Medellin vs Playa del Carmen: Cost of Living Compared

Medellin is roughly 30% cheaper overall — about $940 versus $1,220 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $642 in Medellin against $1,076 in Playa del Carmen. Playa del Carmen scores higher on safety (40 vs 35/100). Internet is faster in Medellin (207 vs 60 Mbps).

City Comparer

Medellin, Colombia
MedellinColombia
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del CarmenMexico
87%overall match
Playa del Carmen leads in divingMedellin leads in hikingMedellin leads in sports
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
MedellinPlaya del Carmen
Daily Cost$31/day
$41/day
Monthly Cost$940
$1,220
Rent$642
$1,076
Safety35
40
Healthcare79
66
Air Quality83
81
Tourist Safety45
50
Disaster Risk30
42
Winter High76°F
80°F
Summer High82°F
90°F
Sunny Days357
359
Rainy Days245
158
Nightlife68
65
Food74
72
Culture55
35
Coffee Culture85
60
Veg Friendly48
55
Late Night4/6
4/6
Cleanliness55
50
Green Spaces60
55
Hiking70
15
Beaches65
92
Surfing0
15
Skiing0
0
Diving0
80
Yoga55
75
Running50
50
Sports65
15
Bikeability30
40
Internet207 Mbps
60 Mbps
Transit55
22
Walkability62
55
Cowork Spaces55
30
Power Reliability99
100

Medellin vs Playa del Carmen FAQ

Is Medellin or Playa del Carmen cheaper to live in?

Medellin is cheaper — about $940 per month versus $1,220, a difference of roughly 30%.

Is Medellin or Playa del Carmen safer?

Playa del Carmen scores higher: 40/100 versus 35/100.

Which has faster internet, Medellin or Playa del Carmen?

Medellin — median download speeds are 207 Mbps versus 60 Mbps.