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Manuel Antonio vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Manuel Antonio has a monthly cost of $2,730, which is 24.7% higher than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Manuel Antonio offers 25 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 300.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Manuel Antonio is currently 28°C ⛈️, while Mérida is experiencing 36°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Manuel Antonio has a safety score of 72.0 , while Mérida scores 65.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 7% better
Quality of Life
Manuel Antonio is 7% better
Mérida is 9% better
Cost
Mérida wins
Mérida is 26% better
Climate
Manuel Antonio wins
Manuel Antonio is 18% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 14% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 14% better
Mérida is 14% better
Mérida is 15% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Manuel Antonio | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,730 | $2,190 | +24.7% |
| Daily Average | $91 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Manuel Antonio | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $650.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +85.7% |
Daily Life
| Item | Manuel Antonio | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $2.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | +66.7% |
| Beer | $3.00 per pint | $1.80 per pint | +66.7% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $8.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | +100.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Manuel Antonio | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Manuel Antonio | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Manuel Antonio vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 7.0% higher than Manuel Antonio overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,730 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $91 vs $73
- Mérida is 24.7% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 75% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Manuel Antonio Wins In:
- Safety (7% better)
- Air Quality (18% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (7% better)
- Healthcare (9% better)
- Cost of Living (26% better)
- Internet Speed (14% better)
- Nightlife (14% better)
- Culture (14% better)
- Food Scene (15% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Manuel Antonio might be preferable if Overall Score 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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