Mexico CityvsCalgary
Overall
💰+60.0%
Mexico City is 60.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+42.9%
Housing is 42.9% higher
Dining
🍽️+87.5%
Restaurants 87.5% pricier
Groceries
🛒+100.0%
Food shopping 100.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Calgary, Canada reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Calgary by approximately 60.0%. 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 Mexico City are lower than in Calgary by 30%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Calgary is approximately CA$1,600.
Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Calgary. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus CA$20 in Calgary.
Public transportation in Mexico City is more expensive, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to CA$112 in Calgary.
Purchasing power in Calgary is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
Grocery shopping in Mexico City is more affordable by approximately 50%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Mexico City can expect to spend approximately MX$5,050 per month (excluding rent), while in Calgary, the same lifestyle would cost around CA$730. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus CA$2,555 in Calgary. 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 Calgary, 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 Calgary 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
Mexico City
Calgary
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City more expensive than Calgary?
Yes, Mexico City is approximately 60.0% more expensive than Calgary overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mexico City compared to Calgary?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.6x of your Calgary salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Calgary, you'd need about $80,000 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mexico City and Calgary?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 50%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Calgary offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Calgary provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mexico City if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Calgary for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mexico City vs Calgary?
In Mexico City, a single person needs approximately MX$13,050 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about MX$35,675. In Calgary, these figures are CA$2,030 for singles and CA$4,755 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mexico City and Calgary 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 Calgary to maintain your lifestyle from Mexico City
Calculate Salary Equivalence