Panajachel vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Panajachel, Guatemala and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Panajachel has a monthly cost of $1,730, which is 21.0% lower than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Panajachel offers 15 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 566.7% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Panajachel is currently 23°C 🌧️, while Mérida is experiencing 39°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Panajachel has a safety score of 55.0 , while Mérida scores 63.0 .
Send money to 80+ countries for less than traditional banks. Low-fee international transfers.
Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 12% better
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Mérida is 8% better
Mérida is 27% better
Cost
Climate
Panajachel wins
Panajachel is 5% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 18% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 25% better
Mérida is 5% better
Mérida is 22% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Panajachel | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $1,730 | $2,190 | -21.0% |
Daily Average | $58 | $73 | per day |
Housing
Item | Panajachel | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $350.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Panajachel | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Panajachel | Mérida | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Panajachel | Mérida | Difference |
---|

Invest in Dubai real estate from just $500. Real estate without the hassle.
Final Verdict: Panajachel vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 12.0% higher than Panajachel overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,730 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $58 vs $73
- Panajachel is 21.0% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 85% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Panajachel Wins In:
- Air Quality (5% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (12% better)
- Safety (8% better)
- Healthcare (27% better)
- Internet Speed (18% better)
- Nightlife (25% better)
- Culture (5% better)
- Food Scene (22% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Panajachel 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.

Earn rental income and capital gains from luxury Dubai real estate. Dubai real estate from $500.