Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Peru
Mexico
Based on our comparison, Arequipa wins 7 out of 8 categories.Mexico City wins 1 categories.
For digital nomads choosing between Arequipa and Mexico City, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:
Best for Budget
Arequipa
$694/mo
Best Internet
Mexico City
100 Mbps
Best NomadIQ Score
Arequipa
7/10
Our Recommendation: Arequipa is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.
When comparing Arequipa and Mexico City for digital nomads, several factors come into play.
Cost of Living: Arequipa offers a more affordable lifestyle at $694/month compared to Mexico City's $1,582/month.
Internet & Remote Work: Mexico City provides faster connectivity at 100 Mbps compared to Arequipa's 70 Mbps.
Safety: With a safety score of 5.7/10, Arequipa provides a more secure environment than Mexico City (3.3/10).
Overall: Arequipa earns a higher NomadIQ score of 7/10, making it slightly more suited for the digital nomad lifestyle.
Arequipa is 56% cheaper than Mexico City.
Arequipa has a higher safety score (5.7/10) compared to Mexico City (3.3/10).
5.7/10
Arequipa
3.3/10
Mexico City
For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Mexico City offers faster internet at 100 Mbps vs 70 Mbps.
70 Mbps
Arequipa
100 Mbps
Mexico City
Based on our analysis, Arequipa edges out as the better choice for expats, winning 7 of 8 comparison factors.
Arequipa: Best for budget-conscious expats
Mexico City: Best for those prioritizing amenities
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