Pros and Cons of Living in Cartago
Last updated on Apr 11, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Cartago, Colombia include its close proximity to the capital city of Bogotá, its temperate climate, and its vibrant culture. Additionally, Cartago is known for its excellent healthcare system and its low cost of living. On the other hand, the cons of living in Cartago include its high crime rate, its lack of public transportation, and its limited job opportunities.
What are the pros and cons of living in Cartago?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Cartago responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Cartago appreciate the city's laid-back atmosphere and its proximity to the capital city of Bogotá. They also enjoy the city's affordability, with low cost of living and plenty of affordable housing options. Additionally, Cartago is known for its friendly locals and its vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of festivals and events to enjoy. On the downside, Cartago can be quite hot and humid, and the city's infrastructure is not as developed as other cities in Colombia," explained one expat living in Cartago.
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What do expats in Cartago appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Cartago appreciate the friendly and welcoming nature of the local people. They also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the slower pace of life. The city is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and its vibrant cultural scene, with plenty of festivals and events to enjoy. The local cuisine is also a highlight, with a variety of delicious dishes to try. Cartago is also known for its stunning natural scenery, with lush green hills and valleys, and plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy," explained one expat living in Cartago.
We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
We have over 10 years of experience helping foreigners obtain visas, invest, and do business in Colombia. Take the stress out of immigrating to Colombia by working with an experienced, bilingual immigration attorney.
Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Cartago often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as Spanish is the primary language spoken in Cartago. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find it difficult to adjust to the slower pace of life in Cartago, as well as the more relaxed attitude towards punctuality. Finally, the hot and humid climate can be a challenge for those who are not used to it," said a person living in Cartago.
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.