Top 5 student cities in Mexico
Discover the favourite cities for university students in Mexico and what makes them unique.
Choosing an academic destination isn't a question of universities, but also of quality of life, opportunities and budget. That's why, in this article, we tell you about the top five student cities in Mexico, a country that attracts thousands of local and international students every year due to its educational offerings, cultural diversity and competitive cost of living compared to other destinations.
Throughout the article, we analyse each city from a practical perspective designed for students: the advantages and disadvantages of living there, which universities stand out, and what the rental market is like for students. Furthermore, as an online platform specialising in student accommodation, we help you find verified rooms, flats and residences so that you can organise your stay simply and securely from the outset.
Mexico City
Living and studying in Mexico City means immersing yourself in a metropolis that never stops. With neighbourhoods each with their own identity, an endless cultural agenda and top-level universities, the capital offers an academic experience that’s as intense as it’s diverse, ideal for those seeking education and student life in one place.
Pros and cons of studying in Mexico City
Student life in Mexico City has many positive aspects, but also some disadvantages that may affect your daily life.
Pros of studying in Mexico City
- Great cultural offering: museums, events, concerts and free activities. And incredible nightlife!
- Wide range of high-quality public and private universities.
- Good transport links and opportunities for work experience and employment.
Cons of studying in Mexico City
- Higher cost of living than in other cities in the country.
- Fast pace, which may be overwhelming for some students.
- Heavy traffic and long journey times.
Top Universities in Mexico City
One institution in particular stands out in the Mexican capital.
Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (National Autonomous University of Mexico)
This is one of the most renowned universities in Latin America, with a wide range of academic programmes. It also welcomes more than 360,000 students every year! The main campus is south of the city centre, in Coyoacán.
If you’re thinking of studying there, we recommend reading our guide to accommodation near the National Autonomous University of Mexico.
Student housing in Mexico City
Rent for students in Mexico City varies, but it’s usually more expensive than in other Mexican cities. A room in a shared flat can cost between MXN $7,100-12,200 (approx. €350-600) per month, depending on the area and the services included.
Are you looking for accommodation in Mexico City? Read our guide to student housing in Mexico City, with the best neighbourhoods and approximate prices.
Guadalajara
Guadalajara is one of Mexico's most important university cities and stands out for its good balance between tradition and modernity. With a youthful atmosphere, a strong cultural identity and a more affordable cost of living than the capital, it’s a very attractive option for university students.
Pros and cons of studying in Guadalajara
Choosing Guadalajara to study brings with it great advantages, although certain disadvantages may affect the experience.
Pros of studying in Guadalajara
- Large student community and dynamic university environment.
- Expenses are generally more affordable than in Mexico City.
- Good quality of life and a constant cultural offering.
Cons of studying in Guadalajara
- Hot climate for much of the year.
- Less academic offerings than the capital in some very specific areas.
- Public transport could be improved in certain areas.
Top Universities in Guadalajara
Among the institutions that this city hosts, there’s one that stands out.
Universidad Autónoma de Guadalajara (Autonomous University of Guadalajara)
It’s the oldest private university in Mexico and one of the most important. Its main campus is located in Zapopan, in the University City.
Find useful information about areas and accommodation in the guide to housing close to the Autonomous University of Guadalajara.
Student housing in Guadalajara
Accommodation in Guadalajara is generally more affordable than in other large Mexican cities. For example, rooms are usually the most economical option, costing between MXN $5,510 and $9,200 (approx. €250-450) per month.
If you’re going to study in this Mexican city, check out our guide to student housing in Guadalajara, with information on prices and recommended neighbourhoods.
Monterrey
Studying in Monterrey means choosing a city with an entrepreneurial mindset and a professional pace. Surrounded by mountains and with strong links between universities and industry, it offers an ideal environment for those seeking academic training geared towards the world of work.
Pros and cons of studying in Monterrey
Monterrey offers many academic opportunities, although it isn’t without certain drawbacks for students.
Pros of studying in Monterrey
- High academic level, especially in technical and business degrees.
- Good connection between universities and businesses.
- A modern city with good infrastructure and services.
Cons of studying in Monterrey
- Very hot weather in summer.
- Less cultural offerings than Mexico City or Guadalajara.
- It’s more expensive than other Mexican cities.
Top Universities in Monterrey
Monterrey is home to a highly renowned institution.
Tecnológico de Monterrey (Tec)
It’s one of the most prestigious private universities in Latin America, with great international recognition. In fact, it’s so important that it has campuses in almost 20 Mexican cities. The main campus is located in Monterrey, more specifically in the city's Technology District.
Student housing in Monterrey
The reality is that rent for students in Monterrey tends to be high. Depending on the area and proximity to universities, rooms in shared flats can usually be found for between MXN $6,100 and 11,300 (approx. £300-550) per month.
Puebla
Puebla is a university city with a strong historical identity and a lively student atmosphere. Its manageable size, affordable cost of living and proximity to the capital make it an attractive alternative for those looking to study in Mexico at a more relaxed pace.
Pros and cons of studying in Puebla
Studying in Puebla can be very enriching, although you’ll also encounter some more complicated aspects.
Pros of studying in Puebla
- Lower cost of living than in Mexico City and Monterrey.
- Significant student presence and youthful atmosphere.
- A compact city with a more relaxed pace of life.
Cons of studying in Puebla
- Fewer cultural and leisure activities than in large cities.
- A smaller job market for internships and jobs.
- Fewer transport options than in larger cities.
Top Universities in Puebla
Puebla is home to a prestigious higher education institution.
Benemérita Universidad Autónoma de Puebla
It’s one of the most renowned public universities in the country, with a wide range of academic programmes. It has several campuses, with the main campus located in Ciudad Universitaria, south of downtown Puebla.
Student housing in Puebla
Puebla offers accommodation at more affordable prices than other university cities in Mexico. For your reference, students usually choose single rooms in shared flats, which typically cost MXN $4,080-8,200 (approx. £200-400) per month.
Santiago de Querétaro
In recent years, Querétaro has become one of the cities with the highest quality of life in Mexico. With a peaceful environment, modern services and a growing student community, it offers an appealing balance for those seeking academic training and a good quality of life.
Pros and cons of studying in Santiago de Querétaro
The academic experience in Santiago de Querétaro has many advantages, but certain disadvantages could influence your stay.
Pros of studying in Santiago de Querétaro
- Historic environment with significant academic and business growth.
- Good quality of life and a well-organised city.
- Expenses are generally moderate compared to other university towns.
Cons of studying in Santiago de Querétaro
- More limited cultural offerings than in large cities.
- Less variety of universities than Mexico City or Guadalajara.
- Public transport is under development in some areas.
Top Universities in Santiago de Querétaro
Several institutions are based in Querétaro, one of which stands out in particular.
Universidad Autónoma de Querétaro (Autonomous University of Queretaro)
It’s the state's leading public university and offers a diverse range of academic programmes. It has several campuses spread across different parts of the city, including the historic centre and surrounding neighbourhoods.
Student housing in Santiago de Querétaro
Rent for students in Querétaro is relatively affordable. Expect to pay between MXN $5,100-9,200 (approx. £300-€400) per month for a room in a shared flat, depending on the area and the services included.
Find accommodation in Mexico with Erasmus Play
Choosing between the top 5 student cities in Mexico will depend on the type of experience you’re looking for and your daily budget. The country offers everything from large cities with a vibrant university life to quieter destinations with a good quality of life and more affordable costs for students.
Once you’ve decided on your destination, finding accommodation is one of the most important steps to take to start this stage with peace of mind. At Erasmus Play, as an online platform specialising in student accommodation, we help you compare rooms, flats and verified residences in each city, facilitating a safe, quick search tailored to your needs even before you arrive in Mexico.