20 Best Cities to Live in South America for Expats

South America offers an enticing blend of rich cultures, diverse landscapes, and vibrant lifestyles that increasingly attracts expats from around the world. From the snow-capped Andes to pristine beaches, from cosmopolitan cities to quaint colonial towns, this continent presents endless possibilities for those seeking a change of pace and new adventures. With a generally lower cost of living than North America and Europe, combined with warm hospitality and improving infrastructure, South America has emerged as a premier destination for digital nomads, retirees, and professionals looking to relocate. This article explores the best cities across South America for expats, highlighting their unique advantages and potential challenges.

Factors to Consider Before Moving to South America

Relocating to South America requires careful planning and consideration of several key factors:

Language Adaptation: While English is increasingly spoken in tourist and business centers, learning Spanish or Portuguese (for Brazil) will significantly enhance your experience and integration into local communities.

Cultural Differences: South American cultures prioritize relationships and family over strict schedules. The relaxed “mañana” attitude can be refreshing but might require adjustment for those from more time-oriented societies.

Cost of Living: While generally lower than North America and Western Europe, costs vary dramatically between and within countries. Capital cities and tourist hotspots are typically more expensive than provincial areas.

Safety Considerations: Safety varies widely across the continent. Research neighborhood-specific information rather than relying on country-wide statistics.

Healthcare Access: Major cities offer excellent private healthcare, often at a fraction of North American prices, but rural areas may have limited medical resources.

Visa Requirements: Each country has different visa policies, with some offering attractive “digital nomad” or retirement visas. Research the latest regulations as they frequently change.

Climate Preferences: South America offers everything from tropical rainforests to alpine environments. Consider your climate preferences when choosing a location.

Top 12 Cities in South America for Expats

1. Medellín, Colombia

Once notorious for drug cartels, Medellín has transformed into a thriving metropolis nicknamed “The City of Eternal Spring” for its perfect year-round climate (average 72°F/22°C).

Pros:

• Excellent public transportation including a modern metro and cable car system
• Affordable cost of living (30-50% lower than major U.S. cities)
• Vibrant expat community with numerous networking opportunities
• Strong digital infrastructure with reliable high-speed internet
• High-quality, affordable healthcare

Cons:

• Air pollution in the valley can be problematic
• Some neighborhoods still have safety concerns
• Limited international flight connections compared to Bogotá

Medellín’s El Poblado district is particularly popular among expats, offering upscale amenities while Laureles provides a more authentic Colombian experience at lower prices.

2. Buenos Aires, Argentina

Often called the “Paris of South America,” Buenos Aires blends European sophistication with Latin passion.

Pros:

• Rich cultural scene with world-class theaters, museums, and bookstores
• European architectural influence with wide boulevards and beautiful parks
• Excellent food scene from traditional parrillas to modern fusion restaurants
• Strong public education system with free university options
• Vibrant nightlife that truly starts after midnight

Cons:

• Persistent economic instability and inflation
• Bureaucratic challenges for residency and banking
• Relatively higher crime rates in certain areas
• Distance from major international hubs

The neighborhoods of Palermo and Recoleta offer safe, attractive environments for expats with excellent dining and cultural options.

3. Lima, Peru

Peru’s capital offers a perfect blend of pre-Columbian history, colonial architecture, and modern amenities along with world-renowned cuisine.

Pros:

• Gastronomic capital of South America with affordable, world-class dining
• Coastal location with beautiful oceanfront areas like Miraflores
• Lower cost of living than many South American capitals
• Growing economy with business opportunities
• Rich cultural heritage and archaeological sites

Cons:

• Perpetual gray sky (“la garúa”) for much of the year
• Heavy traffic congestion throughout the city
• Air quality issues in central areas
• Earthquake risk due to location on the Ring of Fire

The upscale districts of Miraflores and Barranco offer the best combination of safety, amenities, and ocean views for expats.

4. Quito, Ecuador

Set high in the Andes at 9,350 feet (2,850 meters), Ecuador’s capital offers a unique mix of indigenous culture, Spanish colonial history, and modern amenities.

Pros:

• UNESCO World Heritage Site with remarkably preserved historic center
• Use of the US dollar eliminates currency exchange complications
• Affordable cost of living and healthcare
• Spring-like climate year-round due to elevation
• Strategic location for exploring both the Amazon and Pacific coast

Cons:

• High altitude requires acclimatization and can cause health issues for some
• Risk of petty theft in tourist areas
• Limited nightlife compared to larger South American cities
• Occasional volcanic activity nearby

La Carolina and La Floresta neighborhoods offer convenient, expat-friendly environments with modern amenities.

5. Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

Famous for its stunning beaches, dramatic mountains, and vibrant culture, Rio offers an outdoor lifestyle that’s hard to match elsewhere.

Pros:

• Breathtaking natural beauty combining beaches, forests, and mountains
• Warm, outgoing local culture with emphasis on leisure and enjoyment
• Year-round warm climate ideal for outdoor activities
• Rich cultural scene from samba to bossa nova
• Improving infrastructure following the 2016 Olympics

Cons:

• Significant income inequality with related safety concerns
• Higher cost of living than many South American cities
• Portuguese language barrier (different from Spanish-speaking countries)
• Bureaucratic challenges for long-term visas

Ipanema and Leblon offer safer, upscale beachfront living, while Botafogo provides a more affordable option with excellent amenities.

6. Florianópolis, Brazil

This island city in southern Brazil offers an ideal balance of natural beauty, urban amenities, and quality of life.

Pros:

• 42 beaches offering everything from calm swimming to world-class surfing
• Lower crime rates than larger Brazilian cities
• Strong technology sector with growing startup ecosystem
• Higher standard of living than many Brazilian cities
• Mild climate with distinct but pleasant seasons

Cons:

• Seasonal tourism creates significant crowd differences
• Limited international flight connections
• Higher prices during peak season (December-February)
• Transportation challenges between different parts of the island

Lagoa da Conceição offers a bohemian atmosphere popular with expats, while Jurerê Internacional provides a more upscale, planned community experience.

7. Santiago, Chile

Chile’s capital combines economic stability, modern infrastructure, and spectacular Andean mountain views.

Pros:

• Most developed economy in South America with strong infrastructure
• Political stability and low corruption by regional standards
• Excellent public transportation system
• Four distinct seasons with a Mediterranean-like climate
• Proximity to both Pacific beaches and Andean ski resorts

Cons:

• High levels of air pollution, especially in winter
• Higher cost of living than most South American cities
• Frequent earthquakes due to location on the Pacific “Ring of Fire”
• More reserved local culture can make social integration challenging

Las Condes and Providencia districts offer excellent amenities and safety for expats, while Ñuñoa provides a more bohemian atmosphere at lower prices.

8. Montevideo, Uruguay

Uruguay’s capital offers exceptional quality of life in a progressive, stable country often overlooked by expats.

Pros:

• Political stability and low corruption levels
• Progressive social policies and strong democratic tradition
• Excellent public healthcare system
• Beautiful beaches and riverfront promenades
• Strong infrastructure and reliable public services

Cons:

• Slower pace of life may feel too quiet for some
• Higher taxes than neighboring countries
• Limited cultural and entertainment options compared to larger cities
• Relatively high cost of living for the region

Pocitos and Carrasco neighborhoods offer upscale coastal living with excellent amenities for expats.

9. Cuenca, Ecuador

This UNESCO World Heritage city has become a top destination for retirees and digital nomads seeking affordable living in a beautiful setting.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable cost of living, especially healthcare
• Temperate climate year-round with minimal humidity
• Stunning colonial architecture and walkable historic center
• Use of US dollar as official currency
• Established expat community with numerous resources

Cons:

• High altitude (8,400 feet/2,560 meters) can cause health issues
• Limited international flight connections
• Slower pace and smaller size may not suit everyone
• Some amenities and imported products can be difficult to find

El Centro (historic center) offers colonial charm, while areas like Gran Colombia provide more modern housing options.

10. La Paz, Bolivia

The world’s highest administrative capital offers a unique experience with breathtaking Andean landscapes and strong indigenous culture.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable cost of living
• Unique geographic setting surrounded by snowcapped mountains
• Rich indigenous cultures and traditions
• Improving infrastructure including a modern cable car system
• Proximity to natural wonders like Lake Titicaca and salt flats

Cons:

• Extreme altitude (11,975 feet/3,650 meters) requires serious acclimatization
• Limited international connections and amenities
• Political instability at times
• Basic infrastructure in some areas

Zona Sur offers the most developed area for expats with better amenities and lower altitude than the city center.

11. Asunción, Paraguay

Paraguay’s capital offers one of the lowest costs of living in South America in a laid-back, friendly environment.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable housing, food, and services
• Relaxed pace of life with emphasis on family
• Simple tax system favorable to businesses and retirees
• Growing economy with investment opportunities
• Warm, subtropical climate

Cons:

• Limited cultural and entertainment options
• Basic infrastructure with occasional service disruptions
• Few international connections
• Limited English spoken outside business circles

Las Carmelitas and Villa Morra neighborhoods offer the best amenities and infrastructure for expats.

12. Bogotá, Colombia

Colombia’s high-altitude capital offers cosmopolitan living with excellent cultural and business opportunities.

Pros:

• Economic hub with numerous multinational corporations
• Extensive cultural offerings including museums, theaters, and events
• Excellent universities and educational opportunities
• Growing culinary scene with diverse options
• Modern infrastructure in northern districts

Cons:

• Cold, rainy climate year-round
• Significant traffic congestion
• Higher altitude (8,660 feet/2,640 meters) requires acclimatization
• Stark socioeconomic contrasts with related safety concerns

Chapinero, Usaquén, and Zona Rosa areas offer the safest, most developed environments for expats.

13. Cartagena, Colombia

This stunning Caribbean coastal city combines colonial charm with beach living.

Pros:

• Beautiful walled historic center (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Caribbean climate and culture
• Growing tourism industry with investment opportunities
• Excellent seafood and coastal cuisine
• Numerous beaches and islands nearby

Cons:

• Extremely hot and humid climate year-round
• Higher cost of living than other Colombian cities
• Touristy atmosphere in historic areas
• Hurricane risk (though less than Caribbean islands)

Bocagrande offers modern beachfront living, while Getsemaní provides a more bohemian atmosphere near the historic center.

14. Punta del Este, Uruguay

This upscale beach resort offers sophisticated seasonal living with excellent infrastructure.

Pros:

• Beautiful beaches and modern infrastructure
• Safe environment with low crime rates
• Excellent restaurants and cultural activities during high season
• Progressive country with stable policies
• Proximity to Buenos Aires and Montevideo

Cons:

• Extremely seasonal with dramatic population fluctuations
• Very expensive during peak season (December-February)
• Quiet, potentially isolated in off-season
• Limited year-round amenities and flight connections

15. Arequipa, Peru

Known as the “White City” for its distinctive volcanic stone architecture, Arequipa offers a pleasant climate and rich cultural heritage.

Pros:

• Beautiful colonial architecture (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
• Sunny, dry climate year-round with moderate temperatures
• Lower cost of living than Lima
• Excellent local cuisine distinct from other Peruvian regions
• Proximity to stunning natural attractions like Colca Canyon

Cons:

• High altitude (7,660 feet/2,335 meters) requires acclimatization
• Limited international connections
• Earthquake risk due to location near volcanoes
• Smaller expat community than major cities

16. Viña del Mar, Chile

This elegant beach city offers a perfect alternative to nearby Santiago with a more relaxed coastal lifestyle.

Pros:

• Beautiful beaches and pleasant Mediterranean climate
• Excellent infrastructure and public transportation
• Lower pollution levels than Santiago
• Annual music festival and vibrant cultural scene
• Proximity to both Santiago and Valparaiso

Cons:

• Higher cost of living than many South American cities
• Seasonal tourist influx can change the city’s character
• Limited international flight connections
• Cooler and rainier than many expats expect

17. Córdoba, Argentina

Argentina’s second city offers a vibrant university atmosphere and lower costs than Buenos Aires.

Pros:

• Strong university presence with intellectual atmosphere
• Lower cost of living than Buenos Aires
• Beautiful surrounding mountains and outdoor activities
• Rich cultural scene with theaters and museums
• Less affected by economic turbulence than the capital

Cons:

• Limited international connections
• Hot summers and cold winters
• Fewer amenities and entertainment options than Buenos Aires
• Less established expat community

18. São Paulo, Brazil

Brazil’s massive economic powerhouse offers unparalleled urban living and professional opportunities.

Pros:

• Economic hub with numerous multinational corporations
• Excellent restaurants and nightlife
• Diverse cultural offerings from world-class museums to music
• Strong international community
• Better infrastructure than many Brazilian cities

Cons:

• Overwhelming size and population
• Serious traffic congestion
• Higher cost of living than most South American cities
• Safety concerns in many areas
• Limited natural attractions within the city

19. Valparaiso, Chile

This colorful port city offers bohemian living in a unique architectural setting.

Pros:

• Stunning colorful architecture across hillside neighborhoods
• Strong artistic and cultural scene
• Lower cost of living than Santiago or Viña del Mar
• UNESCO World Heritage status
• Excellent seafood and dining

Cons:

• Steep hills throughout the city can be challenging
• Some areas have significant safety concerns
• Limited job opportunities outside tourism
• Foggy, cool climate for much of the year

20. Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia

Bolivia’s largest city offers a tropical alternative to high-altitude La Paz with greater economic opportunities.

Pros:

• Lower altitude and warmer climate than La Paz
• Fastest growing economy in Bolivia
• Lower cost of living than most South American cities
• Growing infrastructure and amenities
• International airport with good connections

Cons:

• Hot, humid climate year-round
• Limited cultural attractions compared to other major cities
• Basic infrastructure in many neighborhoods
• Few English speakers outside business circles

Honorable Mentions

Several other South American cities deserve consideration for expats with specific interests or needs:

Cusco, Peru: Perfect for those who love Andean culture and proximity to archaeological wonders like Machu Picchu, though the high altitude (11,152 feet/3,399 meters) requires significant adjustment.

Bariloche, Argentina: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a Alpine-like environment with skiing, hiking, and stunning lake views, though seasonal tourism creates significant variations.

Mendoza, Argentina: Wine lovers will appreciate this city surrounded by vineyards at the foot of the Andes, offering excellent quality of life, though its distance from major hubs can feel isolating.

Natal, Brazil: This northeastern Brazilian city offers beautiful beaches and one of the safest environments in Brazil, though international connections and amenities are limited.

Sucre, Bolivia: The constitutional capital offers beautiful colonial architecture at a lower altitude than La Paz, combined with extremely affordable living costs, though infrastructure remains basic.

Guayaquil, Ecuador: Ecuador’s largest city and economic center offers a tropical climate and business opportunities not found in Quito, though safety concerns persist in many areas.

Santa Marta, Colombia: This Caribbean coastal city provides a more relaxed alternative to Cartagena with beautiful beaches and proximity to Tayrona National Park, though infrastructure lags behind other Colombian cities.

Rosario, Argentina: Birthplace of revolutionary Che Guevara and football legend Lionel Messi, this riverside city offers cultural riches and lower costs than Buenos Aires, though fewer international connections.

Conclusion

South America offers an incredible diversity of options for potential expats, from cosmopolitan capitals to beach paradises and mountain retreats. While each city presents unique advantages and challenges, the most successful relocations typically involve extensive research and ideally an extended visit before making a permanent move.

Consider your personal priorities carefully – whether professional opportunities, cost of living, climate preferences, or cultural amenities – and recognize that adapting to a new culture requires flexibility and patience. Learning the local language, even at a basic level, will significantly enhance your experience and integration.

Many successful expats recommend starting with a six-month trial period to experience your chosen destination through different seasons before committing long-term. With proper preparation and an open mind, relocating to South America can offer an enriching lifestyle with an excellent balance of quality of life and affordability that’s increasingly difficult to find in North America and Europe.

Comparison Table: Top Cities for Expats in South America