Alajuela vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Alajuela, Costa Rica and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Alajuela has a monthly cost of $2,340, which is 6.8% higher than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Alajuela offers 100 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 0.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Alajuela is currently 28°C ⛈️, while Mérida is experiencing 38°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Alajuela has a safety score of 76.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .
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Overall
Quality of Life
Alajuela wins
Alajuela is 13% better
Cost
Mérida wins
Mérida is 16% better
Climate
Alajuela wins
Alajuela is 17% better
Infrastructure
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 5% better
Mérida is 11% better
Mérida is 15% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Alajuela | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,340 | $2,190 | +6.8% |
| Daily Average | $78 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Alajuela | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $450.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +28.6% |
Daily Life
| Item | Alajuela | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Alajuela | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Alajuela | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Alajuela vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Alajuela overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,340 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $78 vs $73
- Mérida is 6.8% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 0% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Alajuela Wins In:
- Safety (13% better)
- Air Quality (17% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Nightlife (5% better)
- Culture (11% better)
- Food Scene (15% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Cost of Living. However, Alajuela might be preferable if Cost of Living is your top priority. Both cities offer unique advantages for digital nomads, with distinct trade-offs in cost of living, infrastructure, and lifestyle options.
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