Cost of Living in Cartago, Colombia
Last updated on Feb 04, 2023
Summary: The cost of living in Cartago, Colombia is relatively low compared to other cities in the country. A nice one bedroom apartment in Cartago can cost around $400 USD per month, while a nice two bedroom apartment can cost around $500 USD per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Cartago is around $15 USD per person.
Is the cost of living in Cartago high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Cartago, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Cartago is generally considered to be quite affordable. Groceries, transportation, and utilities are all relatively inexpensive, while rent and dining out can be slightly more expensive. Overall, Cartago is a great place to live for those looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle," remarked one expat in Cartago.

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Will I save money living in Cartago?
"Living in Cartago can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Cartago is much lower than in the US, with basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing costing significantly less. Additionally, the Colombian peso is much weaker than the US dollar, meaning that the same amount of money can go much further in Cartago than it would in the US. As a result, living in Cartago can be a great way to save money," explained one expat living in Cartago.
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:
"One dollar in the area will buy the equivalent of $9 dollars in the USA. I have a car if I want to drive, however at less than US$1 for a taxi ride in town, I prefer for them to pick me up. You can live in Colombia on US $2000 with a maid cleaning, cooking. I travel to the coast for six days for US $500. I live like a king," wrote a person living in Cartago.
"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," explained one expat living in Cartago.
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What are typical rental prices for expats in Cartago?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Cartago can range from around $200 to $400 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $300 to $600 per month," said one expat living in Cartago.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in Cartago what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"Rental properties in Cartago typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioning unit. Depending on the property, additional amenities such as a dryer, water heater, and security system may also be included," said an expat 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.
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