Cost Comparison 2025

Mexico CityvsJakarta

Mexico
Indonesia

Overall

💰

0.0%

Mexico City is 0.0%same cost

Rent

🏠

-28.6%

Housing is 28.6% lower

Dining

🍽️

-12.5%

Restaurants 12.5% cheaper

Groceries

🛒

+25.0%

Food shopping 25.0% more

Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Jakarta, Indonesia reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is similarly priced than Jakarta. 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 higher than in Jakarta by 40%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Jakarta is approximately IDR 8,000,000.

Dining out in Mexico City is notably more expensive compared to Jakarta. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus IDR 35,000 in Jakarta.

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

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 Mexico City is more affordable by approximately 20%. 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 Jakarta, the same lifestyle would cost around IDR 3,350,000. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus IDR 11,725,000 in Jakarta. 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
Jakarta, Indonesia

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

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

🍽️ Food & Dining

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

🛒 Groceries

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

🚌 Transportation

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

💡 Utilities & Internet

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

Tips for Moving Between Cities

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

Jakarta

Cost of Living Index45
Rent Index25
Purchasing Power Index30

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico City more expensive than Jakarta?

The cost of living in Mexico City and Jakarta 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 Mexico City compared to Jakarta?

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

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

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 40%, 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, Jakarta provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mexico City if you prioritize earning potential, or Jakarta for affordability.

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

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 Jakarta, these figures are IDR 7,850,000 for singles and IDR 21,725,000 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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