Cost of Living in Manizales, Colombia
Last updated on May 06, 2025
Summary: What is the cost of living in Manizales, Colombia? Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Manizales talk about the general living costs, the cost of housing and health insurance.
Is the cost of living in Manizales high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Manizales, they wrote:
"The cost of living in Manizales is relatively low compared to many other cities around the world. 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. Groceries are reasonably priced, with local markets offering fresh produce at lower costs. Eating out at an inexpensive restaurant is also quite affordable. Transportation costs are low, with a one-way ticket on local transport being very cheap. Healthcare in Manizales is also affordable, with good quality services available at reasonable prices. Fitness and sports activities like gym memberships are also priced reasonably. However, like any other city, the cost of living can vary greatly depending on your lifestyle and spending habits. For instance, frequent dining at high-end restaurants, shopping for imported goods, or living in upscale neighborhoods can significantly increase your cost of living. Overall, Manizales offers a good quality of life at a lower cost compared to many other cities, making it an attractive destination for expats and retirees," said one expat in Manizales.

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Will I save money living in Manizales?
"Yes, you are likely to save money living in Manizales 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. Healthcare is also typically less expensive in Colombia. However, the exact amount of money you can save will depend on your lifestyle and spending habits. It's also important to note that while the cost of living is lower, the average income in Colombia is also significantly lower than in the United States," explained one expat living in Manizales.
What is the average cost of housing in Manizales?
If you are thinking about moving to Manizales, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The average cost of housing in Manizales can vary greatly depending on the location and size of the property. For a one-bedroom apartment in the city center, the monthly rent can be quite affordable. If you're looking to buy, the price per square meter for an apartment in the city center is also relatively inexpensive compared to other major cities. However, prices can increase significantly for larger properties or those in more desirable locations. It's also worth noting that utility costs and condominium fees are typically additional expenses to consider," remarked one expat in Manizales.
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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