Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In

Chile Expat Forum

Chile Retirement

New Topic Newest First
Emmanuel01
  9/16/2015 20:58 EST

I have read about the low cost of living in Chile, however I would like to have specific areas to visit to verify this information. City names are so vague, while communities and addresses can be explored much faster. If anyone is currently living in Chile, then I would greatly appreciate any sharing of specific communities for low cost of living.

Thanks,
Emmanuel.

panamajames
  9/16/2015 23:06 EST

Living in Chile is very expensive. Just ask anyone living in Vina del Mar...........

Allianz CareAllianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

jbondoux
  9/17/2015 08:23 EST

We just spent the better part of a year in Chile as retirees. We found the cost of living to be about 50% to 75% higher than in Panama, depending on the category and the location in Chile.
We also found that expat retirees are scattered, so no easy socialization with birds of the same flock, and the language is difficult to master.

sage1193
  9/17/2015 11:44 EST

I live in Viña del Mar. Chile may be the most expensive country in South America to live in. I pay $750/month for a small apartment with a tiny kitchen. However...

I do save money because almost all homes in the area don't have heating. Yes, you save money but there is no escape from the cold. Single pane windows (the norm in Chile) doesn't stop the noise either. Chileans love to enjoy their evenings which means you may have a noisy neighbors until about 4am in the morning.

Food at the grocery store is not any cheaper than the U.S. But the produce at the local markets is very inexpensive, fresh and tasty.

Chilean Spanish is very difficult to learn. There is lots of slang and they speak EXTREMELY fast. They also drop S's and D's off the end of words.

Once you get to know a Chilean you will discover they have their good points too.

If you choose to live farther south where it rains more you will find homes that are heated. You will also find as a rule they are a bit more friendly.

And don't forget that Chile is a country of many natural disasters. Last year we experienced 30 earthquakes in the local area, a tsunami and a large fire that destroyed 3,000 homes in Valparaiso. This year there have already been 2 major volcanic eruptions.

But when disaster strikes the Chilean people band together and are very generous in supported those affected by the disaster.

The beauty of Chile is the country and people, but it isn't a bargain compared to other South American countries.

If you accept these limitations along with the benefits, you just may fall in love with the country.

Emmanuel01
  9/17/2015 15:43 EST

I greatly appreciate your comments. Ads and articles stating low cost of living retirement recommendations in Valparaiso/La Serena/Iquique were far from the truth. What I read was $300/month 1 BR apartment/$60 electric/$30 water, and $50 grocer/wk, maybe correct figures for 20 years ago?

While in Chile, are there any recommendations on things to see or do for vacation?

Is Argentina, Uruguay, or Paraguay any cheaper for retirement? Upper South America seems much more drug production/crime

Panama maybe cheaper, however the last I heard crime was very high.

Thanks,
Emmanuel.

sage1193
  9/17/2015 19:18 EST

There is a lot to do and see in Chile. Starting at the south end of the country you have Torres del Paine National Park. It's a must see if you are down there. The trails are very well marked and traveled so a guide isn't necessary. If you don't hike at least see the 'Towers'.

Northern Patagonia is well worth a trip to see. Cerro Castillo is stunningly beautiful. It is also where the Marble Cavern is located.

Moving north you come to the Lakes District. Osorno, the Mt. Fuji of South America is located in the region. Lakes and volcanoes. It is fantastic! Of course there is world class fishing in this area too.

Moving north stop at Siete Tazas. It is a series of 7 waterfalls and quite lovely. A stop at any of Pablo Neruda's homes is worth it. Whether it is on the coast, in Valpo or Santiago.

Valpo (Valparaiso) has fantastic street art and may be the most Bohemian city in South America. Next door you have the beaches in Viña del Mar. There are lots of vineyards in this area. While difficult to reach, Zapallar is a very nice place to spend a day at the beach.

La Serena is a fun town with Chile's northernmost vineyards. It's where the Chilean pisco is distilled.

If you like desert, the Atacama is a must see. The driest place on earth yields the clearest skies you will ever see. The stars are amazing. San Pedro de Atacama is a great place to start your desert tours.

Don't miss Tatio Geysers. It is the third largest geyser field in the world. However if you suffer from altitude sickness beware. The elevation is over 14,000 feet.

Chile is a beautiful country with much to see.

Of the countries you mentioned, I would first consider Uruguay. It was #2 on my list of countries to move to. Stable government, safe banks and low crime. Paraguay is very poor with a high crime rate. Argentina is cheap right now and may get cheaper after the elections. There is talk of another currency devaluation there.

I chose Chile for a number of reasons but saving money was a ways down the list. Chile is a great country IF you have a decent retirement income or are willing to work to supplement your income.

Good luck on your choice.

Allianz CareAllianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

panamajames
  9/17/2015 19:44 EST

I live in Panama now and crime is under control. I haven't been affected, but there are always some people who are. Sometimes I talk with them and read their stories at the police station, and most of these crimes against them could be avoided. Maybe it's the idea of packing up all your Hawaiian shirts, sunglasses and suntan lotion, and thinking you are going to the big resort near the equator to live. Don't check your brains at the border. This is a land of haves and have nots. We spent time in Uruguay which in my opinion is more expensive than Chile, Argentina where you can get more than 15 Pesos for your nice clean new American $100 dollar bills, the blue dollar....it is amazingly cheap there. Bought a litre of my favorite Red/Dark Beer for 69 cents. Chile and Peru were relatively expensive, wine was cheap in Chile, in Peru I could get a massage for $6. There are always deals going on. Ecuador and Colombia were two of my favorite spots as Ecuador uses the US dollar and Colombian Pesos have reached 3000 to a dollar and will probably go to 4000 pesos, so Colombia is cheap. Colombians seem to want to leave that country, while Gringos want to move there......There is a TV series called Narcos that is a great depiction of Colombia and Medellin in particular..............Sage1193 stated many of the reasons why we would not want to retire in Chile, and jbondoux rounded out the list, why we crossed Chile of our retirement list, however we loved our time there and would go back for a vacation. Vina del Mar was a big highlight of our South American tour.

AlPavarotti
  10/27/2015 01:08 EST

I don't know what makes you think that just because you get a million or thousands of pesos or whatever the name of the currecy may be for your dollar you might be able to buy food or live pretty cheap in that particular country. Because in those countries where the their currency devalues on a daily basis, or suffers drastic devaluations against the US dollar, shops and business owners jack prices up the same or next day. And you end up with your pockets full of local money but you can buy nothing. From experience I can tell you that Argentina is pretty expensive too. When I was looking for an apartment in Buenos Aires, the real estate lady wanted a commission equivalente to two months rent, on top of the one month security deposit. And the first month rent for an small apartment. The rent was about US$600 a month. Thus, the rate of exchange is not the way you can tell whether or not the cost of living in a country is low or high. When I was in the service I was stationed in several south and central american countries. Cost of living in Chile is sone of the highest in the americas.

gringo2u
  4/9/2016 19:49 EST

Im also looking,and askinf for somebody who lives in Iquique how mich a 1 bdrm apt in a decent area not too far from the beach costs?? How many months' deposit and do I need a guarantor.Can short-term rentals be had without lotsa rigamarole?

sage1193
  4/9/2016 21:54 EST

Here is a link for you:
http://inmuebles.mercadolibre.cl/casas/arriendo/iquique

The best sites to check rental are not the ones gringos look at. Mercado Libre is a Latin America online marketplace. Happy house hunting.

cheshirecat4591
  4/30/2016 11:46 EST

We have lived in Ecuador for the last 3+ years, and yes, it is a good country to live in. We live up in the Sierra in Cuenca...so we weren't affected by the large quake a few weeks ago. Nor do we have the crime issues that the other large cities have. That being said, we plan to move to Chile next year for a couple reasons...one being that there are more opportunities for my 30s daughter (lives with us here) to meet others her age group. etc...and we also are ready for another 'adventure'. We are from Calif originally, and Chile has a lot of areas that are very similar looking and sounding to the areas we lived in Calif. While Chile may not be as inexpensive as Ecuador, it DOES appear to have far more product availability, etc. and that attracts us as well.

Allianz CareAllianz Care
Get Quote

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Allianz Care's plans ensure that you have access to quality healthcare whenever you need it. Our flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. You can submit your claims digitally and our helpline is available 24/7 to help you anytime.
Get Quote

sage1193
  5/18/2016 13:46 EST

Hi Triffic - Earthquakes are a risk wherever you live in Chile. However there are places where the risk is lower. The Bio Bio region is probably the 'least' prone to an earthquake because the had an 8.8 in 2010. Any quakes there for the next 20 years or so will probably only be in the 6.0 range which is only a 'tremor' by Chilean standards. (A tremor becomes an earthquake at 7.0!) The building codes for apartment buildings was changed this year. Any tall structure must now withstand a 9.0 quake.

The cost of utilities is fairly expensive in Chile. We typically pay $50 - $100 monthly. Keep in mind that Chile's growing economy has created an electricity demand Chile is struggling to meet. One way to limit use is with high costs.

The Chilean banking system is stable and strong. During the 2008 meltdown Chile's banking system hardly blinked because of their regulations they have in place. A U.S. citizen can still get a standard bank account if you can prove an income of approximately $500,000 CLP.

And there's good news about purchasing property. Chile's laws protect land ownership better than most countries in S.A. A gringo's money is just as good as a Chileno's money. All the better if you pay cash. But as in any major financial transaction you should have a lawyer in your corner.

sage1193
  5/18/2016 14:59 EST

Hi Triffic,

If you would like a small farm you need to consider water availability for now and in the future. Climate change will impact this and Chile is vulnerable to drought unless you are in the Lakes District.

For a small farm, Uruguay may be a better choice. (Uruguay was number two on my list of places to relocate.)

Uruguay also has strong property protections and are very open to foreign investment. As an added benefit to those considering farming - all land is rated for suitability for farming.

Plus Uruguay doesn't have a seismic risk and water is not a problem as it has one of the largest aquifers in the world.

Uruguay also has a very stable government and banks. If you are a wealthy Argentine or Brazilian, chances are you have a Uruguayan bank account. One might consider Uruguay and the "Swiss banking capitol" of S,A,

Uruguay is also one of the more socially liberal countries in S.A. where gay marriage and marijuana is legal.

As with Chile, living in Uruguay isn't as cheap as other countries in S.A. However as you probably well know, you get what you pay for.

Also, I'm not a big believer of visiting a place one time of year because there are more than one season to a year. To get the full measure of a place, culture, weather, and cost of living - spend a year there before pulling the trigger on property.

For myself, I am considering moving from Viña to Quilpue or Limache which is further up the Metro (train) line. Even though it's only a few miles inland, the weather changes much like it does from San Diego to El Cajon. More sunlight, less marine layer and a little cheaper. Yet I can still ride the Metro to my teaching job in Valparaiso.

LovetheBeach
  5/29/2016 14:57 EST

triffic,
You might want to consider Ecuador for property outside of a city. If you want to farm, you can't do better than the northern part of Ecuador in the Intag valley near the cities of Ibarra and Otavalo. There are a number of organic farms owned by gringos in the Intag, as well as those owned by Ecuadorians. Very, very fertile soil, plenty of very clean water and very clean air. Cost of living is low. Climate is so even and comfortable no one needs heat or air conditioning. Electricity is cheap. Gasoline is still at $1.50 a gallon or less. New vehicles are expensive, and good used vehicles maintain their value.

Ecuador uses the US dollar and you can bring all your electrical appliances as the electricity is the same. You can bring all your household goods with no import duties and even import a vehicle as long as you follow the rules and the time frame allowed. Crime rate is very low, and mostly in bigger cities. And the Ecuadorians in this area seem to genuinely really like North Americans. They are very friendly, very helpful, and very hospitable. There are a number of small cities, towns, and villages north of Quito that would be ideal to rent for awhile before you start to think of buying property. Hope this is helpful! Buuena Suerte!

scumbuster
  6/10/2016 18:49 EST

If you want a cheap place to live and don't bore easily I would recommend several hours outside and major city in Colombia. Small town around 20K population. I did it for a little over a year and averaged about $1000 USD a month. But that's only because there is nothing to do and other than buying necessities of life and one or 2 little restaurants. You don't have any other places to spend money. The tranquil life there is great for about 6 months to a year. Colombia is relatively safe now as long as you don't do stupid stuff. In Bogota there are good areas and bad areas like any big city. I walked a lot in Bogota and never had a problem. If I was out after dark I would take a taxi home. Bogota you can at least double and for some triple the budget of a small town. The movie Narcos is a good representation of Colombia 25 to 30 years ago. In fact much of what was in series Narcos is completely true. But again, that was 30 years ago. Now I do have a bit of an advantage, because my wife is a Colombiana. She knows the areas to stay away from. But that being said, if you use common sense like you would in any big city in South America you should be OK. Don't ware flashy jewelry, walk around talking on your smart phone and don't pull wads of pesos out of your pocket on the street you most likely wouldn't have an issue. I don't carry a wallet in Colombia. Just a money clip in my front pocket. Try to blend in.
I hear Manizales Colombia is nice and hope to visit there next year. Its much cheaper than Bogota.

I spent a little time in Peru and liked it there. I didn't find it terribly expensive but have yet to look for a long term furnished apartment. But if you didn't live in the high tourist spots I think it would be reasonable. I stayed in a little township south of Lima called Barranco and while it and Miraflores are normally thought of as higher cost areas, if you get off the beaten trail it isn't even too bad. Next year we plan to spend about 6 months in Peru in several areas checking it out.

In any country you go to, the bigger cities will be more expensive. You have to find the right mix of, big enough to have things to do but not so big its expensive.

CaptainJT
  7/3/2016 11:25 EST

Anyone who tells you it is cheap to live in Chile is a lair! Chile is more expensive than the USA or Europe!

gringo2u
  9/23/2016 16:26 EST

Thanks so much about the Ecuador tips!!

BrainInAJar
  11/1/2016 17:04 EST

We are heavily planning on retiring in Chile. I grew up in Argentina, have traveled every country in Latin America except for Praguay. I hear enough to know I am missing nothing. Argentina may be a bit better now but is still a divided country pretty much like the US has become and will probably get worse fast. The governemnt is not stable, crime is high but the food is great. Uruguay was quite attractive but lately it has been overriden by argentinians and properties are not cheap anymore. Cuenca has a great climate but is a bit too .... I don't know. Looked at several places in Colombia, Venezuela, Honduras, maybe a bit too hot. Finally decided on Cile. I have been several times and always seemed to gravitate to Pucon. we are buying a home there with a fantastic view but have to winterize it first. will try to take our 1924 model t if it is not too expensive to transport. I am fluent in spanish and love the chilean culture and patriotism and they are extremely friendly. Crime there is very ow and is mostly petty theft. People don't carry guns. Another thing that I dislike about the US.
My GF is worried about learning spanish. I am fluent but she has stumbled when taking lessons. She hopes to find some expats there. She looks forward to gardening, raising chickens, stocking the pool with fish, walking and fishing. whatever it is, it beats office work hands down.

BrainInAJar
  11/2/2016 17:55 EST

I was led to believe that snce it is a 1924 model T it is an antique and antiques do not pay IVA.

cesarolga48
  11/9/2016 19:33 EST

Yes, is more expensive if you live in Santiago and live were the rich people live, most people in chile lives well with $800.00 a month salary.

JotaTe
  5/6/2017 07:10 EST

I am a retired, but actively working US citizen, I have been in Chile on and off for more than 2 years. Most recently I have been living in Chile for more than 10 months and I have traveled from Arica to Puerto Montt from the Andes to the Pacific; I know the reality of being and living in Chile. Chile is a beautiful country, but, it is without a doubt the single most expensive country to live in in the entire Western Hemisphere. If anyone tells you otherwise they are lying! The only reason I am getting residency in Chile is because it is MUCH safer than the US or any other country in the Western Hemisphere and possibly the world. I also have one hell of a lot more freedom here than anywhere in the USA. However, no matter the cost of living in Chile it is worth it. If you want cheap I suggest you go to Panama which is the cheapest country to live in, however, though I have lived in Panama and I really liked the country and most of the people in the very small towns, Panama is changing and the people of Panama are becoming more aggressive and not very nice to outsiders; that has always been true in the large cities in Panama. Good luck in your search.

cesarolga48
  5/6/2017 09:18 EST

I also live in Chile, after I build my cabin at the farm I was able to live with $400.00 a month. If you own some farmland and live a simple, but healthy life 300-400 a month is enough for one person.

My electric, cell phone and cable tv was $100 a month, Groceries 200 a month, Most veggies, fruits, lamb and chicken meat come from the farm, the 200 was for seafood, argentinian steaks, coffee and wine. sometimes I buy wine for 2.00 a gallon from neighbor farms.
there is a good restaurant near the farm call la granja del nido, not fancy mainly for local people, $5-$6 buys you a big dish with meat or seafood. The only thing I miss when I live at the farm is other like minded people to share and live a healthy life. And then I went back to the U.S.A and start a community call Cerro del Angel. Im going back to the farm soon after I find the right people and share the a peaceful and healthy life with everyone. www.movingtochile.com

JotaTe
  5/6/2017 10:26 EST

Where in Chile are you?

cesarolga48
  5/6/2017 11:44 EST

In Pencahue Valley, 3 hours south of Santiago and 35 minutes from Talca.

Im trying to start a community of like minded families, it is hard to do it alone, check my web page:
www.pencahue.com

cesarolga48
  5/6/2017 13:50 EST

Id rather be in the southern hemisphere, 95% of pollution happens in the northern hemisphere. Some basic regulations are needed and helpful to keep us feel safe, You pay high taxes if you make high income, is proportional. Earthquakes almost don't kill anyone in Chile, is more physical damage than human loss.
No place is going to make us happy, happiness must be within us to be happy.

Socium
  5/6/2017 13:57 EST

1. Regarding being over regulated, it is the real reason of the stability of the country since very early after the independence from Spain in 1810.

2. It is more relevant in Chile to satisfy the law than the public officer on charge. So on general, you dont need to pay bribes. But you have to know the laws and plan ahead of time. So the law is your protection and not the public officer.

3. Chileans since hundreds of years have learned to live with earthquakes. There are churches standing over 200 years up to 400 years resisting mega earthquakes. The very same Palacio de la Moneda, the President building had over 200 years. So every engineer, architect, builder, contractor, common mason, Carpenters, know how to build well. So if you ever are going yo face a big earthquake, you better be in Chile.

Regards
Teo

Socium
  5/6/2017 13:57 EST

1. Regarding being over regulated, it is the real reason of the stability of the country since very early after the independence from Spain in 1810.

2. It is more relevant in Chile to satisfy the law than the public officer on charge. So on general, you dont need to pay bribes. But you have to know the laws and plan ahead of time. So the law is your protection and not the public officer.

3. Chileans since hundreds of years have learned to live with earthquakes. There are churches standing over 200 years up to 400 years resisting mega earthquakes. The very same Palacio de la Moneda, the President building had over 200 years. So every engineer, architect, builder, contractor, common mason, Carpenters, know how to build well. So if you ever are going yo face a big earthquake, you better be in Chile.

Regards
Teo

JotaTe
  5/7/2017 06:05 EST

I have traveled more than 50,000 KM all around Chile from Puerto Montt to Arica and the Andes to the Pacific. I know the area where you are at very well. Beautiful in spring and fall, but, too cold in the winter (which causes the locals to burn wood in their casas to heat them which creates unbelievable smog) and very hot in the summer. I am now in Copiapo which is about 1000 KM north of Santiago. For what you have in mind I would recommend you look at other areas as well. I am interested in what you want to do but I prefer to be close to the coast and find that the weather and humidity improve substantially after you get north of Los Vilos and remains good through most of the Iquique Region. Atacama on the coast is too humid. There are some very important advantages to being in the Iquique Region. If you are interested in discussing this further contact me by email at [email protected].

Knowing567
  5/11/2018 10:22 EST

Hi Teo,
Many years ago I lived in Uruguay for four years. Prior to moving there, through a forum, I found out about a book writen by an American expat (North American :) regarding moving and living in Uruguay. I think it was around 25$. All the info in it was very accurate and helpful.
I believe you are knowledgeable enough, and capable, to write one about Chile. Visas, rent and buy, banks, moving there, jobs and business, schools, taxes. You can add some info about good lawyers, real estates, moving help, etc.
Many future expats will buy it.

Socium
  5/11/2018 10:43 EST

Thank you very much for your kind words and encouragement. I actually had been advising foreigners during 30 years. My thoughts had been on the late 2 years about writing a book to guide the celebration of the 500 anniversary of Santiago in 2041.

I see this date as a milestone, a motivation to renew the city to be able to live under the hazards of the Climate Change scenario.

So as your post is about Retirement, I guess we all need to build better cities for our retirement under a new envitonment. Otherwise global warming, drough, scarcity of water, more expensive foods, social unestability, etc, may push us to an unease retirement.

I had been trying to convince the last two Mayors of Santiago to work toward such long term goal. But the daily call of duty swallow their energy and time... So I guess I have to write such book on Santiago for the benefit of all. If Santiago takes the challenge, then it may be followed by the rest of cities and boroughs of Chile.
But a good work is expensive in time and research. If someone wants to contribute, great. I am advancing.
Kind regards,
Teo

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Living in Chile GuideLiving in Chile Guide

Expats in Chile enjoy the stable economy, friendly people and relatively affordable cost-of-living. Many find becoming close friends with Chileans, who primarily socialize with family, a big challenge.

Chile Forum Chile Forum
Join our Chile forum to meet other expats and talk about living in Chile.

Contribute to Chile Network Contribute
Help other expats and newcomers by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Chile.

Best Places to Live in Chile Best Places to Live in Chile

If you're dreaming about living in Chile, here are the 15 Best Places to Live in Chile in 2023.

Healthcare in ChileHealthcare in Chile

After considering their individual health, Expats moving to Chile should carefully consider the health care options where they'll live, and what else is available in the immediate vicinity.

Cost of Living in ChileCost of Living in Chile

Expats offer insight into the cost of living in Chile.

Moving to ChileMoving to Chile Guide

If you're moving to Chile, this is a must-read article that covers it all - best places to live, healthcare, earthquakes, driving permits, schools and more.

Real Estate in ChileReal Estate in Chile

Real estate listings in popular cities and towns in Chile.

Pros Cons of Living in ChilePros & Cons of Living in Chile

Take off your rose-colored glasses and learn what expats have to say about the biggest challenges and the greatest rewards of living in Chile.

Retiring in ChileRetiring in Chile

Advice for people retiring in Chile.

10 Tips for Living in Chile10 Tips for Living in Chile

If you've recently arrived in Chile, here are 10 tips for digital nomads living in Chile.

Allianz Care
Allianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Allianz CareAllianz Care

Flexible solutions allow you to tailor your cover to meet your needs and budget. Use Promocode: LIFE10 and get 10% off your international health insurance for life!
Get Quote

Contribute to Chile Network Contribute
Help others in Chile by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Chile.

GeoBlue
GeoBlue

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal