San Luis Potosí vs Mexico City
Cost of living comparison for expats considering San Luis Potosí or Mexico City, Mexico.
Based on a typical expat lifestyle
San Luis Potosí is 30% cheaper than Mexico City
Monthly savings
$566
Mexico
San Luis Potosí
$1,337
$23,398
Cheaper option
Mexico
Mexico City
$1,903
$33,303
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
San Luis Potosí
San Luis Potosí hasn't developed the 'expat premium' seen in San Miguel de Allende—searching in Spanish yields the best deals. The industrial economy (BMW, GM, Cummins) keeps wages and prices stable without tourist inflation. The serious water crisis requires preparation: tinaco (rooftop tank) and cisterna (underground storage) are essential, and garrafones or filtration systems are mandatory for drinking water. Lomas neighborhoods offer the best balance of safety, amenities, and value. The small expat community means genuine immersion but limited English services.
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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