of both worlds: proximity to business centers and services, with a quieter, more local atmosphere.
The urban transformation here has been more subtle, marked by the renovation of older buildings, the emergence of medium- and high-density residential developments, and the growth of a mixed community of locals, expatriates and international executives.
6. San Rafael and Santa María la Ribera: historical identity and emerging potential.
Both neighborhoods have been the protagonists of a silent but powerful revaluation. San Rafael, with its Porfirian architecture and proximity to Reforma, has awakened the interest of developers and creatives. Santa María la Ribera, on the other hand, has attracted attention thanks to the Kiosco Morisco, the El Chopo Museum and its emerging cultural offerings.
Today they are seen as neighborhoods with soul, combining history, community and medium-term investment opportunities. Although prices are still moderate compared to prime neighborhoods, they show clear signs of sustained growth.
Responsible investment and real opportunities
As these neighborhoods transform, the question arises as to whether this transformation is occurring consciously. The reality is that investing in these neighborhoods is not only about obtaining one of the best financial returns in the country: it is also an opportunity to be part of a diverse community, preserve its identity and contribute to the urban fabric.
The real estate developers with whom Nolab collaborates opt for proposals that integrate contextual design, sustainable materials and a respectful relationship with the environment. Likewise, local and foreign buyers are more interested in living with a sense of belonging and in environments that privilege quality over ostentation.
What role do foreigners play in this new scenario?
In recent years, there has been an increase in the arrival of foreigners to the CDMX, especially in central areas. Many arrive as digital nomads, entrepreneurs or expatriates attracted by the climate, culture and cost of living compared to global cities.
This has generated adjustments in the real estate market, but also a cultural richness that brings new economic and social dynamics. Various media have documented testimonies from both foreigners and local residents, and in most cases, an atmosphere of coexistence and shared belonging is perceived. While many foreigners have adopted Mexican cultural practices with respect, locals recognize in them an opportunity to diversify and strengthen their communities and businesses. Rather than a threat, the real challenge, and also the possibility, lies in integrating this change with sensitivity, dialogue and urban vision.
Urban transformation or gentrification?
Although some groups point to these processes as examples of gentrification, and it is important to recognize their negative effects on vulnerable populations, it is also true that urban transformation is not in itself negative, but rather that we are facing an opportunity to reinvent how we live, move and inhabit our cities.
The key is to implement inclusive public policies, promote responsible developments and generate conversation between residents, authorities and private actors. In this sense, CDMX still has room to become a benchmark for urban renewal with territorial justice.
Investing or living in neighborhoods such as Roma, Condesa, Juarez or Anzures is not only a real estate decision: it is a way to participate in the future of Mexico City.
From Nolabwe believe it is possible to bet on properties that combine strategic location, high-level design and a comprehensive urban vision, respecting the history of the place and promoting a meaningful residential experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
It is the process by which areas with historical and cultural value are modernized, improve their infrastructure and attract new investments and residents, including foreigners, generating added value and economic dynamism.
Yes, neighborhoods such as Roma, Condesa, Juarez and Anzures have shown steady capital gains, solid rental demand and high quality of life, making them ideal for medium and long-term investments.
Many foreigners arrive as digital nomads or relocated professionals. Their presence has contributed to boosting the local economy and expanding the supply of services, although it also generates debates about housing and gentrification.
Not exactly. Although they may coincide, urban transformation can be positive if it is done in a planned, respectful manner and with public policies that guarantee inclusion and social diversity.
In addition to Roma and Condesa, areas such as Escandón, Santa María la Ribera and San Rafael are attracting interest due to their location, architectural charm and potential for future appreciation.
