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Complete side-by-side comparison of Mexico and Philippines for digital nomads and remote workers.
Philippines is 56% more affordable than Mexico, with a cost of living index of 8 compared to 18 (NYC = 100). Philippines scores higher on safety (57 vs 47/100). Mexico has stronger healthcare infrastructure (index 72 vs 67).
NYC = 100 for cost indexes. Higher safety/healthcare = better. Lower pollution/traffic = better.
Philippines is the more budget-friendly destination with a cost of living index of 8 versus 18 for Mexico (NYC baseline = 100). That's a 56% difference that adds up significantly over months of living abroad.
Rent is often the biggest expense: Philippines has a rent index of 20 compared to 32. Day-to-day expenses like groceries and dining follow a similar pattern.
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs $11.59 in Mexico versus $4.10 in Philippines. These everyday costs paint the real picture of how far your money goes.
Philippines ranks higher for safety with an index of 57/100, compared to 47/100 for Mexico. Both countries are generally safe for tourists and expats, though standard precautions apply in major cities.
Healthcare quality in Mexico scores 72/100 versus 67/100 in Philippines. International health insurance is recommended regardless of your destination.
Air quality is notably better in Mexico with a pollution index of 58 versus 72. This could be a deciding factor if you have respiratory sensitivities.
Mexico has a higher GDP per capita at $13,641 versus $3,906 in Philippines. This reflects in the overall infrastructure, services, and cost levels you'll experience.
Mexico uses the Mexican Peso (MXN) while Philippines uses the Philippine Peso (PHP). Both countries have widely available ATMs and increasing digital payment adoption in urban areas.
Mexico has a more established digital nomad scene with 2 popular nomad cities, while Philippines offers 2 cities. Top picks in Mexico include Mexico City, Playa del Carmen.
Source: Numbeo (national averages, USD)
Philippines is 56% more affordable than Mexico. The cost of living index is 8 vs 18 (NYC = 100), affecting rent, food, and daily expenses.
Philippines has a higher safety index of 57/100 compared to 47/100. Both countries are generally safe for travelers, but exercise standard precautions in tourist-heavy areas.
Mexico ranks higher for healthcare with an index of 72/100 versus 67/100. Modern hospitals and English-speaking doctors are available in major cities of both countries. International health insurance is recommended.
Mexico has a more established digital nomad scene with 2 popular nomad cities compared to 2 in Philippines. The best choice depends on your priorities: cost, weather, visa terms, and community size.
Check the dedicated visa guide pages for each country to see current DN visa availability, duration, cost, and requirements. Visa policies can change, so always verify with official sources before traveling.