Varadero vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Varadero, Cuba and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Varadero has a monthly cost of $1,685, which is 23.1% lower than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Varadero offers 5 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 1,900.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Varadero is currently 32°C 🌤️, while Mérida is experiencing 38°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Varadero has a safety score of 70.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 26% better
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Varadero is 7% better
Mérida is 24% better
Cost
Mérida wins
Mérida is 26% better
Climate
Varadero wins
Varadero is 9% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 49% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 14% better
Mérida is 14% better
Mérida is 27% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Varadero | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,685 | $2,190 | -23.1% |
| Daily Average | $56 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Varadero | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $350.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
| Item | Varadero | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.20 per cup | $1.50 per cup | -20.0% |
| Beer | $1.50 per pint | $1.80 per pint | -16.7% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $5.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | +25.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Varadero | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Varadero | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Varadero vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 26.0% higher than Varadero overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,685 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $56 vs $73
- Varadero is 23.1% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 95% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Varadero Wins In:
- Safety (7% better)
- Air Quality (9% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (26% better)
- Healthcare (24% better)
- Cost of Living (26% better)
- Internet Speed (49% better)
- Nightlife (14% better)
- Culture (14% better)
- Food Scene (27% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Varadero 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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