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Retire in Chile

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By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 04, 2023

Summary: Retirees are attracted to Chile for its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and low cost of living. Chile is known for its diverse landscapes, ranging from the Atacama Desert in the north to the Patagonian glaciers in the south. The country also offers a wide variety of activities, from skiing in the Andes to exploring the vineyards of the Central Valley. Additionally, Chile has a strong economy and a stable political system, making it an attractive destination for retirees. The weather in Chile varies greatly depending on the region, but generally speaking, temperatures range from the mid-50s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit (10-30°C).

What is it like to retire in Chile?

"Life for a retiree in Chile and its surroundings can be quite enjoyable. There is an active expat community in many of the larger cities, providing a great opportunity to meet new people and make friends. Chile is home to a variety of cultural attractions, from the stunning architecture of Santiago to the vibrant street art of Valparaiso. There are plenty of recreational activities to enjoy, from hiking in the Andes to exploring the many beaches along the coast. For those looking for a bit of nightlife, there are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to choose from," said a person in Chile.

"Most Americans will have the financial resources to retire in Chile. A stable economy, a functioning democracy, a feeling of security in most places are great attractions. If you leave the city, the beach and the mountains beckon. However, the bureaucracy is intolerable (15 minutes to mail a package in the P.O. with 4 forms - almost impossible to get a driver's license, anything involving paperwork, forget it). The people are suspicious and unfriendly (except to their friends), and their class prejudice seems worse than American racism. I've cocooned in my home in the south, enjoying a comfortable life and the beautiful country (also with internet and well provisioned malls), but don't aspire to much else. There's no culture, night life, entertainment or possibility of meeting new people (Santiago is better for all of these things, but more expensive). If you're happy just living with your things (or lucky enough to afford to live in the nice parts of Santiago), Chile is a good choice to retire with a moderate income," remarked one retiree in Chile.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are the most challenging aspects of retiring in Chile?

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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