What is the Cost of Living for a Student in Guadalajara?

Popularly known as “Pearl of the West”, Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city. From numerous museums and cultural attractions to modern infrastructure, there is everything a student needs for a great study abroad or semester exchange experience in this city. However, managing expenses in a foreign country can be quite tricky. One might feel overwhelmed while trying to adapt to a new place and learn about the typical daily routines. That’s why we have put together this list to give you an estimate of the cost of living in Guadalajara:

1. The rent of a student room in Puebla

The popular areas for international students include Providencia, Colonia Americana, and Chapalita. Rent in these neighborhoods usually starts from $200. Neighborhoods like Lomas Altas and Puerta de Hierro are pricier than other neighborhoods. The rent is usually more than $300.  

2. The best food in Puebla

Major grocery stores in this city include Walmart, Costco, and Superama. You can also go to Waldo’s and find a wide range of grocery as well as other household items at very cheap prices. Local markets include San Juan de Dios, which is considered to be the largest indoor market in Latin America. In this market, you can shop for fresh fruits and vegetables at very reasonable prices. You can find a large number of other grocery items as well. The food at local restaurants would cost around $5 per person. Dining out at an expensive restaurant would usually cost more than $15 per meal.

3. The cost of transportation

Buses and taxis are the two main form of transportations in Guadalajara. The fare of the bus is $0.31 per ride. There is also another type of bus that operates in the city, which are air-conditioned and have better seats. They are distinguished by turquoise color and have TUR printed on them. The tickets for this bus costs $0.62 per ride. Whereas, the minimum fare for a taxi is around $1.6. Then there is the light rail system, Tren Ligero. Currently, it has two functioning lines. The third one is expected to start operating in October 2018. It costs about $0.36 per ride. Guadalajara also has a bicycle rental system, MiBici. The annual subscription costs around $19 and the temporary pass for one day costs about $4.   READ MORE: 7 best reasons to do a semester exchange in Guadalajara

4. The cost of entertainment

Due to the presence of many universities, Zapopan is one of the most popular neighborhoods among young students. There are plenty of options for shopping, restaurants, bars, and nightclubs in this area. Dining out in an expensive restaurant in Guadalajara would usually cost a person around $18. Plaza Galerías, Plaza del Sol, and Andares in Zapopan are the most popular malls in the city. Here you can find many international brand outlets and high-end shopping options along with many restaurants. Chapultepec is another neighborhood which is popular for its nightlife. This area is filled with many bars and clubs. Also, the cultural corridor Chapultepec is a really happening spot in the city. There is a wide range of markets, art galleries, bookstores, eateries located in this part. Cost of gym membership for one person usually costs around $30 per month. Also, movie tickets in Guadalajara cost about $3 per person.

A student can definitely get complete value for their money in Guadalajara. The city’s wide range of features guarantees an overall memorable educational experience for a student.