Cost of Living in Salento, Colombia
Last updated on Jul 05, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Salento, Colombia? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Salento talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Salento high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Salento, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Salento is considered to be relatively low compared to many Western countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is affordable, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also quite low. When it comes to groceries, local markets offer fresh produce, meat, and dairy at reasonable prices. Eating out is also inexpensive, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing very little. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant is also affordable. Public transportation in Salento is cheap, with a one-way ticket on local transport costing a small amount. Taxis are also reasonably priced. Healthcare in Salento is of a good standard and is much cheaper than in many Western countries. However, it is recommended to have health insurance to cover any potential medical costs. Overall, the cost of living in Salento is low, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees. However, it's important to note that salaries and wages in Colombia are also generally lower than in Western countries," explained one expat living in Salento.
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Will I save money living in Salento?
"Yes, you will likely save money living in Salento compared to the United States. The cost of living in Colombia is generally lower than in the United States. This includes expenses such as rent, groceries, dining out, and transportation. However, the exact amount of savings will depend on your lifestyle and spending habits. It's also important to note that while the cost of living may be lower, average salaries in Colombia are also typically lower than in the United States. Therefore, if you're planning to work in Colombia, you'll need to consider this factor," said one person in Salento.
What is the average cost of housing in Salento?
If you are thinking about moving to Salento, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Salento can vary greatly depending on the type and location of the property. For instance, a monthly rental for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $200 to $300, while the same outside the city center may cost around $150 to $200. If you're looking to buy property, the price per square meter in the city center can be around $1,000 to $1,500, and outside the city center, it can be around $800 to $1,200. However, these prices can fluctuate based on market conditions and other factors," remarked one in Salento.
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.


