Everyone’s cousin’s neighbor’s Facebook group seems to say the same thing: “You can live like a king in Mérida for $1,500 a month!”

Well, yes… and no. If “living like a king” means tacos on Tuesdays, ceiling fans instead of AC, and Netflix on your laptop instead of a 70-inch OLED—then sure. But if your definition of king includes a private driver, gourmet dining every night, and three Labradoodles eating imported kibble, you might want to check your bank balance twice.

Let’s break it down.

Housing (a.k.a. Where Your Money Disappears First)

• Centro rentals: Cute colonial homes with character (and sometimes bats). $800–$1,200 USD/month depending on size and renovations.

• Northern Mérida (aka suburbia with Costco): Modern houses with AC in every room. $1,000–$1,500 USD/month.

• Beach towns (Progreso, Chelem, Sisal): Prices climb fast if you want ocean views. Think $1,200–$2,000 USD.

Yes, you can find cheaper, but remember: cheap in Mérida often means “renovation project disguised as a house.”

Utilities (Spoiler: AC Isn’t Free)

• Electricity: With AC blasting, expect $150–$300 USD/month. With fans and prayers, maybe $50.

• Water: Around $10–$20. Basically free compared to bottled water in L.A.

• Internet: $30–$50. And yes, it’s fast enough to binge Netflix and complain about it on Reddit.

Food (Tacos vs. Trader Joe’s Dreams)

• Street tacos: $1–$2 each. You’ll be full and happy.

• Groceries: $300–$500/month if you cook at home.

• Fancy expat-style dining: $40–$60 for two with wine. (Cheaper if you settle for beer, which honestly you should.)

Healthcare (Prepare to Be Shocked—in a Good Way)

• Doctor visit: $25–$50 USD.

• Specialists: $40–$100.

• Private insurance: $150–$300/month depending on coverage.

Yes, healthcare here is not only affordable, but you might actually enjoy seeing a doctor. Wild concept, right?

Transportation (Spoiler: Gas is Cheaper Than Therapy)

• Uber rides across town: $3–$5.

• Owning a car: Gas + insurance + maintenance ≈ $150–$200/month.

• Buses: Pocket change, if you enjoy waiting and sweating.

So… Can You Really Live on $1,500 a Month?

• Bare-bones budget expat: Yes, but be ready to live local style—modest rental, fans instead of AC, tacos instead of fine dining.

• Comfortable lifestyle: $2,000–$3,000/month gives you room for nice housing, AC, dinners out, and weekend beach trips.

• Luxury expat: $4,000+/month and you’ll be hosting cocktail parties while your gardener trims the bougainvillea.

Fernando’s Final Word

Don’t believe every blog that says you’ll live like royalty on pennies a day. Mérida is affordable compared to most big cities—but comfort comes at a price (usually measured in kilowatts).

Want the best way to know? Come try it for yourself. And if you fall in love and want a place to call home, well, that’s exactly what I help with at Yucatán Dream Homes.

👉 Contact me today to find the house that fits your lifestyle and your budget.