In recent years, digital nomads from around the world have decamped to Latin America for a lower cost of living and more relaxed lifestyle. The region offers a treasure trove of possibilities for remote workers seeking an unforgettable work-life blend, without breaking the bank.
Here at Nomad Deals, we ranked every major Latin American city by monthly cost of living. Included are short-term hotel and Airbnb costs, meal prices, long-term rent, and local daily expenses. Continue scrolling for a closer look at the top options, as well as our guide to saving money while living as a digital nomad south of the border.
Our Methodology
Note that our list contains two different estimates. The “short-term nomad” budget is geared toward remote workers living in short-term Airbnbs and eating out most meals. We constructed the nomad budget based on data combined from AirDNA, Numbeo, and Budget Your Trip (plus our own calculations).
The “long-term local” budget reflects a more modest lifestyle for full-time residents. We based our estimate on the cost of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, as well as cost of living expenses for things like groceries and utilities. Data for the local budget is based on crowdsourced figures from Numbeo.
Cities in Latin America Ranked by Cost of Living
The Top Ten Cheapest Cities in Latam for Nomads
Here is a closer look at the least expensive Latin American cities on our list.
Cali, Colombia
Daily meals: $12
Accommodation: $810/month
Salsa music fills the air in Colombia’s second-largest city, which is world-famous for its traditional dance scene. 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.
Porto Alegre, Brazil
Daily meals: $17
Accommodation: $730/month
Nestled between rolling hills and boasting a stunning waterfront location, Porto Alegre is a cultural hub in southern Brazil. 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.
Asuncion, Paraguay
Daily meals: $14
Accommodation: $810/month
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
Daily meals: $15
Accommodation: $830/month
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.
Bogota, Colombia
Daily meals: $14
Accommodation: $870/month
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
Daily meals: $13
Accommodation: $920/month
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
Daily meals: $20
Accommodation: $720/month
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.
Quito, Ecuador
Daily meals: $16
Accommodation: $840/month
Sitting high in the Andes mountains at an altitude of over 2,800 meters, Quito is the world’s second-highest capital city. Explore the beautifully preserved colonial center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or marvel at the magnificent Basilica del Quito, a masterpiece of religious architecture. Quito offers stunning views of the surrounding volcanoes and is a great base for exploring the natural beauty of Ecuador.
Guatemala City, Guatemala
Daily meals: $15
Accommodation: $950/month
A bustling metropolis surrounded by volcanoes, Guatemala City offers a unique blend of Mayan heritage and modern life. Explore the historic city center with its colonial architecture, or head out to the world-famous town of Antigua just an hour away. Guatemala City serves as a gateway to exploring the country’s stunning natural beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Barranquilla, Colombia
Daily meals: $15
Accommodation: $970/month
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.
Saving Money in Latin America as a Digital Nomad
Living the digital nomad dream in Latin America doesn’t have to break the bank. With a little planning and savvy strategies, you can explore vibrant cities, indulge in delicious cuisine, and still have money left to fuel your next adventure. Here’s your ultimate guide to saving money on essentials like food, housing, and transportation:
Housing
For most digital nomads, housing stands out as the biggest monthly expense. Although super cheap rents can be found in Latin America, it is difficult to secure these prices if you aren’t a local staying for at least 6-12 months.
Most digital nomads turn to short-term rental platforms such as Airbnb or hotels, but short-term economics are much different. In popular cities, a furnished, monthly Airbnb may cost 2-4x what a local is paying on a long-term lease.
Use these tips and tricks to minimize your housing expenses while nomading in Latin America.
Stay in hostels
While not ideal for constant work, hostels on platforms like Hostelworld can save you significantly. Consider private rooms in hostels or co-living hostels with dedicated workspaces, such as Selina. These shared spaces are often more budget-friendly than private apartments, and a great way to meet fellow nomads.
Embrace Airbnb alternatives
Most Latin American countries have established websites where property listings are abundant. Some popular examples include:
- Argentina: Zonaprop, Argenprop
- Brazil: Viva Real, Imovelweb
- Mexico: Segundamano, Inmobiliare
- Colombia: Finca Raíz, LaVitrina Inmobiliaria
- General: OLX (operates in many Latin American countries)
Landlords often post “Se Alquila” or “Se Renta” (For Rent) signs on properties directly. This can be a good way to find budget-friendly options not listed online, but requires more legwork exploring neighborhoods.
Think beyond city centers
Don’t limit yourself to the expensive tourist hubs. Even though these areas are often more secure, you can often find quiet, safe neighborhoods or charming towns just outside the main areas. You’ll often find significantly cheaper apartments with good access to public transportation. Immerse yourself in the local culture and experience a different side of the city.
Negotiate discounts
While Airbnb prices are set by the host, there’s room for negotiation, especially for longer stays or during off-season. Be polite and inquire about discounts for extended stays or last-minute bookings.
Tip
Most short-term apartment rentals offer big discounts for longer stays, typically a month or more. (Our own calculations assume the average 40% price cut for monthly stays.)
Leverage Facebook groups
Many nomads find deals through local Facebook groups. However, be wary of scams! Avoid listings that seem too good to be true, and never send money without a signed lease agreement. If possible, schedule a video call or in-person tour before committing.
Food
Food is a big part of the digital nomad experience, and Latin America boasts some of the most delicious and affordable cuisine in the world! Here’s how to maximize your culinary adventures:
Embrace street food
From savory tacos in Mexico to sizzling churrasco in Brazil, Latin American street food is a vibrant and budget-friendly way to experience local flavors. It’s a delicious and affordable way to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank.
Take advantage of specials
Many Latin American restaurants offer a “menu del dia,” a set lunch special typically consisting of a starter, main course, and drink at a budget-friendly price. This is a great way to experience traditional dishes without breaking the bank.
Transportation
Master the art of public transportation
Several n nomad hotspots such as Mexico City and Medellin feature efficient metro systems. Other cities like Bogota and Lima have dedicated bus lanes. Overall, traffic remains a major issue in Latin America, so make sure you plan your journey ahead of time.
Use various rideshare apps
While Uber holds a strong presence in some Latin American countries, it’s not the only rideshare game in town. Here’s a breakdown of popular rideshare options you’ll encounter:
- Uber: Uber operates in many Latin American countries with varying degrees of dominance. While convenient, it can be more expensive than local competitors in some regions.
- Didi Chuxing: The Chinese ridesharing giant has made significant inroads in Latin America, offering competitive fares and challenging Uber’s dominance in some markets (e.g. Mexico, Brazil).
- Cabify: A Spanish-born ridesharing app, Cabify offers a premium service with a focus on safety and comfort. It operates in several Latin American countries, often targeting major cities and catering to a slightly higher-end clientele.
- Beat (formerly Taxibeat): Founded in Greece, Beat has become a major player in several Latin American countries (e.g. Colombia, Chile, Peru). They offer competitive fares and a user-friendly app, making them a popular choice for locals and travelers alike.
- InDriver: This Russia-based ridesharing app has gained traction in Latin America for its unique feature of allowing passengers to see fare quotes before booking. This fosters transparency and can lead to competitive pricing.
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