Mexico City vs Playa del Carmen: Cost of Living Compared

Playa del Carmen is roughly 25% cheaper overall — about $1,220 versus $1,530 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $1,076 in Playa del Carmen against $1,200 in Mexico City. Playa del Carmen scores higher on safety (40 vs 32/100). Internet is faster in Mexico City (92 vs 60 Mbps).

City Comparer

Mexico City, Mexico
Mexico CityMexico
Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Playa del CarmenMexico
86%overall match
Playa del Carmen leads in divingMexico City leads in sportsMexico City leads in transit
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
Mexico CityPlaya del Carmen
Daily Cost$51/day
$41/day
Monthly Cost$1,530
$1,220
Rent$1,200
$1,076
Safety32
40
Healthcare66
66
Air Quality65
81
Tourist Safety42
50
Disaster Risk40
42
Winter High73°F
80°F
Summer High76°F
90°F
Sunny Days361
359
Rainy Days119
158
Nightlife65
65
Food92
72
Culture82
35
Coffee Culture78
60
Veg Friendly65
55
Late Night4/6
4/6
Cleanliness42
50
Green Spaces60
55
Hiking55
15
Beaches72
92
Surfing0
15
Skiing0
0
Diving0
80
Yoga55
75
Running55
50
Sports78
15
Bikeability35
40
Internet92 Mbps
60 Mbps
Transit72
22
Walkability68
55
Cowork Spaces75
30
Power Reliability100
100

Mexico City vs Playa del Carmen FAQ

Is Mexico City or Playa del Carmen cheaper to live in?

Playa del Carmen is cheaper — about $1,220 per month versus $1,530, a difference of roughly 25%.

Is Mexico City or Playa del Carmen safer?

Playa del Carmen scores higher: 40/100 versus 32/100.

Which has faster internet, Mexico City or Playa del Carmen?

Mexico City — median download speeds are 92 Mbps versus 60 Mbps.