M
alahki Thorn, a 52-year-old Californian, made the bold decision to leave behind the wildfire risks of his home state and start anew in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. In 2023, he sold his house in Hyapom, California, where he had narrowly escaped the Saddle Fire in 2015. The experience left him shaken, and he realized that living in an area prone to devastating wildfires was no longer sustainable.

    Thorn's decision to relocate was also driven by a desire for a more affordable lifestyle. He joined the growing ranks of Americans seeking a lower cost of living in Puerto Vallarta, where real estate prices are significantly lower than in California. The city's booming market has attracted many retirees and entrepreneurs like Thorn, who have found opportunities to start businesses and invest in property.

    Thorn's own business venture, RavenThorn Group, includes interior design, carpentry, construction, and property management services. He credits his connections with local professionals for helping him establish a successful business in the area. Puerto Vallarta's real estate market is thriving, with a 105% increase in inventory of condos from 2023 to 2024, according to local experts.

    To navigate the complexities of living and working in Mexico, Thorn hired an immigration attorney to guide him through the process of obtaining temporary residency, work visas, and a unique tax identification number. He chose to buy a house outside of Puerto Vallarta's tourist areas to integrate with locals and network with working professionals.

    Thorn's experience highlights the growing trend of "climate migration," where individuals are forced to relocate due to environmental disasters like wildfires. While data on climate-related migration is limited, Thorn's story suggests that it may become an increasingly significant factor in the coming years.