A Gen Xer left California to start a business in a retiree hot spot in Mexico. His only regret is that he didn't do it sooner.

Malahki Thorn moved to Puerto Vallarta in 2023.

Malahki Thorn

• Malahki Thorn moved to Puerto Vallarta to escape California wildfire risks and start a new business.
• Puerto Vallarta's real estate market is booming, attracting Americans looking to retire affordably.
• Thorn bought a house away from the tourist areas and is part of a community of local professionals.

Malahki Thorn vividly remembers flames encroaching on his house in the wilderness of northern California.