City Budget Comparison
Can You Live on $1,500/month?
New York vs Mexico City — Budget Breakdown
Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · April 2026
Feasibility
New York
Likely Insufficient
COL+Rent: 82.5 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo may not cover basic costs in New York.
Mexico City
Moderate
COL+Rent: 34.8 (NYC=100)
$1,500/mo covers essentials with some leisure in Mexico City.
Budget Breakdown
| Category | New York | Mexico City | Diff |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (avg 1BR) | $942 | $841 | +$101 |
| Groceries | $188 | $279 | $91 |
| Dining Out | $120 | $159 | $39 |
| Transportation | $33 | $29 | +$4 |
| Utilities | $76 | $65 | +$11 |
| Other / Misc | $141 | $127 | +$14 |
| Total | $1,500 | $1,500 | — |
Purchasing Power
New York
$1,500
per month
Mexico City equivalent
$633
per month
Only $633/mo in Mexico City matches $1,500/mo in New York — better value.
Other Budget Levels
FAQ
Can I live in New York on $1,500/month?
Living in New York on $1,500/mo is rated "Likely Insufficient". Budget allocates ~$942 to rent, $188 to groceries, $120 to dining.
Can I live in Mexico City on $1,500/month?
In Mexico City, $1,500/mo is rated "Moderate". Allocations: $841 rent, $279 groceries, $159 dining.
Is New York or Mexico City cheaper?
Mexico City is generally cheaper. COL+Rent: New York 82.5 vs Mexico City 34.8 (NYC=100).
What is $1,500/mo in New York worth in Mexico City?
$1,500/mo of purchasing power in New York equals ~$633/mo in Mexico City using COL adjustment.