Can I Afford to Live in Mexico City vs Fort Lauderdale on $120K?

Here's how a $120K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Mexico City, MX
$7,155/mo take-home
Rent: $700/mo (10% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Fort Lauderdale, FL
$7,155/mo take-home
Rent: $2,600/mo (36% of take-home)
Tight

Monthly budget breakdown

Mexico City
MX
Fort Lauderdale
FL
Monthly take-home (est.)
$7,155Best ✓
$7,155
1BR rent
$700Best ✓
$2,600
Groceries (est.)
$380Best ✓
$407
Transport (est.)
$150
$112Best ✓
Utilities
$55Best ✓
$195
Internet
$25Best ✓
$70
Left after essentials
$5,845/month
$3,771/month
Both Mexico City and Fort Lauderdale have no state income tax — your take-home is higher than in most states.

Frequently asked questions

Is $120K a good salary in Mexico City?

At $120K/year in Mexico City, your estimated monthly take-home is $7,155. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 10% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $120K a good salary in Fort Lauderdale?

At $120K/year in Fort Lauderdale, your estimated monthly take-home is $7,155. With 1BR rent around $2,600/month, rent takes up 36% of your take-home. That's considered tight.

Which city is more affordable on a $120K salary?

Mexico City leaves you with more money after core expenses — $5,845/month vs $3,771/month in Fort Lauderdale.

Can I afford to live alone in Mexico City on $120K?

Yes. At $120K in Mexico City, rent takes 10% of your take-home, leaving $5,845/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Mexico City vs Fort Lauderdale

$40K$50K$60K$75K$80K$100K$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