Cost of living in Mexico: Food, transport, and more

From one-dollar tacos to flats in exclusive areas that cost over €1,000 ($1,070) per month, the cost of living in Mexico might surprise you. This article reveals how much it really costs to live in the country, how affordable or expensive it is compared to other regions, and which cities are worth moving to if you’re planning a relocation.

You’ll find out how much people usually spend on food, transport, accommodation, internet, healthcare, and leisure. That’ll help you decide if your budget fits. Want to know how many dollars or euros per month you’ll need to live well in Mexico City, or what international health insurance costs? Keep reading. This guide has everything you need to plan your move to Mexico without unpleasant surprises.

What’s the average cost of housing in Mexico?

If you’re planning to move to Mexico, one of the first things to consider is where to live and how much it’ll cost. Here’s something important to know early on: housing might be one of your highest monthly expenses, especially in touristy areas or major cities.

For instance, renting a furnished flat in a good area of Mexico City can range from €1,120 to €1,870 ($1,200–2,000) per month. In cities like Cancún or Playa del Carmen, where tourist traffic is high, prices stay similarly elevated. Guadalajara and Monterrey tend to be slightly more affordable. However, the cost still depends on the neighbourhood and whether you’re ready to negotiate longer-term contracts.

The good news is Mexico offers plenty of variety: from well-located coliving options to move-in-ready flats or Airbnbs with monthly discounts. We won’t suggest luxury places or extremely basic options. Instead, we’ll show you balanced choices: decent services, safe neighbourhoods, and reasonable prices.

Cost of living in Mexico: Housing options

Below, we review the most popular types of accommodation among digital nomads, remote workers, students, and expat families who decide to live in Mexico short or long term.

Extended-stay hotels

These are a great option for people who’ve just arrived and need time to find something more permanent. They offer rooms with a basic kitchen, weekly cleaning, and services like WiFi and laundry. In major cities like CDMX or Monterrey, monthly costs range from €1,840 to €2,760 ($2,000–3,000), although you might find lower rates in mid-sized cities if you negotiate monthly stays.

Furnished apartments

These are ideal for people seeking independence, privacy, and stability. In Mexico City, renting a one-bedroom furnished flat in areas like Roma, Condesa or Polanco can cost between €1,100 and €1,840 ($1,200–2,000) per month. In smaller cities like Mérida or Querétaro, or in less central neighbourhoods, prices drop to €460–640 ($500–700). Most include full furniture, a fitted kitchen, and basic services.

Co-living

Coliving spaces are increasingly popular among remote workers and students. You’ll get a private room and access to shared areas like kitchens, coworking spaces, terraces, or gardens. They often include social events, cleaning, and utilities. Prices in CDMX and other cities range from €370 to €640 ($400–700) per month, making them ideal for those wanting to lower their housing costs in Mexico. Well-known coliving spaces include Selina, U-Co and Homework.

By the way, here are our articles on coliving in different Mexican cities and nationwide, so you can explore more options:

• Coliving in Guadalajara
• Coliving in Playa del Carmen
• Coliving in Mexico City
• Coliving in Oaxaca
• Coliving in Mexico

Monthly Airbnb

If you’re after flexibility and don’t want long-term contracts, this is a convenient option. Many hosts offer significant discounts for monthly bookings, making it easy to settle in and start living. In Mexico City (CDMX), rental prices can range from $600 to $1,500 (€590-1480), depending on the area, size and season. In tourist cities like Cancún, rates often sit at the higher end.

Price comparison table

Here’s a price comparison table for different accommodation types. Keep in mind that prices vary a lot between cities and areas. Still, it gives a good estimate of how much renting a place in Mexico might affect your monthly budget.

Accommodation costs in Mexico

How much does food cost in Mexico?

Food prices are another key part of the cost of living in Mexico. How much money do you need monthly? Does eating out stretch your budget? Let’s take a look.

Eating in Mexico isn’t just a pleasure – it can also be affordable if you know where to shop and what to choose. The country is famous for its rich cuisine, with low-cost traditional dishes and markets packed with fresh ingredients. Still, if you prefer cooking at home, supermarkets offer a wide variety and fair prices, especially chains like Walmart and Chedraui, found in nearly every city.

What’s interesting is that monthly food costs adapt easily to different budgets. A student who cooks at home might spend around €140 ($150) per month. Meanwhile, a couple combining takeaway and groceries could spend €275–365 ($300–400).

Below, we’ve listed average prices to give you a clearer idea of how much it costs to eat in Mexico.

Estimated prices based on Walmart Mexico, June 2025.

As you can see, supermarket shopping can be affordable, especially if you choose local products and Mexican brands. Traditional markets usually offer fruits, vegetables, and meats at even lower prices than supermarket chains.

Eating out in Mexico: Prices at local restaurants

Dining out in Mexico is also affordable if you avoid tourist zones and choose places locals love. Whether in Mexico City, Guadalajara or Puebla, you can enjoy full meals for under €4,60 ($5). Here’s an idea:

• Typical breakfast (eggs, bread, coffee): $3.50/€3.22
• Full lunch (soup, main dish, flavoured water): $5.50/€5.06
• Casual dinner (tacos al pastor, drink, dessert): $6.50/€5.98

On average, you could spend between €13.80 and €18.40 ($15–20) per day eating out, if you stick to local spots. But if you dine in places like Polanco (CDMX) or Quinta Avenida (Playa del Carmen), expect much higher prices.

How does transport affect the cost of living in Mexico?

Getting around Mexico is generally affordable. The country has a solid public transport network in major cities, plus options like Uber, shared bikes and rental cars for added comfort. In Mexico City, for example, you can travel across the city for under a dollar. In smaller cities like Puebla or Mérida, monthly transport expenses remain low too.

However, if you plan to own a car, factor in extra costs like fuel, compulsory insurance and maintenance. Here’s an overview of average prices for the most common transport options among residents and expats living in Mexico.

Cost of living in Mexico: Public transport

• Mexico City Metro: $0.28/€0.26 per ride
• Metrobús (CDMX): €0.40 ($0.43)
• Urban bus fare (Guadalajara, Monterrey, etc.): Between $0.50 and $0.70 / €0.46–€0.64.
• Traditional taxi (starting fare): $1.20 + $0.60/km / €1.10 + €0.55/km

The CDMX metro is one of the cheapest in Latin America. If you use it daily, get a rechargeable card to access metro, Metrobús and light rail at even lower prices.

Uber and similar apps

• Short ride (approx. 5 km) in CDMX: $3.50–4.50 / €3,22–4.14
• 10 km ride: $6.50–9.00 / €5,98–8.28

Platforms like Uber, DiDi, or Cabify are widely used by locals and are often safer and more comfortable than traditional taxis. In tourist hotspots like Cancún or Tulum, prices are usually higher.

Fuel and energy for electric cars in Mexico

• Price per litre of Magna petrol (June 2025): €1.20 ($1.30)
• Average kWh price (household, for charging an electric car): €0.12 ($0.13)

Owning an electric car in Mexico is still not as common as in Europe, but it is becoming an option in larger cities where more charging infrastructure is available. Popular models include Tesla and Nissan Leaf, especially in CDMX. Tesla and Nissan Leaf are some of the most popular models in Mexico City.

Public bicycles and sustainable mobility

In cities such as CDMX and Guadalajara, shared bike systems are widely used by both locals and foreigners:

• ECOBICI (CDMX):
  • $0.60/€0.55 per ride
  • $23 / €21 for a monthly unlimited pass
  • $83 / €76 for an annual pass

Other similar systems exist in Puebla, León and Monterrey, with comparable prices.

Mandatory civil liability insurance: from $120 USD per year (€110).

• Comprehensive insurance (third-party damage, theft, legal and medical assistance): $350–700 per year (€320–640)

Car insurance is compulsory to drive on federal roads and many major cities. If you’re going to drive, even briefly, having at least basic coverage is essential.

Price of a new car

A new car in Mexico isn’t especially expensive compared to other countries. One of the most popular models, the Nissan Versa, costs around: $17,000 (€15,640). It’s a popular car due to its low fuel consumption, economical maintenance, and good value for money. The Chevrolet Aveo, Kia Rio, and some Volkswagen models are also common.

What Is the cost of healthcare services in Mexico?

One of the most appreciated aspects by foreigners moving to Mexico is access to healthcare. The country offers both a public system and private options, so you can choose based on your migration status, medical needs, and budget. Healthcare in Mexico is generally of good quality, especially in major cities and private hospitals.

While some foreigners can access the public system, most prefer to get a private health insurance, either for speed, broader coverage, or visa requirements. In this section, we explain how much it costs to get medical care in Mexico, whether with insurance or paying directly.

Can foreigners access the public system?

Yes, but with conditions. The public system consists of several institutions, including the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS) and INSABI (Institute of Health for Wellbeing).

• INSABI: Offers free care to people without social security. In theory, foreigners can also access it, but in practice, it varies depending on the state and hospital resources.
• IMSS (with voluntary registration): Any foreigner with temporary or permanent residency can register by paying an annual fee. This covers consultations, hospitalisation, surgeries, medication, and more.

Annual cost of IMSS (voluntary registration):

• Adult aged 20 to 39 years: $180 (€166)
• Adult aged 40 to 59 years: $290 (€268)
• Over 60 years: $450 (€414)

Cost of Living in Mexico: Price of private health insurance

Many foreigners choose to get private health insurance, especially if they live in Mexico City, Monterrey, Guadalajara, or tourist areas. Plans vary depending on age, coverage, and insurer.

Estimated prices for private health insurance:

• Young adults (20–35 years): $40–80 /month (€37–74)
• Adults (35–60 years): $70–150 /month (€64–138)
• Over 60 years: $130–$300 /month (€120–276)

Average Prices of Private Healthcare Services

Although prices vary by city and clinic, these are the most common ranges:

• General medical consultation (without insurance): $25–50 (€23–46)
• Routine dental check-up (cleaning, examination): $30–70 (€28–64)
• Ultrasound or lab tests: $40–80 (€37–74)
• Appendicitis surgery (including hospital stay): $1,800–3,000 (€1,656–2,760)
• Minor emergencies (emergency room): $70–150 (€64–138)

In high-level private clinics like Ángeles, ABC, or Star Médica, prices may be at the higher end, but care is fast, modern, and personalised.

What impact do Internet and call plan prices have on the cost of living in Mexico?

Connectivity in Mexico has improved a lot in recent years. The main cities have fibre optic, 4G coverage, and in many cases, also 5G networks. This is a great advantage for digital nomads, international students, or anyone who needs to work or study from home. Here’s a bit more information:

Home broadband

The most popular residential internet providers in Mexico are Telmex (Infinitum), Izzi, Totalplay, and Megacable. Most include a modem, free installation, and access to streaming platforms in their plans.

Average internet costs in Mexico

Prices vary depending on the city and whether you bundle the service with cable TV or landline. In rural or remote areas, availability may be more limited.

Mobile Phone Plans

Companies like Telcel, AT&T, and Movistar operate in Mexico, all with good national coverage. There are also low-cost options like Bait, Unefon, and Diri, with affordable plans for those who only need basic calls and data.

All plans include unlimited WhatsApp without using data, and most let you use your line in the US and Canada at no extra cost.

How to Get Unlimited Data in Mexico?

There’s a very simple way to get unlimited data in Mexico: with Holafly’s monthly plans. You can share internet with other devices, browse without limits, and travel worldwide without worrying about roaming or coverage, since their eSIM is global. Therefore, if you plan to travel often or combine your stay in Mexico with other destinations in the region, you won’t need to change plans or buy a different eSIM. Holafly’s monthly plans work in over 160 countries!

What’s the cost of the service? Let’s see:

• 25GB Plan: This plan suits you if you often have video calls, use collaborative platforms, or regularly download files. $49.90/month (€46.20)
• Unlimited Data Plan: Ideal for those who work online. $64.90/month (€60.10)
• With Holafly, you can also get unlimited data via a Mexico eSIM. Choose the days you need, keep your SIM, and avoid roaming costs. best esim internet for digital nomads

Important: If you are a frequent traveler and want to stay connected without worrying about expensive roaming or looking for a new SIM at every destination, Holafly’s subscription plans are for you. With a single eSIM, enjoy internet in more than 160 countries for a fixed price and no surprises on your bill. Travel without limits and connect easily and securely! 🚀🌍

What are the costs of leisure activities in Mexico?

The last aspect of the cost of living in Mexico we will assess is related to leisure activities. First, you should know that this country offers a wide and diverse range of leisure options. From cultural and outdoor activities to shows, cinema, digital subscriptions, nature parks, and beaches along the Caribbean, Gulf of Mexico, and Pacific coast, the country can be enjoyed in all its corners. It’s no wonder that Mexico receives tourists from all over the world year-round. The best part is that many of these options are affordable for both residents and foreigners, so enjoying your free time doesn’t necessarily mean spending a lot.

Whether you live in Mexico City, the Riviera Maya, or a medium-sized city like Puebla or Guanajuato, you’ll find options for all tastes and budgets. Below, we show you how much it costs to have fun in Mexico without breaking the bank.

Everyday Activities and Urban Entertainment

Large cities have a very varied cultural programme. In Mexico City, for example, you can attend shows at the Palacio de Bellas Artes or the Teatro de los Insurgentes starting from $10 (€8.50). Additionally, many museums and cultural centres offer free entry on certain days of the week.

Digital Platforms and Subscriptions

• Netflix (standard plan): €10.12 ($11)
• Spotify Premium individual: €5.52 ($6)
• HBO Max (monthly): €6.90 ($7.50)
• Disney+: €5.98 ($6.50)
• TV + internet package (Izzi or Totalplay): from $35 /€32.20

Many people combine traditional TV with streaming platforms, and there are frequent promotions if you subscribe to the full package including internet and phone.

Domestic Tourism and Key Attractions

Mexico is full of archaeological sites, nature reserves, and spectacular beaches. Some have free entry, but the most famous ones do have an entrance fee. Here are some examples:

Cost of the main tourist attractions in Mexico

As you can see, it is possible to enjoy both culture and nature with affordable options. If you plan frequent trips, it’s advisable to combine visits to free sites with paid attractions to keep your budget balanced.

So, is the cost of living in Mexico expensive?

The conclusion is that living in Mexico can be as affordable or expensive as you decide. While prices are higher in large cities like Mexico City or Monterrey, in other areas like Mérida, Puebla, or Querétaro you can live for much less and maintain a good quality of life.

Housing represents the highest expense, followed by education and health if you don’t have public coverage. However, eating out is inexpensive, transport is affordable, and there are many ways to stay connected without spending a fortune. Most importantly, you will always find mid-range, safe, and comfortable options without unnecessary luxuries or poor services.

Mexico remains an attractive destination for those seeking a more relaxed life, a fresh start, or a base from which to explore Latin America. With this guide, you now have a clear idea of prices—now all that’s left is to plan your budget and start planning your new life. And don’t forget: viva Mexico, cabrones! Cost of Living in Mexico:

Frequently Asked Questions about the Cost of Living in Mexico

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