Cape TownvsMexico City
Overall
💰-10.0%
Cape Town is 10.0%cheaper
Rent
🏠0.0%
Housing is 0.0% same
Dining
🍽️-20.0%
Restaurants 20.0% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-11.1%
Food shopping 11.1% less
Comparing the cost of living between Cape Town, South Africa and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Cape Town is more affordable than Mexico City by approximately 10.0%. 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 Cape Town are similar than in Mexico City. A one-bedroom apartment in Cape Town's city center costs around ZAR 12,000, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.
Dining out in Cape Town is notably more expensive compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ZAR 150 in Cape Town versus MX$100 in Mexico City.
Public transportation in Cape Town is more expensive, with monthly passes at ZAR 800 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.
Purchasing power in Cape Town is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
Grocery shopping in Cape Town is more expensive by approximately 13%. 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 Cape Town can expect to spend approximately ZAR 5,890 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 ZAR 20,615 monthly in Cape Town 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 Cape Town, 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 Cape Town 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
Cape Town
Mexico City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Cape Town more expensive than Mexico City?
No, Cape Town is approximately 10.0% cheaper than Mexico City. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Cape Town compared to Mexico City?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 91% of your Mexico City salary when living in Cape Town. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $45,455 in Cape Town for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Cape Town and Mexico City?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 25%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Cape Town offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Cape Town provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Cape Town if you prioritize earning potential, or Mexico City for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Cape Town vs Mexico City?
In Cape Town, a single person needs approximately ZAR 13,890 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ZAR 38,615. 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 Cape Town and Mexico City in 2025 shows moderate 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 Cape Town
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