City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
Mexico City vs Davao — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
Mexico City
Moderate
COL+Rent: 34.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo covers essentials with some leisure in Mexico City.
Davao
Comfortable
COL+Rent: 14 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo comfortably covers expenses in Davao.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | Mexico City | Davao | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $841 | $482 | +$359 |
| Groceries | $279 | $548 | $269 |
| Dining Out | $159 | $165 | $6 |
| Transportation | $29 | $27 | +$2 |
| Utilities | $65 | $206 | $141 |
| Other / Misc | $127 | $72 | +$55 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
Mexico City
$1,500
per month
Davao equivalent
$603
per month
Only $603/mo in Davao matches $1,500/mo in Mexico City — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in Mexico City on $1,500/month?
Living in Mexico City on $1,500/mo is rated "Moderate". Budget allocates ~$841 to rent, $279 to groceries, $159 to dining.
Can I live in Davao on $1,500/month?
In Davao, $1,500/mo is rated "Comfortable". Allocations: $482 rent, $548 groceries, $165 dining.
Is Mexico City or Davao cheaper?
Davao is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: Mexico City 34.8 vs Davao 14 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in Mexico City worth in Davao?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in Mexico City equals ~$603/mo in Davao using COL adjustment.