Cost of Living in Colombia

"The cost of living in Colombia is generally quite affordable compared to other countries in the region. Prices for basic grocery items, transportation and other utilities are generally lower than neighboring countries. Eating out and entertainment costs are also quite reasonable and there are good deals to be had. Housing can be more expensive in some of the bigger cities but there are still budget-friendly options available," said one expat in Colombia.

"Some say as little as $1,500 per month. We live in the most expensive area of Medellin, so our cost is more than double that amount. It also depends what activities we do," wrote a person living in Medellin.

"TOTALLY EXCEEDED my expectations. We have been able to do SO MUCH in Colombia, that we would NEVER be able to do here in the states. We actually have a 5th floor Penthouse, 3 Bedroom/2Bath, overlooking the mountains, for a mere $225 US Dollars. Totally renovated... we are the first to reside there. Unheard of here in the States," remarked one in Cali.

"Living in Colombia is typically cheaper than living in the United States. Things like groceries, gas and utilities generally cost less than they would in the States. Rent is also usually much lower. Even with the cost of living being lower, Colombia still offers many of the same comforts as the United States and is a great option for anyone looking to save some money," explained one expat.

"We easily live on our combined Social Security, and that was our goal. Since we signed up for the National health insurance, we were able to cancel our Medicare costs and supplements. That saved us over $500 per month," said one person in Medellin.

"The average cost of housing in Colombia generally varies in price depending on the location and size of the property. Generally, prices for housing in the major cities such as Bogota, Medellin, and Cali tend to be higher than in smaller cities and rural areas. On average, a studio apartment in a major city can range in cost from approximately US$150 to US$500 per month," wrote a person living in Colombia.

"I lived in Roldanillo in the north of the Valle del Cauca for a year in a secure conjunto. The house was less than 5 years old, with 2 stories, 2 bedrooms, a study, and a bathroom upstairs; Kitchen, dining/living room, half-bath, and laundry area, downstairs. In front was a parking space, partly covered, for one car. The conjunto has 24/7 security, a swimming pool, hot tub, and playground, and is located just outside of the edge of town, about a kilometer from the city center. So, the cost was 500,000 per month, including the administration fee. At today's exchange rate of 4562.8 pesos per dollar, the cost is US$109.58. And, Roldanillo is a very nice little town of around 35,000 and had been mentioned in the news some years back as being one of the safest towns in Colombia. If I decide to return to and live in Colombia the only place I would live is in Rolda (I lived in eight different towns/cities in 9+ years in Colombia)," explained one expat living in Colombia.

"Equivalent housing to the USA, what cost in Seattle $6 dollars, cost $1 in the area. take your pick. A $1.2 million home in Seattle costs $200,000. A $500,000 dollar home about $80,000," said one in Cartago.

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Colombia typically ranges from around $400 to $1,000 USD per month. The rental cost for a nice 2 bedroom apartment in Colombia is usually slightly higher, with prices ranging from approximately $600 to $1,500 USD per month," mentioned one expat in Colombia.

"Rental properties in Colombia typically come with essential household appliances such as a refrigerator, stove and oven, washing machine and dryer, and hot water heater. They may also include common home furnishings such as a sofa, beds, dining table and chairs, and sometimes basic electronics and kitchenware. Some higher-end rentals may also include air-conditioning units or a dishwasher," wrote one expat.