San Miguel de Allende vs Atenas

Cost of living comparison for expats considering San Miguel de Allende or Atenas, Mexico.

Based on a typical expat lifestyle

Atenas is 11% cheaper than San Miguel de Allende

Monthly savings

$183

Mexico

San Miguel de Allende

$1,736

$30,380

Costa Rica

Atenas

$1,553

$27,178

Cheaper option

Category Breakdown

Category
San Miguel de Allende
Atenas
Difference

Housing (Rent)

$862
$633
-27%

Utilities

$122
$121
-1%

Groceries

$210
$210

Dining Out

$84
$96
+14%

Transportation

$120
$150
+25%

Lifestyle & Entertainment

$198
$193
-3%

Healthcare

$90
$100
+11%

Phone & Subscriptions

$50
$50
Monthly Total
$1,736
$1,553
-11%

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 Miguel de Allende

San Miguel operates on two parallel tracks: English-language rental sites charge 30-50% premium over Spanish listings on Inmuebles24 and Segundamano. The Tuesday tianguis market is essential for local prices. Healthcare offers 60-80% savings vs US prices.

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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