What Is the Average Monthly Salary in Mexico?

Understanding the average monthly salary in Mexico provides insight into the country’s economic landscape. This article explores the various factors that shape earning potential across different regions and industries. By examining current salary data, individuals can gain a clearer picture of the financial realities and opportunities within Mexico. The aim is to provide context for Mexican salary figures.

National Average Monthly Salary

The average monthly salary in Mexico for 2025 is approximately 17,300 Mexican Pesos (MXN), which translates to roughly 1,020 US Dollars per month, based on a current exchange rate of 17 pesos to 1 US Dollar. Median salaries, representing the midpoint of earnings, are typically lower, often ranging around 14,000 to 15,000 MXN (820 to 880 US Dollars) monthly. This indicates that half of Mexican workers earn below this median range. Official government statistics, such as those from INEGI (National Institute of Statistics and Geography), are primary sources for this wage data.

A significant distinction exists between wages in the formal and informal sectors of the economy. Formal sector wages generally surpass those found in the informal economy. For instance, within the retail trade sector, formal workers reported an average monthly salary of 6,740 MXN, whereas informal workers in the same sector averaged 3,910 MXN.

Regional and Urban Salary Differences

Average salaries in Mexico exhibit variations across different regions and major urban centers. Cities such as Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara typically report higher average salaries compared to other parts of the country. This disparity is attributed to the concentration of economic activity, diverse industries, and varying costs of living in these metropolitan areas. For example, Mexico City, as the largest tech hub, often sees professionals earning 10-15% more than in other regions. Monterrey and Guadalajara also offer competitive salaries, particularly within their industrial and technological clusters.

In contrast, regions with less industrial development or a greater reliance on traditional sectors often present lower average wages. Areas with predominantly rural economies tend to fall below the national average. For instance, the average annual salary in Cancun, a prominent tourist destination, is approximately 38,900 MXN, which is lower than the salaries found in larger metropolitan areas.

Industry and Occupational Wage Variations

Salaries in Mexico vary across different industries and specific occupations. High-paying sectors include finance, information technology (IT), and advanced manufacturing. For example, financial analysts can earn an average gross salary of 511,134 MXN annually, with entry-level positions starting around 361,813 MXN. Software developers, particularly senior roles, can command annual salaries ranging from 42,000 to 72,000 US Dollars. The manufacturing industry, especially automotive and aerospace, also offers competitive salaries.

Conversely, industries such as hospitality, tourism, agriculture, and retail generally offer lower average wages. A retail cashier, for instance, typically earns an average of 116,465 MXN per year. Tourist guides can expect an average gross salary of 129,659 MXN annually. These sectors often have positions that pay near minimum wage.

Factors Influencing Individual Earnings

Several key factors influence an individual’s earning potential in Mexico. Educational attainment plays a role, with higher levels of education generally leading to higher-paying job opportunities. For instance, individuals with a master’s degree can earn significantly more than those with only a bachelor’s degree. Years of professional experience also directly correlate with increased earnings. Workers with several years in a specific field can expect higher compensation, particularly in technical and managerial roles.

Entry-level positions offer lower pay, but salaries tend to rise with expertise and responsibilities. Specific skills, such as foreign language proficiency or highly specialized technical abilities, can enhance an individual’s market value. The size and type of employer, such as a large multinational corporation versus a small local business, can also influence compensation packages.

Interpreting Salary Data and Cost of Living

An “average” is a statistical measure that may not fully represent individual experiences. The mean salary, calculated by summing all salaries and dividing by the number of individuals, can be skewed by a few extremely high or low earners. In contrast, the median salary, which is the middle value in a sorted list of earnings, often provides a more representative picture of typical income, as it is less affected by outliers. Connecting these salary figures to the real-world cost of living in Mexico is essential for understanding purchasing power. The cost of living varies by location, with major urban centers more expensive.

In Mexico City, for example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 843 to 953 US Dollars per month, while basic utilities for an 85 square meter apartment might be around 51 US Dollars monthly. Public transportation is relatively affordable, with a monthly pass costing approximately 18 to 23 US Dollars. Groceries and dining out also vary, but a meal at an inexpensive restaurant might be around 8 US Dollars. These expenses illustrate that while Mexican salaries may appear lower than in some other countries, the comparatively lower cost of living can offer a different quality of life. In Guadalajara, a single person’s estimated monthly costs, excluding rent, can be around 576 US Dollars, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center ranging from approximately 267 to 1,150 US Dollars.