Mexico City vs Medellín

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Medellín is roughly 26% more affordable than Mexico City (index 18 vs 24, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Medellín
More affordable overall
26% cheaper than Mexico City · Cost index: 18 vs 24

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 Index18
2,000Median Income /mo1,200
58Safety Index60
18Income Tax %19
107Internet (Mbps)95
200Coworking /mo180

Price Breakdown

Mexico CityCategoryMedellín
$950/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
37% ← cheaper
$600/month
$0.85/liter
Meal for One
$0.85/liter
$8/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
38% ← cheaper
$5/meal
$35/month
Monthly Transit Pass
13% cheaper →
$40/month
$110/month
Utilities (Monthly)
27% ← cheaper
$80/month
$60/visit
Doctor Visit
33% ← cheaper
$40/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Mexico City

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

Medellín

Internet95 Mbps
Coworking$180/mo
Café WiFigood
Englishmoderate
Communitylarge
Walkability72/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico City cheaper than Medellín?

Medellín is cheaper than Mexico City. Medellín has a cost of living index of 18/100 compared to 24/100 for Mexico City (New York = 100), making it roughly 26% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Medellín than Mexico City?

Medellín is approximately 26% cheaper than Mexico City based on cost index scores (18 vs 24, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Mexico City could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,233/month in Medellín.

What is the rent comparison between Mexico City and Medellín?

In Mexico City, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $950/month. In Medellín, the equivalent is around $600/month.

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

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Mexico City offers 107 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$200/month. Medellín offers 95 Mbps and coworking at ~$180/month. Medellín has a cost advantage of 26%.

What is the average income in Mexico City vs Medellín?

The median net monthly salary in Mexico City is approximately $2,000 USD, compared to $1,200 USD in Medellín.

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