Playa del Coco vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Playa del Coco, Costa Rica and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Playa del Coco has a monthly cost of $2,630, which is 20.1% higher than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Playa del Coco offers 60 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 66.7% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Playa del Coco is currently 33°C 🌧️, while Mérida is experiencing 39°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Playa del Coco has a safety score of 73.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Quality of Life
Playa del Coco wins
Playa del Coco is 10% better
Cost
Mérida wins
Mérida is 16% better
Climate
Playa del Coco wins
Playa del Coco is 17% better
Infrastructure
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 10% better
Mérida is 11% better
Mérida is 15% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Playa del Coco | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $2,630 | $2,190 | +20.1% |
| Daily Average | $88 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Playa del Coco | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $650.00 per month | $350.00 per month | +85.7% |
Daily Life
| Item | Playa del Coco | 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) | $7.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | +75.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Playa del Coco | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Playa del Coco | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Playa del Coco vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 3.0% higher than Playa del Coco overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,630 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $88 vs $73
- Mérida is 20.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 40% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Playa del Coco Wins In:
- Safety (10% better)
- Air Quality (17% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Cost of Living (16% better)
- Nightlife (10% better)
- Culture (11% better)
- Food Scene (15% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Cost of Living. However, Playa del Coco 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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