Is Living in Yucatán Affordable?

With its beautiful colonial cities, warm climate, and growing expat community, Yucatán is an increasingly popular destination for retirees, remote workers, and investors. But is it possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month? Let’s break down the real costs.

1. Housing Costs: Rent vs. Buy

One of the biggest factors in your budget is housing.

• 🏡 Renting: A furnished one-bedroom apartment in Mérida’s city center or near the beach in Progreso can range from $400 to $800 per month, depending on location and amenities. A larger home can go from $800 to $1,500.
• 🏠 Buying: If you invest in a property, you’ll only need to budget for maintenance, utilities, and property taxes, which are very low compared to the U.S. and Canada.

🔹 Tip: Smaller towns like Valladolid and Izamal offer even lower rental prices than Mérida or Playa del Carmen.

2. Utilities & Internet

• 💡 Electricity: $30–$150/month, depending on A/C usage
• 💧 Water & Gas: $20–$40/month
• 📶 Internet & Phone: $25–$60/month (fast fiber-optic internet is widely available)

🔹 Tip: If you use solar panels, you can significantly reduce electricity costs.

3. Groceries & Dining

• 🛒 Groceries: $200–$400/month if you shop at local markets
• 🍽️ Eating Out: A meal at a local restaurant is around $5–$10, while a nice dinner for two can cost $30–$50.
• ☕ Coffee & Drinks: A cappuccino costs about $2–$3, and a cocktail at a bar is $5–$8.

🔹 Tip: Eating at local mercados is cheaper than shopping at big supermarkets.

4. Transportation

• 🚌 Public Transport: Buses and colectivos cost less than $1 per ride.
• 🚖 Taxis & Uber: A short Uber ride costs $2–$5, while a taxi from Mérida to Progreso is $15–$20.
• 🚗 Car Ownership: Gasoline is around $4 per gallon, and maintenance is generally cheaper than in the U.S.

🔹 Tip: Many expats don’t need a car in walkable areas like Mérida Centro.

5. Healthcare & Insurance

Yucatán has excellent private hospitals and affordable healthcare options.

• 🏥 Doctor visit: $25–$50
• 💊 Health insurance: $50–$150/month, depending on coverage
• 🦷 Dental cleaning: $30–$50

🔹 Tip: Many expats self-pay for healthcare instead of using insurance because costs are so low.

6. Entertainment & Lifestyle

Living in Yucatán means enjoying a high quality of life at a lower cost.

• 🎭 Concerts & Cultural Events: Many are free or under $10
• 🏋️ Gym Membership: $25–$50/month
• 🌊 Weekend Beach Trip: $30–$100, including transportation and food

🔹 Tip: Many social activities are inexpensive or free, especially outdoor adventures!

Can You Live in Yucatán on $1,500 a Month?

✅ Yes, it’s possible! A single person or couple can live very comfortably on this budget, especially if they own their home. Even with $2,000 per month, you can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle compared to the U.S. or Europe.

💡 Thinking of moving to Yucatán? Explore our available properties and find your dream home today!

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