BeijingvsMexico City
Overall
💰-27.4%
Beijing is 27.4%cheaper
Rent
🏠-30.0%
Housing is 30.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-4.8%
Restaurants 4.8% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-38.5%
Food shopping 38.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Beijing, China and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Beijing is more affordable than Mexico City by approximately 27.4%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Beijing are higher than in Mexico City by 43%. A one-bedroom apartment in Beijing's city center costs around CN¥7,500, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.
Dining out in Beijing costs about the same compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CN¥30 in Beijing versus MX$100 in Mexico City.
Public transportation in Beijing is more affordable, with monthly passes at CN¥200 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.
Purchasing power in Beijing is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
Grocery shopping in Beijing is more expensive by approximately 63%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Beijing can expect to spend approximately CN¥1,746 per month (excluding rent), while in Mexico City, the same lifestyle would cost around MX$5,050. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CN¥6,111 monthly in Beijing versus MX$17,675 in Mexico City. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Mexico City to Beijing, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Beijing to Mexico City requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Beijing
Mexico City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Beijing more expensive than Mexico City?
No, Beijing is approximately 27.4% cheaper than Mexico City. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Beijing compared to Mexico City?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 78% of your Mexico City salary when living in Beijing. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $39,241 in Beijing for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Beijing and Mexico City?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 63%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Beijing offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Beijing provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Beijing if you prioritize earning potential, or Mexico City for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Beijing vs Mexico City?
In Beijing, a single person needs approximately CN¥5,746 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CN¥15,111. In Mexico City, these figures are MX$13,050 for singles and MX$35,675 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Beijing and Mexico City in 2025 shows significant differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Mexico City to maintain your lifestyle from Beijing
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