Mexico City vs Rio de Janeiro - City Size Comparison

Is Mexico City Bigger Than Rio de Janeiro?

Yes — Mexico City is 1.2x larger than Rio de Janeiro by area. Mexico City spans 1,485 km² (573 mi²) while Rio de Janeiro covers 1,221 km² (471 mi²) — a difference of 264 km².

About Mexico City

Mexico's capital and largest city. Known as "CDMX", Mexico City covers 1,485 km² with a population of 9.2 million. The city was established in 1325. Mexico City is known for Zócalo plaza, Chapultepec Castle, Frida Kahlo Museum, among other attractions. The city's main transit system is the Mexico City Metro.

Mexico City is sinking 50 cm per year because it was built on a lake bed

About Rio de Janeiro

Brazil's iconic coastal city known for Carnival. Often called "The Marvelous City", Rio de Janeiro has an area of 1,221 km² and is home to 6.8 million people. Its history stretches back to 1565. Visitors come for Christ the Redeemer, Copacabana Beach, Carnival, and much more. Getting around is easy with the MetrôRio.

Rio's Christ the Redeemer statue is struck by lightning an average of 6 times per year

Metropolitan Area Comparison

Looking beyond city limits, the Mexico City metropolitan area covers 7,854 km², which is 1.2x larger than greater Rio de Janeiro at 6,744 km². The Mexico City metro area is also more populous, with 21.8 million people compared to 13.5 million.

Population Density

Mexico City has a population density of 6,202 people per km² — a densely populated city. Rio de Janeiro, with 5,528 people per km², is a densely populated city. Both cities have comparable density, though Mexico City is slightly more compact.

Climate & Time Zone

Mexico City has a subtropical highland climate while Rio de Janeiro experiences tropical savanna conditions. Summers are notably different: Rio de Janeiro averages 27°C compared to 18°C in Mexico City. When it's noon in Rio de Janeiro, it's 9:00 AM in Mexico City — a 3-hour time difference.