Mexico City vs San Francisco

Cost of Living Comparison (2026)

Overall Verdict

Mexico City is 70% cheaper than San Francisco overall. Mexico City is affordable while San Francisco is very expensive.

$553/mo
Mexico City 1BR Rent
$1,969/mo
San Francisco 1BR Rent

Cost Comparison

CategoryMexico CitySan FranciscoWinner
1BR Rent (City Center)$553/mo$1,969/moMexico City
3BR Rent (City Center)$898/mo$3,321/moMexico City
Meal (Inexpensive)$5$20Mexico City
Meal for 2 (Mid-Range)$22$74Mexico City
Monthly Groceries$146$472Mexico City
Monthly Transport$31$102Mexico City
Monthly Utilities$61$192Mexico City
Internet$18/mo$72/moMexico City
Coffee$1$5Mexico City
Beer (Domestic)$2$7Mexico City
Gym Membership$15/mo$59/moMexico City

Quality of Life Comparison

Overall Quality
62
Mexico City
85
San Francisco
Safety
38
Mexico City
50
San Francisco
Healthcare
60
Mexico City
82
San Francisco
Education
66
Mexico City
83
San Francisco
Internet Speed
128
Mexico City
156
San Francisco
Nightlife
67
Mexico City
88
San Francisco

Which City Is Better For...

Budget LivingMexico City
SafetySan Francisco
HealthcareSan Francisco
NightlifeSan Francisco
FamiliesSan Francisco
Remote WorkSan Francisco

Related Comparisons