Living in Toluca: Close to CDMX With Lower Prices

Living in Toluca is an increasingly common alternative for people who work in Ciudad de México but want considerably lower housing prices, thanks to the highway and the intercity train that connect the two cities. The capital of the Estado de México combines a historic downtown with industrial areas and modern residential developments, along with a cold climate shaped by its altitude, one of the lowest average temperatures among Mexico's state capitals. This article covers the connection with CDMX, recommended areas, and the climate you should plan for before moving.

The connection with Ciudad de México

Toluca is connected to Ciudad de México by the México-Toluca highway and, more recently, by the intercity train, which has shortened travel times for people who regularly commute between the two cities. This connectivity has fueled the growth of residential subdivisions (fraccionamientos) and high-rise developments in Toluca and nearby municipalities such as Metepec and Zinacantepec. They appeal to buyers who want a larger or newer home while paying considerably less than in the capital, accepting a longer daily commute in exchange if they work in CDMX.

Recommended areas and climate

Areas near the highway and the intercity train tend to appreciate better because of their connectivity, while Metepec stands out as one of the most established suburban municipalities, with good infrastructure and a cultural scene of its own. The climate is cold much of the year, with frequent frosts in winter, which makes thermal insulation and heating essential considerations when choosing a home. Housing prices are considerably lower than in Ciudad de México, even in well-located areas with comparable amenities.

• Areas near the highway and the intercity train tend to appreciate better because of their connectivity.
• The climate is cold much of the year, with frequent frosts in winter.
• Housing prices are considerably lower than in Ciudad de México.
• The industrial zone of the Estado de México creates additional jobs for those who don't commute to CDMX every day.
• Metepec, a neighboring municipality, offers good infrastructure and a cultural scene of its own.

Local economy and jobs

Toluca has a major industrial zone that is home to automotive and manufacturing plants, creating local employment for people who prefer not to depend on daily commutes to Ciudad de México. This economic diversification, combined with the services and commerce typical of a state capital, means the city works well both for people who travel to CDMX occasionally and for those who work entirely within the Estado de México. The combination of local jobs and good connectivity to the nation's capital is one of the main reasons to move to Toluca.

Frequently asked questions

How much can you save by living in Toluca instead of CDMX?

The savings can be considerable, since housing prices in Toluca tend to be quite a bit lower than in Ciudad de México, although you should subtract the cost and time of commuting if you travel daily.

How cold is the climate in Toluca?

Toluca has one of the coldest climates among Mexico's state capitals, with frequent frosts in winter, so it's wise to look for a home with good thermal insulation and adequate heating.

Is it better to live in Metepec instead of Toluca?

Metepec is a neighboring municipality with good infrastructure and a cultural scene of its own, so it can be an attractive alternative if you want a more established setting without moving away from the state capital.