Lake Atitlán vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Lake Atitlán, Guatemala and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Lake Atitlán has a monthly cost of $1,665, which is 24.0% lower than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Lake Atitlán offers 30 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 233.3% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Lake Atitlán is currently 25°C 🌫️, while Mérida is experiencing 39°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Lake Atitlán has a safety score of 52.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 9% better
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Mérida is 11% better
Mérida is 25% better
Cost
Climate
Lake Atitlán wins
Lake Atitlán is 5% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 9% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 27% better
Mérida is 14% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Lake Atitlán | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,665 | $2,190 | -24.0% |
| Daily Average | $56 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $350.00 per month | -28.6% |
Daily Life
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Lake Atitlán | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Lake Atitlán vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 9.0% higher than Lake Atitlán overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,665 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $56 vs $73
- Lake Atitlán is 24.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 70% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Lake Atitlán Wins In:
- Air Quality (5% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (9% better)
- Safety (11% better)
- Healthcare (25% better)
- Internet Speed (9% better)
- Nightlife (27% better)
- Food Scene (14% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Lake Atitlán 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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