Can I Afford to Live in Mexico City vs Rapid City on $80K?

Here's how a $80K/year salary plays out in both cities after taxes, rent, and core living expenses — based on Q1 2026 data.

Mexico City, MX
$5,057/mo take-home
Rent: $700/mo (14% of take-home)
Very comfortable
Rapid City, SD
$5,057/mo take-home
Rent: $1,200/mo (24% of take-home)
Comfortable

Monthly budget breakdown

Mexico City
MX
Rapid City
SD
Monthly take-home (est.)
$5,057Best ✓
$5,057
1BR rent
$700Best ✓
$1,200
Groceries (est.)
$380
$365Best ✓
Transport (est.)
$150
$40Best ✓
Utilities
$55Best ✓
$148
Internet
$25Best ✓
$65
Left after essentials
$3,747/month
$3,239/month
Both Mexico City and Rapid City have no state income tax — your take-home is higher than in most states.

Frequently asked questions

Is $80K a good salary in Mexico City?

At $80K/year in Mexico City, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,057. With 1BR rent around $700/month, rent takes up 14% of your take-home. That's considered very comfortable.

Is $80K a good salary in Rapid City?

At $80K/year in Rapid City, your estimated monthly take-home is $5,057. With 1BR rent around $1,200/month, rent takes up 24% of your take-home. That's considered comfortable.

Which city is more affordable on a $80K salary?

Mexico City leaves you with more money after core expenses — $3,747/month vs $3,239/month in Rapid City.

Can I afford to live alone in Mexico City on $80K?

Yes. At $80K in Mexico City, rent takes 14% of your take-home, leaving $3,747/month after essentials. Most financial planners recommend keeping rent below 30%.

Compare other salary bands — Mexico City vs Rapid City

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