Top Mexican Cities for Developers & Software Engineering Talent

Mexico boasted some 220,000 software developers in 2023.

That’s hardly a surprise, given that Mexico has emerged as a prominent hub for software development, attracting talented professionals from across the globe. The country’s nearshore location, vibrant culture, and growing tech ecosystem make it an ideal destination for software developers seeking new opportunities. 

Here, we will explore the country’s hottest cities for software developer talent and why they have become magnets for tech professionals. Ultimately, you’ll learn why considering the top Mexican cities for developers is a strategic decision for your business.

Mexico City: The Epicenter of Innovation

Mexico City, the capital and largest city in Mexico, offers a dynamic environment for software developers. With a population of over 21 million, it boasts a thriving tech scene, attracting major tech companies, startups, and accelerators. 

The city is known for its innovative spirit, hosting events such as “INCmty” and “Campus Party Mexico” that foster collaboration and networking among tech professionals. Mexico City is home to the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), one of the most prestigious universities in Latin America, and offers programs in computer science and software engineering with a strong emphasis on technology research and innovation.

The cosmopolitan vibe in CDMX helps create a diverse talent pool, making it an attractive choice for software developers. Plus, the cost of living in Mexico City is more affordable compared to many other major tech hubs around the world, particularly the notoriously expensive Silicon Valley.

U.S. Companies with Mexico City hubs: Google, Amazon, Microsoft

Mexico City startups: Kueski, Kavak, Konfio 

Guadalajara: The Silicon Valley of Mexico

Guadalajara, often referred to as the “Silicon Valley of Mexico,” has earned its reputation as a not-so-emerging technology hub. The city’s history in electronics manufacturing, coupled with its strong focus on software development, has attracted major tech players like IBM, Oracle, and Intel, who have all established their presence there. 

Another claim to fame? Guadalajara hosts “Talent Land,” one of the largest tech conferences in Latin America, attracting international attention and providing opportunities for talent acquisition. Moreover, Universidad de Guadalajara (UDG) is one of the largest and most renowned universities in Mexico. Its Computer Science School (Facultad de Informática) offers robust programs in computer science and software engineering.

The city’s pleasant climate, lower cost of living compared to the already affordable Mexico City, and access to a pool of skilled professionals make it an appealing choice for software developers, as well as businesses seeking developers.

U.S. Companies with Guadalajara hubs: Oracle, IBM, Intel

Guadalajara startups: Rappi, Clip, Jüsto

Monterrey: A Thriving Industrial and Technological Center

Located in Northern Mexico, Monterrey is renowned for its industrial and technological prowess. The city’s strong manufacturing base has naturally led to the substantial growth of its software development industry. 

Many national and international companies have established their operations in Monterrey, leading to the establishment of its robust tech ecosystem. The city is home to prestigious institutions like the Monterrey Institute of Technology and Higher Education, which produce a steady supply of skilled software developers. Monterrey’s entrepreneurial spirit, excellent infrastructure, and access to venture capital make it an attractive destination for tech professionals seeking dynamic opportunities.

U.S. Companies with Monterrey hubs: GE, Honeywell, Cisco

Monterrey startups: Nemak, CEMEX Ventures

Tijuana: A Bridge Between Mexico and the United States

Situated just across the border from San Diego, California, Tijuana has become a thriving tech hub with unique cross-border advantages. Its strategic location makes it an attractive location for software developers who want to tap into opportunities on both sides of the border. Tijuana’s tech ecosystem has been bolstered by the growth of companies specializing in software development, digital marketing, and e-commerce. 

Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC) is a prominent public university in Tijuana, offering programs in computer science and software engineering. It emphasizes practical training and research collaboration with local industries.

The city’s lower cost of living compared to major U.S. cities, coupled with its proximity to San Diego, makes it an enticing destination for Mexican software developers with global aspirations. Tijuana’s emerging startup scene, supported by incubators and accelerators, offers a wealth of opportunities for collaboration and growth.

U.S. Companies with Tijuana hubs: Qualcomm, Thermo Fisher Scientific, Flex

Tijuana startups: Baja Robotics, Motiva Robotics

Puebla: The Emerging Tech Center

Puebla, located southeast of Mexico City, is rapidly emerging as a tech center in Mexico. The city’s strategic location, affordable cost of living, and growing tech infrastructure have attracted both domestic and international companies. 

Puebla is home to several prestigious universities, including the Autonomous University of Puebla and the Tecnológico de Monterrey, ensuring a steady supply of skilled software developers. The city’s emerging tech scene is characterized by the growth of startups and the establishment of innovation hubs. Puebla is attracting innovative manufacturing, as well; recently, the city landed a deal for a $265 million EV (electric vehicle) assembly plant. 

Universidad de las Américas Puebla (UDLAP) is a prestigious private university in Puebla known for its strong engineering programs. Its School of Engineering offers degrees in computer engineering and software engineering, providing a comprehensive education in the field.

Puebla’s rich cultural heritage, vibrant culinary scene, and proximity to Mexico City offer a unique blend of opportunities and quality of life for software developers.

U.S. Companies with Puebla hubs: Volkswagen / Audi, Meritor

Puebla startups: Timokids, UnDosTres

Top Mexican Cities for Developers: Nearshore Innovation for U.S. Startups and Enterprises

Mexico’s software development industry is experiencing rapid growth, and its hottest cities have become magnets for talented professionals. 

Whether you prefer the bustling atmosphere of Mexico City, the innovative spirit of Guadalajara, the industrial prowess of Monterrey, the cross-border potential of Tijuana, or the emerging tech scene in Puebla, Mexico offers a diverse range of opportunities for software developers. As the tech ecosystem continues to flourish, Mexico is poised to become a global force in the software development landscape, making it an exciting destination for aspiring and seasoned professionals alike.

Terminal is opening up the fantastic talent in all the Mexican development hotspots to growing companies in the U.S. Time-zone aligned full-time and contract developers can be a powerful accelerator for your business, and the ability to work remotely from anywhere is transformative.  
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FAQ

How much does a software developer earn in Mexico?

A software engineer in Mexico earns approximately $99,450 annually, depending on factors such as experience and specialization. Explore more salaries in Mexico and globally with Terminal’s Remote Software Engineer Salaries Insights tool.

How many software developers are there in Mexico?

Mexico was home to approximately 220,000 software developers in 2023, according to Statista. That population continues to grow as Mexico increasingly emphasizes the importance of technology and invests in tech talent.

Why should you consider the top Mexican cities for developers?

You should consider Mexico for software development because the country is heavily investing in tech talent, from education to a robust startup scene. It’s also economically advantageous to hire software developers in Mexico because salary expectations are lower, thanks to a lower cost of living. 

What’s the most technologically advanced city in Mexico?

Mexico is home to numerous technologically advanced cities, boasting top software development talent, including Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana, and Puebla.