Mexico is located in North America, positioned directly south of the United States and bordered by Guatemala and Belize to the southeast. With coastlines along both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, as well as access to the Caribbean Sea, Mexico occupies a strategic geographic location between North and Central America. Covering nearly 2 million square kilometers, it is one of the largest countries in the region. Its capital, Mexico City, sits in the central highlands, while diverse landscapes range from deserts in the north to tropical rainforests in the south. Understanding where Mexico is located helps explain its cultural diversity, economic importance, and role as a key bridge between the Americas.
Where Is Mexico Located? (Complete Geographic Guide)
Where Is Mexico Located?
Mexico is located in North America, south of the United States and north of Central America. It has coastlines on both the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico (and the Caribbean Sea in the east), making it a major bridge between North and Central America.
Geographic Location of Mexico
Mexico lies roughly between 14°N and 33°N latitude and 86°W and 118°W longitude. It borders the United States to the north, Guatemala and Belize to the southeast, and is separated by water from Cuba across the Gulf of Mexico/Caribbean region.
- North: United States
- Southeast: Guatemala, Belize
- West & South: Pacific Ocean
- East: Gulf of Mexico & Caribbean Sea
What Are the Main Regions of Mexico?
Mexico is a federal republic made up of 31 states plus Mexico City (a federal entity). Geographically, it’s often described in broad regions such as Northern Mexico, Central Mexico, Western Mexico, Southern Mexico, and the Yucatán Peninsula. The landscape ranges from deserts in the north to mountain ranges and high plateaus, and tropical lowlands along the coasts.
What Are the 5 Largest Cities in Mexico?
- Mexico City – The capital and largest metropolitan area
- Guadalajara – A major cultural and tech hub in western Mexico
- Monterrey – An industrial and business center in the north
- Puebla – A historic city near Mexico City with strong industry and education
- Tijuana – A key border city next to the U.S. (San Diego area)
Quick Facts About Mexico
| Official Name: | United Mexican States (Estados Unidos Mexicanos) |
|---|---|
| Area: | 1,964,375 km² |
| Capital: | Mexico City (Ciudad de México) |
| Population: | ~129 million (approx.) |
| Currency: | Mexican Peso (MXN) |
| GDP: | ~US$1.6 trillion (nominal, approx.) |
| Per Capita: | ~US$12,000 (nominal, approx.) |
| Time Zone: | Multiple (UTC−8 to UTC−5; varies by region and season) |
| Calling code: | +52 |
| Internet TLD: | .mx |
Why Mexico’s Location Is Important
Mexico’s position between the United States and Central America, plus its coastlines on the Pacific and the Gulf/Caribbean, makes it strategically important for trade, tourism, shipping routes, and regional geopolitics. Its varied geography also supports diverse climates, ecosystems, and cultural regions across the country.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Mexico in North America?
Yes. Mexico is part of North America and sits directly south of the United States.
What countries border Mexico?
Mexico borders the United States, Guatemala, and Belize.
Does Mexico have access to two oceans?
Yes. Mexico has coastlines on the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico, plus the Caribbean Sea in the east.
What is the capital of Mexico?
The capital is Mexico City (Ciudad de México).
How many states does Mexico have?
Mexico has 31 states plus Mexico City as a federal entity.
Author name: Arif Cagrici
Where is Mexico on North America Map?
Show Google interactive map, satellite map, where is the country located.
Get direction by driving, walking, bicycling, public transportation and travel with street view.
Feel free to explore these pages as well:
- Exploring Mexico City A Must-See 10 Attractions ↗️
- Mexico Map ↗️
- Mexico High-resolution Map ↗️
- Map of Cartels Active in Mexico ↗️
- Mexico Time Zone Map ↗️
- Mexico ↗️
- Ultimate Guide to Cancún’s Top 10 Experiences ↗️
- Gulf of America (The Gulf of Mexico) Map ↗️
- United States Map ↗️
