Cost Comparison 2025

JakartavsMexico City

Indonesia
Mexico

Overall

💰

0.0%

Jakarta is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

+40.0%

Housing is 40.0% higher

Dining

🍽️

+14.3%

Restaurants 14.3% pricier

Groceries

🛒

-20.0%

Food shopping 20.0% less

Comparing the cost of living between Jakarta, Indonesia and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Jakarta is similarly priced than Mexico City. 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 Jakarta are lower than in Mexico City by 29%. A one-bedroom apartment in Jakarta's city center costs around IDR 8,000,000, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.

Dining out in Jakarta offers significant savings compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs IDR 35,000 in Jakarta versus MX$100 in Mexico City.

Public transportation in Jakarta is more expensive, with monthly passes at IDR 150,000 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.

Purchasing power in Mexico City is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Jakarta.

Grocery shopping in Jakarta is more expensive by approximately 25%. 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 Jakarta can expect to spend approximately IDR 3,350,000 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 IDR 11,725,000 monthly in Jakarta 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

Item
Jakarta, Indonesia
Mexico City, Mexico

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
IDR 8,000,000
MX$15,000
1BR Outside Center
IDR 4,500,000
MX$8,000
3BR City Center
IDR 18,000,000
MX$30,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
IDR 35,000
MX$100
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
IDR 250,000
MX$700
Cappuccino
IDR 35,000
MX$60
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
IDR 40,000
MX$40

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
IDR 20,000
MX$25
Bread (500g)
IDR 15,000
MX$35
Eggs (12)
IDR 25,000
MX$35
Cheese (1kg)
IDR 120,000
MX$120

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
IDR 5,000
MX$5
Monthly Pass
IDR 150,000
MX$500
Taxi Start
IDR 7,500
MX$40
Gasoline (1L)
IDR 10,000
MX$23

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
IDR 1,200,000
MX$1,000
Internet (60 Mbps)
IDR 400,000
MX$500
Mobile Minute
IDR 1,500
MX$2

Tips for Moving Between Cities

For those considering a move from Mexico City to Jakarta, 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 Jakarta 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

Jakarta

Cost of Living Index45
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index30

Mexico City

Cost of Living Index45
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index45

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Jakarta more expensive than Mexico City?

The cost of living in Jakarta and Mexico City is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.

How much salary do I need in Jakarta compared to Mexico City?

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 100% of your Mexico City salary when living in Jakarta. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $50,000 in Jakarta for a comparable lifestyle.

What are the biggest cost differences between Jakarta and Mexico City?

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 29%, making it a major factor in your budget planning. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.

Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?

Mexico City offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Mexico City provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Jakarta if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Mexico City for better value.

What's a reasonable monthly budget for Jakarta vs Mexico City?

In Jakarta, a single person needs approximately IDR 7,850,000 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about IDR 21,725,000. 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 Jakarta 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 Jakarta

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-28 • Data sourced from multiple providers