nice and safe area of Cancun for $1,000 USD a month

Certainly Fred, with todays exvhange rate 1000 USD would be around $15000 MXN. That is above average for Mexicans, so yeah that would be enough for an ok to good living in Cancun, It all depends on what exactly you want to do in Cancun.

Hello FredtheBiped,

Welcome on board 

Your post is now on the Cancun forum along with the feedback you had. You will be more likely to gather information on this thread.

Here is an interesting article which might enlighten you : Accommodation in Cancun

You may also browse through the threads in the Find an accommodation in Cancun category of the Cancun forum so as to look around what could be helpful to you.

Best of luck,
Bhavna

Also look on airbnb. I've found great places on there cheap.

Only on a 180 Tourist permit because you still need an income of 12-1300 US each month for a Resident Visa

Check with a Mexican Consulate if you want a Visa

Heck yes!  You may not get a beach front property, but you can definitely find something that you will love. Much of Cancun is quite safe, do your homework, and let us know when you get here! We're always looking to connect with fellow ex-pats.