Mexico City vs Madrid

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Mexico City is roughly 37% more affordable than Madrid (index 24 vs 38, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Mexico City
More affordable overall
37% cheaper than Madrid · Cost index: 24 vs 38

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

24Cost Index38
2,000Median Income /mo3,150
58Safety Index65
18Income Tax %25
107Internet (Mbps)95
200Coworking /mo250

Price Breakdown

Mexico CityCategoryMadrid
$950/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
21% cheaper →
$1,210/month
$0.85/liter
Meal for One
15% cheaper →
$1/liter
$8/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
47% cheaper →
$15/meal
$35/month
Monthly Transit Pass
42% cheaper →
$60/month
$110/month
Utilities (Monthly)
33% cheaper →
$165/month
$60/visit
Doctor Visit
14% cheaper →
$70/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Mexico City

Internet107 Mbps
Coworking$200/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability78/100

Madrid

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$250/mo
Café WiFiexcellent
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability82/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico City cheaper than Madrid?

Mexico City is cheaper than Madrid. Mexico City has a cost of living index of 24/100 compared to 38/100 for Madrid (New York = 100), making it roughly 37% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Mexico City than Madrid?

Mexico City is approximately 37% cheaper than Madrid based on cost index scores (24 vs 38, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Madrid could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $1,897/month in Mexico City.

What is the rent comparison between Mexico City and Madrid?

In Mexico City, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $950/month. In Madrid, the equivalent is around $1,210/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Mexico City or Madrid?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Mexico City offers 107 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$200/month. Madrid offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$250/month. Mexico City has a cost advantage of 37%.

What is the average income in Mexico City vs Madrid?

The median net monthly salary in Mexico City is approximately $2,000 USD, compared to $3,150 USD in Madrid.

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