Akumal
Quintana Roo, Mexico
#1 in Mexico
75
Overall Score
VS
Rexburg
Idaho, USA
#28 in USA
72
Overall Score
Akumal scores higher overall

Score Breakdown

Akumal
Rexburg
Livability
74
75
Affordability
80
70
Business
68
68
Growth
70
65

Cost of Living

Rexburg is the more affordable option overall — monthly living expenses run approximately 48% higher compared to Akumal. Housing costs are a major driver: Akumal's average rent is 72% higher than Rexburg's.
MetricAkumalRexburgDiff
Average Rent
$1,800$1,044+72%
Groceries
$450$262+72%
Utilities
$180$1800%
Transport
$120$150-20%
Healthcare
$250$2500%
Monthly Total
$2,800$1,886+48%
Cost Index
95116out of 100

Salary & Income

Rexburg offers 100% lower average salaries. The minimum comfortable salary in Akumal is estimated at $30,000 vs $55,000 in Rexburg.
MetricAkumalRexburg
Average Salary
$0$39,531
Salary Needed
$30,000$55,000

Climate Comparison

Both cities share a similar average temperature, within 0°F of each other.
MetricAkumalRexburg
Avg Temp
°F°F
Summer High
°F°F
Winter Low
°F°F
Rainfall
in in
Snowfall
in in
Sunny Days
Humidity
%66.00%

Commute & Transport

Both cities have comparable commute times, within 2 minutes of each other. Akumal scores higher for public transit, making it the better choice for car-free living. For walkability, Akumal leads — a better score here means more amenities reachable on foot.
MetricAkumalRexburg
Commute Time
20 min18 min
Transit Score
50.0/1030.0/10
Walkability
65.0/1042.0/10
Traffic Index
40.0045.00
Car Dependency
MediumHigh

Economy & Demographics

Rexburg is the larger city . From a growth perspective, Akumal is expanding faster, signaling stronger demand for housing, jobs, and services. On the employment side, Akumal has a lower unemployment rate, reflecting a tighter and more competitive job market.
MetricAkumalRexburg
Population
2,15447,466
Pop. Growth
1.50%0.32%
Median Age
21.0
Unemployment
2.63%3.80%
GDP
$0.0B$0.0B

Pros & Cons

Akumal
Advantages
Akumal boasts a very low crime rate and is considered exceptionally safe for tourists and residents, with a strong emphasis on community security.
It is globally renowned for its marine life, particularly the sea turtles that inhabit its bays, offering unparalleled opportunities for snorkeling and ecotourism.
The town provides a tranquil and laid-back atmosphere, characterized by its small, walkable size and a slower pace of life, appealing to those seeking relaxation.
Akumal's strategic location on the Riviera Maya allows for easy access to other regional attractions like cenotes and Mayan ruins, while maintaining a peaceful environment.
The short-term rental market is robust and growing, presenting attractive investment opportunities for property owners.
Drawbacks
Healthcare facilities within Akumal are limited to a clinic; serious medical emergencies require travel to larger hospitals in nearby cities.
Long-term rental housing can be scarce due to the high demand and profitability of short-term vacation rentals.
The economy is heavily reliant on tourism, making it potentially vulnerable to fluctuations in the travel industry and external economic shocks.
While the town is walkable, public transportation options are limited, and car dependency is moderate for accessing amenities outside the immediate center or for inter-city travel.
Sargassum seaweed can periodically affect beach conditions, impacting the aesthetic appeal and usability of the coastline.
Rexburg
Advantages
Low crime rates contribute to a high safety score and a family-friendly environment.
Affordable cost of living, particularly for housing and daily expenses, compared to national averages.
Strong sense of community and family-oriented atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of BYU-Idaho.
Abundant outdoor recreational opportunities, with proximity to national parks like Yellowstone and Grand Teton.
Short average commute times, making daily travel more efficient.
Drawbacks
Limited nightlife and entertainment options, characteristic of a smaller, quieter town.
Harsh winters with significant snowfall and cold temperatures impact daily activities.
Housing market can be competitive, with desirable properties selling quickly.
Car dependency is high due to limited public transit options.
The median age is very low (21), indicating a strong student population which may influence the city's overall social dynamic.

Dive Deeper

Key figures side by side — see which city wins each category at a glance.

Akumal
#1
Quintana Roo, Mexico
75.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$1,800
Avg Salary
$0
Cost Index
95
Commute
20 min
Transit Score
50.0/10
Walkability
65.0/10
Sunny Days
/yr
Avg Temp
°F
Pop. Growth
1.50%
Unemployment
2.63%
Livability
74
Business
68
View Full Profile
Rexburg
#28
Idaho, USA
72.0 / 100 overall
Avg Rent
$1,044
Avg Salary
$39,531
Cost Index
116
Commute
18 min
Transit Score
30.0/10
Walkability
42.0/10
Sunny Days
/yr
Avg Temp
°F
Pop. Growth
0.32%
Unemployment
3.80%
Livability
75
Business
68
View Full Profile

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