Utila vs Mérida – Digital Nomad Guide
Trying to decide between Utila, Honduras and Mérida, Mexico? Here's a detailed comparison to help digital nomads and remote workers make an informed choice.
💰 Cost of Living
Utila has a monthly cost of $2,160, which is 1.4% lower than Mérida's $2,190.
🌐 Internet Infrastructure
For internet speeds, Utila offers 30 Mbps, while Mérida provides 100 Mbps – making Mérida's connection 233.3% faster .
☀️ Current Weather
The weather in Utila is currently 29°C ⛈️, while Mérida is experiencing 38°C 🌤️.
🛡️ Safety Comparison
Utila has a safety score of 45.0 , while Mérida scores 65.0 .
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Overall
Mérida wins
Mérida is 14% better
Quality of Life
Mérida wins
Mérida is 20% better
Mérida is 38% better
Cost
Climate
Utila wins
Utila is 14% better
Infrastructure
Mérida wins
Mérida is 28% better
Social
Mérida wins
Mérida is 8% better
Mérida is 24% better
Mérida is 25% better
Total Cost of Living Comparison
Category | Utila | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Monthly Total | $2,160 | $2,190 | -1.4% |
Daily Average | $72 | $73 | per day |
Housing
Item | Utila | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Apartment (1 bedroom) | $350.00 per month | $350.00 per month | 0.0% |
Daily Life
Item | Utila | Mérida | Difference |
---|---|---|---|
Coffee | $1.50 per cup | $1.50 per cup | 0.0% |
Transportation
Item | Utila | Mérida | Difference |
---|
Utilities
Item | Utila | Mérida | Difference |
---|
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Final Verdict: Utila vs Mérida
Mérida ranks as the better digital nomad destination, scoring 14.0% higher than Utila overall.
💰 Cost Analysis
- Monthly Budget: $2,160 vs $2,190
- Daily Expenses: $72 vs $73
- Utila is 1.4% cheaper for digital nomads
🌐 Infrastructure
- Internet Speed: Mérida leads with 70% faster connection
- Public Transport: Mérida has better public transportation
🎯 Key Advantages
Utila Wins In:
- Air Quality (14% better)
Mérida Wins In:
- Overall Score (14% better)
- Safety (20% better)
- Healthcare (38% better)
- Internet Speed (28% better)
- Nightlife (8% better)
- Culture (24% better)
- Food Scene (25% better)
💡 Final Recommendation
Choose Mérida if you prioritize cost effectiveness and Overall Score. However, Utila 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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