- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Mexico Guide (PDF)
Compared to its North American neighbours, Mexico is much more affordable. In fact, 2022's Mercer Cost of Living Survey ranked Mexico City 149th out of 227 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 scheme 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 September 2022.
Accommodation (monthly rent) |
|
One-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
MXN 15,014 |
One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
MXN 9,041 |
Three-bedroom apartment in the city centre |
MXN 28,229 |
Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre |
MXN 16,546 |
Food and drink |
|
Dozen eggs |
MXN 36.31 |
Milk (1 litre) |
MXN 25.10 |
Rice (1kg) |
MXN 27.44 |
Loaf of white bread |
MXN 38 |
Chicken breasts (1kg) |
MXN 116 |
Pack of cigarettes (Marlboro) |
MXN 69 |
Eating out |
|
Big Mac meal |
MXN 130 |
Coca-Cola |
MXN 20 |
Cappuccino |
MXN 52 |
Bottle of beer (local) |
MXN 50 |
Three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant |
MXN 725 |
Utilities/household (monthly) |
|
Mobile call rate (per minute – mobile to mobile) |
MXN 1.97 |
Internet (uncapped ADSL or cable – average per month) |
MXN 530 |
Basic utilities (average per month for a standard household) |
MXN 952 |
Transport |
|
Taxi rate/km |
MXN 9 |
Bus fare in the city centre |
MXN 6 |
Gasoline/petrol (per litre) |
MXN 22.94 |
Further reading
►For more on expat finances, have a look at Banking, Money and Taxes in Mexico
►Read more in Working in Mexico
Expat Interviews
"Home prices in the upper end are not cheap. One CAN find bargain homes however, outside the center of town. Domestic help is pretty cheap and most people have a maid or gardener or both." For more insights, read our interview with Susan, an American expat living in Mexico.
Are you an expat living in Mexico?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Mexico. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.