The Ultimate Guide to Mexico’s 663 Area Code: Tijuana, Calling Costs, and Scam Alerts for US Consumers

Introduction: More Than Just a Number

 

In the intricate web of global telecommunications, an area code is far more than a simple string of digits; it is a geographic anchor, a digital address that connects voices, businesses, and cultures across borders. For many in the United States, receiving a call or needing to place one to Mexico’s 663 area code can be a source of questions. What city does it serve? How does one dial it correctly? What are the costs involved? And in an age of rampant digital fraud, is it safe? This report serves as the definitive guide for the US consumer, business professional, and traveler, providing exhaustive answers to these questions and more.

The 663 area code is a direct line to the heart of Tijuana, Baja California—a city of immense dynamism, complexity, and importance to the United States. Its very existence is a story of explosive growth and cross-border integration. To understand this area code is to open a window into the economic powerhouse of the Cali-Baja region, a global manufacturing hub, a reimagined tourist destination, and a landscape of opportunity for investors and expatriates.

This comprehensive analysis will navigate every facet of the 663 area code. It begins by decoding its location and its relationship with the established 664 code. It then provides a clear, step-by-step manual for calling Tijuana from any phone in the US, highlighting recent changes that make other online guides obsolete. The report will delve into a detailed cost analysis, comparing exorbitant pay-per-use rates with affordable carrier plans and modern internet-based solutions, empowering readers to connect without fear of financial surprise. Crucially, it offers a robust consumer protection section, dissecting common phone scams that exploit international area codes and providing a clear defense plan.

Finally, this report goes beyond the dial tone to present an in-depth profile of Tijuana itself. It explores the economic engine driving its growth, from the thriving maquiladora sector to its 2025 economic outlook. It paints a vivid picture of the city’s cultural renaissance, its world-class culinary and craft beer scenes, and the realities of its multi-billion-dollar medical tourism industry. For those considering a deeper connection, it provides a primer on the real estate market and the practicalities of living and investing in this vibrant border metropolis. This is the ultimate resource for anyone looking to connect with the 663 area code, armed with confidence, clarity, and a nuanced understanding of the city it represents.

 

Decoding Area Code 663: Your Connection to Tijuana, Baja California

 

The identity of area code 663 is inextricably linked to one of North America’s most vital and fastest-growing urban centers. It is not an isolated code for a remote town but a key component of the telecommunications infrastructure for a major metropolitan region. Understanding its function and location is the first step in navigating any communication with this part of Mexico.

 

The 663/664 Overlay System Explained

 

Area code 663 serves the municipality of Tijuana in the state of Baja California, Mexico. However, it does not operate alone. It functions as an “overlay” to the original and more established area code 664. An overlay system is a common telecommunications solution implemented in densely populated areas when the demand for new phone numbers outstrips the supply available under a single area code.

The introduction of area code 663 around August 2019 was a direct consequence of Tijuana’s remarkable growth. The city was rapidly approaching the exhaustion of the nearly 9 million unique phone numbers that could be assigned under the 664 prefix, a surge driven by a booming population and the widespread adoption of mobile phones. Rather than splitting the city into two different geographic calling zones, which would have forced millions of residents and businesses to change their existing numbers, the Mexican telephone authority, the Federal Telecommunications Institute (IFT), implemented the 663 overlay.

This means that both 663 and 664 are valid area codes for the exact same geographic area: the entirety of the Tijuana municipality, including its urban core and surrounding communities like Ejido Ojo de Agua and San Antonio del Mar. New phone lines, particularly mobile ones, are now frequently assigned the 663 area code, while existing 664 numbers remain unchanged. For anyone calling into the city from the United States, a number with either a 663 or 664 prefix will connect to Tijuana. This dual-code system is not merely a technical footnote; it is a quantifiable testament to the city’s economic and demographic vitality, a theme that underscores Tijuana’s modern identity. The need for a second area code is a powerful indicator of a region that has surpassed a critical threshold of population density, economic activity, and technological adoption.

 

Geographic and Cultural Snapshot

 

Area code 663 is anchored in a unique geographical and cultural context. Tijuana is the westernmost city in both Mexico and Latin America, situated directly on the international border with San Diego, California. This proximity has fostered the creation of a massive bi-national metropolitan area, often referred to as the San Diego-Tijuana conurbation, with a combined population exceeding 5 million people.

The area code falls within the 600-699 numbering range, which Mexico’s Plan Nacional de Numeración reserves for its northwestern states, including Baja California, Baja California Sur, Sonora, Sinaloa, Chihuahua, and Durango. This regional designation helps organize the national telephone grid.

Crucially for business and personal communication, Tijuana operates on the Pacific Time Zone (PST), observing Daylight Saving Time (PDT) in sync with its northern neighbor, California. This shared time zone eliminates a common barrier in international dealings and facilitates the seamless flow of commerce and interaction that characterizes daily life in the region. The deep integration is more than just economic; it’s a cultural fusion where two nations meet, creating a unique environment that is reflected in the city’s lifestyle, cuisine, and identity. For a US resident, calling Tijuana is, in many ways, as logistically simple as calling a neighboring state.

 

The Complete Guide to Calling Tijuana from the United States

 

Placing an international call can seem daunting, with confusing codes and outdated instructions often leading to frustration. However, calling a 663 or 664 number in Tijuana from the United States is a straightforward process once the correct dialing sequence is understood. The method varies slightly depending on whether the call is placed from a mobile phone or a traditional landline.

 

Dialing from a Mobile Phone (The Modern Standard)

 

For the vast majority of users, calling from a mobile phone is the most common method. The process is simplified by the universal functionality of the “+” key.

• Step 1: Start with the Plus Sign (+). On any modern smartphone, pressing and holding the “0” key will produce the + symbol. This symbol automatically acts as the international exit code, replacing the need to manually dial “011” as required from a landline.
• Step 2: Dial Mexico’s Country Code (52). Immediately after the +, enter 52. This is the unique country code that directs the call to Mexico’s national telephone network.
• Step 3: Dial the Area Code (663 or 664). Following the country code, enter the three-digit area code for Tijuana, which will be either 663 or 664.
• Step 4: Dial the 7-Digit Local Number. Finally, dial the recipient’s seven-digit local phone number.

The complete dialing string will appear on the screen as a single, unbroken sequence of numbers. For example, to call the Tijuana number (663) 123-4567 from a US mobile phone, the user would dial: +526631234567. After entering the full number, press the call button to connect.

 

Dialing from a US Landline (The Traditional Method)

 

For those using a home or office landline, the process is similar but requires the manual entry of the US exit code.

• Step 1: Dial the US Exit Code (011). Begin by dialing 011. This code signals to the US telephone network that the subsequent numbers are for an international call.
• Step 2: Dial Mexico’s Country Code (52). After the exit code, dial 52.
• Step 3: Dial the Area Code (663 or 664). Next, enter the three-digit Tijuana area code.
• Step 4: Dial the 7-Digit Local Number. Conclude by dialing the seven-digit local number.

Using the same example, to call (663) 123-4567 from a US landline, the user would dial: 011 52 663 123 4567. The call will typically begin to connect as soon as the last digit is dialed.

 

Key Update You Can’t Miss: The End of the Mobile “1”

 

One of the most significant sources of confusion when calling Mexico has been resolved in recent years, yet many older online guides still contain outdated information. A critical change to Mexico’s dialing plan, effective from 2019-2020, eliminated the need for an extra digit “1” when calling a Mexican mobile number from another country.

Previously, the dialing sequence for a mobile phone in Mexico was 011 + 52 + 1 + Area Code + Number. This “1” is no longer required. The dialing process for both landlines and mobile phones in Mexico is now identical, consisting of the country code (52) followed by the 10-digit national number (3-digit area code + 7-digit local number).

Furthermore, any old Mexican prefixes such as 01, 044, or 045 that might appear in an old contact list or business card should be completely ignored. These were trunk codes used for dialing within Mexico and have been entirely phased out of the system. Adhering to the simple, updated dialing patterns outlined above will prevent failed calls and ensure a successful connection to Tijuana.

 

Analyzing the Cost: How Much to Call Area Code 663/664?

 

Connecting with friends, family, or business associates in Tijuana should not result in an unexpected financial shock. Yet, for the unprepared US consumer, the cost of an international call can be alarmingly high. Understanding the pricing structures of major carriers and the array of modern, affordable alternatives is essential for managing communication expenses effectively.

 

The Per-Minute Trap: Understanding Pay-Per-Use Rates

 

The default, or “pay-per-use,” rate is what a carrier charges for an international call if the user’s plan does not include specific provisions for that country. These rates are often exorbitant and can lead to staggering bills for even brief conversations.

• AT&T: Without a dedicated international plan, AT&T’s basic rates for calls to Mexico have been cited as high as $3.65 per minute for mobile and $3.50 per minute for landline calls. A separate document notes a roaming pay-per-use rate of $1.00 per minute when in Mexico.
• Verizon: Verizon’s standard pay-as-you-go rate for calls to Mexico is $0.99 per minute.
• T-Mobile: For users on plans without included Mexico calling, T-Mobile’s standard international rate has been listed at $3.00 per minute.

These figures underscore a critical consumer alert: a simple 15-minute conversation could cost anywhere from $15 to over $50. This “per-minute trap” makes it imperative for anyone planning to call Mexico to review their plan or seek out more cost-effective options.

 

Carrier Plans vs. Reality: A Comparative Analysis

 

Recognizing the high volume of cross-border communication, major US carriers have adapted their offerings. For most customers with modern unlimited plans, the high pay-per-use rates are no longer a primary concern.

• AT&T: A significant number of AT&T’s unlimited plans now include unlimited talk, text, and data to and from Mexico and Canada at no extra charge. For customers on other plans, the “AT&T International Calling” add-on is available for $15 per month, providing unlimited calling to over 85 countries, including Mexico.
• Verizon: Similarly, all of Verizon’s current Unlimited plans include unlimited talk and text to Mexico and Canada. For those on older or different plans, add-ons like “Global Calling” for $5 per month or “Global Calling Plus” for $15 per month provide unlimited or heavily discounted rates.
• T-Mobile: Most of T-Mobile’s popular plans (like Go5G, Magenta, and ONE) also include unlimited calling to Mexico and Canada for free. For customers on more basic plans like “Essentials,” the rate is a more manageable $0.25 per minute. The “Stateside International Talk” add-on for $15 per month provides unlimited calling to over 70 countries.

The clear takeaway is that for anyone who calls Mexico even semi-regularly, ensuring their plan includes Mexico calling or adding a monthly feature is vastly more economical than paying by the minute.

 

The Smart Alternative: VoIP and Internet-Based Calling

 

For infrequent callers, or for those seeking the absolute lowest costs, Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) and other internet-based services present the best value. These services bypass traditional phone networks, routing calls over the internet at a fraction of the cost.

• VoIP Services: Companies like Skype and Google Voice offer exceptionally low per-minute rates to Mexican landlines and mobile numbers. Published rates show Skype as low as $0.01 per minute to landlines and $0.035 to mobiles, while Google Voice advertises rates around $0.01 per minute. Other business-focused VoIP providers like OpenPhone offer rates around 2 cents per minute.
• Free App-to-App Calling: The most economical option is free. If both the caller in the US and the recipient in Tijuana have a smartphone and an internet connection (Wi-Fi or mobile data), applications like WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and Apple’s FaceTime can be used to make high-quality voice and video calls for no charge at all.

The following tables provide a stark, at-a-glance comparison of these options, translating abstract per-minute rates into tangible costs.

Table 1: Standard Pay-Per-Use International Calling Rates to Mexico

Note: Rates are for users without an international calling plan or add-on and are subject to change. Most current unlimited plans from these carriers include free calling to Mexico.

Table 2: VoIP vs. Traditional Carrier Cost Comparison (Hypothetical 60-Minute Call to a Mexican Mobile)

This dramatic comparison illustrates a clear conclusion: relying on default pay-per-use rates is financially imprudent. By checking one’s mobile plan or utilizing low-cost VoIP services, communication with area code 663 in Tijuana can be both simple and highly affordable.

 

Red Alert: Navigating Phone Scams from International & Unfamiliar Area Codes

 

In today’s hyper-connected world, an incoming call from an unfamiliar number requires a healthy dose of skepticism. Scammers have become increasingly sophisticated, leveraging technology and psychology to defraud unsuspecting victims. Calls appearing to originate from Mexico, or from numbers that mimic US area codes, are a common vector for these schemes. Understanding the tactics used is the first line of defense.

 

The “One-Ring” (Wangiri) Scam

 

One of the most prevalent international phone scams is the “one-ring” or “Wangiri” scam (a Japanese term meaning “one and cut”). The mechanism is simple but deceptively effective. Scammers use auto-dialers to place thousands of calls to random numbers, letting the phone ring only once before hanging up. This leaves a missed call notification on the victim’s phone.

The scammers’ goal is to prey on curiosity. The victim, seeing the missed call and not recognizing the number, may be tempted to call back. This is where the trap is sprung. The number they are calling back is not a standard line but an international premium-rate number, similar to a 900 number in the US. The victim is then hit with exorbitant per-minute charges, which can be as high as $30 a minute, plus international connection fees.

A critical point of confusion for US residents is that many of the area codes used in this scam, particularly those from Caribbean nations, look identical to North American Numbering Plan (NANP) area codes. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has issued specific warnings about this, and their list of commonly exploited area codes explicitly includes 664. This creates a dangerous ambiguity: a call from a 664 number could be a legitimate call from Tijuana or a fraudulent one-ring scam originating from the island of Montserrat. This dual identity of the 664 code makes vigilance paramount, especially for residents in the US Southwest. A call from Tijuana is a plausible, everyday event for someone in San Diego, making them psychologically more susceptible to letting their guard down than someone in a different part of the country with no connection to the border region. Scammers exploit this geographic context, piggybacking on the credibility of the legitimate San Diego-Tijuana connection to increase their chances of success.

 

The Threat of Caller ID Spoofing

 

Compounding the problem is the widespread use of caller ID “spoofing.” This technology allows scammers to deliberately falsify the phone number and name that appear on the recipient’s caller ID display. A scam call originating from a call center anywhere in the world can be manipulated to look like it’s coming from a trusted local number, a government agency, or even the victim’s own phone number.

The FBI has issued warnings about schemes where scammers spoof the actual phone numbers of FBI field offices to intimidate victims. This technological deception means that one cannot implicitly trust the caller ID. The area code displayed is not a guarantee of the call’s true origin.

 

Common Scams Targeting US Residents

 

While the methods may vary, the underlying goals of phone scammers are typically to steal money or personal information. Some of the most common schemes include:

• Imposter Scams: Callers fraudulently claim to be from a government agency like the IRS, the Social Security Administration (SSA), or the FBI. They often use aggressive and intimidating tactics, such as threatening arrest, legal action, or the suspension of a Social Security number, to pressure the victim into making an immediate payment via wire transfer, gift cards, or cryptocurrency. It is a firm policy that these US government agencies will never initiate contact by phone to demand immediate payment or threaten arrest.
• Wrong Number & Crypto Scams: This increasingly common text-based scam begins with a seemingly innocent message, such as “Hi, is this John?” When the victim replies that they have the wrong number, the scammer apologizes profusely and attempts to strike up a friendship. Over time, they build trust and eventually pivot to pitching a fraudulent cryptocurrency investment platform, ultimately stealing any money the victim “invests”.
• Delivery Scams: Victims receive a text message, appearing to be from a major delivery service like USPS, FedEx, or Amazon, claiming there is an issue with a package. The message includes a phishing link that leads to a fake website designed to harvest credit card details or other sensitive personal information. A major red flag is when these supposedly domestic messages originate from a number with a foreign country code, such as +63 (Philippines), which has been noted in user complaints.

 

Your Defense Plan: How to Protect Yourself

 

While scammers are persistent, a few simple, consistent practices can provide robust protection:

1. Do Not Answer or Call Back: This is the golden rule. If you receive a call from any number you do not recognize, especially one that rings only once, let it go to voicemail. Do not call it back. If the call is legitimate, the person will leave a message.
2. Verify Independently: If a caller claims to represent a familiar organization—your bank, a utility company, or a government agency—hang up immediately. Do not use any phone number or link they provide. Instead, find the official phone number from the organization’s website or a recent bill and contact them directly to verify the claim.
3. Block and Report: Use your smartphone’s built-in features to block scam numbers. Report fraudulent calls and texts to the Federal Trade Commission at ReportFraud.ftc.gov and the Federal Communications Commission at fcc.gov/complaints. You can also forward spam text messages to the number 7726 (which spells SPAM), which reports the number to your mobile carrier.
4. Enable Carrier Scam Protection: Most major carriers offer free tools to help identify and block scam calls. T-Mobile, for example, provides a “Scam Block” feature that can be enabled by dialing #662# from a T-Mobile phone. Check with your carrier for similar available services.

By treating all unsolicited calls with caution and following these defensive steps, consumers can significantly reduce their risk of falling victim to the myriad of phone scams originating from both domestic and international numbers.

 

Beyond the Dial Tone: An In-Depth Profile of Tijuana

 

The story of the 663 area code is fundamentally the story of Tijuana. To understand the need for millions of new phone numbers is to understand the forces of economic growth, cultural transformation, and human migration that have shaped this border metropolis into a city of global significance. For the US audience, Tijuana is not a distant foreign city but a deeply interconnected neighbor whose fortunes are intertwined with those of the United States. This section provides a multi-faceted profile of the city behind the area code, exploring its economic engine, its reimagined tourism landscape, and the opportunities and challenges it presents for investors and expatriates.

 

A. Tijuana’s Economic Engine: A North American Manufacturing Powerhouse

 

Tijuana’s economy is a testament to its strategic location and its integration into the North American supply chain. Long past its origins as a simple ranching outpost, the city has evolved into a sophisticated and diversified industrial center, rated as a “High Sufficiency” global city.

 

The Maquiladora Boom and the Rise of Nearshoring

 

The foundation of Tijuana’s modern economy was laid in 1965 with the Mexican government’s Border Industrialization Program, which gave rise to the maquiladora industry.

Maquiladoras are foreign-owned factories that import raw materials and equipment duty-free to assemble or manufacture goods that are then exported. Today, Tijuana is home to over 600 of these plants, making it a dominant manufacturing center.

In the 21st century, this model has been supercharged by the global trend of “nearshoring.” As geopolitical tensions and logistical challenges have made relying on manufacturing in Asia more difficult and expensive, many multinational corporations are moving their production closer to their primary markets. Tijuana is a prime beneficiary of this shift. Its proximity to the massive consumer market of Southern California, coupled with a skilled and relatively inexpensive labor force, makes it an ideal location for companies seeking to strengthen their North American supply chains. This influx of investment and jobs is a primary driver of the population growth that necessitated the creation of the 663 area code.

 

Spotlight on Key Industries

 

Tijuana’s manufacturing sector is not monolithic; it is a diverse ecosystem of high-tech industries that produce complex, high-value goods for the global market.

• Medical Devices: Tijuana has earned the title of the medical device manufacturing capital of North America. With 44 major companies employing over 42,000 people, the city produces a vast range of medical products, from surgical kits and catheters to pacemakers and orthopedic devices. Global giants like

  Medtronic, BD (Becton, Dickinson and Company), and DJO Global have significant operations here.
• Aerospace & Defense: The city is a major hub for the aerospace industry, with more than 55 companies employing over 28,000 people. These facilities manufacture critical components like landing systems, cabin interiors, and airframe parts for leading companies such as

  Honeywell, Safran, and Eaton.
• Electronics: A cornerstone of Tijuana’s industrial base for over 50 years, the electronics sector comprises around 122 companies and employs approximately 100,000 people. Industry titans like

  Samsung, Foxconn, and LG operate massive assembly plants, with Samsung’s facility alone producing an estimated 19 million televisions annually for the North American market.
• Automotive: While not as dominant as the other sectors, automotive manufacturing is a significant contributor to the local economy. Companies in Tijuana produce a wide range of auto parts and accessories that feed into the larger North American automotive supply chain, with Toyota and Hyundai having major plants in the region.

The presence of these world-class companies underscores the sophistication and capability of Tijuana’s industrial base.

Table 3: Major Multinational Companies with Operations in Tijuana

 

Tijuana’s Economic Outlook for 2025

 

While forecasts for Mexico’s national economy in 2025 are cautious, with projected GDP growth between 0.5% and 1.0% due to factors like political transitions and fiscal policy shifts, Tijuana’s economic outlook appears more robust. The city’s unique position as a nearshoring hub provides a powerful buffer against national headwinds.

Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) remains strong, with Baja California attracting $2.48 billion in 2024. Recent data from April 2025 shows Tijuana with a healthy net trade balance of $588 million, driven by strong exports to the United States, its primary trade partner. Investment announcements continue, particularly from US, Chinese, and South Korean firms looking to capitalize on the city’s strategic advantages. Furthermore, government initiatives like “Plan Mexico 2025,” which offers fiscal incentives such as immediate tax deductions for new investments, are designed to further encourage this trend and support the industries that are the backbone of Tijuana’s economy.

 

B. A Destination Reimagined: Tourism in Modern Tijuana

 

For decades, Tijuana’s image in the American psyche was defined by the Prohibition-era tales of a rowdy party town—a place for cheap drinks and illicit entertainment. While that element still exists, the modern reality of tourism in Tijuana is far more nuanced, sophisticated, and exciting. The city has undergone a profound cultural renaissance, transforming itself into a celebrated destination for food, art, and unique cross-border experiences.

 

From Party Town to Culinary Capital

 

The most dramatic aspect of Tijuana’s transformation is its emergence as a culinary hotspot. The city has become a cradle for “Baja Med” cuisine, an innovative culinary movement that fuses traditional Mexican ingredients and techniques with the fresh, coastal flavors of the Mediterranean and the umami-rich influences of Asian cuisine. This unique gastronomic identity has put Tijuana on the international food map, with several of its restaurants earning recommendations from the prestigious Michelin Guide.

Beyond fine dining, the city is a paradise for street food aficionados. From classic carne asada tacos to inventive seafood tostadas, a vibrant ecosystem of street carts and food trucks offers an authentic and delicious taste of the region. This culinary evolution is rooted in history; Tijuana is famously the birthplace of the Caesar salad, invented in the 1920s at Hotel Caesar’s on the iconic Avenida Revolución.

 

The Craft Beer Revolution

 

Flowing in tandem with the culinary boom is a full-fledged craft beer revolution. Heavily influenced by the pioneering craft beer scene just across the border in San Diego, Tijuana has developed its own dynamic and creative brewing culture. Dozens of independent breweries and taprooms have sprung up, offering an impressive array of styles at prices significantly lower than in the US, with an average pint costing around $4.

The epicenter of this movement is Plaza Fiesta, a somewhat gritty but vibrant complex of bars and tasting rooms where beer lovers can sample the offerings of numerous local brewers in one place. Key players that have gained both local and international acclaim include:

• Cervecería Insurgente: A well-known brewery with a popular taproom on Avenida Revolución, famous for its hoppy IPAs and creative sours like the “Rosa Salvaje”.
• Border Psycho Brewery: A favorite among locals, praised for its bold imperial stouts and unique nitro IPAs, as well as its relaxed, jazz-filled ambiance.
• Norte Brewing Co.: Uniquely located on the fifth floor of a downtown parking garage, this brewery offers stunning city views alongside its well-regarded golden stouts and cream ales.

 

Cultural Hub of the Border

 

Tijuana’s cultural offerings extend well beyond food and drink. The city is home to the most important cultural institution in northwestern Mexico, the Tijuana Cultural Center (CECUT). Opened in 1982, this sprawling complex is instantly recognizable by its massive, spherical OMNIMAX theater, affectionately known as “La Bola” (The Ball). The CECUT hosts the Museum of the Californias, which chronicles the history of the peninsula, as well as performance theaters, art galleries, a botanical garden, and a constant stream of cultural events that draw over 1.5 million visitors annually.

Other key attractions include the bustling Avenida Revolución, the city’s historic tourist thoroughfare; authentic markets like Mercado Hidalgo and El Popo Market where visitors can find local cheeses, sweets, and crafts; and a dynamic urban art scene with vibrant murals adorning buildings throughout the city.

 

Medical Tourism: The Multi-Billion Dollar Industry and Its Risks

 

One of the most significant drivers of tourism to Tijuana is the medical sector. Mexico is the second most popular destination for medical tourism globally, and Tijuana is its undisputed capital. Over 2 million people, overwhelmingly Americans and Canadians, travel to the city each year for medical and dental procedures. The primary motivation is cost. Patients can save anywhere from 40% to 75% on major procedures, including bariatric (weight-loss) surgery, cosmetic surgery, dental implants, and fertility treatments.

This influx of patients has created a multi-billion dollar industry that is a cornerstone of the local economy. However, this rapid, often under-regulated growth has come with significant and undeniable risks. A January 2025 report highlighted that Tijuana’s medical tourism sector is under scrutiny following multiple patient fatalities linked to cosmetic and bariatric surgeries. According to health authorities, the region accounts for a staggering 20% of Mexico’s total surgical fatalities in the industry. The country’s overall mortality rate for cosmetic procedures is between 4 and 5 deaths per 100,000, a figure that significantly exceeds international averages.

The core of the problem lies with uncertified clinics and doctors operating without proper credentials. While many high-quality, internationally certified facilities and US-trained doctors practice in Tijuana, the lack of consistent enforcement allows substandard providers to operate, exposing patients to avoidable dangers. For any American considering medical treatment in Tijuana, the immense potential for cost savings must be weighed against the critical need for exhaustive due diligence to verify the credentials and safety standards of any chosen clinic or surgeon.

 

C. Living and Investing in Tijuana: A Guide for US Expats and Investors

 

The same forces driving Tijuana’s economic and cultural boom have also made it an increasingly attractive destination for American expatriates, retirees, and real estate investors. The city offers a unique cross-border lifestyle and a dynamic property market, but it requires a clear understanding of the legal framework and local realities.

 

The Tijuana Real Estate Market: 2025 Trends and Opportunities

 

The Tijuana real estate market is currently experiencing a significant upswing. As of 2025, home prices in the city have surged by an impressive 12.8% annually, a rate fueled by powerful demand from both Mexican nationals and foreign buyers, particularly Americans.

The appeal for US investors and residents is multifaceted. The primary driver is value. Property prices in Tijuana are substantially lower than in neighboring San Diego, allowing buyers to acquire larger homes or apartments with more amenities for a fraction of the cost. The favorable USD to MXN exchange rate further enhances purchasing power for American buyers. The market also offers high rental income potential, driven by the constant flow of tourists, a growing population of digital nomads, and American professionals who work in San Diego but choose to live in Tijuana for its lower cost of living.

 

How to Buy Property in Mexico as a Foreigner

 

A common concern for Americans is the legality and security of owning property in Mexico. The process is well-established and secure, but it requires adherence to specific legal structures. Because Tijuana lies within the “Restricted Zone”—an area extending 100 kilometers from international borders and 50 kilometers from coastlines—foreigners cannot hold direct title to property.

Instead, they must purchase property through a fideicomiso, which is a trust agreement established with a Mexican bank. In this arrangement, the bank holds the legal title to the property, but the foreign buyer is designated as the beneficiary of the trust and retains all the rights of ownership: they can use, sell, lease, improve, and will the property to their heirs. The

fideicomiso system is a secure and routine mechanism designed specifically to facilitate foreign investment in desirable coastal and border areas.

Furthermore, the process is safeguarded by multiple layers of security. The USMCA (formerly NAFTA) includes provisions that protect US investments in Mexico, and American buyers can obtain title insurance and use escrow services through US companies to ensure a transparent and secure transaction.

 

Quality of Life: Cross-Border Dynamics and Safety

 

Tijuana offers a unique and vibrant quality of life, characterized by its deep cross-border integration. Residents enjoy a significantly lower cost of living while often having access to the San Diego job market and amenities just a short drive away. The city has a large and diverse population, including a substantial community of American expatriates who have made Tijuana their home.

However, it is impossible to discuss life in Tijuana without addressing the issue of safety. The city has a high crime rate, and the U.S. State Department maintains a travel advisory warning against travel to non-tourist areas, primarily due to violence associated with drug cartel activity. While this violence rarely targets tourists or the general expat community, it is a persistent reality of the city. Prospective residents and investors must conduct thorough research into specific neighborhoods (

colonias), as safety levels can vary dramatically from one area to another. By choosing secure residential developments, which often feature modern infrastructure and 24/7 security, and exercising standard urban vigilance, many expats find they can enjoy the immense cultural and economic benefits of life in Tijuana safely.

 

Conclusion: Connecting with Confidence and Clarity

 

The 663 area code is far more than a sequence of numbers; it is a digital marker for Tijuana, a city defined by dynamic transition and profound cross-border connectivity. This report has navigated the full spectrum of information a US resident might need, moving from the fundamental mechanics of making a call to the complex realities of the city itself.

The key takeaways are clear and actionable. First, communication with Tijuana is simpler and more affordable than ever. The dialing process has been standardized, and with the prevalence of Mexico-inclusive mobile plans and ultra-low-cost VoIP services, the era of exorbitant per-minute charges is over for the informed consumer.

Second, vigilance is non-negotiable. The ambiguity of the 664 area code—serving both as a legitimate prefix for Tijuana and a tool for international scammers—demands a cautious approach to all unsolicited calls. By refusing to call back unknown numbers, independently verifying claims from supposed authorities, and utilizing carrier-provided scam-blocking tools, individuals can effectively shield themselves from fraud.

Finally, Tijuana itself emerges as a city of compelling contrasts. It is a critical North American manufacturing hub driving the nearshoring trend and a cultural destination with a world-class culinary scene. It offers immense opportunities in medical tourism and real estate investment, yet these come with tangible risks that require careful navigation and due diligence.

Ultimately, the 663 area code symbolizes a gateway. For the US resident, it is a gateway to family, friends, and business partners. For the American business, it is a gateway to a vital manufacturing ecosystem. And for the traveler and investor, it is a gateway to a city that is constantly reinventing itself. By understanding the practicalities of connection, the nature of the risks, and the depth of the opportunities, anyone in the United States can engage with Tijuana and its 663 area code with confidence and clarity.