How Much Does It Cost to Live in Q.R. Mexico?

How much does it cost to live in a small town in Quintana Roo Mexico?

Currently, I’m living in a small town in Quintana Roo, Mexico just south of Cancún. Are you curious on how much it cost to live here?

If you're curious how much it costs to live in Mexico, you'll want to dig into the specific areas you're interested in. Larger, more popular "tourist" areas will be more expensive than the smaller areas away from the beach will cost.

It varies by the different locations all around Mexico, but here's a quick peek at how much it may cost to live in one specific location in Quintana Roo, based on what I'm seeing now.

Watching YouTube videos and joining local Facebook groups are both great ways to research and ask questions before you go. Keep in mind, it will all be based on the basics and are generic cost that will change quickly.

Quick disclaimer: The info below is for entertainment and general curiosity only. These are estimates and they'll vary by area, by person and by family. It all comes down to what you want to spend your money on. Prices are pretty fluid these days too, especially with exchange rates fluctuating and everyone's spending habits being different — so I'm not responsible for anything being different by the time you read this!

If you're thinking about moving to Mexico or visiting for a longer stay on a temporary or permanent residency, hopefully this helps you start organizing your budget.

What's Changing Here Lately

Right now, in this small town in Q.R., I've noticed prices climbing every month. It's no longer realistic to live here on under $1,000 or even $1,500 a month. I'm seeing more people spending at least $2,000–$3,000 USD, with that number growing. It's also very common for people to spend $5,000 USD or more a month while they're here. It really depends on your spending habits, needs and wants. Basically, if you live here like a “Tourist”, you will be spending a few $$$$$$ thousand dollars a month.

This Quiet area is getting larger every year and it has two distinct sides to visit and live in.

• Near Beach -The most popular spot for tourists and more luxury living, right along the ocean. It's home to touristy restaurants and even a Michelin-starred restaurant.

• Not Near the Beach - The less touristy side is where you'll find more budget-friendly living and a deeper cultural experience.  

If you’re wanting to budget your money to go further, staying or living on the Colonia-side and visiting the beach by bus, taxi, bike or walk is easy to do.

Renting vs. Buying

How long you're staying matters a lot here, similar to other areas. Renting short-term versus renting or buying long-term will change your numbers quite a bit.

Talking to friends who spend about five months a year here, most of them rent, with prices averaging around $500–$2,500 USD (or more for the new condos by the beach), per month depending on the size of the room, apartment, condo or home (depending where it's located). Most land somewhere in the $800–$1,500 USD range. Anything $2,500 USD and up is usually along the beachside, though you can sometimes find deals for long-term rentals in the off-season.

A couple of real examples:

• Near Beach -  One friend paid $60 a night for a studio with a kitchen, one street back from the beach, during high season and low season, it’s $45 per night. Another friend found a studio for $1,200 a month, though it’s rare. Most beachside rentals run $2,500 or more.

• Not near the Beach -My friends that rent for 6 months to a year spend $400 to $1,500 per month or more.

Home prices are climbing in this area too, and it's always more expensive the closer you get to the beach. If you're looking to buy a condo or home, prices average anywhere from $100,000 USD to $750,000 USD, with more going over $1M USD depending on size and location. You can find homes for less or by land, but factor in building and remodeling costs if you go that route. Location is the biggest key factor in housing cost, just like everywhere else.

Other Monthly Expenses

• Food: Varies per person, but say approximately $250–$600+ per month. Individual meals run anywhere from $1 to $35+ each

• Drinking water delivery: $1.50 USD per 5-gallon jug (approximately $6 per week)

• Home water bill: around $18+ USD on average per month

• Electric: $25–$150+ per month, depending on usage

• LP gas: $5–$50+ per month, depending on usage

These vary so much by person - Article coming soon to help you navigate to gain some clarity on where to find the answers.

• Private health insurance

• Diving insurance

• Phone plan, eSIMs, Wi-Fi

• Entertainment

• Extras

Possible extra expenses:

• Gardener or pool maintenance: $25 USD+ per month

• HOA or garbage fees: $35–$100+ USD per month

• Laundry: $1+ per kilo

• Bike rental or purchase: varies by quality, currently around $35 per week for a rental

Getting Around

• Combi or Colectivo: $0.50

• Playa Express: approximately $2 per ride

• ADO bus: $3 and up, depending on destination

• Driver's license: $35+

• Car insurance: $50+ per year

• Car expenses: gas and tolls vary.

• Car Rental:  Local car rentals currently run $40–$120 per day depending on vehicle size.

So, Can You Really Live in Mexico for less?

Yes — it's still very possible, but depending on your lifestyle. Prices are going up everywhere, especially near the beach, so it's worth doing your research and spending time in a few different areas before deciding where to settle.

Don't be afraid to explore beyond your home country. A lot of my friends here are solo women over 50 who return every single year because they've found an affordable way to live surrounded by community and friends from all over the world.

Whether you're downsizing, retiring early, looking for a second home or just curious, think outside the box, do your research on current prices and go explore.