Jacó vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Jacó, Costa Rica and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Jacó has a monthly cost of $2,830, which is 29.2% higher than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Jacó offers 50 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 100.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Jacó is currently 31°C ⛈️, while Mérida is experiencing 39°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Jacó has a safety score of 68.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .

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Overall
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Jacó is 5% better
Mérida is 10% better
Cost
Mérida wins
Mérida is 16% better
Climate
Jacó wins
Jacó is 8% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 6% better
Social
Mérida wins
Jacó is 6% better
Mérida is 15% better
Mérida is 16% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Jacó | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,830 | $2,190 | +29.2% |
Daily Average | $94 | $73 | per day |
Housing
Item | Jacó | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $550.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +57.1% |
Daily Life
Item | Jacó | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | +66.7% |
Transportation
Item | Jacó | Mérida | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Jacó | Mérida | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Jacó vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 2.0% higher than Jacó overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,830 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $94 vs $73
- Mérida is 29.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 50% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Jacó Wins In:
- Safety (5% better)
- Air Quality (8% better)
- Nightlife (6% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Healthcare (10% better)
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Internet Speed (6% better)
- Culture (15% better)
- Food Scene (16% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Healthcare. However, Jacó might be preferable if Healthcare 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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