Cost of Living in Mexico: What Expats REALLY Spend Each Month

Thinking about moving to Mexico? One of the biggest questions future expats ask is: “How much does it actually cost to live there?” While Mexico is known for offering an excellent quality of life at a lower price point, the true monthly budget varies based on lifestyle, location, and personal preferences.

Below is a realistic, experience-based breakdown of what expats typically spend each month in popular areas like Playa del Carmen, Mérida, Puerto Vallarta, Mexico City, and more.

🏡 Housing Costs

Housing is where your budget will vary the most. Prices depend heavily on the city and whether you live near the beach.

Typical Monthly Rent:

$400–$700 USD — Local-style apartment further from tourist zones
$700–$1,200 USD — Modern 1–2 bedroom apartment in a good neighborhood
$1,200–$2,500+ USD — Luxury condos, ocean-view units, or new developments

Homeownership:
Property taxes are extremely low compared to the U.S. and Canada—often $150–$500 USD per year.

💡 Utilities & Internet

Most expats pay far less for utilities than they would back home—unless they run A/C 24/7.

Electricity: $30–$80 USD (light A/C use) / $100–$250 (heavy A/C use)
Internet: $25–$45 USD
Water: $5–$10 USD
Cell Phone Plan: $10–$25 USD (Telcel, AT&T, Movistar)

🍍 Groceries & Eating Out

Mexico offers excellent fresh produce and affordable local markets.

Groceries:

Single expat: $150–$300 USD/month
Couple: $250–$450 USD/month

Eating Out:

Local restaurants: $4–$10 USD per meal
Mid-range restaurants: $15–$25 USD per person
High-end dining: $35–$60+ USD per person

Street food is delicious, safe in most areas, and often $1–$2 USD per item.

🚗 Transportation

You can live without a car in most cities.

Public transportation: $0.50–$1 USD per ride
Uber/Taxi: $2–$6 USD per trip
Gasoline: Similar to U.S. prices
Car ownership: Only recommended if you live outside city centers

Many expats get by spending $40–$100 USD monthly on transportation.

🩺 Healthcare & Insurance

Mexico’s healthcare system is one of its biggest advantages.

Private doctor visits: $25–$50 USD
Specialist appointments: $40–$80 USD
Dental cleanings: $30–$60 USD
Full dental work or implants: 50–70% less than U.S./Canada

Private health insurance:

$50–$150 USD/month, depending on age and coverage.

🎉 Entertainment & Lifestyle

Gym membership: $20–$60 USD
Yoga/fitness studios: $40–$100 USD
Movie theater: $3–$6 USD
Weekend beach trips, cenotes, or activities: $10–$40 USD

💰 So What’s the REAL Monthly Budget?

Budget Lifestyle

$1,000–$1,500 USD
Local rent, eating at home, few luxuries.

Comfortable Middle Lifestyle (most expats)

$1,500–$2,500 USD
Nice apartment, dining out weekly, gym, A/C, activities.

Upscale Lifestyle

$2,500–$4,000+ USD
Luxury condo, frequent travel, dining out, car ownership.

Why Mexico Remains a Top Choice for Expats

Lower cost of living
Access to world-class beaches
Strong expat communities
Affordable healthcare
Vibrant culture, food, and lifestyle

For many Americans and Canadians, living in Mexico means spending less while enjoying more—more sun, more freedom, and more quality of life.

About the Author

Hi, I’m Matt from Nasplaya, your go-to guide for living, investing, and thriving in Playa del Carmen and the Riviera Maya. In 2008 my husband and I quit our jobs in Boston, Massachusetts, sold everything we owned and drove to Playa del Carmen, Mexico to start North American Standards (Nasplaya), our property management, vacation rental and real estate company. Now 17+ years later, I am sharing our experience helping expats and property owners navigate the local market. I share honest insights, practical tips, and insider knowledge to make your move—or your investment—a success.

From finding the best schools and maximizing rental income to understanding local regulations and uncovering hidden gems, my goal is to give you clear, actionable advice you can trust. When I’m not exploring the beaches or scouting the newest rental opportunities, I’m sharing stories, guides, and strategies that help you make the most of life in paradise.

Follow along for expert tips, local updates, and everything you need to live, invest, and enjoy the Riviera Maya to the fullest.

North American Standards (NAS Playa)
Property Management • Rentals • Real Estate
📍 Playa del Carmen, Mexico
🌐 www.nasplaya.com 🔑 Rentals: rentals@nasplaya.com
📊 Ventas: buy@nasplaya.com 🏘 Property Management: bookings@nasplaya.com