Cost Comparison 2025

Mexico CityvsSingapore

Mexico
Singapore

Overall

💰

+111.1%

Mexico City is 111.1%more expensive

Rent

🏠

+157.1%

Housing is 157.1% higher

Dining

🍽️

+100.0%

Restaurants 100.0% pricier

Groceries

🛒

+112.5%

Food shopping 112.5% more

Comparing the cost of living between Mexico City, Mexico and Singapore, Singapore reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Mexico City is more expensive than Singapore by approximately 111.1%. 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 Singapore by 61%. A one-bedroom apartment in Mexico City's city center costs around MX$15,000, while the same in Singapore is approximately SGD 3,500.

Dining out in Mexico City offers significant savings compared to Singapore. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs MX$100 in Mexico City versus SGD 15 in Singapore.

Public transportation in Mexico City is more expensive, with monthly passes at MX$500 compared to SGD 120 in Singapore.

Purchasing power in Singapore 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 53%. 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 Singapore, the same lifestyle would cost around SGD 777. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about MX$17,675 monthly in Mexico City versus SGD 2,720 in Singapore. 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
Singapore, Singapore

🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)

1BR City Center
MX$15,000
SGD 3,500
1BR Outside Center
MX$8,000
SGD 2,500
3BR City Center
MX$30,000
SGD 7,000

🍽️ Food & Dining

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
MX$100
SGD 15
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant
MX$700
SGD 100
Cappuccino
MX$60
SGD 6
Domestic Beer (0.5L)
MX$40
SGD 10

🛒 Groceries

Milk (1L)
MX$25
SGD 3
Bread (500g)
MX$35
SGD 3
Eggs (12)
MX$35
SGD 4
Cheese (1kg)
MX$120
SGD 20

🚌 Transportation

One-way Ticket
MX$5
SGD 2
Monthly Pass
MX$500
SGD 120
Taxi Start
MX$40
SGD 4
Gasoline (1L)
MX$23
SGD 3

💡 Utilities & Internet

Basic Utilities (85m²)
MX$1,000
SGD 200
Internet (60 Mbps)
MX$500
SGD 50
Mobile Minute
MX$2
SGD 0

Tips for Moving Between Cities

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

Singapore

Cost of Living Index95
Rent Index90
Purchasing Power Index100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Mexico City more expensive than Singapore?

Yes, Mexico City is approximately 111.1% more expensive than Singapore overall. The biggest differences are in housing and restaurant prices.

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

To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 2.1x of your Singapore salary when living in Mexico City. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Singapore, you'd need about $105,556 in Mexico City for a comparable lifestyle.

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

The most significant cost difference is in housing. Rent prices differ by approximately 61%, 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?

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

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

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 Singapore, these figures are SGD 3,277 for singles and SGD 7,220 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.

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

Calculate Salary Equivalence

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