Mexico

Cost of Living in 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.

Monthly Total

$1,736

$30,380

Housing (1BR Mid-range)

$862

Daily Spend (ex. rent)

$29

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

$862

$15,085

Utilities

Electric, water, gas, and internet

$122

$2,135

Groceries

Groceries from supermarkets

$210

$3,675

Dining Out

Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month

$84

$1,470

Transportation

Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month

$120

$2,100

Lifestyle & Entertainment

Entertainment, occasional cleaning service

$198

$3,465

Healthcare

Basic private health insurance

$90

$1,575

Phone & Subscriptions

Phone plan and streaming subscriptions

$50

$875

Monthly Total

$1,736

$30,380

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Living in San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel commands a 30-50% premium over comparable Mexican cities due to its reputation and expat demand. The Tuesday market offers value shopping. Highland location means no AC costs. Excellent restaurants at various price points.

Destination Guide

Complete Guide to Living in San Miguel de Allende

Mexico's most elegant expat haven—where colonial grandeur meets world-class art and culture

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is San Miguel de Allende expensive for expats?▼

It's one of Mexico's pricier destinations. Housing runs 30-50% more than Mérida or Oaxaca. A comfortable lifestyle costs $2,000-3,000/month, lean budget $1,500, luxury $4,000+.

Can you live in San Miguel de Allende on $2,000 a month?▼

Yes, $2,000/month is the sweet spot for most expats. You'd have a nice one-to-two bedroom apartment in Guadiana or near-Centro for $1,000-1,500, weekly housekeeping, mix of cooking and eating out.

Compare San Miguel de Allende to Other Cities

See how San Miguel de Allende stacks up against other popular expat destinations in Mexico.

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