- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Mexico Guide (PDF)
Compared to its North American neighbours, Mexico is much more affordable. In fact, 2021's Mercer Cost of Living Survey ranked Mexico 152nd out of 209 cities. For this reason, along with the relaxed and high-quality lifestyle, the country has become an increasingly popular destination for foreign retirees, who find that their pension stretches a lot further in Mexico than it would back home.
The cost of living in Mexico varies substantially depending on where an expat lives. It's possible to live inexpensively in the country's rural areas, but life in the cities is considerably more costly.
Cost of accommodation in Mexico
Expats living in Mexico will likely find accommodation to be their greatest monthly expense. This naturally depends on where they live in Mexico as property prices and rentals can vary considerably. In general, expats will find good value for money when it comes to renting or purchasing property, particularly in the more rural areas. Cities, resort towns and beachfront locations tend to be more expensive.
Both furnished and unfurnished accommodation is available and houses and apartments often come with fully-equipped kitchens, which may help expats save on start-up costs.
Cost of transport in Mexico
Mexico has an extensive public transport system which is affordable and reliable. Buses travel between most towns so travelling around the country is easily done without a car.
Many towns are easily navigable on foot or bicycle, but driving does provide expats with more freedom. Many expats therefore prefer to drive and must budget for purchasing, maintenance and fuel costs.
Cost of schools in Mexico
While public schooling in Mexico is free, with expenses only for school supplies and textbooks, private and international schools are often preferred by expats due to their higher standard of education and facilities. Expats can choose between a range of private schools that offer bilingual education and a familiar curriculum to help ease the transition process for their children and secure a quality education. Alternatively, international schools provide a multicultural space for children from all over the globe to get to know each other. While the costs are high, they are generally worth it. School fees range between institutions.
Cost of healthcare in Mexico
Some public healthcare facilities in Mexico are excellent, providing a high standard of care. That said, many expats prefer private hospitals but these come at a heftier price. Expats with international medical sceheme must ensure that their insurance covers the specific hospital they visit. Healthcare expenses quickly add up with check-ups, medication and additional support, so it's important to research the best insurance companies.
Cost of living in Mexico chart
Note that prices may vary depending on location and service provider. The table below is based on average prices for Mexico City in February 2022.
|
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
|
One-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
MXN 13,100 |
|
One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
MXN 9, 000 |
|
Three-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
MXN 26,700 |
|
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
MXN 16, 300 |
|
Food and drink |
|
|
Dozen eggs |
MXN 32 |
|
Milk (1 litre) |
MXN 20 |
|
Rice (1kg) |
MXN 21 |
|
Loaf of white bread |
MXN 32 |
|
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
MXN 95 |
|
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
MXN 57 |
|
Eating out |
|
|
Big Mac meal |
MXN 120 |
|
Coca-Cola |
MXN 16 |
|
Cappuccino |
MXN 46 |
|
Bottle of beer (local) |
MXN 40 |
|
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant |
MXN 700 |
|
Utilities/household (monthly) |
|
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
MXN 1.50 |
|
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
MXN 400 |
|
Basic utilities (average per month for a standard household) |
MXN 900 |
|
Transport |
|
|
Taxi rate/km |
MXN 5.20 |
|
Bus fare in the city centre |
MXN 6 |
|
Gasoline/petrol (per litre) |
MXN 22 |