Mexico vs Peru: Which Is Cheaper?
Peru is the cheaper country overall — about 35% less than Mexico, or roughly $946 versus $1,451 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 3 and 12 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $682 in Peru against $1,109 in Mexico. Peru rates higher on safety (49 vs 38/100). Internet is faster in Peru (236 vs 88 Mbps). Healthcare scores 64 vs 58/100, favouring Mexico.
Mexico vs Peru at a glance
| Metric | Mexico | Peru |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,451 | $946 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $1,109 | $682 |
| Safety | 38/100 | 49/100 |
| Internet | 88 Mbps | 236 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 64/100 | 58/100 |
| Walkability | 64/100 | 53/100 |
| English spoken | 13% | 10% |
| Avg temperature | 77°F | 72°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 12 cities in Mexico and 3 in Peru.
Cost range by country
In Mexico, monthly costs run from Oaxaca at $800 up to Puerto Vallarta at $1,647.
In Peru, monthly costs run from Arequipa at $700 up to Lima at $977.
Mexico vs Peru FAQ
Is Mexico or Peru cheaper to live in?
Peru is cheaper — about $946 a month for a single person versus $1,451 — roughly 35% less.
Is Mexico or Peru safer?
Peru scores higher on safety: 49/100 versus 38/100.
Is Mexico or Peru better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Peru is cheaper ($946 vs $1,451/mo), while Mexico scores higher on healthcare (64 vs 58/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Mexico or Peru?
Peru — it pairs faster internet (236 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($946/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Mexico or Peru better to visit?
Peru is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $946 a month for day-to-day costs, and it also rates higher on safety (49/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 12 cities in Mexico and 3 in Peru.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Peru comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, higher safety and is the cheaper of the two at $946/mo.
Choose Mexico for
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Peru for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet