Los AngelesvsMexico City
Overall
💰-48.9%
Los Angeles is 48.9%cheaper
Rent
🏠-56.3%
Housing is 56.3% lower
Dining
🍽️-52.9%
Restaurants 52.9% cheaper
Groceries
🛒-54.5%
Food shopping 54.5% less
Comparing the cost of living between Los Angeles, United States and Mexico City, Mexico reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Los Angeles is more affordable than Mexico City by approximately 48.9%. 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 Los Angeles are higher than in Mexico City by 129%. A one-bedroom apartment in Los Angeles's city center costs around $2,800, while the same in Mexico City is approximately MX$15,000.
Dining out in Los Angeles is notably more expensive compared to Mexico City. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs $18 in Los Angeles versus MX$100 in Mexico City.
Public transportation in Los Angeles is more affordable, with monthly passes at $100 compared to MX$500 in Mexico City.
Purchasing power in Los Angeles is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
Grocery shopping in Los Angeles is more expensive by approximately 120%. 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 Los Angeles can expect to spend approximately $659 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 $2,305 monthly in Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles, 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 Los Angeles 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
Los Angeles
Mexico City
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Los Angeles more expensive than Mexico City?
No, Los Angeles is approximately 48.9% cheaper than Mexico City. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Los Angeles compared to Mexico City?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 67% of your Mexico City salary when living in Los Angeles. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Mexico City, you'd need about $33,588 in Los Angeles for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Los Angeles and Mexico City?
The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 129%, 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?
Los Angeles offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Los Angeles provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Los Angeles if you prioritize earning potential, or Mexico City for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Los Angeles vs Mexico City?
In Los Angeles, a single person needs approximately $2,859 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about $6,305. 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 Los Angeles 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 Los Angeles
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