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Cost of Living in Oaxaca (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Oaxaca, Mexico
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Oaxaca, Mexico for an expat in 2026 averages $500–$800 (MXN 8,500–13,600) per month for rent (1-br, centro/jalatlaco). Key costs include rent (1-br, centro/jalatlaco) ($500–$800 (MXN 8,500–13,600)), rent (1-br, local areas) ($300–$500 (MXN 5,100–8,500)), groceries & market shopping ($100–$180 (MXN 1,700–3,060)).
Oaxaca is a popular destination for expats relocating to Mexico. Oaxaca City is where Mexico's soul lives. A UNESCO World Heritage colonial city at 1,550m altitude, it is the undisputed capital of Mexican gastronomy — birthplace of mole, home of tlayudas, mezcal, and chapulines. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, Centro/Jalatlaco) | $500–$800 (MXN 8,500–13,600) |
| Rent (1-BR, local areas) | $300–$500 (MXN 5,100–8,500) |
| Groceries & market shopping | $100–$180 (MXN 1,700–3,060) |
| Meals out (local fondas & taquerías) | $80–$150 (MXN 1,360–2,550) |
| Utilities (electricity, water, internet) | $40–$80 (MXN 680–1,360) |
| Transport (taxi, Uber, local bus) | $30–$60 (MXN 510–1,020) |
| Health insurance | $150–$250 (MXN 2,550–4,250) |
| Entertainment & misc. | $80–$150 (MXN 1,360–2,550) |
| Total (comfortable Oaxaca lifestyle) | $800–$1,400 (MXN 13,600–23,800) |
Oaxaca Quick Facts
Best For
Foodies, artists, writers, slow-travel nomads
Monthly Budget
$800–$1,400 (MXN 13,600–23,800)
1-BR Center Rent
$400–$800/mo (MXN 6,800–13,600)
Internet Speed
50–150 Mbps in modern apartments; variable
English Level
Moderate in expat areas; Spanish helps a lot
Altitude
1,550m — mild adjustment needed
Airport
OAX — direct flights to CDMX, Cancún, Houston, LAX
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Oaxaca per month?
Monthly costs in Oaxaca depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, centro/jalatlaco) ($500–$800 (MXN 8,500–13,600)), rent (1-br, local areas) ($300–$500 (MXN 5,100–8,500)), groceries & market shopping ($100–$180 (MXN 1,700–3,060)). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Oaxaca affordable for expats?
Oaxaca is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Oaxaca?
Rent (1-BR, Centro/Jalatlaco): $500–$800 (MXN 8,500–13,600). Rent (1-BR, local areas): $300–$500 (MXN 5,100–8,500)