Mexico
Cost of Living in Oaxaca
Oaxaca delivers possibly the best food-to-cost ratio in Mexico—tlayudas for $4-6, tacos de tasajo at Central de Abastos for just $0.17 each. Mezcal runs $8-15/bottle vs $60+ in the US.
Monthly Total
$1,169
$20,458
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$518
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$22
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/19/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$518
$9,065
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$88
$1,540
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$140
$2,450
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$48
$840
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$90
$1,575
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$183
$3,203
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$65
$1,138
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$38
$665
Monthly Total
$1,169
$20,458
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Living in Oaxaca
Oaxaca is one of Mexico's most affordable cities with exceptional cultural value. Comfortable living is possible on $1,200-1,500/month. The food scene offers incredible value—world-class cuisine at local prices. Mezcal tastings add to lifestyle costs.
Complete Guide to Living in Oaxaca
Mexico's cultural heart where mezcal, mole, and indigenous traditions create magic
Frequently Asked Questions
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