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Quetzaltenango vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Quetzaltenango, Guatemala and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Quetzaltenango has a monthly cost of $1,725, which is 21.2% lower than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Quetzaltenango offers 25 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 300.0% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Quetzaltenango is currently 20°C ⛈️, while Mérida is experiencing 35°C 🌧️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Quetzaltenango has a safety score of 53.0 , while Mérida scores 65.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 12% better
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Mérida is 12% better
Mérida is 22% better
Cost
Climate
Mérida wins
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 16% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 23% better
Mérida is 9% better
Mérida is 16% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
| Category | Quetzaltenango | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Total | $1,725 | $2,190 | -21.2% |
| Daily Average | $58 | $73 | per day |
Housing
| Item | Quetzaltenango | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) | $250.00 per month | $350.00 per month | -28.6% |
Daily Life
| Item | Quetzaltenango | Mérida | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
| Beer | $1.75 per pint | $1.80 per pint | -2.8% |
| Meal (Inexpensive) | $3.00 per meal | $4.00 per meal | -25.0% |
Transportation
| Item | Quetzaltenango | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
Utilities
| Item | Quetzaltenango | Mérida | Difference |
|---|
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Final Verdict: Quetzaltenango vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 12.0% higher than Quetzaltenango overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $1,725 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $58 vs $73
- Quetzaltenango is 21.2% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 75% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Quetzaltenango Wins In:
- No significant advantages found
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (12% better)
- Safety (12% better)
- Healthcare (22% better)
- Internet Speed (16% better)
- Nightlife (23% better)
- Culture (9% better)
- Food Scene (16% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Quetzaltenango 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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