Cost of Living Comparison

Mexico City vs Bali

Bali is 26% more affordable
🌍
Mexico City

Mexico North America

$2,900/mo

Standard lifestyle City center

Housing
$2,100/mo
Food
$600/mo
Transport
$20/mo
Coworking
$180/mo
66
Nomad score
55
Safety
100
Mbps
Nomad visa
Full guide for Mexico City ->
VS
26%
difference
🌍
Bali

Indonesia Asia

$2,150/mo

Standard lifestyle City center

Housing
$1,500/mo
Food
$450/mo
Transport
$50/mo
Coworking
$150/mo
63
Nomad score
75
Safety
80
Mbps
Nomad visa
Full guide for Bali ->

Mexico City vs Bali: the verdict

Bali works out about 26% cheaper than Mexico City for a standard lifestyle -- roughly $750 less every month, driven mainly by rent, food and coworking. Mexico City still comes out ahead on internet speed and healthcare, so the cheaper city is not automatically the better fit.

Head-to-head breakdown

CategoryMexico CityBaliWinner
Monthly cost (standard) $2,900 $2,150 Bali
Rent, city centre $2,100 $1,500 Bali
Food (standard) $600 $450 Bali
Public transport $20 $50 Mexico City
Coworking $180 $150 Bali
Safety index 55/100 75/100 Bali
Internet speed 100 Mbps 80 Mbps Mexico City
Healthcare 75/100 65/100 Mexico City
English proficiency 60/100 60/100 Tie
Nomad visa Yes Yes Tie

Monthly budget: lean to premium

Mexico City
$1,610 budget to $4,100 premium
Bali
$1,100 budget to $3,200 premium

Which should you choose?

On a tight budget
Bali
Lowest monthly total, 26% less.
Digital nomads
Mexico City
Higher nomad score and WiFi, plus a nomad visa.
Families
Bali
Stronger safety and healthcare.
Long-term expats
Bali
Better English and day-to-day ease.

Mexico City vs Bali: FAQ

Is Mexico City cheaper than Bali?

Bali is cheaper: a standard month costs about $2,150 there versus $2,900 in Mexico City, a 26% difference.

How much does it cost to live in Mexico City vs Bali?

Budget to premium, expect about $1,610-$4,100/month in Mexico City and $1,100-$3,200/month in Bali, covering rent, food, transport and coworking.

Which is safer, Mexico City or Bali?

Bali scores higher on safety (75/100 vs 55/100).

Does Mexico City or Bali have a digital nomad visa?

Both do. Mexico City offers the Temporary Resident Visa; Bali offers the Indonesia Remote Worker Visa.

Which is better for digital nomads, Mexico City or Bali?

Mexico City rates better for remote work overall (nomad score 66/100, 100 Mbps) and it has a digital nomad visa.

Want a deeper comparison?

Use the full calculator -- add your income, choose your lifestyle and see purchasing power side by side.