Medellín is a top digital nomad destination in Latin America, offering affordability, modern infrastructure, and vibrant culture. Known as the “City of Eternal Spring,” it boasts pleasant weather year-round, a thriving international community, and an exciting nightlife scene.
✅ Fast & Reliable Internet – With fiber-optic speeds of 100-300 Mbps, coworking spaces and cafés cater to remote workers with fast Wi-Fi and great coffee.
✅ Affordable Cost of Living – A comfortable lifestyle is possible for $1,600 per month, covering rent, food, and entertainment.
✅ Efficient Public Transport – Medellín’s Metro system is clean, reliable, and budget-friendly. Neighborhoods like Laureles and El Poblado are highly walkable.
✅ Perfect Weather – Temperatures stay between 63-83°F (17-28°C) year-round, ideal for outdoor activities and café culture.
✅ Culture & Entertainment – From salsa dancing and hiking to buzzing nightlife, Medellín offers endless activities. Weekend getaways to the Caribbean or the Amazon are also easy and affordable.
💲Cost of Living in Medellin: The Complete Breakdown
One of the biggest reasons digital nomads and expats flock to Medellín is the affordable cost of living. Here’s a breakdown of typical monthly expenses in Medellín:
🏠 Housing Costs
Like most cities, rent will be your biggest expense in Medellin, but it’s significantly cheaper than in North America or Europe. Prices vary depending on the neighborhood and type of accommodation.
Monthly Rent
Most tourists and digital nomads are concentrated in the upscale El Poblado neighborhood, where rental prices have risen sharply over the last few years. According to local listing site Fincaraiz, the typical 1-bedroom apartment in El Poblado comes in at $700.
For veterans in-the-know, Laureles provides a less expensive and more local-feeling alternative. Apartments in this trendy neighborhood average between $400 and $700 a month.
Local rent costs by neighborhood
| Accommodation Type | Overall | Laureles | El Poblado |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $400 – $1,200 | $400 – $700 | $700 – $1,200 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $600 – $2,000 | $600 – $1,000 | $1,200 – $2,000 |
Monthly Airbnb
Using Airbnb and other short-term accommodation sites will cost you significantly more than renting from a local landlord. According to data from AirDNA and our own pricing formula, a nomad can expect to pay around $1,750 to stay in an average Airbnb for one month.
| Category | Overall | Laureles | El Poblado |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget ($) | $500 – $900 | $500 – $700 | $700 – $900 |
| Mid-Range ($$) | $1,750 | — | — |
| High-End ($$$) | $1,900 – $2,500+ | $1,900+ | $2,500+ |
Note: Prices are approximate and can vary based on season, demand, and specific amenities.
Budget ($500 – $900/month)
- Size: 1-bedroom or small studio (30-50 m²).
- Location: Primarily in Laureles, Belén, or outer areas of El Poblado.
- Amenities: Basic furnishings, reliable Wi-Fi, hot water, and a small kitchen.
- Building Features: Likely in an older or low-rise building without an elevator or security guard.
- Extras: Some may include utilities, but A/C is uncommon (though Medellín’s climate rarely requires it).
Mid-Range ($1,750/month)
- Size: 1- or 2-bedroom apartment (50-80 m²).
- Location: Prime areas of Laureles, El Poblado (Provenza, Manila), or Envigado.
- Amenities: Modern furnishings, equipped kitchen, washer/dryer, strong Wi-Fi, and hot water.
- Building Features: Secure entry, elevator, and possibly a coworking space or small gym.
- Extras: Some apartments include a balcony with city views or green space access.
High-End ($1,900 – $2,500+/month)
- Size: 2+ bedrooms, penthouses, or luxury condos (80-150 m²).
- Location: Premium areas of El Poblado (Provenza, Las Lomas, Tesoro) or exclusive buildings in Laureles.
- Amenities: High-end furnishings, fully equipped kitchen, high-speed fiber-optic internet, and sometimes A/C.
- Building Features: 24/7 security, pool, gym, coworking spaces, and private parking.
- Extras: Stunning city views, high ceilings, luxury finishes, and possibly a private terrace or rooftop.
💡 Tip: Renting directly from local landlords instead of Airbnb can save you 30-50%. Websites like Fincaraiz, Metrocuadrado, and CompartoApto help you find local listings.
🏙️Best Areas to Stay in Medellin
Whether you’re looking for bustling nightlife, local culture, or a peaceful place to work remotely, Medellín has a neighborhood for every type of traveler.
Here, we focus on the best areas for expats and foreigners. These neighborhoods are among the safest in the city, and provide easy access to all that Medellin has to offer.
El Poblado ($$$)
If you’re visiting Medellín for the first time, El Poblado is a safe and comfortable place to start. This upscale, touristy neighborhood is packed with trendy cafes, boutique hotels, international restaurants, and nightlife hotspots.
Why stay here:
- Most tourist-friendly area.
- Tons of coworking spaces.
- Access to nightlife in Parque Lleras.
- High walkability and safety.
Downside: It’s more expensive, and the emphasis on tourists can feel a bit insulated from the “real” Medellín.
Laureles ($$)
Laureles is the perfect blend of local culture and modern convenience. It’s quieter than El Poblado, but still lively, with leafy streets, local eateries, and a growing number of expats.
Why stay here:
- Authentic Colombian vibe.
- Excellent cafes and restaurants.
- Less touristy, more local.
- Walkable and very safe.
Downside: Nightlife is more low-key, and it’s less connected to the metro than El Poblado.
Envigado ($)
Technically its own city, Envigado feels like a peaceful suburb while still being connected to Medellín via the metro. You’ll find traditional Colombian charm, friendly locals, and quieter surroundings.
Why stay here:
- Very safe and family-friendly.
- Traditional plazas and great food.
- Affordable rentals and Airbnbs.
- Quick access to the city center.
Downside: Less English spoken, and much further from the action than other neighborhoods.
🔍How to find apartments in Medellin
If you can read Spanish, the best way to find local-priced rentals is through Colombian property listing websites. These platforms connect you directly with landlords or real estate agents, often at much lower prices than Airbnb or expat-focused listings.
- Fincaraiz – One of the largest real estate websites in Colombia, offering a wide selection of furnished and unfurnished apartments.
- Metrocuadrado – Similar to Fincaraiz, this site is great for finding apartments listed by agencies and private landlords.
- CompartoApto – Colombia’s version of Roomster, ideal for finding roommates or shared apartments in Medellín.
💡 Tip: Use filters like “amoblado” (furnished) and “sin inmobiliaria” (no agency fees) to find the best deals.
Facebook Marketplace is also especially for furnished apartments and short-term stays. Join groups like Medellín Expats, Digital Nomads Medellín, and Rooms & Apartments for Rent Medellín to score bargains.
💡 Tip: Be cautious of scams—avoid listings that require full payment upfront or won’t let you visit the apartment before paying.
🔌Utility costs
In Medellín, utilities are usually not included in long-term rental prices, especially for apartments rented through local landlords or real estate agencies. However, in short-term rentals (such as Airbnb or serviced apartments), utilities like electricity, water, and internet are often included in the rental price.
For long-term leases, tenants typically pay for utilities separately, with costs varying based on usage and estrato (a socioeconomic classification system in Colombia that affects utility pricing). Many apartments come with prepaid electricity meters or require tenants to set up accounts with local utility providers.
The estimated monthly utility bill for a one-bedroom apartment in Medellín comes out to $47 – $94. Factors such as A/C usage can drive up the cost significantly.
🍽️ Food & Grocery Costs
Eating out in Medellín is very affordable, especially if you stick to local restaurants.
| Expense | Cost (USD) |
| Local “Menu del Día” Lunch | $3 – $6 |
| Mid-Range Restaurant Meal | $10 – $20 |
| Grocery Shopping (Monthly) | $150 – $300 |
| Coffee at a Café | $1.50 – $3 |
💡 Tip: Buy fresh produce from local markets like Plaza Minorista instead of supermarkets like Exito or Carulla.
🛒Supermarkets
- Éxito – The largest supermarket chain in Colombia, offering everything from groceries to electronics and home goods. Locations include Éxito, Éxito Express, and Éxito WOW.
- Jumbo – A hypermarket with a mix of local and international brands, often offering bulk discounts.
- Carulla – A premium supermarket chain owned by Éxito, similar to Whole Foods, with higher-end products and imported goods.
- D1 – A German-style discount supermarket (similar to Aldi) with private-label products at low prices.
- Ara – A Portuguese-owned budget grocery chain with affordable prices and good quality fresh produce.
🚇 Transportation
Medellín has one of the most affordable and efficient public transport systems in Latin America. It operates the country’s only metro system, which helps ensure that Medellín’s streets remain relatively free of the traffic that plagues other Colombian cities. Numerous rideshare apps operate in Medellín, making transportation by car extremely efficient as well.
| Transport Option | Cost (USD) |
| Metro Ticket (One Way) | $0.80 |
| Monthly Metro Card | $40 – $50 |
| Rideshare (5-10 min ride) | $2 – $4 |
| Rental Scooter / Bike | $2 – $6 per hour |
🚗Rideshare options in Medellín
- Uber — Uber is widely used in Medellín, offering a familiar and reliable option for visitors. Due to local regulations, Uber operates in a legal gray area, and some drivers may ask passengers to sit in the front seat to avoid suspicion.
- DiDi — Chinese rideshare company DiDi is one of the most affordable options in Medellín. It often offers lower fares than Uber and runs frequent promotions. DiDi also allows cash payments, making it a convenient choice for those without a credit card.
- InDriver — InDriver operates differently from traditional rideshare apps by allowing passengers to set their own price and negotiate with drivers. This can lead to cheaper fares, especially for longer trips or during non-peak hours.
- Cabify — Cabify is a premium rideshare service that offers higher-end vehicles and professional drivers. While fares are typically higher than Uber or DiDi, Cabify is known for its safety, comfort, and excellent service.t don’t use meters to prevent overcharging.
🚶Walkability in Medellín
Medellín is partially walkable, but it depends on the neighborhood. While some areas are pedestrian-friendly with wide sidewalks and well-maintained streets, others have steep hills, heavy traffic, or safety concerns at night.
- El Poblado – Safe, lively, with pedestrian-friendly streets, but hills can make long walks exhausting.
- Laureles – Flat terrain, tree-lined streets, and a strong café culture. Very walkable.
- Envigado – Traditional, charming, and highly walkable.
📶 Internet & Mobile Data
Reliable internet is essential for digital nomads, and Medellín offers fast and affordable options.
| Service | Cost (USD) |
| Home Fiber Internet (200-500 Mbps) | $25 – $50 |
| Mobile Data Plan (10-20 GB) | $10 – $20 |
| Coworking Space Membership | $80 – $150 |
📱SIM cards
Many eSIM providers sell prepaid data packages for Colombia. Local carriers also provide monthly eSIM plans, although it may be difficult to sign up as a foreigner without a local I.D.
Staying connected in Medellín as a digital nomad or expat is easy with prepaid SIM cards, which offer affordable data, call, and text plans. The main mobile providers in Colombia are Claro, Tigo, and Movistar, all of which offer prepaid SIM options with competitive pricing.
You can purchase a SIM card at official stores, convenience stores, or at Medellín’s José María Córdova International Airport upon arrival. Plans typically start at $3–$10 USD per month, depending on data and call limits. For digital nomads, Claro generally offers the best coverage, especially if you plan to travel outside the city.
To buy a SIM, you’ll need your passport for registration. Many providers offer easy recharge options via apps, local shops, or online payment. If you rely on mobile data for work, consider a plan with unlimited social media or extra gigabytes for hotspot use.
💡 Tip: If you don’t need a full coworking membership, many cafés offer free high-speed Wi-Fi with a coffee purchase.
🍿Entertainment & Lifestyle
Medellín is full of budget-friendly entertainment and activities, including well-provisioned gyms, dance classes, cinemas, and day trips.
| Activity | Cost (USD) |
| Gym Membership | $20 – $50 |
| Salsa/Bachata Classes | $5 – $10 per class |
| Movie Ticket | $4 – $8 |
| Day Trip (Guatapé, Santa Fe) | $50 – $100 |
🏋️♂️Gyms
These gyms offer modern equipment, group classes, personal training, and additional amenities like saunas and pools.
- Smart Fit – One of the most popular gym chains in Latin America, with multiple locations across Medellín. Affordable, well-equipped, and has flexible membership options. The entry level Fit plan costs less than $10 USD a month. The premium Black plan costs approximately $28 USD a month and allows you unlimited access to Smart Fit facilities around Latin America.
- Ultra Wellness Center – A high-end gym in El Poblado, known for luxury facilities, CrossFit classes, and wellness services.
- Bodytech – A premium gym chain similar to Smart Fit but with more locations and better equipment. Offers group classes and personal training. Annual plans cost approximately $400 USD.
- Nike Training Center (Viva Envigado) – A high-quality gym with specialized fitness programs and top-tier equipment.
💡 Tip: Smart Fit and Bodytech offer day passes, so you can try them before committing to a membership. If you prefer working out for free, you can find calisthenics parks all over the city and an outdoor gym in El Poblado!
💼Coworking
Medellín’s thriving coworking scene includes a variety of spaces with high-speed internet, comfortable work environments, and networking opportunities.
- Selina: Starts at $10 USD/day or $100–$150 USD/month, depending on location.
- WeWork: Offers hot desks starting at $150–$250 USD/month.
- Tinkko: Monthly memberships range from $120–$200 USD, with day passes available for around $10–$15 USD.
- La Casa Redonda: A more affordable option, with monthly plans starting at $80–$120 USD.
- Circular Coworking: Offers flexible plans, with pricing between $90–$180 USD/month.
For budget-conscious nomads, some cafés with free Wi-Fi—such as Pergamino and Café Velvet—can serve as alternative workspaces, though they may lack dedicated desks or meeting rooms.
👨🍳Luxury services
Luxury services in Medellín are relatively affordable compared to North America or Europe. Many expats and high-income locals hire full-time housekeepers and private chefs for convenience.
| Luxury Service | Estimated Cost | Details |
| Maid / Housekeeper (Full-time) | $400 – $600/month | Includes daily cleaning, laundry, and sometimes cooking. Price varies by experience and duties. |
| Maid / Housekeeper (Part-time) | $15 – $30 per visit | Typically 3–5 hours per session, with services like cleaning, laundry, and basic meal prep. |
| Private Chef (Full-time) | $800 – $1,500/month | Covers grocery shopping, meal prep, and custom menus. Price depends on experience and cuisine type. |
| Private Chef (Per Meal/Event) | $50 – $150 per meal | For small gatherings or personal dining, includes ingredient costs and preparation. |
| Personal Driver | $600 – $1,200/month | Full-time driver for daily transportation, often includes fuel. |
| Chauffeur Service | $10 – $25 per hour | Luxury vehicle and professional driver for shorter trips. |
| Massage Therapist (In-home) | $25 – $60 per session | Price varies based on duration (60–90 min) and therapist’s experience. |
| Personal Trainer | $20 – $50 per session | One-on-one training, either in a private gym or at home. |
| Laundry / Dry Cleaning | $10 – $25 per load | Pick-up and drop-off services for clothes and bedding. |
👨👩👧Family/Children
Childcare in Medellín is highly affordable compared to North America or Europe, making it possible for expats to hire high-quality nannies or enroll children in international schools at a fraction of the cost.
🍼Childcare costs
| Service | Estimated Cost | Details |
| Full-time Nanny (Live-in) | $500 – $1,000/month | Provides childcare, basic education, and light housework. Higher salaries for bilingual nannies or those with certifications. |
| Full-time Nanny (Live-out) | $400 – $800/month | Works 8-10 hours a day, Monday–Friday. May include light cleaning and meal prep. |
| Part-time Nanny | $20 – $40 per day | Typically 4–6 hours per day, flexible scheduling. |
| Babysitter | $4 – $8 per hour | Short-term childcare, ideal for nights out or weekends. |
| Daycare (Local) | $100 – $300/month | Standard daycare centers with basic facilities. |
| Daycare (International/Bilingual) | $300 – $700/month | Higher-end daycare with bilingual instruction and better facilities. |
🚌Private schools
Medellín offers several esteemed private schools that cater to both local and expatriate families, including The Columbus School, Colegio Montessori, The Vermont School, and St. Ignatius Loyola School (Colegio San Ignacio de Loyola).
Here’s a breakdown of estimated annual tuition costs for private schools in Medellín:
| Grade Level | Estimated Annual Tuition (COP) | Estimated Annual Tuition (USD) |
| Preschool | 18,000,000 – 36,000,000 | $4,560 – $9,120 |
| Primary School | 21,600,000 – 42,000,000 | $5,500 – $10,700 |
| Middle School | 24,000,000 – 48,000,000 | $6,100 – $12,200 |
| High School | 30,000,000 – 60,000,000 | $7,650 – $15,300 |
💰 Total Monthly Cost Breakdown
Here’s a rough estimate of monthly expenses in Medellín based on different lifestyles:
| Lifestyle Type | Budget ($) | Mid-Range ($$) | High-End ($$$) |
| Housing | $300 – $500 | $600 – $1,200 | $1,500+ |
| Food | $150 – $250 | $300 – $500 | $800+ |
| Transport | $40 – $80 | $100 – $200 | $300+ |
| Internet & Mobile | $30 – $50 | $50 – $80 | $100+ |
| Entertainment | $50 – $150 | $200 – $400 | $600+ |
| Total Monthly Cost | $800 – $1,200 | $1,500 – $2,500 | $3,000+ |
🏦Banking & Financial Tips
Whether you need to withdraw cash without excessive fees, transfer money internationally, or decide between using cash or cards, understanding the local banking landscape can help you save money and avoid unnecessary hassles. In this section, we’ll cover how to avoid ATM fees, the best local banks and online money transfer services, and when to use cash vs. credit cards in Medellín.
💱Currency
In terms of exchange rates, the value of the Colombian peso (COP) is subject to significant fluctuation. As of March 2025, 1 U.S. dollar is equivalent to approximately 4,100 COP.
When withdrawing cash or paying with a credit card, ALWAYS choose to be charged in Colombian pesos instead of your home currency.
- If you choose USD or EUR, the bank applies Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which typically has a 5–10% markup on exchange rates.
- Instead, selecting COP ensures your card provider applies a better exchange rate.
💳Credit Cards vs. Cash
💳 Credit & debit cards
- Most businesses in Medellín accept Visa and Mastercard, but American Express and Discover are less common.
- Some small shops and street vendors only accept cash, so keep some Colombian Pesos (COP) on hand.
- Avoid foreign transaction fees by using no-fee travel cards like Charles Schwab or Revolut.
💵 When to use cash?
- Taxis, street food, and local markets often only accept cash.
- Some restaurants charge an extra fee for card payments.
- If paying in cash, always carry small bills (many vendors won’t break 50,000 COP notes).
For those carrying cash, avoid high fees and get the best exchange rates with these financial strategies.
🏧 How to Avoid ATM Fees
ATM fees in Colombia can add up quickly, especially if you’re making frequent withdrawals. Here’s how to minimize fees, get better exchange rates, and avoid unnecessary costs when accessing your money in Medellín.
Use ATMs with the lowest fees
Most Colombian ATMs charge withdrawal fees ranging from 12,000 to 25,000 COP (~$3–$6 USD) per transaction. However, some banks are cheaper than others:
✅ Best ATMs for lower fees:
- Colpatria – 12,000 COP (~$3 USD) per withdrawal
- Davivienda – 12,000 COP (~$3 USD) per withdrawal
- Banco de Bogotá – 14,000 COP (~$3.50 USD) per withdrawal
🚫 ATMs to avoid (higher fees):
- Bancolombia – 25,000 COP (~$6 USD) per withdrawal
- BBVA – 20,000 COP ($5 USD) per withdrawal
💡Tip: Some ATMs limit withdrawals to 600,000–1,000,000 COP per transaction, so withdrawing the maximum amount at once reduces the number of fees you pay.
Use no-fee travel debit cards
Many digital banks and fintech companies offer debit cards that reimburse ATM fees worldwide or allow free international withdrawals. Here are the best options for travelers:
💳 Top no-fee debit cards for travelers:
| Bank/Card | ATM Fee Reimbursement | Foreign Transaction Fees | Best For |
| Charles Schwab High-Yield Checking | ✅ Unlimited global ATM fee reimbursements | ❌ No foreign transaction fees | U.S.-based nomads |
| Fidelity Cash Management Account | ✅ Unlimited global ATM fee reimbursements | ❌ No foreign transaction fees | U.S.-based travelers |
| Wise (formerly TransferWise) | ❌ No ATM fee reimbursement (but good rates) | ✅ Free up to $100/month, then ~1.75% | Low-cost currency conversion |
| Revolut | ❌ No ATM fee reimbursement (but free ATM withdrawals up to ~$200/month) | ✅ No fees up to limit, then 2% | Digital banking and budgeting |
| N26 (Europe-based) | ✅ Free ATM withdrawals in EUR, low fees worldwide | ❌ Some fees for currency exchange | EU-based nomads |
💡 Tip: Charles Schwab and Fidelity are among the best debit cards for U.S. nomads, as they refund ATM fees worldwide — perfect for long-term stays in Medellín.
Use a local digital wallet for small transactions
Carrying large amounts of cash isn’t ideal, and many locals now use Nequi (owned by Bancolombia) or Daviplata (from Davivienda) for cashless payments.
- Nequi – Easy to transfer and pay at small shops, no fees for Colombian users.
- Daviplata – Similar to Nequi, works well for day-to-day purchases.
- How to Use? You can link these to a Colombian bank account or deposit cash at ATMs.
🏦Best Banks and Online Money Transfer Services
If you plan on staying in Medellín long-term, opening a local bank account can make managing daily expenses easier. However, Colombian banks have strict requirements for foreign applicants, often requiring a cedula de extranjería (foreigner’s ID) and proof of local income.
🏦Best banks for expats:
| Bank | Pros | Cons |
| Bancolombia | Largest bank in Colombia, widely accepted, Nequi digital wallet | High ATM fees (25,000 COP per withdrawal for foreign cards) |
| Davivienda | Lower ATM fees (~12,000 COP), offers Daviplata digital wallet | Online banking can be difficult for foreigners |
| Banco de Bogotá | Moderate ATM fees (~14,000 COP), good for local transactions | Fewer branches compared to Bancolombia |
| Scotiabank Colpatria | Partnership with Scotiabank (Canada), lower ATM fees (~12,000 COP) | Less ATM availability than Bancolombia |
How to open a Colombian bank account:
- A cedula de extranjería (foreigner ID) is typically required. Tourists with just a passport may not qualify.
- Some banks require proof of income, a work contract, or a Colombian address.
- Nequi (Bancolombia’s digital wallet) does not require a traditional bank account, making it an easier alternative.
If you’re earning in a foreign currency and need to transfer money to Colombia, avoid high bank fees and bad exchange rates by using an online money transfer service.
💸 Best money transfer services for Colombia:
| Service | Best For | Fees & Exchange Rates | Speed |
| Wise (formerly TransferWise) | Best exchange rates, low fees | Transparent fees, mid-market rates | 1-2 days |
| Remitly | Fast transfers from the U.S. & Europe | Express (higher fee) & Economy (lower fee) | Minutes to 3 days |
| WorldRemit | Cash pickups in Colombia | Low fees, decent rates | Minutes to hours |
| Xoom (by PayPal) | Easy transfers from PayPal balance | Higher fees, fast | Minutes to hours |
| Western Union | Cash pickups, available worldwide | High fees for small transfers | Minutes |
🏛️Visas & Taxes for Nomads in Medellin
If you’re planning to settle down in Medellín for the long-term, then you will need to keep on top of your visa and tax obligations. This section provides an overview of what you can expect. (Always consult a qualified attorney or tax professional for any personal legal or tax-related questions.)
💻Digital Nomad Visa
Colombia introduced a digital nomad visa (Visa V Nómadas Digitales) in 2022, designed for remote workers, freelancers, and entrepreneurs who earn their income outside of Colombia.
With a normal tourist visa, foreigners can legally reside in Colombia for up to 90 days, with an option to extend for an additional 90 days (for a maximum stay of 180 days in any calendar year). Proof of onward departure is often required for entry. Note that Colombian law allows tourists to work remotely without a special visa, so there is no need to hide what you’re doing.
The digital nomad visa, on the other hand, offers a pathway for digital nomads to stay in the country longer than a standard tourist visa
🛂Colombia digital nomad visa overview
- Duration: 1-2 years
- Visa application fees: $177
- Must work remotely for a company outside Colombia or be self-employed with foreign clients.
- Must earn at least three times the Colombian minimum wage (approximately $900 USD per month as of 2024).
- Valid passport with at least six months of validity.
- Proof of travel health insurance covering the duration of stay.
- Letter from an employer or proof of self-employment, such as contracts or invoices.
Applications are processed online through Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, with a typical wait time of 30-45 days.
💡 Tip: See our ultimate guide to digital nomad visas for a complete breakdown of options in over forty countries.
🏛️Taxes for Expats & Digital Nomads
Understanding tax obligations in Colombia is crucial, especially for long-term digital nomads and expats. Here’s what you need to know:
Who needs to pay taxes in Colombia?
If you spend more than 183 days in Colombia within a 12-month period, you are considered a tax resident.
In practice, most digital nomads do not remit taxes to local authorities, and the tax code is rarely enforced against foreigners earning income remotely. But if you’re doing things by the book, then you will need to brush up on Colombian tax law.
- Tax residents must declare worldwide income, while non-residents are only taxed on Colombian-sourced income.
- Colombia has progressive tax rates ranging from 19% to 39%.
Filing U.S. tax returns as a digital nomad or expat
U.S. citizens and Green Card holders must file an annual tax return regardless of where they live. As a digital nomad or expat in Medellín, it’s essential to be aware of key tax obligations:
- Foreign Earned Income Exclusion (FEIE): Allows exclusion of up to $120,000+ (as of 2024) in foreign-earned income if you meet the Physical Presence or Bona Fide Residence Test.
- Foreign Tax Credit (FTC): Offsets taxes paid to Colombia to avoid double taxation.
- FBAR (Foreign Bank Account Report): Required if you have over $10,000 in foreign accounts.
For an easy way to file U.S. taxes abroad, consider using tax software tailored for expats. Nomad Deals’ guide to tax software for expats compares leading options like MyExpatTaxes and ExpatFile.
Alternatively, if your tax situation is complex, professional services like Greenback Expat Tax Services and Taxes for Expats can handle filings for you. Check out Nomad Deals’ review of tax services for expats for more details.
Tax planning tips
- Consider keeping track of your stay to avoid exceeding 183 days if you want to avoid tax residency.
- Many digital nomads structure their finances through foreign business entities to reduce taxable income.
- Use tax treaties to avoid double taxation (Colombia has agreements with countries such as the U.S. and Canada).
- Consulting with a local tax expert is advisable to ensure compliance.
⚕️Health & Safety
Medellín is a fantastic destination for digital nomads, but staying safe and healthy should be a top priority. Here’s what you need to know about healthcare, insurance, and general safety while living in the city.
🚨 Staying safe in Medellín
In terms of safety, Medellín has made enormous strides in overcoming its troubled past. The vast majority of nomads and expats are unlikely to encounter any problems, but you should follow best practices for security to stay safe.
⚠️Petty Theft — More than anything else, pickpockets are your biggest concern. Avoid wading through crowds, and consider leaving valuables at home when attending crowded public events such as nightclubs, festivals, and sports games.
⚠️Dating Apps — In recent years, many criminal groups have shifted from street crime to targeting tourists on apps like Tinder and Bumble. Countless men have reported getting drugged during dates or in their own apartments, only to wake up and find their valuables missing. Take extreme precautions if you choose to use these apps.
⚠️Financial Fraud — Many digital nomads and expats report having their credit or debit card information skimmed by compromised ATMs and payment devices. Always travel with multiple debit and credit cards.
⚠️Robbery — Although incidents of armed robbery and snatching have declined markedly over the years, street crime remains a potent threat. Avoid taking out your smartphone in public settings, and don’t walk the streets after dark.
🏥 Healthcare & health insurance
Medellín is known for its high-quality and affordable healthcare system, making it an attractive destination for expats and digital nomads. The city has several world-class hospitals, many of which are accredited by international organizations. Private hospitals like Clínica del Rosario and Clínica Las Américas offer top-tier medical care at affordable prices compared to the U.S. Whether you choose public healthcare (EPS) or private insurance, medical costs in Medellín are significantly lower than in North America and Europe.
For digital nomads, having international health insurance is crucial. Some of the best health insurance providers tailored for remote workers are covered in our guide to digital nomad health insurance. Consider plans that cover both emergency care and routine medical visits while abroad.
Public vs. private healthcare costs
- Public Healthcare (EPS): Expats with a residency visa can enroll in Colombia’s public healthcare system, known as EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud). Monthly contributions are typically 12-15% of declared income, with a minimum cost of around $40-$60 per month.
- Private Insurance: Many expats opt for private health insurance, which offers faster service and access to top-tier hospitals. Private plans range from $100 to $300 per month, depending on age and coverage.
- Out-of-Pocket Costs: Many routine medical services are affordable without insurance. A general doctor’s visit costs $20-$50, while a specialist consultation ranges from $40-$100.
Healthcare cost breakdown in Medellín
| Service | Public EPS Cost | Private/Out-of-Pocket Cost |
| General doctor visit | Free (small co-pay) | $20 – $50 |
| Specialist consultation | ~$10 – $20 (co-pay) | $40 – $100 |
| Dental cleaning | Not always covered | $30 – $80 |
| Emergency room visit | Free (EPS) | $50 – $200 |
| Hospital stay (per night) | Covered (EPS hospitals) | $100 – $500 |
| MRI Scan | ~$50 – $100 | $200 – $500 |
| Prescription medication | Subsidized | 30-70% lower than U.S. |
💊 Pharmacies & medical care
Pharmacies (droguerías) are easy to find in Medellín, and many medications don’t require a prescription. Popular chains include Droguería Colsubsidio, Cruz Verde, and Farmatodo. For more serious health issues, private doctors and clinics provide affordable consultations, often costing $30–$50 USD per visit.
🏔️ Altitude & air quality
Medellín sits at 4,900 feet (1,500 meters) above sea level, which may cause mild altitude sickness for newcomers. The city also experiences occasional air pollution, particularly during dry seasons, so those with respiratory issues should take precautions.
🦟 Vaccinations & health precautions
✅ Routine vaccinations (Hepatitis A & B, Typhoid) are recommended for travelers.
✅ Dengue fever is present but not common in Medellín—use mosquito repellent if visiting warmer areas like the coast.
✅ Tap water is safe to drink, unlike in many other Latin American cities.
By taking the right precautions and having proper insurance, you can enjoy Medellín worry-free while staying healthy and secure!
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