What Time Zones are in Mexico?
The official name of the Mexico is the United Mexican States, and its nickname is El Tricolor. Most people in Mexico speak Spanish, and the main religion is Roman Catholic. Most of the country uses Central Standard Time (GMT- 6). In this article, we will learn about Mexico’s time zones, some interesting facts, and more.
How Many Time Zones in Mexico?
Mexico has four time zones. The time zones observed in the country are the Southeast Zone, Central Zone, Pacific Zone, and Northwest Zone. Recently, Mexico abolished daylight saving time in most places, so they use standard time all year. But, some areas near the U.S. border might still change their clocks for daylight saving time like the U.S. does.
Mexico Time Zones
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Southeast Zone
Uses Eastern Standard Time (EST), UTC-5. This zone applies only to the state of Quintana Roo.
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Central Zone
Follows Central Standard Time (CST), UTC-6. This is the most common zone, encompassing Mexico City and a large portion of the country.
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Pacific Zone
Uses Mountain Standard Time (MST), UTC-7. This zone covers states like Baja California Sur, Sinaloa, and Sonora.
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Northwest Zone
Follows Pacific Standard Time (PST), UTC-8.
During Daylight Saving Time, typically observed from April to October, clocks across Mexico are advanced by one hour. However, in Sonora state and select areas of Chihuahua, Nayarit, and Sinaloa, the clocks remain unchanged during this period.
Interesting Facts about Time Zones in Mexico
- Like the United States, Mexico spans the same four time zones as the contiguous United States. This similarity simplifies travel between the two nations and ensures consistent timekeeping for everyone involved.
- In 2015, Quintana Roo shifted its time zone from Central Standard Time (CST) to Eastern Standard Time (EST), probably to align with popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean that also follow EST.
- Mexico’s time zones have seen significant changes over time. Starting with just two zones, then expanding to three, and currently encompassing four, these adjustments demonstrate Mexico’s flexible approach to adjusting time to fit local needs while also adhering to international time standards.
- Baja California Sur distinguishes itself from other Mexican states by not sharing a border with the United States. However, it still maintains the Pacific time zone, in contrast to the prevailing time zones in the rest of Mexico.
Time difference between Major US Cities and Mexico
Here’s the time difference between 10 major cities in the United States and Mexico City, Mexico.
- New York City, United States – Mexico City is 1 hour behind New York City.
- Los Angeles, United States – Mexico City is 2 hours behind Los Angeles.
- Chicago, United States – Both cities are in the Central Time Zone.
- Houston, United States – Both cities are in the Central Time Zone.
- Miami, United States – Mexico City is 1 hour behind Miami.
- Atlanta, United States – Guadalajara is 1 hour behind Atlanta.
- Phoenix, United States – Mexico City is 2 hours behind Phoenix.
- Dallas, United States – Both cities are in the Central Time Zone.
- San Francisco, United States – Mexico City is 2 hours behind San Francisco.
- Seattle, United States – Mexico City is 2 hours behind Seattle.
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