Tulum vs Mexico City
Cost of living comparison for expats considering Tulum or Mexico City, Mexico.
Based on a typical expat lifestyle
Mexico City is 18% cheaper than Tulum
Monthly savings
$410
Mexico
Tulum
$2,313
$40,478
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
Tulum
Tulum operates without Uber due to taxi union control—negotiate fares before entering (Centro 50-100 pesos, beach 200-500 pesos). Electricity follows tiered CFE rates—exceeding 800 kWh bimonthly triggers DAC rates that quadruple your bill. High season (December-April) sees 20-30% rent premiums. Spanish listings on Inmuebles24 run 15-30% cheaper than English platforms. The 60% of Tulum lacking sewage infrastructure means tap water is unsafe—budget for garrafones. Power outages are regular; beach zone runs entirely on diesel generators.
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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