Moving to Medellin, Colombia

Last updated on May 02, 2023

Summary: Medellin, Colombia is a popular destination for expats due to its vibrant culture, temperate climate, and affordable cost of living. The city is known for its friendly locals, excellent public transportation, and a wide variety of outdoor activities. Expats are also drawn to Medellin for its thriving job market and its many universities and colleges. Before moving to Medellin, it is important to be aware of the city's high crime rate and to take necessary safety precautions. Additionally, it is important to research the local laws and regulations, as well as the cost of living and housing options. It is also important to learn some Spanish, as English is not widely spoken in the city. Finally, it is important to be aware of the cultural norms and customs of the city, as well as the local customs and etiquette.

What do I need to know before moving to Medellin?

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

"Medellin is a vibrant and exciting city with a lot to offer expats. Before moving to Medellin, it is important to research the cost of living, as it can be higher than other parts of Colombia. It is also important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs, as well as the language. Additionally, it is important to research the safety of the city, as there are certain areas that are more dangerous than others. Finally, it is important to research the visa requirements for expats, as they can vary depending on your country of origin," replied a member in Medellin.

"I would not consider any areas other than Medellin for relocating now. Can find lower costs in the countryside, but can be dangerous. Also would look in the suburbs of Envigado or Sabaneta (south end for a more serene life) as the central city could be dangerous and noisy. Prices in Poblado are much higher - starting above $250-500k and is an urban jungle," commented one expat who made the move to Medellin.

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About the Author

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.