Cost of Living in Oaxaca City, Mexico
Last updated on Mar 19, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Oaxaca City, Mexico? Hear what expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Oaxaca City have to say about the cost of housing, health insurance and general living costs.
Is the cost of living in Oaxaca City high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Oaxaca City, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Oaxaca City, is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in the country. Housing and rental prices are quite reasonable, with a variety of options available for different budgets. The cost of food and groceries is also relatively low, with fresh produce and local ingredients being widely available at affordable prices. Eating out at local restaurants and street food stalls is also inexpensive. Public transportation is affordable and widely available, making it easy to get around the city without spending too much. Utilities, such as electricity, water, and internet, are reasonably priced, although they may be slightly higher than in smaller towns. Healthcare is also affordable, with both public and private options available at reasonable costs. Overall, Oaxaca City offers a good quality of life at a relatively low cost, making it an attractive option for those looking to live in Mexico," remarked one expat in Oaxaca City.

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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
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Will I save money living in Oaxaca City?
"It is highly likely that you will save money living in Oaxaca City compared to the United States. The cost of living in Oaxaca City is generally lower than in many cities in the United States. This includes expenses such as housing, food, transportation, and entertainment. However, the amount of money you save will depend on your lifestyle and spending habits," explained one expat living in Oaxaca City.
What is the average cost of housing in Oaxaca City?
If you are thinking about moving to Oaxaca City, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Oaxaca City, can vary depending on the type of accommodation and location. Generally, renting an apartment in the city center can be more expensive, with prices ranging from around $300 to $800 per month for a one-bedroom apartment. In the outskirts of the city, the prices can be lower, with a one-bedroom apartment costing between $200 and $500 per month. If you are looking to buy a property, the average price per square meter in the city center is around $1,500, while outside the city center, it can be around $1,000 per square meter. Keep in mind that these are approximate figures and can change depending on various factors," wrote a person living in Oaxaca City.

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.

Welcome Home Mexico occupies a niche in the market as a successful relocation and real estate firm helping expats moving to Mexico! As seen on CBS news, PBS, in the L.A. Times and more, we are one of the leading companies in this field. Welcome Home Mexico offers a wide range of services, multi-lingual knowledgeable brokers with experience, efficient and professional service.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
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- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in Oaxaca City appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Oaxaca City?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Oaxaca City accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Oaxaca City like?
- How are healthcare services in Oaxaca City?
- What are medical services in Oaxaca City like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Oaxaca City?
- What are emergency services like in Oaxaca City?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Oaxaca City?
- How are local medical facilities in Oaxaca City?
- As a foreigner living in Oaxaca City, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?