Latin America Affordability Index (2025) Ranking City Costs for Nomads & Expats

South of the border, life gets cheaper for nomads and expats. But which Latin American cities provide the most bang for the buck?

In our exclusive 2025 nomad cost of living index, we ranked 30 major Latam cities by affordability. Key factors include monthly Airbnb prices, long-term rent, and other cost of living expenses. If you scroll past the summary chart, you will also find brief descriptions of each city covering internet speed, safety, weather, and more.

For select cities, click the link to our full cost of living guidebooks.

	City	Country	Airbnb (monthly)	Rent (1-bdrm)	Cost of Living (excl. rent)
	La Paz	Bolivia	$670	$380	$480
	Porto Alegre	Brazil	$650	$290	$540
	Cali	Colombia	$760	$330	$470
	Asuncion	Paraguay	$780	$430	$430
	Belo Horizonte	Brazil	$770	$360	$510
	Barranquilla	Colombia	$920	$330	$470
	Bogota	Colombia	$850	$400	$500
	Cuenca	Ecuador	$920	$350	$500
	Cordoba	Argentina	$670	$370	$630
	Quito	Ecuador	$810	$460	$570
	Puebla	Mexico	$840	$440	$590
	Brasilia	Brazil	$1,090	$340	$530
	Guayaquil	Ecuador	$1,020	$260	$640
	Sao Paulo	Brazil	$1,010	$590	$590
	Buenos Aires	Argentina	$990	$520	$650
	Florianopolis	Brazil	$1,430	$430	$530
	Oaxaca	Mexico	$1,200	$600	$610
	Guatemala City	Guatemala	$940	$650	$730
	Lima	Peru	$1,400	$570	$560
	Guadalajara	Mexico	$1,320	$620	$580
	Medellin	Colombia	$1,750	$440	$520
	Merida	Mexico	$1,510	$550	$650
	Montevideo	Uruguay	$1,230	$560	$830
	Santiago	Chile	$1,560	$520	$710
	Rio de Janeiro	Brazil	$2,040	$420	$560
	Mazatlan	Mexico	$1,850	$600	$610
	Cancun	Mexico	$1,620	$680	$690
	Mexico City	Mexico	$1,670	$880	$660
	Panama City	Panama	$1,500	$1,020	$830
	San Jose	Costa Rica	$1,760	$770	$900

La Paz, Bolivia

• 🏠Airbnb: $670/month.
• 💰Rent: $380/month.
• 💻Internet: Decent speeds in central areas; coworking spaces like Cowork Café and Creative Hub cater to remote workers, but reliability may vary by neighborhood.
• 🚓Safety: Mixed. Central and tourist zones are relatively safe during the day, but caution is advised at night and in outer districts.
• 🌤️Weather: Due to its high elevation (over 11,900 ft/3,600 m), La Paz features a cool, dry climate year-round. Daytime highs hover around 60°F (16°C), while nights drop to 35–40°F (2–5°C). Little seasonal variation.

La Paz usually isn’t mentioned among digital nomad hotspots in Latin America. As the world’s highest capital city by elevation, the city’s cold weather scares away many outsiders. Perhaps because of that, La Paz stands apart as the cheapest major city on the continent. While infrastructure isn’t as polished as more popular destinations, the low cost of living and rich culture make it a hidden gem for adventurous nomads.

Porto Alegre, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $650/month.
• 💰Rent: $290/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable, with fiber-optic widely available in city centers.
• 🚓Safety: Relatively safe, but some neighborhoods have higher crime rates—stay in well-reviewed areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Summers (December–March) are warm and humid (up to 90°F/32°C), while winters (June–August) are mild (down to 45°F/7°C) with occasional rain.

Nestled between rolling hills and boasting a stunning waterfront location, Porto Alegre is a cultural hub in southern Brazil. Brush up on your Portuguese and explore lively markets overflowing with fresh produce, or visit renowned museums showcasing the city’s rich artistic heritage. Porto Alegre’s passionate soccer culture and friendly locals add to its charm.

Cali, Colombia

• 🏠Airbnb: $760/month.
• 💰Rent: $330/month.
• 💻Internet: Decent, with fiber-optic access in some areas—coworking spaces offer reliable speeds.
• 🚓Safety: Can be unsafe in certain neighborhoods—stick to well-known areas and avoid walking alone at night.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm year-round, with temperatures ranging from 70–90°F (21–32°C). Rainy season lasts from March–May and October–November, while the driest months are December–February and June–September.

Salsa music fills the air in Colombia’s second-largest city, which is world-famous for its traditional dance scene. It is also well-known for its low cost of living for nomads – indeed, the lowest of any major Spanish-speaking city on our list. Explore vibrant neighborhoods pulsating with rhythm, or head to the surrounding hills for breathtaking views. Cali offers a delicious and affordable food scene, perfect for fueling your explorations or salsa dancing sessions.

Asuncion, Paraguay

• 🏠Airbnb: $780/month.
• 💰Rent: $430/month.
• 💻Internet: Decent, though speeds can be inconsistent outside major districts.
• 🚓Safety: Generally safe, but be cautious of petty theft in crowded areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Summers (November–March) are very hot (up to 100°F/38°C), while winters (May–August) are mild (down to 50°F/10°C) with occasional cold fronts.

Paraguay’s relaxed capital appeals to nomads seeking a lifestyle on the quiet size. The city offers a glimpse into South American history alongside modern development (and an easy-to-obtain permanent residency program). Explore the charming Plaza de la Independencia, a historic square lined with colonial buildings, or visit the lively waterfront boardwalk for scenic views of the Río Paraguay.

Belo Horizonte, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $770/month.
• 💰Rent: $360/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable, with high-speed connections in most apartments and coworking spaces.
• 🚓Safety: Some areas have higher crime rates—choose accommodations in safe districts.
• 🌤️Weather: Summers (November–March) are warm (up to 85°F/29°C) with frequent rain, while winters (May–August) are dry and mild (down to 55°F/13°C).

Nicknamed “The City of Horizons” for its stunning mountain backdrop, Belo Horizonte is a center for art, design, and modern architecture. Explore the innovative Inhotim Institute, a sprawling outdoor museum showcasing contemporary art installations, or stroll through the bustling Mercado Central, a haven for foodies.

Barranquilla, Colombia

• 🏠Airbnb: $920/month.
• 💰Rent: $330/month.
• 💻Internet: Good, with fast speeds available in most urban areas.
• 🚓Safety: Generally safe, but be extra cautious during Carnaval, as crowds attract pickpockets.
• 🌤️Weather: Hot and humid year-round, with temperatures ranging from 75–95°F (24–35°C). The rainy season lasts from May–November, while the driest months are December–April.

For year-round tropical weather, head to this colorful Caribbean port city. If you’re the partying type, don’t miss the world’s second-largest Carnaval celebration during late-January/February (although expect higher prices, so book well in advance.) Cartagena and Santa Marta, the city’s two more famous neighbors, are both less than three hours away for a quick weekend getaway. Barranquilla offers a delicious and affordable seafood-centric cuisine, perfect for enjoying the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.

Bogota, Colombia

• 🏠Airbnb: $850/month.
• 💰Rent: $400/month.
• 💻Internet: Excellent, with widespread fiber-optic connections.
• 🚓Safety: Some areas are safe, but avoid certain neighborhoods at night.
• 🌤️Weather: Due to its high altitude, Bogotá remains cool year-round, with temperatures ranging from 45–68°F (7–20°C). The wettest months are April–May and September–November, while December–March and June–August are drier.

Located high in the Andes mountains, Colombia’s largest city serves as home to nearly 20% of the country’s population. Bogota offers a captivating blend of history and modern energy. Explore the city’s well-known graffiti scene, take in the many museums and art galleries, and take a cable car to Monserrate for breathtaking panoramic views. Bogotá boasts a thriving restaurant scene and exciting nightlife, making it the most cosmopolitan city in our top ten. 

Cuenca, Ecuador

• 🏠Airbnb: $920/month.
• 💰Rent: $350/month.
• 💻Internet: Decent, with fiber-optic options in some areas—coworking spaces are recommended.
• 🚓Safety: Safe, but be mindful of occasional petty theft.
• 🌤️Weather: Due to its elevation, Cuenca has a spring-like climate year-round, with temperatures ranging from 45–75°F (7–24°C). Rain is common throughout the year, but the driest months are June–September.

Long a favored destination for American retirees, this quiet city sits in the Andes mountains. Explore the well-preserved colonial architecture in the historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or visit the nearby Cajas National Park for stunning scenery and hiking trails.

Cordoba, Argentina

• 🏠Airbnb: $670/month.
• 💰Rent: $370/month.
• 💻Internet: Good, with reliable connections in most urban areas.
• 🚓Safety: Safe, but be cautious in nightlife areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Summers (December–March) are warm (up to 95°F/35°C), while winters (June–August) are cool (down to 40°F/4°C) with occasional cold fronts.

Most digital nomads flock to Buenos Aires, but Argentina’s second-largest city offers a vibrant mix of history, culture, and youthful energy at a lower price point. Explore the grand Jesuit architecture in the historic center, or stroll through the lively pedestrian streets lined with cafes and shops. Córdoba is known for its passionate soccer scene and its delicious regional cuisine.

Puebla, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $840/month.
• 💰Rent: $440/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable, with high-speed fiber widely available.
• 🚓Safety: One of the safer Mexican cities, but stay aware in less touristy areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Summers (May–September) are warm (up to 85°F/29°C) with occasional rain, while winters (November–February) are mild (down to 40°F/4°C). The dry season lasts from November–April.

The cheapest Mexican city on our list is often overshadowed by the nearby metropolis Mexico City. Yet, Puebla is a destination in its own right, with a significantly lower cost of living. This city is a great option for digital nomads seeking a slower pace of life. Puebla offers affordable living costs, delicious food, and beautiful architecture.

Brasilia, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,090/month.
• 💰Rent: $340/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Mostly safe, though petty theft can occur in touristy areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Brazil’s jungle capital city is an appealing choice for digital nomads and expats thanks to its mix of culture, affordability, and growing remote work infrastructure. With lively neighborhoods, coworking options, and rich local flavor, it supports both productivity and exploration.

Guayaquil, Ecuador

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,020/month.
• 💰Rent: $260/month.
• 💻Internet: High-speed internet in most cafes and coworking spaces.
• 🚓Safety: Strong expat presence, although drug-related crime has risen in recent years.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

The coastal city of Guayaquil is an appealing choice for digital nomads and expats thanks to its mix of culture, affordability, and growing remote work infrastructure. With lively neighborhoods, coworking options, and rich local flavor, it supports both productivity and exploration.

Sao Paulo, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,010/month.
• 💰Rent: $590/month.
• 💻Internet: Generally excellent connectivity, with widespread fiber access.
• 🚓Safety: Some areas have higher crime rates—choose accommodations in safe districts.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Sao Paulo is a massive urban playground for professionals. As a major business hub, it offers endless networking opportunities, global cuisine, and robust coworking infrastructure, balanced with affordability.

Buenos Aires, Argentina

• 🏠Airbnb: $990/month.
• 💰Rent: $520/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Safe overall, but use common sense when exploring unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Buenos Aires blends European architecture with Latin passion. With affordable living, a buzzing cultural scene, and plenty of shared workspaces, it remains a favorite for expats seeking vibrancy and value.

Florianopolis, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,430/month.
• 💰Rent: $430/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Known as the safest city in Brazil.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Florianopolis offers a beach-meets-tech lifestyle ideal for digital nomads. Known for its surf-friendly coast, relaxed vibe, and growing tech community, it’s a prime destination for mixing work with waves.

Oaxaca, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,200/month.
• 💰Rent: $600/month.
• 💻Internet: Stable internet in urban zones, with occasional slowdowns during peak hours.
• 🚓Safety: Mostly safe, though petty theft can occur in touristy areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Oaxaca offers rich indigenous culture, delicious food, and affordability that makes it a hidden gem for digital nomads. It’s a city where creativity thrives amidst colorful streets and coffee-filled days.

Guatemala City, Guatemala

• 🏠Airbnb: $940/month.
• 💰Rent: $650/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Some areas have higher crime rates—choose accommodations in safe districts.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Guatemala City has a growing startup scene and vibrant culture. It’s becoming increasingly attractive for remote workers looking for an offbeat yet connected home base in Central America.

Lima, Peru

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,400/month.
• 💰Rent: $570/month.
• 💻Internet: Generally excellent connectivity, with widespread fiber access.
• 🚓Safety: Considered safe with a strong expat presence and low violent crime, especially in the Miraflores district.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Lima combines history, Pacific Ocean views, and an expanding coworking scene. With affordable costs and a renowned culinary culture, it offers a flavorful lifestyle for digital nomads.

Guadalajara, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,320/month.
• 💰Rent: $620/month.
• 💻Internet: Fast connections common, especially in digital hubs and city centers.
• 🚓Safety: Relatively safe, but watch out for petty theft.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Guadalajara balances tradition with innovation. It’s a key tech city in Mexico with strong infrastructure, artsy neighborhoods, and a welcoming nomad community.

Medellin, Colombia

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,750/month.
• 💰Rent: $440/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Safety has improved in recent years, but watch out for dating app drugging and petty theft.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Medellin, the “City of Eternal Spring,” is a top-tier remote work destination in South America. With mild weather year-round, good infrastructure, and a welcoming vibe, it’s hard to beat.

➡️ Check out our full Medellin cost of living guide.

Merida, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,510/month.
• 💰Rent: $550/month.
• 💻Internet: Generally excellent connectivity, with widespread fiber access.
• 🚓Safety: Known as the safest major city in Mexico, security is not a major concern.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Popular among U.S. retirees, Merida offers colonial charm, safety, and affordability. Its peaceful pace and growing expat scene make it ideal for focused work and cultural immersion.

Montevideo, Uruguay

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,230/month.
• 💰Rent: $560/month.
• 💻Internet: Stable internet in urban zones, with occasional slowdowns during peak hours.
• 🚓Safety: Considered safe with a strong expat presence and low violent crime.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Montevideo offers beachside tranquility, walkable streets, and a relaxed vibe. It’s perfect for digital nomads seeking a slower, more peaceful South American experience.

Santiago, Chile

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,560/month.
• 💰Rent: $520/month.
• 💻Internet: Stable internet in urban zones, with occasional slowdowns during peak hours.
• 🚓Safety: Very safe overall, but use common sense when exploring unfamiliar neighborhoods.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Santiago blends a cosmopolitan lifestyle with proximity to mountains and vineyards. With a solid expat infrastructure and efficient public transport, it’s a great base for remote workers.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

• 🏠Airbnb: $2,040/month.
• 💰Rent: $420/month.
• 💻Internet: High-speed internet in most cafes and coworking spaces.
• 🚓Safety: Some areas have higher crime rates—choose accommodations in safe districts.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Rio is famous for its natural beauty, beach life, and carnival spirit. It also has a growing nomad scene and an improving tech infrastructure.

Mazatlan, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,850/month.
• 💰Rent: $600/month.
• 💻Internet: Generally excellent connectivity, with widespread fiber access.
• 🚓Safety: Safe for most travelers, with good public order and low risk.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Mazatlan is a seaside escape with modern amenities and lower costs than other coastal cities. It’s ideal for sun-seeking digital professionals.

Cancun, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,620/month.
• 💰Rent: $680/month.
• 💻Internet: High-speed internet in most cafes and coworking spaces.
• 🚓Safety: Relatively safe, but it’s wise to stay alert in crowded areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Cancun offers tropical paradise with modern infrastructure. While touristy, its reliable internet and coworking options support remote work in style.

Mexico City, Mexico

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,670/month.
• 💰Rent: $880/month.
• 💻Internet: Generally excellent connectivity, with widespread fiber access.
• 🚓Safety: Considered safe with a strong expat presence and low violent crime.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Mexico City is Latin America’s digital nomad capital. With world-class dining, vibrant neighborhoods, and endless coworking spots, it’s a dynamic and rewarding place to live and work.

Panama City, Panama

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,500/month.
• 💰Rent: $1,020/month.
• 💻Internet: High-speed internet in most cafes and coworking spaces.
• 🚓Safety: Mostly safe, though petty theft can occur in touristy areas.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

Panama City combines financial strength, stunning skyscrapers, and great infrastructure. It’s a polished choice for professionals needing fast internet and efficient services.

San Jose, Costa Rica

• 🏠Airbnb: $1,760/month.
• 💰Rent: $770/month.
• 💻Internet: Reliable and fast in central areas, though speeds may vary in outskirts.
• 🚓Safety: Safe for most travelers, with good public order and low risk.
• 🌤️Weather: Warm summers (up to 95°F/35°C), mild winters (down to 50°F/10°C).

San Jose is the heart of Costa Rica’s remote work movement. With eco-tourism nearby and strong digital services, it’s ideal for those who balance work with weekend adventure.

Guide to Moving Abroad

Moving to a city or country with a lower cost of living is a logistically complicated journey. Whether you’re a short-term digital nomad or permanent expat, you should be aware of topics such as visas, taxes, insurance, and communication abroad.

Digital nomad visas

Travelers that hold strong passports enjoy many benefits, including visa-free travel to many Latin American countries. Oftentimes, short-term nomads can stay 3-6 months per year while on a tourist visa.

_{💡FYI: Even on a tourist visa, proof of onward departure is required to enter many countries}.

Nomads typically utilize short-term apartment sites like Airbnb, but as our data shows, property owners typically charge 2 to 4 times the local market rate for short-term rentals.

In order to realize the full benefits of reduced cost of living, nomads and expats usually must commit to a 6-12 month lease. Digital nomad visas allow foreigners to stay for significantly longer periods, often 1 to 2 years or more.

Passports and residency

If you plan to settle down in Latin America for the long-term, then eventually need to acquire citizenship or permanent residency in your country of choice. In addition to digital nomad and tourism visas, foreigners can apply for various work, cultural, and investor visas. Residency programs in Mexico are particularly popular among U.S. nomads and expats.

Citizenship by descent is one way to acquire a second passport in Latin America. Several Latam nations also offer relatively fast turnaround times for citizenship, including Mexico and Argentina. Paraguay is another popular choice for residency because of the country’s favorable tax policies.

Due to the paperwork and bureaucracy involved in these programs, many expats turn to relocation agencies to help navigate the process.

Taxes

Local tax rates are another major financial factor for nomads and expats.

Most countries consider you a tax resident if you spend more than 183 days a year residing there. While many countries don’t tax income earned remotely, others require foreigners to contribute.

This gets even more complicated for U.S. residents, who are required to file income tax returns regardless of where they reside in the world. For American taxpayers, obtaining tax software for expats or hiring a professional expat tax service is a wise idea.

Insurance

Many digital nomad visas require that applicants provide proof of travel health insurance. (It’s probably a good idea to get covered for medical emergencies, anyway.)

Banking

Sending and receiving money overseas is another hidden source of fees for travelers. Make sure you get a debit card with ATM fee rebates before you go abroad.

Cell phone and internet

Staying connected while overseas is another factor to consider. Long-term, signing up for a local cell phone plan is the most cost-effective option. For short-term visits or initial arrival, getting a prepaid travel eSIM will help you avoid roaming charges.

If you’re planning to work remotely while abroad, consider getting a VPN for remote workers.

_{💡Tip: Wondering how to get your mail back home? Learn more about virtual mailboxes.}

Methodology

Because digital nomads cluster in high-end neighborhoods, we based our estimate on the average cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center. Airbnb price data is taken from AirDNA, while rent and expense figures are sourced from Numbeo.