Cartago, Colombia
Moving to Cartago, Colombia
Last updated on Mar 10, 2023
Summary: Many expats are attracted to Cartago, Colombia for its beautiful scenery, friendly locals, and affordable cost of living. Cartago is located in the Central Cordillera mountain range, making it a great destination for outdoor activities such as hiking, camping, and bird watching. The city is also known for its vibrant culture, with a variety of festivals and events taking place throughout the year. Additionally, Cartago is home to a number of universities, making it an attractive destination for students and academics. Before moving to Cartago, it is important to be aware of the local laws and customs. Additionally, it is important to research the cost of living and housing in the area, as well as the availability of healthcare and other services. It is also important to be aware of the local climate and weather patterns, as Cartago experiences both wet and dry seasons. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language, as Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cartago.
What do I need to know before moving to Cartago?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Cartago, they said:
"Rent first. Get to know the area you are moving to first. Bring only the money you need while here. The money is taxable in the US but not in Colombia if pension of Social Security. Colombia is a heaven," remarked one expat in Cartago, Colombia.
"Go for it. Keep your money invested in the USA and take what you need monthly. Rent initially. Great buys for cash. $2000 usa will allow you to live like a king. Body massages $7 for an hour Nails done over one hour $15 dollars Papayas -- $0.40 per pound Mangoes --$0.15 per pound Sirloin steak -- $2 per pound beer -- $0.50 per can Rent - ok place $75/month Rent - nice $150 per month Rent -- very, very nice $250 per month Rent -- Country club type -- swiming pool, everything, view, fantastic- $700-$800," said one expat in Cartago.
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How do I find a place to live in Cartago?
We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:
"I visit the area many times and was in love with the Cerritos, Cartage and Quindio area. This area is safer than the USA," explained one expat living in Cartago, Colombia.
"Several American friends live in the Cartago-Cerrito-Alcala-Quindio areas. Just outside Cartago is a paradise. The Cerritos or Quindio areas i think is one of the best places in the world to have a good life. A little bit expensive but you can have great choices from $100k to $300k. Several acres, swimming pool, everything you did not have in the USA. or if you want you can buy a house in El Prado neighborhood for $70k. Fantastic," said one expat in Cartago.
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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Cartago?
"Anything you want. You can start at $40K to $300k. Nice neighborhoods around $70k and very luxurious country homes with swimming pools , air, cable, 5000', barbeque areas, security, etc. They are like fancy homes in a country club," explained one expat living in Cartago, Colombia.
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What is the average cost of housing in Cartago?
If you are thinking about moving to Cartago, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"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," replied a member in Cartago.
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Should I buy or rent a home in Cartago?
If you have not spent a lot of time in Cartago, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:
"Buying a home in Cartago can be a great investment. The city is known for its low cost of living and its beautiful scenery. The real estate market is also relatively stable, making it a good option for those looking to invest in property. Renting a home in Cartago can also be a great option for those who are not ready to commit to buying a home. The city has a wide variety of rental options, from apartments to houses, and the cost of living is still relatively low. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Cartago will depend on your individual needs and financial situation," remarked one expat who made the move to Cartago.
What should I pack when moving to Cartago?
We asked people living in Cartago to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:
"When moving to Cartago, it is important to pack clothing suitable for the climate. Lightweight, breathable fabrics are best for the hot and humid weather. It is also important to bring a good supply of sunscreen and insect repellent. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring a few items of warm clothing for the cooler evenings. Other items to consider packing include a first aid kit, a flashlight, and a good supply of any medications you may need," said one expat in Cartago.
"Miss my friends, some of my regular TV programming and my boat. I should have left my old furniture, sell your stuff before moving to Colombia. They have nice stuff to buy at good prices," remarked one expat who made the move to Cartago.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Cartago?
We asked people in Cartago if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:
"It is important to be mindful of cultural norms when visiting Cartago. It is considered impolite to show up late to social gatherings, so it is important to arrive on time. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid wearing revealing clothing. Additionally, it is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to avoid making negative comments about them. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking English in public, as this can be seen as disrespectful. Finally, it is important to be aware of local customs regarding physical contact, and to avoid touching people without their permission," remarked one expat who made the move to Cartago.
Why do people move to Cartago?
When we asked people why foreigners move to Cartago, they responded:
"Cartago is an attractive destination for expats due to its rich culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty. The city is known for its colonial architecture, cobblestone streets, and friendly locals. The cost of living is relatively low compared to other cities in Colombia, making it an ideal place for expats to settle down. Cartago also offers a variety of outdoor activities, from hiking and biking to exploring the nearby rainforest. With its diverse culture, vibrant nightlife, and stunning natural beauty, Cartago is an ideal destination for expats looking for a new home," wrote one expat living in Cartago.
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How are healthcare services Cartago?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cartago, they replied:
"Cartago offers a wide range of healthcare services to its citizens. The city has several public hospitals and clinics that provide basic medical care, as well as specialized services such as obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and orthopedics. Additionally, Cartago has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more advanced treatments and services. The city also has a number of pharmacies that provide prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs. In addition, Cartago has a number of health centers that provide preventive care, such as vaccinations and health screenings. Finally, Cartago has a number of mental health centers that provide counseling and therapy services," replied one expat when asked about moving to Cartago.
What are medical services in Cartago like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Cartago, they replied:
"Cartago offers a wide range of medical services to its citizens. The city has several hospitals and clinics that provide quality care and treatment for a variety of medical conditions. The city also has a number of specialized medical centers that offer specialized treatments for specific conditions. Additionally, Cartago has a number of pharmacies that provide medications and other medical supplies. The city also has a number of medical professionals, such as doctors, nurses, and other healthcare professionals, who are available to provide medical care to the citizens of Cartago," said one expat.
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.
