City Profile
San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, Oaxaca
Mexico · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec, often referred to simply as Tuxtepec, is a vibrant city located in the northern part of the state of Oaxaca, Mexico, bordering Veracruz. It stands as the second most populous city in Oaxaca and serves as the principal urban and economic hub of the Papaloapan Basin region. The city's name, derived from the Nahuatl 'Toch-tepec,' means 'on the hill of rabbits,' referencing a nearby hill where the original settlement was located. Founded in 1811, Tuxtepec has a rich history shaped by its strategic location and fertile lands, making it a convergence point for economic activities from Oaxaca, Veracruz, and Puebla. People are drawn to Tuxtepec for its significant agricultural, industrial, and commercial activity, as well as its unique cultural blend of Chinanteca, Mazateca, and Jarocha influences.
Oaxaca, Mexico, is known for its rich indigenous cultures, vibrant arts scene, and culinary traditions, particularly its diverse moles and mezcal. The economy is primarily driven by tourism, with visitors drawn to its colonial architecture, archaeological sites like Monte Albán, and artisan communities. While agriculture remains a significant sector, much of it is for local consumption, though coffee, sugarcane, and tropical fruits are exported. Living in Oaxaca offers a moderate climate and a relatively low cost of living, with monthly expenses for expats potentially ranging from $900 to $1,500, though functional Spanish is essential for daily life.
How this 71/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 55 / 100 | 55.0 | 30% | 16.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 30.0 | 100.0 | 25% | 25.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: no usable reading Income needed to live here: no usable reading Unemployment rate: 2.67% | 91.6 | 20% | 18.3 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: no usable reading Job growth rate: 0.5% | 30.0 | 15% | 4.5 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 65 / 100 | 65.0 | 10% | 6.5 |
| Overall score | 70.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=69, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
19 September 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
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Cost of Living
The cost of living in San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec is generally considered low, particularly when compared to major urban centers in Mexico or the United States. This is largely influenced by the average labor income in the municipality, which was reported at approximately $367.78 USD per month in 2024. While specific data for average rent is not readily available for 2024 or later, housing costs are expected to be significantly lower than national averages, aligning with the local income levels. The affordability of basic goods and services contributes to a more accessible lifestyle for residents.
Income
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San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec boasts a dynamic economy primarily driven by its agroindustry, livestock, commerce, and manufacturing sectors. The region is a major producer of crops such as sugar cane, pineapple, and banana. Key industrial players include the Cervecera del Trópico (Tropical Brewery), the Bio Pappel paper factory, and the Adolfo López Mateos sugar mill, highlighting a strong manufacturing presence. The city's strategic location at the confluence of Oaxaca, Veracruz, and Puebla also solidifies its role as an important commercial center. While specific job growth rates for 2024-2026 are not available, the ongoing development in infrastructure and investment in sectors like healthcare suggest a stable, albeit modest, economic outlook.
The average salary in San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec is $368 per year. You would need approximately $450 to live comfortably.
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Getting around San Juan Bautista Tuxtepec primarily involves local buses and private vehicles. The city is well-connected by a network of roads, including Highway 175 to Oaxaca de Juárez, and other routes connecting to nearby towns. Public bus services operate within the city and connect Tuxtepec to other major cities like Oaxaca and Mexico City, with several operators providing daily routes. While specific walkability and transit scores are not available, the presence of a 'Muro Boulevard' along the Papaloapan River provides a pedestrian-friendly area for walking and cycling. However, for travel beyond the immediate city center, reliance on cars or intercity buses is common, indicating a medium level of car dependency.
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