Cost Comparison 2025

Mexico CityvsGeneva

Mexico
Switzerland

Overall

💰

+144.4%

Mexico City is 144.4%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+185.7%

Housing is 185.7% higher

Dining

🍽️

+200.0%

Restaurants 200.0% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+187.5%

Food shopping 187.5% more

Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Geneva, Switzerland reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Geneva by approximately 144.4%. 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 Mexico City are lower than in Geneva by 65%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Geneva is approximately CHF 3,000.

Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Geneva. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus CHF 25 in Geneva.

Public transportation in Mexico City is more expensive, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to CHF 80 in Geneva.

Purchasing power in Geneva 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 65%. 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 Geneva, the same lifestyle would cost around CHF 798. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus CHF 2,794 in Geneva. 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
Mexico City, Mexico
Geneva, Switzerland

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
MX$15,000
CHF 3,000
1BR Outside Center
MX$8,000
CHF 2,200
3BR City Center
MX$30,000
CHF 5,500

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
MX$100
CHF 25
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
MX$700
CHF 120
Cappuccino
MX$60
CHF 5
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
MX$40
CHF 8

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
MX$25
CHF 2
Bread (500g)
MX$35
CHF 3
Eggs (12)
MX$35
CHF 6
Cheese (1kg)
MX$120
CHF 25

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
MX$5
CHF 3
Monthly Pass
MX$500
CHF 80
Taxi Start
MX$40
CHF 7
Gasoline (1L)
MX$23
CHF 2

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
MX$1,000
CHF 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
MX$500
CHF 60
Mobile Minute
MX$2
CHF 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

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

Cost of Living Index45
Rent Index35
Purchasing Power Index45

Geneva

Cost of Living Index110
Rent Index100
Purchasing Power Index125

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico City more expensive than Geneva?

Yes, Mexico City is approximately 144.4% more expensive than Geneva overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.4x of your Geneva salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Geneva, you'd need about $122,222 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.

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

The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 67%, 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?

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

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

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 Geneva, these figures are CHF 2,998 for singles and CHF 6,794 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

The cost of living comparison between Mexico City and Geneva 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 Geneva to maintain your lifestyle from Mexico City

Calculate Salary Equivalence

Last updated: 2025-01-15 • Data sourced from multiple providers