Mérida vs Atenas
Cost of living comparison for expats considering Mérida or Atenas, Mexico.
Based on a typical expat lifestyle
Atenas is 10% cheaper than Mérida
Monthly savings
$173
Mexico
Mérida
$1,726
$30,205
Costa Rica
Atenas
$1,553
$27,178
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
Mérida
Mérida offers exceptional value—couples can live comfortably on $2,200-2,800/month with good housing, regular dining, and healthcare. The critical catch: summer heat means electricity for AC can dominate your budget.
Atenas
Small-town living with easy access to San José for shopping and healthcare. Farmers markets offer excellent local produce prices. Limited dining options but lower cost of living overall.
Customize This Comparison
These estimates use a typical expat profile. Adjust housing, dining, and lifestyle preferences to match your actual situation.
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