Cabo San Lucas vs Mexico City
Cost of living comparison for expats considering Cabo San Lucas or Mexico City, Mexico.
Based on a typical expat lifestyle
Mexico City is 11% cheaper than Cabo San Lucas
Monthly savings
$234
Mexico
Cabo San Lucas
$2,137
$37,398
Mexico
Mexico City
$1,903
$33,303
Cheaper option
Category Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
Utilities
Groceries
Dining Out
Transportation
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Healthcare
Phone & Subscriptions
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment, basic health insurance.
City Insights
Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas operates on two pricing tracks: tourist-facing Airbnb rates average $9,448/month, while Spanish-language listings and Facebook groups reveal the same units for $1,000-1,500 with 6-12 month leases—a 75% discount for those willing to do the legwork. The water crisis is real: some neighborhoods go 15-20 days without municipal supply, requiring cisterna storage and pipa (water truck) deliveries at $15-750 per fill. Summer electricity can shock newcomers—heavy AC usage triggers DAC (high consumption) tier rates that essentially double your bill. The geographic isolation of Baja means groceries cost 30-50% more than mainland Mexico. Healthcare is excellent (Hospital H+ rated 'up to American standards') but Saint Luke's Hospital has US State Department warnings for predatory billing.
Mexico City
CDMX offers incredible value for a world-class metropolis. The range is enormous—you can spend like you're in NYC or live comfortably on $1,200-1,500/month. Neighborhood choice matters more here than anywhere else in Mexico. The 'gringo premium' is real but manageable: English-language rental platforms run 10-30% higher than Spanish listings on Inmuebles24 or Segundamano. The temperate climate at 7,350ft means minimal utility costs—no AC or heating needed. Tap water is NOT drinkable; budget $15-20/month for garrafones. The metro at 5 pesos ($0.29) per ride is one of the world's great transportation bargains.
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These estimates use a typical expat profile. Adjust housing, dining, and lifestyle preferences to match your actual situation.
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