IMCO report identifies highest-paying Mexican states

According to the 2026 State Competitiveness Index released by the Mexican Institute for Competitiveness (IMCO), Baja California Sur, Mexico City, and Jalisco are the leading entities for employability and full-time worker income.

Baja California Sur holds the top national position with an average monthly salary of 16,472 pesos. Mexico City follows in second place with an average of 16,078 pesos, while Jalisco moved up five positions to secure third place. These figures are significantly higher than the national monthly average of 11,548 pesos.

IMCO director Valeria Moy noted that the study, titled ‘The Pillars of the New Economy’, evaluated 32 federal entities using 53 indicators. The report attributes the higher income levels in leading states to lower rates of informality, higher academic preparation, and a solid labor supply.