What Do Most Mexicans Call Mexico City?
Mexico City, the bustling capital of Mexico, is often recognized as one of the largest and most vibrant cities in the world. But for locals, it’s not always referred to by its formal name. So, what do most Mexicans actually call it?
While the official name is Ciudad de México (or CDMX for short), locals often use a few more casual terms. One of the most common abbreviations you’ll hear is CDMX, which stands for Ciudad de México. This acronym gained popularity after a restructuring in 2016 when the city became a federal entity similar to a state. The change in status made it more important to distinguish the capital from the rest of the country, and thus CDMX became the official shorthand.
In day-to-day conversation, Mexicans may also refer to their capital simply as “la Ciudad” or “la Ciudad de México”. This informal shorthand reflects a sense of familiarity and connection, as Mexico City holds a unique place in the hearts of its residents.
While visitors and outsiders might refer to it as “Mexico City” or “D.F.” (short for Distrito Federal, the previous name for the city), the locals’ use of CDMX shows a more modern, distinctive identity for this ever-evolving metropolis. Whether it’s CDMX, la Ciudad, or Ciudad de México, the city remains a symbol of Mexico’s culture, history, and innovation.
So, next time you’re chatting with a local, just remember: they’ll probably refer to it as CDMX!