Mexico CityvsJohannesburg
Overall
💰+6.7%
Mexico City is 6.7%more expensive
Rent
🏠-8.6%
Housing is 8.6% lower
Dining
🍽️+20.0%
Restaurants 20.0% pricier
Groceries
🛒+5.0%
Food shopping 5.0% more
Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Johannesburg, South Africa reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Johannesburg by approximately 6.7%. 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 Johannesburg by 9%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Johannesburg is approximately ZAR 10,000.
Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Johannesburg. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus ZAR 130 in Johannesburg.
Public transportation in Mexico City is more affordable, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to ZAR 800 in Johannesburg.
Purchasing power in Johannesburg is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Mexico City.
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 Johannesburg, the same lifestyle would cost around ZAR 5,314. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus ZAR 18,599 in Johannesburg. 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 Johannesburg, 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 Johannesburg 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
Johannesburg
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico City more expensive than Johannesburg?
Yes, Mexico City is approximately 6.7% more expensive than Johannesburg overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.
How much salary do I need in Mexico City compared to Johannesburg?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Johannesburg salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Johannesburg, you'd need about $53,333 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Mexico City and Johannesburg?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 17%, 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?
Johannesburg offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Johannesburg provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Mexico City if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Johannesburg for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Mexico City vs Johannesburg?
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 Johannesburg, these figures are ZAR 12,314 for singles and ZAR 33,599 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Mexico City and Johannesburg 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 Johannesburg to maintain your lifestyle from Mexico City
Calculate Salary Equivalence