Can I Afford to Live in Mexico City vs Columbus on $100K?

Here's how a $100K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Mexico City, MX
$6,321/mo take-home
Rent: $700/mo (11% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Columbus, OH
$6,071/mo take-home
Rent: $1,250/mo (21% of take-home)
Very comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Mexico City
MX
Columbus
OH
Monthly take-home (est.)
$6,321Best ✓
$6,071
1BR rent
$700Best ✓
$1,250
Groceries (est.)
$380
$361Best ✓
Transport (est.)
$150
$62Best ✓
Utilities
$55Best ✓
$155
Internet
$25Best ✓
$60
Left after essentials
$5,011/month
$4,183/month
Mexico City (CDMX) has no state income tax, boosting take-home vs Columbus (OH rate: 3%).

Frequently asked questions

Is $100K a good salary in Mexico City?

At $100K/year in Mexico City, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,321. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 11% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $100K a good salary in Columbus?

At $100K/year in Columbus, your estimated monthly take-home is $6,071. With 1BR rent around $1,250/month, rent takes up 21% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $100K salary?

Mexico City leaves you with more money after core expenses — $5,011/month vs $4,183/month in Columbus.

Can I afford to live alone in Mexico City on $100K?

Yes. At $100K in Mexico City, rent takes 11% of your take-home, leaving $5,011/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Mexico City vs Columbus

$40K$50K$60K$75K$80K$120K$150K

See the full cost-of-living comparison

Rent, groceries, taxes, transportation, and more — side by side.

Full comparison

Take-home estimates use simplified federal/state brackets and do not account for pre-tax deductions, 401(k), or local taxes. Data: Zillow, BLS, Numbeo · Q1 2026 · For general guidance only