Cost of Living: Chicago vs Mexico City (2026)

Mexico City is cheaper. A 1-bedroom apartment in city centre costs around $1173/month in Mexico City vs $2388/month in the other city (Numbeo data).

Chicago is statistically safer based on UNODC homicide data. Chicago has a rate of 17.50 per 100,000 and Mexico City has 26.11 per 100,000.

Chicago scores 54 to Mexico City's 44 on livability — the gap is real. Mexico City has its charms, but the numbers favor Chicago. See the full comparison above for rent, safety, internet speed, climate, and democracy scores to decide which city fits your priorities.

Chicago: US Employment-Based Green Card (complex process, Permanent residence). Mexico City: Mexico Temporary Resident Visa (moderate requirements, 1–4 years). See each city's profile page for full requirements.

Chicago is warmer in summer (27°C vs 24°C). Mexico City has milder summers, which suits those who prefer cooler weather. Climate preference is personal — use the weather section above to compare seasons.

Chicago is easier for street-level English (100/100) than Mexico City (20/100). That's the score that matters for doctors, landlords, and bureaucracy. Office English can still run higher than street English in both cities.