San Miguel de Allende vs Mérida

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

Based on a typical expat lifestyle

Mérida is 1% cheaper than San Miguel de Allende

Monthly savings

$10

Mexico

San Miguel de Allende

$1,736

$30,380

Mexico

Mérida

$1,726

$30,205

Cheaper option

Category Breakdown

Category
San Miguel de Allende
Mérida
Difference

Housing (Rent)

$862
$782
-9%

Utilities

$122
$273
+124%

Groceries

$210
$182
-13%

Dining Out

$84
$60
-29%

Transportation

$120
$120
—

Lifestyle & Entertainment

$198
$189
-5%

Healthcare

$90
$75
-17%

Phone & Subscriptions

$50
$45
-10%
Monthly Total
$1,736
$1,726
-1%

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.

Cost breakdown Destination guide

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.

Cost breakdown Destination guide

Customize This Comparison

These estimates use a typical expat profile. Adjust housing, dining, and lifestyle preferences to match your actual situation.

Personalize Your Estimate

Other Comparisons

San Miguel de Allende vs AlgarveMérida vs AlgarveSan Miguel de Allende vs AlicanteMérida vs AlicanteSan Miguel de Allende vs ArmeniaMérida vs ArmeniaSan Miguel de Allende vs AtenasMérida vs Atenas