Living in Uruguay: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Uruguay

Summary: People describe life in Uruguay as relaxed, laid-back, and peaceful. Expats love the low cost of living, the friendly people, the beautiful beaches, and the vibrant culture. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle. The population of Uruguay is approximately 3.5 million people, and the largest cities are Montevideo (the capital), Salto, Paysandú, Las Piedras, and Rivera. The cons of living in Uruguay include the high cost of imported goods, the lack of job opportunities, and the slow internet speeds. Additionally, the crime rate is higher than in some other countries in South America.

What do I need to know about living in Uruguay?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Uruguay, they said:

"Bring flip-flops. Bring your favorite condiments, especially if you like spicy foods. Leave heavy coats behind, as winter only lasts about 3 months & spring is usually beautiful. That said, bone up on your fire-tending skills, as most home heating is by wood fire... If you split your own wood, you can buy it cheaper. Make friends with a good firewood vendor. Bring earmuffs for winter, as we do have a lot of wind (the Pamperos). Bring comfy pants with lots of pockets for shells, etc. when you hit the beach. ALWAYS save your empty beer bottles, as you get a 10- to 15-peso discount when you return the "dead soldiers" as you purchase more beer. Same with wine - returning the bottles (esp. the 5-liter bottles) saves you 165 pesos or so (about $8.50). Get the tri-fold maps from an Ancap station. Worth every penny of the $10, they have a map of UY, another of all the MercoSur countries, a map of Montevideo, and city street maps of all of the major cities... PDD is not listed, as we have only one main road through town... ;p Be prepared to be unprepared for the welcome you receive, the wonderful food & wine, the genuinely friendly people. We have found our new home, for sure. Lay out your trips in advance & plan to use the least fuel possible... Gas is about $8/gallon, so we use it well. We bought a 1968 VW Bug for $3500 USD. She's economical, reliable & parts are cheap as dirt. We bought an engine belt, new fuel lines, fuel filter, new seatbelts, and a new door knob for only $10. The fuel lines & filter were installed curbside at no additional cost. We had the resistor for the windshield wipers changed out curbside & were given a handful of extra fuses. The labor took 2 hours, but the total cost was $16. Learn to use propane. It's one of the things they do best here. Exchange of a 33-lb cylinder is only $16. The 2-lb cylinder for the gas stove in the kitchen costs $5. If you plan to immigrate, come down during the fall & stay thru the winter, so you know what you're getting into. You will probably be pleasantly surprised - we were. Now that we're hooked, we're buying property & starting building a home. Buy a cell phone from Antel, the govt phone company. A mid-range phone with camera & MP3 player, Bluetooth, and internet will set you back $26, with $5/month for service. :D Try the Uruguayo products. We have found many to be superior to brands we used in the US. If you have allergies, plan to obtain some antihistamines & decongestants from a farmacia here. You can get Loratadine cheaply for the first; you can still get pseudoephedrine down here without being spread-eagled outside the pharmacy. If you have health issues & are on regular medications, most are available over the counter without prescription here. Put off any dental work until you get here - it's incredibly high quality, latest technology, and incredibly cheap... I had a cracked molar that eventually broke, losing 25% of the back corner. Mario, my fabulous dentist, my hero - fixed it for $40 USD. Be prepared to be amazed at how little govt interference these people have in their lives. Be prepared to make friends with the police. They are not at all the threatening thugs one fears in the US," remarked one expat who made the move to Punta del Diablo.

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How do I meet people in Uruguay?

When we asked people living in Uruguay about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"First of all, learn some Spanish, preferably Castellano (Castile, Spain) instead of the Mexican version... They will understand YOU, but you may not understand THEM... Many TV shows here are in English with Spanish subtitles... It helps, believe me, especially with grammar. We have one Canadian couple here and one crusty old Irishman... Those are the only expats we have met in our tiny fishing village of 1,000 souls... This agrees with us PERFECTLY, as we want to assimilate, not hang with expats. I would recommend just chatting the local up - your grocery clerk, the fellow who fills the tank for your car at the Ancap station, the meat man (prime rib is always in the meat locker, seldom out front). We have made friends of a family who own a wine/cheese shop in the town where we buy our groceries... They love to practice their English while we practice our Spanish. My dentist has just returned from a trip to British Columbia to do a work/study tour on a boat up there. He practices his English with me & I practice my Spanish with him... We have been so well received & made welcome, I may eventually offer English classes for adults... My best advice is not to be shy and simply venture "Buen dia" occasionally until you feel more comfortable. Undoubtably, someone will eventually try to engage you in conversation on the bus or at the market. If they speak to fast for you to understand, simply request "mas lentamente, por favor" & they will slow down. I had to retrain my ears to the Castellano, altho I had grown up speaking Tex/Mex and Mexican Spanish. Just be yourself, be courteous & respectful, smile & the world will open up for you. Be aware that here we don't say "Adios" but, rather, "Ciao!" Schnitzel is Milanesa here... Germans may have invented it, but the Italians immigrated first, so there ya go... :D One of the BEST places to meet people is the local futbol matches and/or practices. Uruguayans are rabid futbol fans, and will quickly try to persuade you to root for their favorite teams... ;p," wrote a member in Punta del Diablo.

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What is life like in Uruguay?

When we asked people living in Uruguay what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Uruguay is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its laid-back lifestyle, friendly people, and stunning natural beauty. Expats and digital nomads can enjoy a relaxed pace of life, with plenty of opportunities to explore the country's beaches, mountains, and cities. Uruguay is also known for its low cost of living, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers excellent healthcare and education systems, making it a great place to raise a family. With its vibrant culture, diverse cuisine, and welcoming locals, Uruguay is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," wrote a member in Uruguay.

"Family, family, family. Getting ready for tourist season. Working like demons to keep their renters happy & greet guests, etc. during the season. Rest like crazy the first 2 months after high season & plan for next year. Many things have changed since we arrived in 2011. For one thing, instead of having little wooden "corrals" for the garbage (which dogs would get into & spread trash everywhere), we now have the standard type dumpsters and DAILY garbage service. There is another truck that follows the first once a week and it is equipped to wash the dumpster once it is emptied... Very cool," commented one expat who made the move to Punta del Diablo.

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Is there a lot of crime in Uruguay?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Uruguay is generally considered to be a safe country with low levels of crime. However, there have been reports of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft in some areas, particularly in Montevideo. Violent crime is relatively rare, but it does occur in some areas. It is important to be aware of your surroundings and take sensible precautions when travelling in Uruguay," said one expat who made the move to Uruguay.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Uruguay accepting of differences?

"I have yet to experience any racial discrimination here in UY. I am a true Heinz 57 - Native American, Scots/Irish with some Russian Gypsy Jew, and Texas redneck... My partner is Filipino & German. Uruguayans come in a wide range of skin tones & hair textures. People are not referred to as "black" or "white," but just as... people. Mixed-race couples are everywhere, if you judge by skin tones; however, you find out eventually that BOTH are native Uruguayans. The principal religion is Catholicism; however, they are not rabid about religiosity. They attend Christmas, Easter, funerals, weddings, christenings. Religion is a personal matter, between a person & his/her higher power - that is all. That said, I find it amusing that they refer to the Mormons as "huevos," because they are always found in twos... :D I have found all the Uruguayo cities I have visited to be very accepting of foreigners, which I obviously am due to my Texas twang... Here in PDD, this is even more pronounced, as this is a village dependent upon tourism, so tourists are VALUED. Stick around awhile, make some friends, let the people steal your heart like they did ours... Economic diversity - well, there are some rather wealthy & some not wealthy in money but wealthy in quality of life. I have made friends with some Rastas and other locals who make their living by selling their handicrafts during tourist season. What more does one need in this life, they ask, other than a dry bed, a warm fire in winter, good wine & good friends to share it with? Answer: good music & the lovely environment here," remarked one expat living in Punta del Diablo, Uruguay.

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What are the schools in Uruguay like?

"The British Schools of Montevideo is one of the best international schools in Uruguay. It is a private, co-educational school that offers a British-style education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 13. The school is accredited by the Council of British International Schools and follows the National Curriculum of England and Wales. It also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama. The American School of Montevideo is another excellent international school in Uruguay. It is a private, co-educational school that offers an American-style education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools and follows the American curriculum. It also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama. The Colegio Internacional de Montevideo is a bilingual school in Uruguay that offers a bilingual education to students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12. The school is accredited by the International Baccalaureate Organization and follows the International Baccalaureate curriculum. It also offers a range of extra-curricular activities, such as sports, music, and drama," said one expat in with children at .

"DON'T!!!!!!!! Punta del Este is a a little piece of heaven on earth. It is probably one of 4 or 5 true paradizes on earth. Saint Clare's College Punta del Este is intended to be a money machine. Really outstanding phenomenal marketing. But a horrible place to send your children to school. If you value your child's security and welfare and want them to have a good education, do not send him or her to this school," remarked one parent with kids at Saint Clare's College in Punta del Este.

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Is the cost of living in Uruguay high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Uruguay, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Uruguay is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are generally lower than in many other countries. Eating out at restaurants is also relatively inexpensive, and the cost of entertainment is also quite reasonable. Overall, Uruguay is a great place to live if you are looking for an affordable lifestyle," wrote one member in Uruguay.

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"The cost of living in Uruguay is generally considered to be quite affordable. Prices for basic goods and services are generally lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Montevideo is higher than in the rest of the country. Rental prices for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Uruguay range from $500 to $800 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost between $800 and $1,200 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Uruguay can cost around $15 USD per person," remarked one expat in Uruguay.

"The cost of living is high for Uruguayan wages; however you can live comfortably on foreign wages, specifically States wages. Housing is low, but material items are expensive, however cheaply made. Food costs are reasonable, especially buying raw items in bulk. Fruits and vegetables are fresh and seasonal and reasonably priced. Fresh baked goods at bakeries are always in season and very cost friendly," wrote one expat living in Paysandu.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Uruguay?

When we asked people living in Uruguay about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Uruguay, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. The country's long coastline provides plenty of opportunities for beach activities, such as swimming, sunbathing, and surfing. There are also many parks and gardens throughout the country, offering a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and leisure. For those looking for more active pursuits, Uruguay has a number of sports complexes, including soccer fields, tennis courts, and swimming pools. Additionally, there are a number of cultural attractions, such as museums, galleries, and theaters, which provide a great way to explore the country's rich history and culture," remarked one expat in Uruguay.

"Recreational activities are quite popular here in Paysandu and constitute a good quality of life. Most are friends or family events and include golf and swimming at the golf club and archery at the archery club. Competition bike riding is common amongst 10-speed bike riders, mountain bike riders and dirt bike riders. Horseback riding is a common pastime for country-dwellers or city-dwellers, enjoying it on the weekends. There also is a racetrack for racing cars that is popular amongst the race car "junkies". Amongst all these activities soccer or "futile" is by far the most popular, most enjoyed, and cheapest sport that Uruguayans enjoy. Along with many of these recreational activities, good-ole camping is quite popular," wrote one expat living in Paysandu.

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What is the weather like in Uruguay?

"The climate in Uruguay is generally mild, with warm summers and cool winters. The country experiences a temperate climate with relatively low humidity and rainfall throughout the year. The coastal areas tend to be warmer and more humid than the interior of the country. In the summer months, temperatures can reach up to 30°C (86°F), while in the winter months temperatures can drop to as low as 0°C (32°F)," remarked one expat living in Uruguay.

"Although humid at times, the weather is quite pleasant most of the year. There is always a breeze refreshing and cleaning the air. It does rain a lot; however the following days things dry out quickly and life goes on as usual. Winters could get cold, but tend to be short," said one expat living in Paysandu.

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Are there good restaurants in Uruguay?

"One of Uruguay's most beloved restaurants is La Pasiva, located in Montevideo. La Pasiva is known for its traditional Uruguayan cuisine, such as chivito (a steak sandwich), pastas, and grilled meats. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Uruguay is El Palenque, located in Punta del Este. El Palenque is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as ceviche and grilled fish. The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as steaks, salads, and pastas. Finally, La Cocina de Pedro is a popular restaurant in Colonia del Sacramento. La Cocina de Pedro is known for its traditional Uruguayan dishes, such as chivito and asado (barbecue). The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes, such as pastas, salads, and sandwiches," mentioned an expat living in Uruguay.

"We do not take advantage of all the amazing restaurants and nightlife due to personal reasons. Believe it or not, but there is a pizza parlor on nearly every corner. Parisias, or outdoor barbecues, are quite common and every home comes with one. Most restaurants open late in the evening and stay open even later making for your average dinner a nightlife experience. There are lots of dance clubs that seem to be popular amongst the locals," said an expat in Paysandu.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Uruguay?

"People living in Uruguay typically buy groceries and do other shopping at supermarkets, local markets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for groceries and other items. Additionally, there are a variety of specialty stores, such as butchers, bakers, and fishmongers, where people can purchase specific items," mentioned an expat living in Uruguay.

"Most people shop at their local Ta-Ta Supermarket (equivalent to a Ralph's in California). There they carry everything that a normal supermarkets carries. Fruiterias, or fruit & vegetable stands, are available on every corner for delicious seasonal fresh fruits and vegetables. Your local corner bakery provides many fresh baked breads and goods," said an expat in Paysandu.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Uruguay?

"In order to visit Uruguay, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to their arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Uruguay, foreign nationals must submit an application form, a valid passport, a passport-sized photograph, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a criminal background check. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive a residency card, which must be renewed every two years," mentioned one expat inUruguay.

"Applying for residency is a process and sometimes could take over a year. There is a lot of beauracracy involved with lots of paperwork needed. You are able to visit Uruguay on a passport for 90 days before having to travel outside the country to get your passport stamped, which by default, renews your passport for another 90 days," commented one expat who moved to Paysandu, Uruguay.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Uruguay?

"Our experience in regard to a healthcare provider and insurance is a positive one. We are content that it covers our whole family at an affordable rate and is accepted by our local hospital. We are thankful locals and friends recommended this route," said an expat in Paysandu.

"I have type 2 diabetes and have had cancer. No where that I applied would cover me here. At the British Hospital the nurse rejected me within 2 minutes because I was overweight. So I self insure mostly and use the doctors available through the ambulance service I belong to. You need to be signed up with one as there is no 911 ambulance service. My savings on medical care and insurance is about $5,000 a year from what it was," remarked one expat in Punta del Este.

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