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Preserving Identity and Privacy

Streaming Regional Content on Voot as an Expat

As an expat, preserving your cultural digital identity and protecting your privacy can be challenging. Streaming regional content on Voot as an expat requires a careful balance between achieving content diversity while also navigating geographical restrictions, language barriers, data privacy, and subscription plans.

By understanding the potential pitfalls associated with streaming regional content as an expat on Voot and being aware of the legal considerations, ethical guidelines, and copyright laws related to the use of streaming services, you can enjoy a more responsible and respectful streaming experience.

The Power of Regional Content

Streaming regional content over Voot helps bridge that gap of geographical separation, which allows expats to connect with their homeland culture and remain in-tuned with the latest news, entertainment and treasured traditions from their home country.

Through offering a wide range of local/regional content over Voot, this online platform provides a valuable cultural connection source for an expat that provides ventures into familiar faces, stories and digital experiences evoking well-travelled paths down memory lane marking a warm nostalgic sense of belonging within each one’s heart.

Challenges of Streaming Regional Content as an Expat on Voot

Even though streaming regional multilingual content on Voot helps expatriates stay connected to their home culture, some challenges come with it as well.

One of the major challenges is multilingualism. Limited bits and pieces can create language barriers for expatriates who do not speak particularly related language preferences from their mother country. It becomes completely difficult for them to fully dive into their cultures when countries are abroad.

Programming geographical confinements is also one of the problems people face while auto-playing regional content through websites and platforms due to region-based restrictions where websites or particular software may have scope limitations making things all the tougher for staying-abroad individuals wishing to watch what they desire. Moreover, there are also data privacy implications to consider.

Websites that have region restrictions normally set stringent policies that may not allow accessing the websites from outside the designated area; this can expose expats’ personal information protection. Understanding these issues will guide expats in navigating through this field of regional content streaming platforms and get access to alternative ways successful expatriates stay connected to the culture of their roots.

Responsible for Streaming as an Expat on Voot

As an expat, responsible streaming experience would involve being well-informed of the legal considerations, ethical guidelines and copyright laws about the use of streaming services. It also involves the cultivation of deep respect for cultural heritage as well as a holistic understanding of content licensing agreements to acknowledge the makers and their work.

Also important is data security when sharing regional content availability on platforms like Voot since personal information can be at stake without proper preventative measures. Keeping these indicators in mind while maintaining responsible practices while streaming would help expats make their streaming experience effortless yet fulfilling while staying on the right side of the law.

Voot: Your Gateway to Regional Content

Voot is a great platform for expatriates to stream regional content and remain culturally connected to their original country. It offers language preference as well as subtitles; and online communities enabling global conversations, outdone by the expat support of responsible streaming accessibility among other features specially designed for cross-border access towards exclusive centres of world contents from wherever it originates in addition to digital privacy protection.

By taking the time to understand the potential challenges associated with streaming regional content as an expat on Voot in USA, expats can enjoy a responsible and respectful streaming experience that preserves their identity and protects their privacy.

Through Voot’s regional content offerings, expats can maintain their cultural connection to their homeland while living abroad. With careful consideration of the legal considerations, ethical guidelines, and copyright laws related to the use of streaming services, expats can take advantage of Voot’s content diversity and enjoy a secure streaming experience.

Strategies for Identity and Privacy in Streaming

In addition to understanding the legal implications of streaming as an expat, it is important to consider strategies for preserving identity and protecting privacy when streaming regional content on Voot.

Some strategies for identity and privacy include using a VPN, joining regional community groups, and exercising responsible consumption of content. Apart from this digital citizenship has to be done respecting the copyright law by avoiding piratic downloads or sharing of copyrighted material.

These aspects can help expats have a safe and respectful streaming experience on Voot while also reaching back to the culture in their home country.

Content Localization is another very important concept while expatriating the regional content. Content Localization implies translating language, graphic work, and cultural context to make any sort of media available for different audiences and cultures.

Final Thoughts

Being an expat region, streaming on Voot gives a great chance to the expatriates to stay connected with their culture back home while also building up and maintaining inculcating their cultural identity amid the newly adopted land.

However, one should give much consideration to the legal implications associated with streaming services – be it guidelines for ethics or copyright laws so that one can have a safe and respectful Expatriate Experience.

By understanding the challenges associated with streaming regional content as an expat and implementing the strategies for identity and privacy mentioned above, expats can take advantage of Voot’s content diversity while preserving their identity and protecting their privacy.

Cultural Shock

Academic Travel Abroad – Enhancing Experiences in 2023

Integrating Academic Travel Abroad into College Curriculum for Enriched Student Learning

Jet-setting scholars frequently engage in “academic travel abroad,” journeying internationally for their pursuits. Whether they’re students or researchers, their reasons for academic travel abroad are diverse.

One primary reason is attending conferences, where experts gather to exchange knowledge. These events provide a platform for scholars to both learn from others and share their insights.

Field research is another compelling reason. Certain subjects demand hands-on study at specific locations. For instance, an archaeologist might journey to ancient ruins for firsthand exploration. Some institutions also offer specialized courses not available locally, leading scholars to travel for these unique opportunities.

Collaborative projects further fuel international travel. Collaborating with international peers is enriching, broadening scholars’ perspectives through exposure to varied cultures and methods, and helping them establish a global network beneficial for future projects and careers.

While jet setting scholars gain invaluable experiences abroad, they also face challenges. Managing time becomes tricky. With all the travel, there’s less time for writing assignments. Here, services come to the rescue. Writers can help with their coursework. If they’re short on time, they can even pay for coursework. This ensures they maintain their grades. These services also guide the right coursework format. A decent coursework writing service can be a lifeline for such scholars. They get quality content without stressing about deadlines.

What Is the Perfect Curriculum Like For a Student?

Image for article on academic travel abroad with a globe and a scientist.

The idea of a “perfect curriculum” varies based on the needs of the students and the goals of the education system. However, the incorporation of real-world experiences, like “mansion travels”, can provide a holistic learning experience.

In a world where education goes beyond textbooks, imagine a curriculum enriched with mansion travels. This isn’t about luxury. It’s about exposing students to history, architecture, and the stories that old mansions tell. Walking through their halls, students can feel the pulse of a bygone era. They can understand the evolution of architectural designs, the socio-economic factors of the past, and the art that adorned these walls.

Mansion travels can also instill an appreciation for preservation and conservation. Students learn the importance of preserving cultural and historical landmarks. Every mansion visited becomes a classroom where history is alive and tells its tales. Such a curriculum not only makes learning immersive but also molds students into well-rounded individuals with a broader understanding of the world.

The perfect curriculum should be dynamic, engaging, and ever-evolving, incorporating various educational approaches like mansion travels. Blending traditional learning methods with experiential learning help to be ready for real-world challenges. Students get a chance to develop critical thinking, analytical skills, and a love for continuous learning.

Integrating Travel Into Curriculum and Organization Program

Traveling is not just about visiting places. It is a powerful way to learn. By traveling, students get to see, touch, and feel what they study. They meet new people and experience different cultures. It can change how they see the world. Let’s see how colleges can use travel to teach students.

Study in Another Country

Going to another country to study is a big step. Students live there for some time. This way, they not just learn from books but also from living in a new place. They might eat new foods, try new things, and make new friends. They learn about local customs and holidays. This makes their studies real and alive.

Short Trips for Learning

Not all travel needs to be for a long time. Colleges can plan short trips to nearby places. If students are studying history, they can visit a museum. Or, if they are studying science, they can visit a nature park. By seeing and touching things, their memory becomes stronger. They might remember their trip for a long time.

Work in Another Country

Working abroad can teach many things. Students see how businesses run in other countries. They learn about work ethics and new ways to do things. This experience can be added to their resume. It might help them get a better job in the future.

Learn a Language by Living It

Books and apps can teach a language. But living where the language is spoken is different. Students can practice speaking every day. They learn local slang and phrases not found in books. By being around the language all the time, they can become fluent faster.

Meet Students from Other Places

When schools from different countries work together, magic happens. Students can visit each other’s schools. They can stay with host families. This way, they learn how daily life is in another country. They can see how classes are taught and join local events.

Help Others While Traveling

Volunteering is a way to give back. Students can go to places that need help. They might teach English, build houses, or plant trees. By helping, students feel good. They also learn about problems in other parts of the world.

Cultural Exchange Programs

Swapping places with a student from another country can be an eye-opener. In cultural exchange programs, students live with a host family in a different country for a few weeks or months. They attend local schools and become part of local events. This deep dive into another culture teaches them values, traditions, and viewpoints that are different from theirs.

Travel-Based Seminars and Workshops

Some topics are best learned at the place they happened. Colleges can organize special seminars or workshops at these locations. For example, students studying architecture can attend a workshop in ancient cities. Or those interested in marine biology might have a seminar on a boat or near a beach. This hands-on approach makes students more engaged and curious about their subjects.

Travel Money for Projects

Some students have big ideas. Maybe they want to study animals in Africa or ancient ruins in Asia. Colleges can support them by giving money. This allows students to do special projects that can change their lives.

Virtual Tours and Remote Classes

Now, not all travel has to be physical. Thanks to virtual reality (VR) and online platforms, students can see far-off places without leaving the classroom. Just imagine, they can explore the pyramids of Egypt or dive deep into the Great Barrier Reef. These virtual trips give students a chance to see and learn about places that might be hard to visit. This way, they get a feel for the location and its importance.

Cultural Exchange Programs

Travel-Based Seminars and Workshops

The Best Travel Destinations for Academic Travel Abroad

For scholars, certain destinations can enrich their understanding of specific subjects, inspire new ideas, or offer hands-on experiences. Here are some of the best destinations to travel for scholars.

1. Athens, Greece

Athens is a doorway to ancient Europe. Walking around, scholars can see the Parthenon and other ancient ruins. These ruins tell stories of old philosophers and legends. Museums in Athens have artifacts. Students of art and history can learn a lot here.

2. Oxford and Cambridge, UK

These cities are home to some of the oldest universities. They’ve been centers of knowledge for centuries. The libraries, colleges, and museums offer insights into Western scholarship. Literary lovers can trace back the steps of renowned writers.

3. Kyoto, Japan

Kyoto is a perfect blend of old and new. There are over a thousand temples. Streets like Gion show traditional wooden machiya merchant houses. Scholars can understand Japanese traditions, tea ceremonies, and festivals.

4. Silicon Valley, USA

It’s not just a place; it’s an idea. This tech hub has companies like Google and Apple. Visits to these places can show scholars the future of technology. Students of IT and business can benefit a lot.

5. Rome, Italy

Every corner of Rome feels like a history book. There’s the Vatican, the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum. Art students can marvel at works in the Vatican Museums. Those into history can learn about the Roman Empire.

6. Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

This archipelago is unique. Charles Darwin’s visit here shaped his evolution theory. Biology students can see species that are found nowhere else on Earth.

7. Cairo, Egypt

Cairo offers tales of pharaohs and ancient gods. The pyramids and the Sphinx are wonders of the old world. The Egyptian Museum houses mummies and artifacts. It’s a treasure trove for archaeology students.

8. Geneva, Switzerland

It’s more than just a beautiful city. Geneva houses the United Nations and the Red Cross. Students of international relations can learn about diplomacy here.

If you enjoyed this article about academic travel abroad, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

International Studies in Poland – A New Trend.

Tips to Study in Brazil for International Students

The Best Countries to Study Medicine in 2023

Books to Read Before Moving Abroad.

Author’s BIO

Karl Bowman is an academic writer and study coach. He works with young people to help them achieve outstanding results in their education and career. Karl also enjoys travelling and he believes that it’s one of the best ways to learn something new.

Best Countries Ranking

Cheapest Places to Live in South America – Cost…

The Cheapest Cities in South America To Live in 2023

South America is increasingly becoming a sought-after destination for digital nomads and those remote workers looking to live abroad and make the most from their income in US dollars, Euros, etc…

Because if you earn a US or European standard income, you are good in most South American cities, at least from the cost of living point of view, and South America has a lot to offer.

The continent has a blend of big cities with modern amenities and smaller, often overlooked cities that offer a slower pace of life. Among these, some stand out as the cheapest countries to live in, offering a relatively high quality of life at a fraction of the cost of cities in North America.

Remember: This is About Cities With Low Cost of Living in South America

So you will not find here Chilean cities, for example, despite Chile being the best country to live in South America, since it is not cheap (at least not compared to the neighbors). You will also not find Uruguay, one of the best places to retire in the region but also relatively pricey.

One of the cheapest places to live in South America is Colombia, with several cities on this list. Known for its violent past, stunning cityscapes, and colonial architecture, Colombia is a perfect place for those seeking a balance between affordability and lifestyle.

Colombia also improved a lot during the last 2 decades, especially in terms of safety, although there is still a long road ahead.

Ecuador and Bolivia, too, offer extremely cheap living options by South American standards. Quito, one of the oldest cities in South America, and Santa Cruz, a city often overlooked thanks to its copious natural beauty, are among the best places for affordable living. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center of these cities can cost as little as a third of what it would in major cities in Brazil.

Argentina and Paraguay are also among the cheapest countries to live in South America. Buenos Aires, despite being one of the more expensive cities in Argentina, is still quite cheap compared to cities in North America thanks to the huge devaluation of the Argentinian Peso.

Asuncion, Paraguay’s capital, is another city where a single person who works remotely for a US or European company can live comfortably without breaking the bank.

Moving Out, Working Abroad and Keeping Your Sanity Cover — Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

The Criteria to Define the Cheapest Places to Live in South America

Size

Size matters in this case.

Smaller cities are cool, but to analyze thousands of little municipalities would take an enormous amount of time, so we considered only cities with more than 500,000 residents.

The Living Cost Index by Numbeo

Numbeo, the world’s largest cost repository, compiles it. It’s a crowd-sourced database with data on housing, healthcare, and other costs of living around the world.

Lower costs are important for expatriates for the very reason we stated at the beginning of this article: we want to get the maximum benefit from the same amount of money.

The Living Cost Index is a measure of how expensive it is to live in a particular place compared to New York City (which has a standard value of 100 on the Index).

For example, if a city has a Living Cost Index of 50, it means that on average, living costs there are 50% lower than in New York City.

This index is very useful for people considering relocating or traveling. It gives a quick understanding of how much money you might need to maintain your current standard of living in a different city or country.

What Are the Countries in South America?

Another important criterion is to define what is South America and which countries are part of it.

One important thing to have in mind is that we define South America purely on geographical terms. That means we don’t consider linguist aspects, like we do when we talk about Latin America (a definition that includes only countries that speak languages from the romance (Latin) family, like Spanish, French, and Portuguese, and for this reason excludes Belize, for example, where the official language is English.

Suriname, for example, is not a Latin American country (its official language is Dutch) but is considered one of the of South American countries.

Here is the complete list:

Argentina
Bolivia
Brazil
Chile (We wrote a full article about the pros and cons of living in Chile here)
Colombia
Ecuador
Guyana
Paraguay
Peru
Suriname
Uruguay
Venezuela

Now that is clear what we are talking about, let’s dive into our list of the most inexpensive places in South America.

The Best Cities to Live in South America For a Cheap Lifestyle in 2023!

10 – Quito, Ecuador

Average Cost of Living Index: 34.6

65.4% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 2 million

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $1,494.44 on average.

Curious low-living cost fact: Quito has the 2nd Cheapest Monthly Public Transportation Pass among major cities in all of the Americas.

Quito, Ecuador, one of the cheapest places to live in South America in terms of capital cities

Opening our top 10 of the cheapest places to live in South America, this city has a wide-ranging economy, with many areas like building and construction, trade, and personal services playing a big part in its wealth. Big companies in Quito include the Corporacion Favorita C.A. and the Central Bank of Ecuador.

Quito has a kind of climate called subtropical highland. This means it has mild temperatures all through the year. Even though it’s near the Equator, the city is high up, so the weather is cool. The average daily temperatures are usually between 10°C (50°F) and 20°C (68°F).

9 – Medellin (Colombia)

Average Cost of Living Index: 31.9

68.1% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 2.508 million

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $1,355.95 on average, with most offers ranging between $1,004.772 and $2,009.54.

Curious low-living cost fact: Medellin has the 3^rd cheapest domestic beer prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Medellin, Colombia, one of the cheapest places to live in South America considering only large cities

Located in the Aburrá Valley, a central region of the Andes Mountains in South America, Medellín is served by José María Córdova International Airport, located about 35 km northeast of the city. The airport offers flights to several destinations in the Americas and Europe, including Miami, Madrid, and New York.

The economy of Medellín is diverse and robust, with key industries including textiles, fashion, construction, infrastructure, and energy. The city is home to many Colombian and international companies, making it a significant economic center in the country.

Medellín’s climate is a tropical rainforest climate, bordering on a tropical monsoon climate.

8 – Santa Cruz, Bolivia

Average Cost of Living Index: 31.3

68.7% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 1.453 million

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $1,159.46 on average, with most offers ranging between $1,013.63 and $1,501.64.

Curious low-living cost fact: Santa Cruz has the Least Expensive Chicken Fillets (1kg) prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Santa Cruz is located in the eastern part of the country, and it’s served by Viru Viru International Airport, the largest and most important airport in Bolivia. The airport offers flights to several destinations in the Americas and Europe, including Miami, Madrid, and São Paulo.

The city’s economy is primarily based on agriculture, with Santa Cruz being the most important agricultural department in the country. Other significant industries include oil, natural gas, and manufacturing.

7 – Cartagena, Colombia

Average Cost of Living Index: 31.0

69.0% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 914,552 residents.

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $2,594.32 on average, with most offers ranging between $1,758.35 and $4,013.73.

Curious low-living cost fact: Cartagena has the Least Expensive Domestic Beer prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Cartagena, also known as Cartagena de Indias, is a port city on Colombia’s Caribbean coast. Despite its popularity as a tourist destination, the cost of living in Cartagena remains relatively low. The city is famous for its preserved old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with cobbled streets, colonial buildings, and iconic fortress walls.

The city’s economy is primarily based on maritime and petrochemicals industry, tourism, and services. Cartagena is home to the country’s main maritime port.

The city is known for its warm and humid weather, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit). It is served by Rafael Núñez International Airport, located within the city. The airport offers flights to several destinations in the Americas and Europe, including Miami, Panama City, and Amsterdam.

6 – Cali, Colombia

Average Cost of Living Index: 31.0

69.0% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 2,227,642 people.

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $939.46 on average, with most offers ranging between $753.58 and $1,507.16.

Curious low-living cost fact: Cali has the 2nd cheapest fitness club prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Cali’s economy is primarily based on industry and commerce. The city is home to the Pacific Stock Exchange and several multinational companies. It is also the center of an important agricultural region, known for its sugar and coffee production (Colombia is one of the best countries in the world for the hot, bitter liquid).

The city is served by Alfonso Bonilla Aragón International Airport, located in the nearby city of Palmira. The airport offers flights to several destinations in the Americas and Europe, including Miami, Madrid, and Panama City.

Cali has a tropical savanna climate, with a short dry season and a long wet season. The city is known for its warm and humid weather, with temperatures often reaching the mid-30s Celsius (90s Fahrenheit).

5 – Asuncion, Paraguay

Average Cost of Living Index: 30.5

69.5% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 525,252

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $ 1,232.91 on average, with most offers ranging between $825.25 and $2,696.90.

Curious low-living cost fact: Asuncion has the Least Expensive McMeal prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Asuncion, the capital and largest city of Paraguay, is located in the southwestern part of the country, near the Paraguay River.

Surprisingly, Paraguay is one of the countries with the largest community of foreigners in entire South America (mostly Brazilians).

The closest international airport is Silvio Pettirossi International Airport, which is the busiest airport in Paraguay. It offers flights to several cities in the Americas, including Buenos Aires, Sao Paulo, and Miami.

Asuncion is the main economic, cultural, and industrial hub of Paraguay. The city’s economy is based on commerce and services, including banking, telecommunications, and insurance. The city is also home to the National University of Asuncion and several other educational institutions.

The city experiences heavy rainfall throughout the year, especially during the summer months.

Read also: The Best Non-Beach Vacation Getaways (Paraguay is one of them)

4 – Bogota, Colombia

Average Cost of Living Index: 30.4

69.6% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 7.4 million

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $ 1,756.15 on average, with most offers ranging between $1,255.97 and $2,260.74.

A curious fact about living costs: Bogota has the 3rd cheapest Uber rate among 17 national capitals.

Despite being one of the largest cities in South America, Bogota remains relatively inexpensive. The city is located in the center of Colombia, on a high plateau.

The climate is subtropical highland, with average temperatures remaining constant throughout the year. However, due to its altitude, it has significant temperature variation between day and night.

Bogota is the main economic and industrial center of Colombia. The Colombian government and various international entities have their headquarters in the city. It is a major center for the import and export of goods for Colombia and the Andean Community in South America.

It also has one of the most efficient bus transportation systems on the continent.

The closest international airport is El Dorado International Airport, which is among the busiest in Latin America in terms of passenger traffic. It offers flights to cities in the Americas, Europe, and Asia.

3 – Buenos Aires, Argentina

Average Cost of Living Index: 30.0

Buenos Aires is 70.0% cheaper than New York.

Population: Approximately 13.1 million (Metropolitan Area)

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $ 2,497.58 on average, with most offers ranging between $2000 and $3125.

Curious low-living cost fact: Buenos Aires has the cheapest bottles of mid-range red wine among major cities in all of the Americas

Buenos Aires is known for its European-style architecture and rich cultural life.

Thanks to the massive devaluation of the Argentinian Peso, it is one of the most inexpensive capital cities in South America, offering a high quality of life (when compared to cities like Rio de Janeiro or Caracas) at a relatively low cost. No surprise that lately retirees are more and more attracted to the idea of retirement in Argentina.

It is the capital of Argentina, a country that tops the list of the best Spanish-Speaking countries to visit.

Buenos Aires is the financial, industrial, and commercial hub of Argentina. Many multinational businesses have their regional headquarters in the city. The Port of Buenos Aires is one of the busiest in South America; navigation is mainly oriented to direct traffic with the ports of the Paraná and Uruguay rivers.

Despite the economic crisis, Buenos Aires is still one of the safest cities on the continent.

There is a large airport called Ministro Pistarini International Airport, commonly known as Ezeiza Airport. It offers flights to many destinations worldwide, including cities in Europe, North America, and other parts of South America.

2 – Barranquilla, Colombia

Average Cost of Living Index: 27.4

It is 72.6% cheaper than New York.

Population: 1.2 million

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $1,188.98 on average, with most offers ranging between $1,004.77 and $1,306.20.

Curious low-living cost fact: Barranquilla has the cheapest Pepsi prices among major cities in all of the Americas

Barranquilla, the 2nd cheapest city to live in South America

Barranquilla is famous for its annual Carnival, which is one of the biggest in the world.

The city’s economy is diverse, with key industries including port activities, manufacturing, and services. Major employers in the city include the port of Barranquilla, Ecopetrol, and several multinational corporations. The climate in Barranquilla is tropical, with high temperatures and humidity throughout the year.

It is also located near the Caribbean Sea, making it a significant port in Colombia.

The closest international airport is the Ernesto Cortissoz International Airport, which offers flights to several destinations in the Americas and Europe.

Read also: The Easiest Countries to Adopt a Baby From (Colombia is one of them).

1 – Bucaramanga, Colombia

Average Cost of Living Index: 23.7

Bucaramanga is 76.3% cheaper than New York.

Population: 528,575 residents.

Average Square Meter Price in an Upper-Middle-Class Residential Zone (USD): $870.80 on average, with most offers ranging between $552.62 and $1,004.77.

Curious low-living cost fact: Bucaramanga has the cheapest white bread prices among major cities in all of the Americas.

Bucaramanga, the cheapest city to live in South America

Closing our list of the cheapest places to live in South America, Bucaramanga is located in the northeastern part of the country, in the eastern branch of the Colombian Andes. The city is known for its parks and for its nickname “La Ciudad de Los Parques” (“The City of Parks”) and “La Ciudad Bonita de Colombia” (“Colombia’s Beautiful City”).

Sounds enticing, right?

The city has plenty of affordable housing even in upper-scale districts, making it an attractive destination for both locals and expats. The city is also famous for its vibrant culture and friendly locals, which add to its charm and appeal.

For foreigners that want to retire there, Colombia is one of the 25 countries with special visa schemes for retirees.

Bucaramanga’s economy is diverse, with main industries including footwear and clothing, food processing, and metalworking. The city is also a regional center for the oil and mining industries. One of the major employers in the city is Ecopetrol (the Colombian state oil company), but there are also several multinational corporations.

The city is served by the Palonegro International Airport, which is located about 30 minutes away from the city center. The airport offers flights to several destinations, including Bogotá, Medellín, Panama City, and Miami.

Book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights — Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

Enjoyed reading about the best South American cities to live in in terms of cost of living? Check these:

The Mind-Blowing Tourist Scams You Can Find in Europe in 2023

3 Cheap Cities in Europe to Visit This Winter (And 1 to Avoid)

Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links in this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transactions.

Best Countries Ranking

Living in Chile: The Best Place to Live in…

The Best Places, Cost of Living, and Everything Else You Need to Know About Living in Chile

Our team writes from experience. Yes, we also use reliable and updated data, but always together with personal experiences from our team and audience. With all that we mind, we affirm with no doubt that in 2023, if you are living in Chile, you are in the best place to live in South America…. yet.

Yes, yet. One of our team members lived in Chile 12 years ago, and many of our readers live in Chile today, and comparing their opinions is clear that while countries like Paraguay improved drastically in the last decade (this article lists the best Latin American countries to live in 2023), Chile didn’t show many improvements and even worsened in some aspects.

But here is the catch:

The country had such a significant lead over the other South American countries that even by 2023, despite other South-American countries closing the gap somewhat, Chile is still the best country to live in South America.

Why is Chile considered THE best country to live in South America for Expatriates?

Illustration for article about Living in Chile, the best country to live in South America

Let’s first use some data, before jumping into the personal experiences and stories of our team members and readers about life in Chile (and there is a ton of helpful insights from them in the next few paragraphs).

The table below shows the human development index (the most used indicator worldwide about the standard of living), the living cost index (more about the cost of living in a few paragraphs) and the homicide rate (an important indicator of violence), and then ranks each country in Latin America according to these 3 factors.

Position	Country	Human Development Index (HDI)	Living Cost Index	Homicide Rate	HDI Rank	LCI Rank	Safety Rank	Final Score
1	Chile	0.851	37.79	4.4	1	15	1	10
2	Argentina	0.845	32.95	5.32	2	12	2	10
3	Ecuador	0.759	30.54	5.8	10	8	3	17
4	Bolivia	0.718	27.22	6.22	13	3	4	19
5	Paraguay	0.728	29.25	7.14	12	5	5	20
6	Panama	0.815	44.56	9.39	5	16	9	22
7	Peru	0.777	35.14	7.91	7	14	8	22
8	Costa Rica	0.82	44.58	11.26	3	17	11	23
9	Colombia	0.767	26.08	25.34	8	1	14	23
10	Uruguay	0.817	44.62	12.06	4	18	12	25
11	El Salvador	0.673	30.11	7.8	15	7	7	26
12	Brazil	0.765	28.85	27.38	9	4	15	26
13	Nicaragua	0.66	29.58	7.19	17	6	6	26
14	Mexico	0.779	30.96	29.07	6	10	16	27
15	Dominican Republic	0.756	33.58	10.05	11	13	10	28
16	Venezuela	0.711	27.17	36.69	14	2	17	32
17	Guatemala	0.663	32.17	22.5	16	11	13	35
18	Honduras	0.634	30.68	38.93	18	9	18	41

The rank of The Best Latin American Countries to Live in 2023

As you can see, Chile has the highest Human Development Index (0.851) and the lowest homicide rate (4.4) among all 18 countries.

These are not the only indicators where Chile is a Latin American outlier.

Chile ranks 33rd (among 141 countries) in the Global Competitiveness Index, making it one of the most competitive economies in South America.
Chile is one of the best countries to start a life abroad with no money (but a good business plan).
According to GoAbrod, Chile is one best countries to study medicine on the planet.
Chile is the 4th best Spanish-speaking country to visit in 2023 and receives 7.2 million international tourists per year.
Together with Florianopolis and Buenos Aires, Santiago de Chile is often considered one of the best cities in South America for expats and digital nomads.

Ok, ok, so all this data shows that, at least from a purely objective point of view, Chile is way ahead of the other South American countries in multiple aspects.

But let’s make it more personal and see what real people think.

Chile’s appeal: What makes it the best place to live in South America?

Now time for some real stories of people that really lived in Chile, including me who wrote this article.

I lived in Chile a few years ago, more specifically in Santiago in a district called Las Condes.

Since I moved out from Brazil, a quite dangerous country, Chile felt very safe to me. It was also impressive the quality of the public transport. To put it into perspective, Santiago (population: 5.6 million residents) has almost 140km of subway lines.

Meanwhile, São Paulo, one of the most developed large cities in Brazil, has only 79km of subway lines despite being almost 3 times larger than Santiago!

The city also has plenty of parks and green areas, including the magnificent Cerro San Cristobal. I loved hiking there.

Quality of life (including food) was superb. After leaving Santiago in 2013, I lived in one of the richest countries in the world (Qatar) and in Europe, and I believe that the standard of living I experienced in the Chilean capital was similar to European standards.

However, a lot changed since I moved out from Chile.

This is especially true in terms of violence and economic dynamics. Yes, Chile is still the safest country in South America and has the highest GDP per capita, but in the last 10 years went a bit sour.

As Andres Pilquil Varas stated here, the best advice for someone living and working in Chile nowadays is:

Respect the 3 W’s: “No andar a horas weonas, con gente weona en lugares weones”. Roughly translated to “Don’t be at stupid hours with stupid people at stupid places”.
We have low corruption compared to our neighbors. Don’t even try to bribe law enforcement; you will make it to the news and have a really bad time.
Don’t go around the main tourist places with your expensive cameras hanging from your neck and all your money and documents in a very visible fanny pack; that’s like having a huge ass neon sign on your head saying “Rob me.”

Preliminary data shows that the homicide rate in Chile increased to 4.7 in 2022. While still lower than any other Latin American country, it worsened considerably from only 10 years ago, when it was 2.8, a 67.8% increase in only 10% years.

The expat community in Chile: How well-established is it?

The neighborhood I used to live in Santiago, Chile. — The neighborhood I used to live in the eastern part of Santiago.

The expat community in Chile is quite diverse and well-established, with people from all over the world choosing to call this South American country their home.

According to data from Meetup, there are over 22,000 members in various expat groups in Chile. These groups are often organized around language exchange and social activities, with the largest ones being in Santiago and Valparaíso.

For instance, the Santiago Spanish and English Language Exchange Meetup has 8,871 members, while the group Spanglish Party in Santiago has 6,854 members.

In terms of nationalities, the expat community in Chile is quite varied. According to InterNations, a global expat community, the top nationalities in their Chilean communities are Americans, Venezuelans, Argentinians, and Colombians.

As for where expats live, the majority seem to be concentrated in major cities like Santiago and Valparaíso.

Living in Chile: Pros and Cons

Most of the items below refer to life specifically in Santiago. For the pros and cons of living in the smaller cities and rural parts of Chile, we make a separate section after this one.

The Pros of Living in Chile

The leisure life in Chile: From ski slopes to beach fronts.

Chile’s diverse landscape offers a wide range of leisure options. From the beaches of Viña del Mar to the snowy peaks of the Andes (and cool ski resorts not far from Santiago), you will have all seasons of possible activities.

Moreover, the country’s commitment to environmental conservation has led to the establishment of numerous national parks and reserves.

There are also multiple historical sites, museums, and vibrant local festivals that offer a glimpse into the country’s past and present.

Entrepreneur-Friendly Environment

Chile has a reputation for being one of the most entrepreneur-friendly countries in Latin America. The government has implemented simple entrepreneurial laws to encourage business startups.

The country’s “Start-Up Chile” program, for instance, offers equity-free funding to qualified startups, making it an attractive destination for entrepreneurs.

Furthermore, the country has a robust infrastructure, including reliable internet and transportation networks. This infrastructure supports business operations and makes it easier for entrepreneurs to establish and grow their businesses.

The country’s strategic location also provides easy access to other markets in Latin America.

Low Cost of Living

More about it in a few paragraphs. Check also our article about the cheapest cities to live in South America.

But also it isn’t for everyone: The cons of living in Chile.

Centralization of Opportunities

Chile is highly centralized, with most opportunities concentrated in the Santiago-Valparaiso axis.

This means that outside of these areas, job opportunities, educational institutions, and healthcare facilities may be limited. This centralization can lead to a lack of development in rural areas and can make life challenging for those living outside the main cities.

Furthermore, this centralization can lead to overcrowding in the main cities, resulting in high housing costs and traffic congestion.

Political Instabilities

The recent political instabilities during the last few years have created a sense of uncertainty in Chile.

Protests and civil unrest have become more common, leading to disruptions in daily life and business operations. This instability can deter potential investors and expats, who may be concerned about the country’s future direction and the potential impact on their investments or lifestyle.

Uncertainty also leads to fluctuations in the currency and stock market, making it more challenging for businesses to plan for the future.

Moreover, these political instabilities can lead to social tensions. Protests and civil unrest can disrupt daily life and create a sense of insecurity. There are even cases of terrorism in the southern regions that shocked the country.

Language Barrier

While English is taught in schools and is spoken in the business sector, Spanish is the dominant language in Chile.

Expats who do not speak Spanish may face communication challenges in their daily life. This can make it difficult to integrate into the local culture, access services, and form connections with locals.

While many services are available in English in the capital, in rural areas, services may only be available in Spanish.

The type of Spanish spoken in Chile is also different from other Latin American countries and Spain, and I personally found it quite challenging, but more about it in a few paragraphs.

How does the cost of living in Chile compare to the US?

In our quest to understand the cost of living differences between Chile and the United States, we turned to Numbeo, a large crowdsourced database of prices. Numbeo provides current and timely information about world living conditions including cost of living, housing indicators, health care, traffic, crime, and pollution.

For our comparison, we chose Santiago, the largest city in Chile, and Chicago, a major city in the United States. Here’s what we found:

A meal in an Inexpensive Restaurant: A meal in Santiago costs around $10.00, while in Chicago it’s about $20.00. This means that dining out in Santiago is approximately 50% cheaper than in Chicago.
Monthly Pass (Regular Price) for Public Transportation: In Santiago, it’s around $45.00, while in Chicago it’s $105.00. Public transportation in Santiago is thus about 57% cheaper.
Basic (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) for an 85m2 Apartment: The cost in Santiago is about $83.00, while in Chicago it’s $139.00. Basic utilities are approximately 40% cheaper in Santiago.
1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local (No Discounts or Plans): In Santiago, it’s $0.14, while in Chicago it’s $0.15. The cost is nearly the same, with Santiago being just about 7% cheaper.
1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar): The cost in Santiago is about $61.00, while in Chicago it’s $50.00. Interestingly, jeans are about 22% more expensive in Santiago.
1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, H&M, …): In Santiago, it’s around $34.00, while in Chicago it’s $40.00. This means that clothing in Santiago is approximately 15% cheaper.
1 Pair of Nike Running Shoes (Mid-Range): The cost in Santiago is about $76.00, while in Chicago it’s $80.00. Athletic shoes are roughly 5% cheaper in Santiago.

Chile’s hidden costs: What to expect.

One of the most remarkable hidden costs I saw there is healthcare.

While Chile has a public healthcare system, many residents opt for private healthcare due to the better quality of service. I don’t recommend you rely on public health care for most situations, and private health insurance can avoid headaches.

However, private healthcare can be expensive, and insurance premiums can vary widely. It’s important to factor in these costs when budgeting for life in Chile. Additionally, prescription medications can be costly, and certain treatments may not be covered by insurance.

Lastly, medical care in Chile is of good quality, which is crucial for families with kids.

As travel insurance for visiting Chile, we recommend Ekta.

Money-saving tips for expats living in Chile.

Here are some other things to know before moving to Chile as an expat:

Research Areas You Should Avoid: Just like any other country, Chile has areas that are more expensive than others. Research and choose a location that fits your budget. Santiago, while being a great place to live, can be more expensive than other cities like La Serena or Valparaiso.
Learn Spanish: While you can speak English in Chile, it isn’t widely spoken outside of business and tourist areas. Learning Spanish can help you negotiate better prices and avoid the “gringo” price inflation that can occur.
Use Public Transportation: Chile has one of the best public transportation systems in Latin America. Using public transportation instead of owning a car can save you a significant amount of money.
Buy Local Produce: Chile is a great place for fresh fruits and vegetables, especially in southern Chile. Buying local produce at markets can be cheaper and healthier than buying imported goods at supermarkets.
Contact Real Estate Agencies: When searching for housing in Chile, it’s beneficial to contact real estate agencies. They can help you find affordable options that may not be listed online.
Visit the country before deciding to move there! In these cases, Chile might demand that you apply for a tourist visa and valid international travel and health insurance. As travel insurance for visiting Chile (and any country in South America), Ekta is a good choice.
Network with Other Expats: Making expat friends can provide valuable insights into living cost-effectively in Chile. They can share their experiences, tips, and tricks to help you navigate your new life and avoid common financial pitfalls.

Best places to live in Chile: City life vs the tranquility of rural areas.

Santiago de Chile is the country’s hearth and a Latin American hub, offering everything you need to know about city life. As an expat in Santiago, you’ll likely need to adapt to the fast pace of life. The city offers primary and secondary job markets, making it one of the best places to find a job in Chile.

Valparaiso, named the best destination in terms of its vibrant arts scene, offers a unique blend of city life and coastal charm. As an expat guide would tell you, it’s a place where you can enjoy a good quality of life, with a slower pace and plenty of cultural activities.

Viña del Mar, often compared to coastal cities in developed countries for its modern infrastructure, is a popular choice for North Americans and Europeans. It’s a great place to retire to Chile, offering high-quality medical care, beautiful beaches, and a relaxed lifestyle.

La Serena, known for its tranquility, is ideal for those thinking about moving to Chile for a quieter life. It’s often chosen by expatriates who prefer a slower pace, yet still want access to amenities. The city offers a balance between city conveniences and the charm of rural areas.

Below you will discover a bit more about expat life in each of these cities.

Why Santiago is a top choice for Expats in Chile

Jose Cox, when writing about life in Santiago, said something that I also found very valid after living there: Chile’s high centralization is a pro and a con at the same time, and that depends on which side you are looking at:

When compared to other cities in the country, the best thing about living in Santiago is that you WILL find everything you need. Period. One of Chile’s biggest problems is that it is too centralized. Almost everything happens in Santiago, and you can get everything you need here. You can probably find whatever you are looking for. That’s not true of the other cities in Chile, and as you might expect, it gets harder to find things that might be considered too specific the farther you get from Santiago.

Santiago’s digital infrastructure, cost-effectiveness, and business-friendly environment make it a top choice for expats and particularly attractive for young professionals.

The capital is also the economic and cultural hub of Chile, offering a wealth of job opportunities, particularly in sectors such as finance, technology, and education. The city has a robust economy and status as a regional business hub in the Andean region.

Santiago also offers a high standard of living, especially on the eastern side of the city. Eastern Santiago boasts a well-developed infrastructure, including an efficient public transportation system, high-quality healthcare facilities

Living costs are higher than in the rest of the country (more about it in previous paragraphs), but are still lower than in most large cities in Europe and North America.

Valparaíso and Viña del Mar

Valparaiso-Viña del Mar, often referred to as “Valpo” and “Viña,” is an area known for its vibrant scene, historic architecture, and stunning seaside views, making it an attractive destination for expats seeking a dynamic and visually inspiring environment.

The region also boasts a high quality of life, with excellent dining options, thriving nightlife, and numerous outdoor activities. The presence of several universities contributes to a lively and youthful atmosphere, and the area’s vineyards offer a taste of Chile’s renowned wine industry.

Finally, the Valparaiso-Viña del Mar urban area is well-connected to Santiago, Chile’s capital, via one of the main highways of the country. This provides easy access to the amenities and opportunities of a major city while maintaining the charm of coastal life.

La Serena

La Serena, the second oldest city in Chile, offers a unique blend of historical charm and modern amenities. The city’s colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and warm climate make it an attractive destination for expats seeking a relaxed lifestyle in a picturesque setting.

The cost of living in La Serena is another significant advantage. It is more affordable than Viña del Mar, making it an excellent choice for expats seeking a coastal lifestyle on a budget. Housing, dining, and entertainment options in La Serena tend to be more cost-effective.

It is, however, more distant from the capital than Viña del Mar or Valparaíso.

What Is the Percentage of Chilean Living in Rural Areas and Smaller Cities

Outside of small islands and city-states, Chile is one of the most concentrated countries in the world.

The Chilean capital is the most populous city in the country. With a population of approximately 7,112,808 people, it alone has 37.4% of the total population of Chile, which is estimated to be around 19 million.

The other 4 largest cities in the country are Valparaíso, Concepción, La Serena, and Antofagasta. Here are their populations:

Valparaíso: 967,000
Concepción: 930,000
Antofagasta: 425,000
La Serena: 400,000

The combined population of these cities and Santiago is approximately 9,834,808, which represents about 51.8% of the total population.

So only 48.2% of all Chileans live in cities with less than 400 thousand residents, and only 12.09% live in rural areas.

How to strategically plan your move to Chile?

Here are the basic steps.

Check Visa Requirements: The first step is to understand the visa requirements for living in Chile. Determine which type of visa you’re eligible for and understand the application process. Check the next section for more information on this.
Research: Conduct thorough research about Chile’s culture, cost of living, job opportunities, and lifestyle to get a clear picture of what to expect.
Plan Your Finances: Develop a comprehensive budget that includes costs like travel, housing, living expenses, and unexpected costs.
Secure a Job or Income Source: If you’re not retiring, ensure you have a job or steady income source lined up.
Find a Place to Live: Contact real estate agencies or search online to find suitable housing within your budget.

Overall, expat living in Chile can be a rewarding experience, especially with the right preparation and expectations.

Visa options for expats: What you need to know.

Chile offers a variety of visa options to accommodate different expat profiles, each with its own set of requirements and benefits.

For those married to a native Chilean, the most suitable option is typically the Temporary Residence Visa for Spouses. This visa allows the holder to live and work in Chile and is valid for one year, after which it can be converted into permanent residency. The main requirement is to provide proof of marriage to a Chilean citizen.

Retired American or European citizens looking to live in Chile can apply for the Retirement and Periodical Income Visa. This visa is designed for individuals who have a regular income from a pension or other source that allows them to support themselves without working in Chile. Applicants must provide proof of their income and show that it will continue to be received while they are in Chile.

Entrepreneurs, on the other hand, may be interested in the Start-Up Visa, also known as the Visa Tech. This visa is part of a government initiative to attract foreign entrepreneurs to start their businesses in Chile. The program provides a one-year visa, which can be extended, and offers a range of services to help entrepreneurs. We wrote more about it in this article.

Decoding Chilean Spanish: A quick linguistics guide for expats.

Chilean Spanish is known for its distinct pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar, making it unique among Spanish dialects.

Pronunciation in Chilean Spanish often involves dropping the final ‘s’ and ‘d’ sounds, a feature known as “aspiration” or “elision”. This can make spoken Chilean Spanish sound fast and weird to the untrained ear.

Chilean Spanish also has a rich array of local slang, known as “Chilenismos“. These words and phrases are unique to Chile and can be confusing for those accustomed to other Spanish dialects.

Finally, here are some common Chilean expressions: “cachai” (do you understand?), “pololo/polola” (boyfriend/girlfriend), “pucha” (darn), “fome” (boring), and “bacán” (cool). Familiarizing yourself with these can help you navigate daily conversations more smoothly.

Education in Chile: What to consider for your expat kids?

Education in Chile for expat kids is a topic of interest for many. Chile, a Latin American country, is often chosen by expats for its stable economy and quality education. However, it’s important to know about living in Chile before moving, especially regarding education.

Chile isn’t like, for example, Europe when it comes to public education. Private and international schools still offer much higher standards than public schools.

When you search in Chile for schools, you’ll find many bilingual private schools. Famous ones include the Schweizer Schule Santiago, The Southland School, Chartwell International School, The International Preparatory School, and The International School Nido de Aguilas. These schools offer a mix of Chilean, British, Swiss, and American curricula.

However, there might be a disadvantage. The school year in Chile starts in March and ends in November, unlike the US. Therefore, your kids might have to adjust to this schedule.

If you enjoyed this article about living in Chile (the best country to live in south America), here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 7 Countries With The Worst Work-Life Balance in The OECD

The Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2023

Best Countries Ranking

The Best Latin American Countries to Live in –…

Discover The Best and Safest Countries to Live in Latin America in 2023

Cost of living arbitrage – Mark this expression because this is an increasing trend since 2021 and it will gain force in the next few years. It is also the reason why we wrote this article about the best Latin American countries to live in 2023.

Because people are becoming more likely to want to live somewhere else, and their choice isn’t just based on their own preferences but also on the level of well-being and leisure the host country provides for the same amount of money.

One of our most-read articles ever was about the best cities to retire in Europe. After that, we had a large demand from other public: young professionals like digital nomads and remote workers that are not looking for retirement, but rather for a place to live and perform their jobs online.

And one of their favorite spots is Latin America… why?

Because it is inexpensive.

That is an easy way to end up with more disposable income if they live outside the U.S.

That is why some of our most visited articles are about living in warm, low-cost countries like:

If instead of remote work, you are looking for a place to start a business, check our list of 10 business-friendly countries in 2023.

With no further ado, let’s jump into the criteria we used for this article.

The Criteria for The Rank of the Best Latin American Countries to Live in 2023

We used 3 factors to rank from the worst to the best countries in Latin America for an expatriate.

The Human Development Index

The Human Development Index (HDI) is calculated by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

It was first introduced in 1990 as part of the UNDP’s annual Human Development Report. The index was developed by Pakistani economist Mahbub ul Haq and Indian economist Amartya Sen. They wanted to create a measure that would capture the social and economic progress of countries beyond traditional economic metrics like Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

Since its introduction, the HDI has been published annually

The HDI is a measure that assesses the overall well-being of a country’s people. It considers factors like education, health, and income. When you’re looking for a place to live, especially if you’re a young professional, digital nomad, or retiree expat, HDI is crucial as it reflects the quality of life you can expect.

The Living Cost Index by Numbeo

Numbeo, the world’s largest cost repository, compiles it. It’s a crowd-sourced database with data on housing, healthcare, and other costs of living around the world.

Lower costs are important for expatriates for the very reason we stated in the beginning of this article: we want to get the maximum benefit from the same amount of money.

The Living Cost Index is a measure of how expensive it is to live in a particular place compared to New York City (which has the standard value of 100 on the Index).

For example, if a city has a Living Cost Index of 50, it means that on average, living costs there are 50% lower than in New York City.

Safety (Using the Homicide Rate as Proxy)

In our ranking, the safety element will be considered based on the homicide rate as defined by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

That means the number of murders per 100 thousand inhabitants. Of course, there are other types of crimes like robbery or kidnappings, but often they fluctuate in line with homicides.

We also considered homicides because, contrary to the safest big cities in the US, or even to the most dangerous cities in Europe, homicides are quite common in many Latin American countries and there is a significant risk of becoming a victim – but that, fortunately, is not true for the top spots on this list.

In fact, countries that are tremendously inexpensive like Colombia or Nicaragua are not present in the top 8 due to their horrible homicide rates.

Honduras: The Absolutely Worst Country to Live in Latin America

This small country in Central America managed to have a worse performance in our indicators than Venezuela, a nation with a collapsed economy.

Honduras is a country with a troubled justice system and rampant corruption, has been a challenging place for expatriates in recent years. The country is also grappling with high levels of gang violence, leading to internal displacement and migration.

These conditions have led to a significant number of Hondurans fleeing the country. This has resulted in a high number of asylum requests, particularly in Mexico.

Human Development Index: 0.634

Living Cost Index: 30.68

Homicide Rate: 38.93

The Surprise: El Salvador Became One of the Safest Countries in the Region

Illustration for article about retirement in El Salvador, with the map and flag and the cartoon of a local

Until not long ago, El Salvador was the most dangerous country on earth, with more than 100 murders per 100,000 people per year (2015). This was 4 times higher than Brazil or Colombia.

At that time, the magazine The Economist made an entire article called “Rivers of Blood: Hell Salvador“.

But then things changed, drastically. Today, El Salvador has a homicide rate comparable to some European countries.

It is likely the largest drop in violence in recorded history.

Homicide rate in El Salvador 2022 | Statista. Source: https://www.statista.com/statistics/696152/homicide-rate-in-el-salvador/

El Salvador didn’t make it to our top 8, since the HDI is still very low when compared to the other Latin American countries. However, we wrote an entire article about El Salvador and how it becoming a hotspot for expatriate retirees. since the mind-blowing speed that the country is improving is attracting waves of interested foreigners.

Human Development Index: 0.673

Living Cost Index: 30.11

Homicide Rate: 7.8

The 8 Best Countries to Live in Latin America as an Expat

8th – Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers a variety of landscapes, from beautiful beaches to mountains, providing ample opportunities for outdoor activities. It is considered one of the best Spanish speaking countries to visit, and also one of the best countries to retire. The temperatures range between 12-27°C (70-81°F) year-round, making it an ideal escape from harsh winters in American cities.

In recent years, Costa Rica has seen an increase in tourism, which has led to a rise in living costs (it is the 2nd most expensive country in Latin America, just behind Uruguay).

However, the high quality of life in the country compensates for these higher costs. Costa Rica’s commitment to environmental care, its robust private healthcare system, and its stable internal politics are all factors that contribute to its appeal to expats.

Human Development Index: 0.82

Living Cost Index: 44.58

Homicide Rate: 11.26

7th – Peru

Beach in Mancora, Peru, one of the best countries in Latin America to live in.

This South American country known for its rich history and diverse landscapes, has become an increasingly attractive destination for expats and we covered it in a special article essential for anyone thinking about moving to Peru. It is also one of the 5 best Spanish speaking countries to visit in the world.

The low cost of living is one of the main draws, with a couple able to live comfortably, covering expenses like rent, food, and medical care, for $1,500 a month or less.

Cities like Arequipa and Cusco have become popular with expats.

Arequipa, one of the safest cities in the country, boasts a pleasant climate with 300 days of sunshine a year and a walkable colonial center. Cusco, the capital of the old Inca Empire, is rich in history and offers a mix of modern conveniences and historic charm. The nightlife in these cities is vibrant, offering something for everyone.

Despite its relatively low HDI, Peru’s affordable living and relatively low crime rate make it an appealing choice for expats. However, it’s worth noting that while the cost of living is low compared to other Latin American countries, imported goods can be expensive.

Human Development Index: 0.777

Living Cost Index: 35.14

Homicide Rate: 7.91

6th – Panama

Panama, a tiny dazzling country in Central America, has been attracting some attention for quite a time already (it is considered one of the best for expatriate retirees) and is very well known among the expat community – we covered Panama in this article. Despite not being a country in South America, it shares many similarities with its Colombian neighbors in terms of climate, but it is much safer and more stable.

Over the past four years, Panama has made significant strides in improving its infrastructure. The country’s capital, Panama City, is known to be one of the transport hubs in Latin America and has flight connections to the whole continent and Europe, making it an ideal place for expatriates who also enjoy visiting home once in a while.

Just like Costa Rica, Panama has higher living costs compared to many Latin American nations. However, the relatively high quality of life compensates for the higher costs.

The country has a thriving economy, and the government has implemented policies that have attracted foreign investment and business, creating job opportunities for both locals and expatriates.

Human Development Index: 0.815

Living Cost Index: 44.56

Homicide Rate: 9.39

5th – Paraguay

Paraguay, one of the 5 best countries in Latin America to live in.

Paraguay, one of South America’s hidden gems for expats, offers a unique blend of affordability and opportunities for foreigners (that is why there are so many Brazilians living there already).

Its low cost of living, coupled with a relatively low crime rate, makes it an attractive destination for those looking to retire in Latin America.

However, it’s important to note that while Paraguay has many advantages, it also has its challenges. The healthcare system, for instance, is not up to the standard of many European and North American countries. Many expats prefer to take out private health insurance abroad and travel to nearby countries like Brazil for more serious treatments.

Corruption and money laundering are also concerns, with organized crime being a major issue in the border with Brazil.

Human Development Index: 0.728

Living Cost Index: 29.25

Homicide Rate: 7.14

4th – Bolivia

Bolivia offers an affordable cost of living and a relatively low crime rate, although its Human Development Index (HDI) is comparatively low. This means that while it may be a financially viable option, it is better to opt for the country’s large cities, such as La Paz, Santa Cruz, and Cochabamba. They have much better infrastructure and are home to a significant portion of the expatriate population.

In recent years, Bolivia has seen a surge in its population, which has tripled in the last 50 years. This rapid growth, while indicative of the country’s potential, has also led to increased pressure on resources and infrastructure. Expatriates should be aware of this when considering Bolivia as a potential home.

The costs, however, are very, very low, so to afford a high standard of living is perfectly possible for American expats.

Human Development Index: 0.718

Living Cost Index: 27.22

Homicide Rate: 6.22

3rd – Ecuador – One of the Safest Countries in South America

While the 1st and 2nd positions on this ranking are no surprises at all, Ecuador in the 3rd place can be considered a shock for many readers.

But it is enough to say that this country is the 3rd safest in Latin America and their homicide rate is lower than the United States (and also lower than some European countries like Russia).

They have also low living costs. Rent, utilities, healthcare, and food are all significantly cheaper compared to North America. In fact, many expats living in Ecuador report feeling healthier and more vibrant due to the fresh fruits and vegetables available year-round.

The country, despite its small size, has regions with tropical and temperate climates. and allows a variety of lifestyles, from the balmy Pacific beaches to the dense tropical rainforests and the majestic Andes Mountains.

Human Development Index: 0.759

Living Cost Index: 30.54

Homicide Rate: 5.8

2nd – Argentina: Virtually Tied With the 1st Place

Bariloche, in Argentina, one of the 2 best countries in Latin America to live in.

Argentina topped a few of our lists already (despite the fact that I am Brazilian, I must recognize their qualities). They are the best Spanish-speaking country to visit for holidays (outside Spain) and also a very attractive destination for foreign retirees to live in South America.

This time, they had a virtual tie in the 1st spot of the best Latin American countries to live in.

Their economy is in a bad state? Yes, that is true, and their devaluated currency caused a major brain drain, but this same devaluation also made their costs ridiculously low for a country with an HDI of 0.845.

Argentina is a country with the development levels of Slovakia or Hungary, but the costs of Guatemala. Sounds like a good deal (only if your income is in foreign currency).

Human Development Index: 0.845

Living Cost Index: 32.95

Homicide Rate: 5.32

1st – Chile: The Best Latin American Country to Live In

Me in Chile, the best country in Latin America to live in.

Almost everyone expected Chile to top this list of the best latin american countries to live in.

The surprising part, however, is that this time they had the company of Argentina, while until a few years ago they would be the unquestionable 1st place (some readers may also argue about Uruguay, but only if you don’t consider costs, since nowadays Uruguay is the most expensive country in entire Latin America).

Yes, the last 5 years were not kind to Chile, and their advantage over the rest of the continent reduced drastically. When I lived there (10 years ago), it was a splendid and very safe country.

Santiago had an excellent public transportation system and an infrastructure that also offers every kind of amenity you could expect from developed countries.

Today things are a bit worse than a few years ago,

but…

It is still the safest and most developed country in Latin America.

Human Development Index: 0.851

Living Cost Index: 37.79

Homicide Rate: 4.4

Check here our special coverage about life in Chile, one of the most expected articles on our website!

The Final Rank of the Best Latin American Countries to Live in 2023

Position	Country	Human Development Index (HDI)	Living Cost Index	Homicide Rate	HDI Rank	LCI Rank	Safety Rank	Final Score
1	Chile	0.851	37.79	4.4	1	15	1	10
2	Argentina	0.845	32.95	5.32	2	12	2	10
3	Ecuador	0.759	30.54	5.8	10	8	3	17
4	Bolivia	0.718	27.22	6.22	13	3	4	19
5	Paraguay	0.728	29.25	7.14	12	5	5	20
6	Panama	0.815	44.56	9.39	5	16	9	22
7	Peru	0.777	35.14	7.91	7	14	8	22
8	Costa Rica	0.82	44.58	11.26	3	17	11	23
9	Colombia	0.767	26.08	25.34	8	1	14	23
10	Uruguay	0.817	44.62	12.06	4	18	12	25
11	El Salvador	0.673	30.11	7.8	15	7	7	26
12	Brazil	0.765	28.85	27.38	9	4	15	26
13	Nicaragua	0.66	29.58	7.19	17	6	6	26
14	Mexico	0.779	30.96	29.07	6	10	16	27
15	Dominican Republic	0.756	33.58	10.05	11	13	10	28
16	Venezuela	0.711	27.17	36.69	14	2	17	32
17	Guatemala	0.663	32.17	22.5	16	11	13	35
18	Honduras	0.634	30.68	38.93	18	9	18	41

The rank of the Best Latin American Countries to Live in 2023

If you enjoyed this article about the best Latin American countries to live in, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The 7 Countries With The Worst Work-Life Balance in The OECD

The Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2023

Business in Europe

The Massive Brain Drain Affecting The Russian Economy Today

The Exodus of The Best and Brightest Young Russians And Their Economical Impact

The Russian economy today stands on the precipice of a crisis. A crisis originated from the brain drain from Russia that has been brewing since the collapse of the Soviet Union and has accelerated drastically since February 2022.

It is a demographic crisis, the true silent killer of multiple empires across history.

The meager birth rates would cause problems by themselves (as we explained in this article about dying nations with declining populations), but that would take decades.

However, with almost 1 million young, qualified Russian professionals who already left the country in a matter of months, the massive brain drain that lurked in the shadows, now strikes at the heart of the nation’s prosperity.

Russia’s decision to invade Ukraine has led to a mass exodus of skilled workers, either because they disagree with politics or because they want to continue their careers with multinational companies that have left Russia.

It also affects the richest parts of the country, like Moscow and Saint Petersburg. This is an especially nefarious effect since Russia is one of the most unequal countries on earth and these cities hold an enormous economic importance.

This brain drain, combined with Russia’s existing demographic challenges, could lead to a critical situation where Russia could reach the point of no return.

The government is alarmed and both public and private agents are resorting to desperate measures in Russia:

Some companies are desperately looking for foreign IT workers from poorer countries after a wave of emigration from Russian developers.
Russian tech giants are demanding that their workers return to Russia due to fear of losing them.
Russian authorities will make it easier for foreign professionals to emigrate to Russia, in a frantic attempt to compensate for the losses.

In the next few paragraphs, you will see how the departure of some of the best and brightest young people in Russia is causing already visible economic consequences.

Visit Expat Life: What They Don’t Tell You on Twitter for more hot takes, and check our Youtube Channel.

The Brain Drain Phenomenon: A Silent Exodus

Brain Drains like the one in Russia Are Not Uncommon

The brain drain phenomenon, a term coined to describe the mass emigration of highly skilled and educated individuals from their home country, is a silent exodus that leaves a gaping void in the heart of a nation.

The phenomenon of brain drain is not unique to Russia; it has been a recurring theme in various countries over the past 50 years, often leaving lasting scars on their economies and societies.

One of the most notable examples is South Africa. During the late 20th century, particularly in the 1990s, political instability led many skilled professionals, particularly in the fields of medicine, engineering, and academia, to seek opportunities abroad.

his mass exodus of talent had a profound impact on the country’s economy and its ability to provide essential services to its population. South Africa still didn’t recover from this enormous loss of human capital.

Argentina is another country that has experienced a significant brain drain. Following the economic crisis in 2001, many educated Argentinians left the country in search of better economic opportunities. The loss of these professionals has hindered Argentina’s economic development while boosting industries in places like Mexico and US that received these qualified Argentinians.

Venezuela is another (quite obvious) example. The ongoing political and economic instability in the country has led to a mass exodus of skilled professionals. This brain drain has further exacerbated the country’s economic crisis, leading to a shortage of essential workers in fields such as medicine, education, and technology.

Venezuela even lost part of its military experts and needed to resort to hiring Russians to overcome the lack of skilled professionals.

This mass departure of intellectual and professional talent is not just a loss of human capital; it’s a hemorrhage of potential, innovation, and progress.

Countries suffering from this phenomenon are left grappling with a severe shortage of qualified professionals, particularly in specialized fields such as medicine, engineering, and technology.

There are also countries that recently had the opposite of a brain drain. For example, due to high economic growth, Poland is bringing back the professionals it lost in previous decades.

Recommended book: Moving Out, Working Abroad, and Keeping Your Sanity

The Economic Aftershocks of Brain Drain

The economic implications of the brain drain are akin to aftershocks following an earthquake.

They may not be immediately apparent, but their effects are long-lasting and potentially devastating. Governments rely heavily on income taxes from their working population to fund social programs, infrastructure projects, and other essential services.

A significant reduction in this workforce, particularly the highly skilled and educated segment, can lead to a precipitous drop in tax revenue. This decline can stunt economic growth and development, leaving the nation in a precarious financial position.

Between 2022 and 2023, Russia experienced a staggering exodus of more than 1 million individuals aged between 20 and 35.

The implications of this are far-reaching and deeply concerning.

The Exchange Rates Already Left the Room

During the first few months of the war on Ukraine, Russia’s national currency (the Ruble) surprised the world by gaining value against the US dollar and the Euro. Economists expected that the consecutive sanction packages would cause the opposite effect.

Before the war, 1 US dollar bought around 78 rubles, but 4 months after the war, in June 2022, the Ruble gained so much value that the same 1 dollar could buy only 54 units of the Russian currency.

Even Vladimir Putin mocked the sanctions, stating that it had the opposite effect.

Below is the US Dollar to Ruble chart from January 2022 to June 2022. Despite the peak during the first few weeks after the invasion, the rest shows an impressive performance of the Russian currency, right?

But all this was artificial.

The Russian government, after the beginning of the Russia-Ukraine war, imposed heavy controls in the currency exchange markets that created an artificially high exchange rate for the double.

That would not be sustainable for so long since these kinds of controls quickly deplete currency reserves.

In this article from July 2022, I explained that it was a false exchange rate and debunked the myth that the sanctions were not working. I also alerted them that soon we would witness a quick decline in the Ruble value.

And that is exactly what happened in 2023.

Below is the US Dollar to Ruble chart from July 2022 to July 2023. The Russian ruble in only 1 year lost almost 65% of its value. It went from 56 to 92 rubles per US dollar.

The International Wage Market: The Swan Song for a Devaluated Currency

Imagine a young, talented software engineer named Anastasia.

This means that the value of the money she earns in Russia is worth much less when converted to dollars.

Anastasia Example of Brain Drain from Russia

She lives in Moscow and works for a local tech company and is paid in rubles.

She’s good at her job, and she enjoys it, but she’s starting to feel the pinch of the weak currency. The cost of imported goods, like electronics and certain foods, has increased. Even local goods and services are becoming more expensive as businesses raise prices to cover their increased costs. Holidays anywhere outside Russia? Forget it.

Anastasia starts to think about her future.

She knows that as a skilled software engineer, she could find work in other countries where the currency is stronger. She could earn more, not just in terms of rubles, but in real purchasing power.

She could afford a better lifestyle, save more money, and have more security.

So, Anastasia starts to look for jobs abroad. She applies to companies in the US and Europe, and before long, she gets an offer. The salary is in US dollars, and it’s more than double what she’s earning now.

The best part: she could save those euros or dollars and once she returns to Russia, buy a really nice house or help her family who remained there.

It is too attractive to resist.

Anastasia makes the difficult decision to leave Moscow.

This is how a depreciated currency can lead to a brain drain. When a country’s currency loses value, it can make staying less attractive for young, skilled professionals like Anastasia.

They see better opportunities abroad, and they decide to take them.

In many cases (and I know a few Argentinians who can confirm that), a young professional from a country with devaluated currency can literally build generational wealth just by working abroad and returning home for retirement with all that he saved.

The story of Anastasia is the story of almost 1 million Russians since February 2022.

The Domestic Wage Race and the Demographic Time Bomb

The departure of these highly skilled workers has also triggered a wage race within Russia, as exposed by Joe Blogs in this video.

As companies scramble to replace the valuable employees they’ve lost, wages are driven up. While this may seem like a silver lining for those who choose to stay, the reality is far more complex.

From an economic perspective, Russia is caught in a perfect storm of a contracting workforce and escalating costs, a combination that could spell disaster for the nation’s profits.

Compounding this issue is a demographic time bomb that has been ticking away for the last 25 to 30 years.

A healthy economy should have a balanced population pyramid, with a large chunk of the population being of working age.

However, Russia’s population pyramid is alarmingly unbalanced, with significantly fewer males than females in every age category from 35 onwards. This imbalance is a ticking time bomb, set to explode with far-reaching consequences.

The Demographic Cost of Gender Imbalance and Economic Decline

Population Pyramid of the Russian Federation 2020

Beyond the economic implications, the demographic cost of this crisis cannot be overstated.

The loss of a generation of young, educated Russians has profound social implications. The departure of Russian scientists, doctors, engineers, teachers, and other professionals leaves a void that cannot be easily filled.

The impact on the quality of services such as healthcare and education will be felt by the population for years to come.

In a country where the Aerospacial industry is relatively important, the lack of engineers may affect the already negative safety records of Russian airplanes.

Moreover, the demographic imbalance, with significantly fewer males than females in every age category from 35 onwards, has societal implications.

Take for example what is happening in China.

China has a similar imbalance to what we see in Russia, but instead of not enough males, they have too many of them. Still, the results are equally bad.

In 2020, China’s sex ratio at birth was 111.3 boys to 100 girls, a stark reminder of the gender imbalance in the country. This imbalance has been linked to a number of social issues, such as a lack of marriageable women, increased human trafficking, and a rise in gender-based violence.

This skewed ratio we see in China means that there will be millions of men who will not be able to find a partner due to the shortage of women. This “surplus” of men is often referred to as “bare branches”.

The gender imbalance exacerbates the aging population problem. With fewer women to bear children and a preference for smaller families, the birth rate is likely to continue to decline. This means fewer young people to support an increasingly aging population, putting a strain on social services and the economy.

Conclusion – The Brain Drain from Russia and the Demographic Timebomb

The implications of the war in Ukraine on Russia’s economy are not just significant; they are potentially catastrophic.

The country may soon face a situation where it has too many older people to support and not enough young workers to generate the necessary taxes.

In 2023, the Russian economy faces a silent strangulation by an unseen force. The lifeblood of the nation, its skilled workforce, particularly Russia’s tech workforce, is being drained away. The mass exodus of skilled professionals accelerated at an alarming rate.

The Russian Association for Electronic Communications has reported a mass flight of tech workers, a mass emigration out of Russia since the war began.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 has only exacerbated the situation. Young Russians, professionals like data scientists and information technology experts, have left Moscow and fled Russia for countries like Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia and other Asian nations with favorable visa schemes.

The outlook for Russia’s economy is bleak. The brain drain and the demographic crisis are twin storms that threaten Russian companies and may capsize the nation’s economy. The loss of a generation of skilled workers who already left Russia, and the demographic imbalance pose significant challenges to economic stability and growth.

It is not only another casualty of war.

In the face of these daunting challenges, Russia stands at a crossroads. The decisions made now will shape the country’s future for decades to come.

If you enjoyed this article about the brain drain happening in the Russian economy today, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

The Best Cities for Remote Workers in 2023

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The Best Places to Retire in Mexico for Expats…

For Americans or Europeans, These Are The Best Places in Mexico to Retire

According to data from the Immigration Policy Unit of the Secretariat for Home Affairs (SEGOB), the number of Americans residing in Mexico increased by 69.9% in 2022 compared to 2019, the year before the start of the Covid-19 pandemic.

If we consider the total US citizen entrances to Mexico, the number is even more significant: 215.9% according to the Mexican government.

These skyrocketing numbers contrast with the constant bad news we receive about violence and social turmoil in Mexico.

So, how is that possible?

The answer is simple: Mexico is not Venezuela, a completely collapsed country. There are violent and problematic areas in Mexico (see more below), but there are also cities and entire regions with safety levels superior to the US and comparable to Europe (we also disclose them below).

The fact that the country is listed in the seven premier Spanish-speaking countries to visit to is not surprising. You can have an idyllic life in a sierra or beach town for a low cost of living and healthcare prices that are a tiny fraction of what they are in the US (and yes, Mexicans have decent private healthcare institutions in every big city).

So this raises the question: while thousands of Americans, Western Europeans and even Russians chose this that is one of the most beautiful and visited countries in the world (and also one of the best places for family holidays), which cities are the best for expat retirees?

To answer that, as in our previous article about the best places to retire in Portugal, we will resort to our archetypes: Mary, Robert, Linda, Thomas, Patricia, Susan, and John.

Ilustration of the Mexican map and a beach for article about The Best Places to Retire in Mexico for Expats in 2023

Ps: Before deciding to move to any country, visit it first, at least a couple of times in different seasons. As travel insurance for visiting Mexico (and any country in Latin America), we recommend Ekta.

The 4 Expatriate Archetypes That Would Enjoy Retiring in Mexico (You might be one of them)

The Peace Seekers
- Persona: Mary and Robert, both 70, retired teachers
- Mary and Robert are a retired couple who have spent their lives teaching in busy, urban schools. Now they’re looking for a peaceful and quiet place to relax and enjoy their retirement.
- They’re attracted to the calm and serene less-known coastal cities of Mexico, or even consider living in the countryside, where they can enjoy nature, read books, and take long walks. They’re particularly interested in small towns or villages, where they can become part of a close-knit community.
The Sun Lovers
- Persona: Linda, 68, retired nurse
- Linda is a widowed retired nurse who loves the sun and the beach.
- She’s looking to move to a coastal town where she can enjoy the warm weather and beautiful beaches. She’s interested in outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and sailing. She’s also looking forward to enjoying fresh seafood, local cuisine, and socializing.
The Urban Couple
- Persona: Thomas and Patricia, 69 and 67, retired engineers
- Thomas and Patricia are a couple who have spent their careers as engineers in a bustling metropolis. They’re looking for a retirement destination that offers the same level of connectivity and infrastructure they’re used to.
- They’re attracted to larger cities, which offer excellent transport links, including international airports, ports (so they can visit the rest of their family in the country where they are from), and well-maintained highways.
- Being health-conscious, they also want to be near top-notch healthcare facilities. Despite their love for city life, they also enjoy the occasional quiet retreat, so proximity to parks or natural reserves is a plus.
The Active Woman and the Pub Fellow
- Persona: Susan, 67, a former businesswoman, and John, 65, retired from a successful career in marketing.
- Susan is looking for an active retirement but also wants a place close to an airport so she can frequently travel to her home country to visit the rest of her family. She’s interested in moving to a city where she can engage in various activities like yoga classes, cycling, and golf. She’s also looking forward to exploring local markets, trying new foods, and attending local festivals and events.
- John is looking to move to a vibrant city where he can immerse himself in the local culture, enjoy the nightlife, and make new friends. He’s particularly interested in learning Spanish and joining local clubs or societies where he can meet like-minded individuals.

The Best Places to Retire in Mexico, from Lake Chapala to Playa del Carmen

Ensenada, Baja California: Good for both The Peace Seekers and the Sun Lovers

Living costs in Ensenada are 72.9% lower than in New York, NY and housing prices in Ensenada are 88.3% lower than in New York, according to Numbeo.

Opening our list of the best places to retire in Mexico is Ensenada, located in Baja California. It is a coastal city that offers a peaceful and serene environment, perfect for retirees like Mary and Robert. Known for its warm climate, beautiful beaches, and excellent seafood, Ensenada offers a variety of outdoor activities, including surfing, fishing, and whale watching.

The city is also home to the Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s premier wine region, where they can enjoy peaceful vineyard tours and wine tastings. The cost of living in Ensenada is relatively low, making it an affordable option for retirees. The city has a small but growing expat community, providing a sense of community for those living far from home.

Closest International Airport to Ensenada

The closest international airport to Ensenada is the Tijuana International Airport, which is approximately 108 kilometers away. This airport offers flights to several major cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago. It also offers flights to Shanghai in China, making it a convenient option for international travel.

San Miguel de Allende: The Pleasant Spot for The Active Woman and the Pub Fellow

Prices in San Miguel de Allende are 64.4% lower than in New York (sourced from Numbeo).

San Miguel de Allende is a charming colonial city located in the central highlands of Mexico. It’s known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant arts scene, and pleasant climate. The city’s historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is filled with cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and beautiful churches.

For Susan, the city offers a variety of activities, from yoga classes to cycling, and for John, the city’s vibrant nightlife and cultural events provide ample opportunities for socializing and immersing himself in the local culture. San Miguel de Allende also offers a high quality of life at a reasonable cost. The city has a large and welcoming expat community, making it easy for newcomers to make friends and integrate into the local culture.

San Miguel de Allende, one of the best places to retire in Mexico

Closest International Airport to San Miguel de Allende

The nearest international airport to San Miguel de Allende is the Guanajuato International Airport, located about 77 kilometers away. This airport provides flights to several major cities in the United States, including Dallas, Houston, and Los Angeles. It also has flights to Cancun, Mexico, and Madrid, Spain, providing retirees with a variety of travel options.

Playa del Carmen: The Favorite of The Sun Lovers

Living costs including rent in Playa del Carmen are 65.3% lower than in New York, NY, according to the Numbeo comparison.

Playa del Carmen, located in the Riviera Maya, is a popular retirement destination for sun lovers like Linda. The city is known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. Linda can enjoy a range of outdoor activities from diving and snorkeling to exploring ancient Mayan ruins.

Playa del Carmen also has a thriving expat community and a cost of living that is lower than many U.S. cities. The city’s Fifth Avenue, or “La Quinta,” is a pedestrian walkway lined with shops, restaurants, and bars, providing endless entertainment options.

Playa Del Carmen Tourist District, Mayan Riviera, Mexico Shops, Restaurants

Closest International Airport to Playa del Carmen

The Cancun International Airport, located about 55 kilometers from Playa del Carmen, is the second busiest airport in Mexico. It offers flights to numerous major cities in the United States, including Miami, New York, and Los Angeles. Additionally, it provides flights to London, England, making it a convenient option for international travel.

Puerto Vallarta: Another Great Spot for Linda

Living costs including rent in Puerto Vallarta are 65.4% lower than in New York, NY

Puerto Vallarta is another great option for sun lovers like Linda. This resort town on Mexico’s Pacific coast is known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and nightlife scene. The city’s Malecón, a beachside promenade, is home to contemporary sculptures, boutique shops, bustling nightclubs, and restaurants serving up local and international cuisine.

Puerto Vallarta also offers a range of affordable housing options, from luxury villas to more modest apartments. The city has a large and active expat community, and English is widely spoken, making it an easy transition for American retirees.

Puerto Vallarta, one of the best places to retire in Mexico

Closest International Airport to Puerto Vallarta

The Licenciado Gustavo Díaz Ordaz International Airport is conveniently located just 7.5 kilometers from the center of Puerto Vallarta. It offers flights to several major cities in the United States, such as Los Angeles, San Francisco, and Chicago. Additionally, it provides flights to Guadalajara, Mexico, and Calgary, Canada.

Lake Chapala: Peace Seekers like Mary and Robert Will Find Their Place Here

Living costs including rent in Guadalajara (the big large city to Lake Chapala) are 68.9% lower than in New York, NY

Lake Chapala, located in the state of Jalisco, is Mexico’s largest freshwater lake and a popular retirement destination for peace seekers like Mary and Robert. The area is known for its mild climate, beautiful scenery, and vibrant expat community.

The towns around the lake, such as Chapala and Ajijic, offer a relaxed lifestyle with plenty of amenities, including restaurants, shops, and healthcare facilities. The cost of living is also relatively low, making it an affordable option for retirees.

Not far from Lake Chapala is Guadalajara, one of the safest large cities in Mexico and with excellent private healthcare infrastructure.

Picture of a park in Guadalajara for an article about how safe is the city.

Closest International Airport to Lake Chapala

The closest international airport to Lake Chapala is the Guadalajara International Airport, which is approximately 31 kilometers away. This airport offers flights to several major cities in the United States, including Los Angeles, Dallas, and Houston. It also offers flights to Panama City, Panama, providing retirees with a variety of travel options.

San Pedro Garza Garcia: An Upscale Destination for the Urban Couple

Living costs including rent in San Pedro Garza Garcia are 56.4% lower than in New York, NY.

Closing our list of the best places to retire in Mexico is San Pedro Garza Garcia, located in the state of Nuevo Leon. It is one of the wealthiest municipalities in Mexico. The city is known for its high quality of life, modern infrastructure, and excellent services, making it an ideal location for urban couples like Thomas and Patricia. San Pedro Garza Garcia offers a range of amenities, including upscale restaurants, shopping centers, and cultural venues.

The city also has a number of parks and green spaces, providing plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. While the cost of living is higher compared to other Mexican cities, many retirees find it worth the additional expense for the lifestyle it offers. The city’s proximity to Monterrey, the state capital, also ensures easy access to top-notch healthcare facilities and an international airport.

Closest International Airport to San Pedro Garza Garcia

The General Mariano Escobedo International Airport, located about 35 kilometers from San Pedro Garza Garcia, offers flights to several major cities in the United States, including Houston, Dallas, and Atlanta. It also provides flights to Madrid, Spain, making it a convenient option for international travel.

Is it Cheap to Retire in Mexico?

Yes, it is generally cheaper to retire in Mexico than in the United States or Canada. The cost of living is significantly lower, including housing, healthcare, and everyday expenses. However, it’s important to note that costs can vary depending on the region and lifestyle choices.

Check the price comparisons we made above of each one of the places to live in Mexico we listed vs New York. Even expensive cities like San Pedro Garza Garcia are more than 50% cheaper than cities like New York. It is a bargain.

Where Do Most Americans Retire in Mexico (and Why Mexico City is so Popular?)

Most US citizens who obtained a new residence card chose to live in three territories: Mexico City (3,518 people), Jalisco (3,427 people), and Quintana Roo (2,411 people). These three areas represent 48.92% of the total.

In the numbers above are included not only retirees, but also young professionals (what explains Mexico City’s large numbers).

If we talk only about american retirees, often they choose to settle in calmer places like Lake Chapala and San Miguel de Allende. These areas have significant communities of American, Canadian and European expats, making it easier for newcomers to integrate.

What are the Most Dangerous Cities in Mexico?

First of all, don’t worry: none of the cities mentioned here are among the most violent in Mexico. As a matter of fact, many of them are among the best cities for anyone looking for tranquility.

Cities like Tijuana or Ciudad Juarez, marked by gang violence, are far away, and they are the ones placing Mexico as one of the most dangerous countries in Latin America and the world.

San Miguel de Allende and Lake Chapala are considered some of the safest places in the country. As always, it’s important to stay informed about local safety conditions and take necessary precautions.

We wrote an entire article explaining the most violent cities in Mexico, which I am sure you will find very interesting.

Conclusion: Retire to Mexico on a Budget (But With Class) And How To Find the Best Places for Expats

Retiring in Mexico offers a wealth of opportunities for those seeking a change of pace, a lower cost of living, and a chance to immerse themselves in a rich and diverse culture. From the Sierra Madre Mountains to the small beach towns of Baja California, Mexico is a country of contrasts, offering something for everyone.

The historic cities of San Miguel de Allende and San Pedro Garza Garcia, both listed among the 10 best places to retire, offer a blend of old-world charm and modern amenities. These cities, surrounded by mountains and steeped in history, offer a unique retirement experience that combines the best of both worlds.

The country’s best retirement communities are found in regions such as Lake Chapala, known as the largest freshwater lake in Mexico, and the state of Baja California, home to some of the cheapest places to retire. These communities offer a relaxed lifestyle, a warm climate, and a welcoming atmosphere for American and Canadian retirees.

No matter if you’re looking to retire abroad in Mexico or planning to relocate, the country offers a range of affordable places to live. From the cosmopolitan city of San Pedro Garza Garcia to the small beach town of Ensenada, Mexico is a popular retirement destination that caters to a variety of lifestyles and preferences.

Mexico is not only a country of beautiful cities and stunning landscapes, but it’s also a place that welcomes retirees with open arms. With its affordable cost of living, high quality of life, and friendly communities, it’s no wonder that Mexico is considered one of the best places to retire in the world. Whether you’re a peace seeker, a sun lover, an urban couple, or an active retiree, Mexico has a lot to offer.

So, if you’re planning to retire abroad, why not consider Mexico as your new home?

If you enjoyed this article about the best places to retire in Mexico, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

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The Best Places to Retire in Spain

Discover The Best Places to Retire in Spain (and Why Madrid is Not in The Top 10)

If you have already read any of my other articles about retirement abroad, you can jump straight to the first subtitle (Why are we writing about retiring in Spain?). If not, keep reading from the beginning to get some context about the best places to retire in Spain.

My company helps expats. Many of these people know what they want and just need help. What about retiring in X? What’s your opinion? they ask me.

Often I don’t know what to say. I tell my team to research the destination and write a detailed report so I can give our customers the information they need.

Not surprisingly, most of the destinations are warm places with idyllic beaches. Below is the resumed version of some reports we did, available for free for you:

Ps: Check also our Youtube Channel.

Why are we writing about retiring in Spain?

As we said, our team wrote about a myriad of countries that are among the favorite places for pensioners, remote workers, and digital nomads.

There is a certain country that we wrote a few times about on our website: Spain.

It figured in multiple articles and ranks we made (more about these ranks below) because the demand for people interested in moving to Spain is massive.

But we never wrote about where to live in Spain, especially if you are a pensioner.

Until now…

Before jumping on the best places to retire in Spain, let’s understand the criteria used.

The Criteria to Define the 10 Best Places to Retire in Spain

While some aspects of the decision to move somewhere are indeed subjective, we specified a set of objective indicators and data to select the best places to retire in Spain.

Some other aspects, like the bureaucracy of moving to some places, we decided to leave out. The reason is that they would differ drastically from reader to reader. For example, if you are an American, moving to Valencia demands a few more bureaucratic steps (but it is still doable) than if you are German.

Hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants.

This may not be that important if you are part of the FIRE movement, but if we are talking about the traditional idea of retirement (when we are already at a certain age), good healthcare is necessary because people get sicker as they get older.

While this is not always the case, a city with few hospital beds per 1000 people may have an overburdened healthcare system. This can delay medical procedures and make specialized care harder to get. However, a city with many hospital beds per 1000 people often will have a decent healthcare system.

The source for this data is the Ministerio de Sanidad(Health Ministry of Spain).

The income per capita.

A higher income per capita means that the city or region has a higher average income, which typically leads to a higher standard of living, better infrastructure, and access to quality healthcare facilities (since these areas attract better doctors, clinics, and other infrastructure investments).

The data used is from the INE (Instituto Nacional de Estadística).

The Human Development Index (HDI)

The “human development index” (HDI) is a composite indicator that goes from 0 to 1. It takes into account factors such as life expectancy, education, and income to provide an overall measure of human development in a certain place.

The HDI is an important indicator when deciding a place for retirement because it provides insight into the overall quality of life in the area.

To put it into perspective, Norway has an HDI of 0.861, while Pakistan has an HDI of 0.544.

The Regional HDI of Spain is calculated by the Instituto Nacional de Estadística or compiled by the GlobalDataLab.

Cost of living per couple and to rent/purchase an apartment in the city center.

This is self-explanatory. If someone is retiring abroad, he/she wants to make the best of her buck.

When we are living on a stable pension from abroad, we look for a place where we can have a good quality of life for the lowest prices.

For these indicators, we used data from Numbeo and Expatistan.

Disclaimer: This indicator uses 2021 data. Since 2022 and 2023 had high inflation, values may be higher now, but the difference between cities (what matters for a comparison) remains.

The average temperature in January

January is the coldest month of the year in the northern hemisphere, and this is also valid for Spain.

Older people are especially affected by cold, so living in a place where negative temperatures are rare can boost immensely their quality of life. Some of the health conditions that are triggered or worsened by colder temperatures are:

Arthritis: Cold weather can cause joint pain, stiffness, and swelling in people with arthritis. This is because cold temperatures can cause the tissues around the joints to contract, leading to increased pressure on the joints.
Influenza and other respiratory infections: Cold weather can weaken the immune system, making older adults more susceptible to respiratory infections like the flu, pneumonia, and bronchitis.
Heart attacks and strokes: Cold temperatures can cause blood vessels to constrict, leading to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes in older adults.
Seasonal affective disorder (SAD): SAD is a type of depression that occurs during the winter months, and it can affect older adults as well.

The 11 cities we selected as the best places to retire in Spain are ranked below based on their average temperatures in January, from warmest to coldest.

To put into perspective, the average temperature where I live (Poland) is 1.5 negative in January.

Tenerife – 20°C
Malaga – 14°C
Costa del Sol – 14°C
Alicante – 13°C
Valencia – 12°C
Costa de Azahar – 11°C
Mallorca – 10°C
Bilbao – 8°C
Madrid – 7°C
San Sebastian – 7°C

The average maximum temperature in July

While warm weather help with health conditions like Arthritis, excessively high temperatures can also present a risk for older people.

This is especially true when we get close to or above 40 degrees Celsius. I lived for some years in Qatar and high temperatures were one of the major risks for construction workers–mostly young and healthy. For seniors, it is even more dangerous.

That is why we filtered out any city that has an average maximum temperature in July (summer peak) above 32 degrees celsius. This resulted in the removal of cities like Seville (35.5°C of average max. temperature in July) and Córdoba, which has an incredible 36.5°C of average max. temperature in July and many days going above 40°C.

Below is the July average maximum temperature of our selected cities, from highest to lowest.

Costa del Sol – 31°C
Malaga – 30°C
Alicante – 30°C
Mallorca – 30°C
Valencia – 29°C
Costa de Azahar – 29°C
Tenerife – 28°C
Madrid – 28°C
San Sebastian – 23°C
Bilbao – 23°C

Now that all the criteria used are clear, time to go for our list.

The Best Places to Retire in Spain (and Why Madrid Has No Spot in the Top10)

Madrid: good quality of life for pensioners…. but for a high cost.

Population: 3,334,730
Hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 1.8 per 1,000 inhabitants
Income per capita: €34,821
HDI: 0.940 (2021)
Cost of living for a couple: €2,506.94 per month
Average maximum temperature in July: 28°C
Average temperature in January: 7°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €971.43 per month.

Center of Madrid, Spain. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

We were not supposed to put Madrid, the largest Spanish city, on this list of the best places to retire.

However, we inserted it for a few reasons.

The first of them is that there are indeed some pros to retire in the spanish capital.

Pros like the ample offer of high-quality major hospitals, entertainment and cultural options like science and art museums, an international airport that connects you to the entire world, excellent transport links by rail, and all the modern conveniences that a 3-million-people city can offer.

Madrid also has plenty of green spaces (they represent almost 16% of the city) and fresh food is available in the daily central market. In terms of violence, Madrid is a very safe city too.

The second reason we put Madrid in this ranking is that indeed a lot of people (including over 6 thousand other British citizens and expats) choose this city to live in.

But what are the cons of living in one of the largest European cities?

First and foremost, Madrid is expensive (the same is valid for another city we didn’t put in this list, Barcelona). Both the capital and surroundings are ery expensive when compared to many of the cities mentioned here.

If you are retiring abroad, you want to be cost-effective, and compared to other Spanish cities, Madrid is not. Another reason we didn’t put Madrid in the Top 10 is that it can get cold in the winter since the city is located at 657 meters of altitude. The third reason is that it is a 3-million-people metropolis, and therefore, it can get noisy, polluted, and complicated.

But, as we said, it has an excellent healthcare system and great infrastructure.

Mallorca

Population: 896,038
Hospital beds per 1,000 inhabitants: 1.9 (Balearic Islands region)
Income per capita: €24,866(Balearic Islands region)
HDI: 0.876 (Balearic Islands region)
Average cost of living for a couple: €2,238.15
Average max. temperature in July: 26°C
Average temperature in January: 10°C
Cost of renting a 1-bedroom apartment in city center: €825

Pros of retiring in Mallorca

Warm and sunny climate all year round.
The Balearic Islands have a good healthcare infrastructure, with 1.9 hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants
Many opportunities for outdoor activities and an invitation to live the beach life.
Due to the touristy nature of the place, it has good airline connectivity.

Cons of retiring in Mallorca

Nearly all the cons of Mallorca are related to the fact that it is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Spain.

High cost of living, especially in peak season.
During the summer months, the place can get really crowded.
It can be noisy close to the most touristic spots and where there is a large concentration of hotels.
Overcrowding and traffic congestion in certain areas due to tourism.

Bilbao: One of the best large cities to retire in Spain

Population: 345,141
Hospital beds per 1,000 inhabitants: 2.8 (Basque Country region)
Income per capita: €32,925 (Basque Country region)
HDI: 0.932 (Basque Country region)
Average cost of living for a couple: €2,289.22
Average max. temperature in July: 23°C
Average temperature in January: 8°C
Cost of renting a 1-bedroom apartment in city center: €750

Bilbao, in the Basque Country. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

Pros of retiring in Bilbao

High HDI (Human Development Index) of 0.932, which is one of the highest in Spain
Well-developed economically, with plenty of job opportunities for those who want to work in retirement
Good public transportation system, making it easy to get around the city and beyond.

Cons of retiring in Bilbao

The language barrier, as Basque is the lingua franca in the region and many locals prefer it instead Spanish.
Relatively Cold weather, as temperatures can drop lower than in other parts of Spain, especially in the winter
High cost of living, as Bilbao is one of the most expensive cities in Spain
Air pollution can be an issue in some areas of the city
The city may feel crowded and busy, especially during peak tourist season.

If someone prefers a smaller, and fancier alternative for retirement in the Basque region, there is also a city that is worldwide famous for its high cuisine and scenic views: San Sebastián.

Recommended book: Budget Travelers, Digital Nomads & Expats: The Ultimate Guide: 50 Tips, Tricks, Hacks, and Ways to Free Stuff & Cheaper Flights

San Sebastián: The Fancier, Smaller Alternative in the Basque Country

San Sebastian is situated on the coast of the Golfo de Vizcaya (Bay of Biscay), making it a great location for retirees who enjoy the beach and water activities (although Spain’s north Atlantic coast is much colder than the Mediterranean side). Bilbao, on the other hand, is not directly on the coast, although it is relatively close to some beaches.

San Sebastian also enjoys a milder climate than Bilbao, with average temperatures being a bit warmer and more comfortable throughout the year.

Finally, San Sebastian is a smaller city than Bilbao, with a more laid-back pace of city life. This can be appealing to retirees who prefer a more relaxed lifestyle, away from the hustle and bustle of a larger city.

Population: 186,000
Average cost of living for a couple: €2,400-€2,700/month
Average max. temperature in July: 23°C
Average temperature in January: 7°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €1,000-€1,400/month

Tenerife & Canary Islands: the best place to live in Spain if you are suffering from arthritis

Population: 917,841
Number of hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 2 beds per 1,000 inhabitants (Canary Islands region)
The income per capita: €18,990 (Canary Islands region)
HDI: 0.902 (Canary Islands region)
Average cost of living for a couple: €1,200 – €1,800 per month
Average max. temperature in July: 28°C
Average temperature in January: 20°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €500 – €800 per month

Towns in the Canary Islands. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

Living in Tenerife and the Canary Islands as an expatriate retiree can be a mixed experience. While the islands offer a pleasant climate, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed way of life, they also have their challenges.

Expats should be prepared for a slower pace of life, and some areas can feel quite touristy. Additionally, the islands’ remote location can make it difficult to access some goods and services, and the cost of living can be high in certain areas during the high season.

Pros of Retiring in Tenerife and the Canary Islands

Mild winter weather (one could even argue if winter exists there at all) – Tenerife has one of the warmest winters among European cities, making it the best place to retire if you suffer from arthritis.
Decent infrastructure – The islands have a modern infrastructure befitting of a place with almost 1 million residents.
Relatively affordable cost of living – Compared to the Islands in the Mediterranean, the Canary Islands (which are located in the Atlantic Ocean) offer a more affordable cost of living.

Cons of retiring in The Canary Islands

Things run slower there – The islands’ relaxed way of life can be frustrating for those used to a faster pace.
It can get touristy – Some parts of the islands can feel overrun by tourists, especially during peak season.
Limited access to goods and services – The islands’ remote location can make it difficult to access certain goods and services.
High cost of living in some areas – While the cost of living can be relatively affordable, certain areas can be quite expensive (general rule of thumb: the closer to popular beaches, the more expensive it gets).

Málaga – Low Living Costs and Good Connectivity

Population: 578,460
Hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 1.8 (Andalusian region)
Income per capita: €20,321
HDI: 0.860
Average cost of living for a couple: €1,800-€2,200/month
Average max. temperature in July: 28°C
Average temperature in January: 12°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €700-€1,100/month

Malaga, in Spain. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

Málaga, located in the autonomous community of Andalusia, is home to a large and welcoming expat community. Multiple retirees from all over Europe chose to make their home in this part of Spain.

The city also boasts excellent airline connectivity to other countries and parts of Europe, making it easy for retirees to travel and stay connected with loved ones. However, as with any location, there are also potential downsides to consider.

Pros of living in Málaga

Low cost of living
Good healthcare infrastructure with 1.8 hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants
Considerable expat community
Excellent airline connectivity to other European countries.

Cons of retirement in Malaga City

Andalusia is one of the least developed regions in Spain. The unemployment rate is relatively high, which creates some other problems that can affect retirees.
Hot summers can be uncomfortable for some
High levels of tourism during the summer months can make the city feel crowded
Andalusian bureaucracy can be frustrating and time-consuming

Only 81 kilometers from Málaga, in southern Spain, is a little region that is extremely attractive to pensioners that are beach lovers: Costal del Sol.

Costa del Sol: One of the best places to retire in Spain by the sea

Average cost of living for a couple: €1,700-€2,000/month
Average max temperature in July: 31°C
Average temperature in January: 14°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €650-€1,100/month

Living in the Costa del Sol as an expatriate pensioner can have its ups and downs. While the climate and relaxed lifestyle can be appealing, the region can also be quite crowded and expensive in certain areas.

Three of the favorite places for expatriates in the region are Marbella, Benalmadena, and Fuengirola.

Marbella is known for its upscale amenities and is a popular destination for wealthy retirees. The city offers high-end shopping, fine dining, and world-class golf courses. The cost of living can be quite high there.

Benalmadena is located between Malaga and Marbella and offers a more affordable option for expatriate pensioners, and Fuengirola is just 25 minutes from Malaga airport. The town has a long promenade, and beautiful beaches, and the cost of living in Fuengirola can be quite reasonable, making it an attractive option.

The Costa del Azahar: A Forbes-selected Spot 100km Far from Valencia

Population: 406,703
Hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 2.1 (Regional data)
Income per capita: €22,289 (Regional data)
Average cost of living for a couple: €1,300-€1,600/month
Average max. temperature in July: 29°C
Average temperature in January: 11°C

The region is known as Costa del Azahar is located on the eastern coast of Spain, and has a relaxed lifestyle with a warm Mediterranean climate.

While not as well-known as the Costa del Sol or the Costa Blanca, it is becoming an increasingly popular destination for retirees seeking a quieter pace of life. A few years ago, the fame of the place was boosted when the magazine Forbes mentioned it among the best places to retire.

Popular areas for expats include Peñiscola, Benicassim, and Castellón, de la Plana.

Peñiscola is a beach town known for its golden sand beaches and medieval castle, Benicassim is a popular resort town, and Castellón de la Plana is a larger city (not in the seaside, but not far either) with a historic center and wide variety of amenities.

Alicante – One of the lowest costs of living.

Due to its low cost of living and a good offer of services, Alicante is also popular among Spanish retirees.

Population: 334,329
Hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 2.1 per 1,000 inhabitants (regional data)
Income per capita: €22,289 (regional data)
HDI: 0.889
Cost of living for a couple: €1,791.57 per month.
Average max temperature in July: 30°C
Average temperature in January: 13°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €564.29 per month.

Benidorm, 45 kilometers from Alicante, the second best place to retire in Spain — Benidorm, 45 kilometers from Alicante, the second-best place to retire in Spain. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

Pros of Retiring in Alicante

Low cost of living, making it an affordable option.
Mild winters, making it an ideal location for those who want to retire overseas but have a low tolerance to cold weather.
Gorgeous beaches and outdoor activities such as hiking and golfing, make it easy to enjoy an active lifestyle.

Cons of Retirement in Alicante

During the summer months sometimes temperatures go over 38°C, which can be uncomfortable for some retirees.
Alicante is near some very popular vacation spots like Benidorm. So during the summer, there is a high population density and a large number of tourists, which can lead to crowded streets and difficulty finding peaceful places to relax.
For services not related to tourism, there is limited availability of English-speaking options, which can make it challenging for retirees who do not speak Spanish (that is why you should learn Spanish if you are considering a move).
Occasional water shortages due to the region’s dry climate, which can affect the availability of water for household use.

Talking about Alicante, very close to there is one of the popular places for English-speaking expats that choose Spain to live: Costa Blanca.

Costa Blanca: One of the trendiest retirement spots in Spain

Costa Blanca, on Spain’s southeast coast, has beautiful white sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and plenty of sunshine. Many British, German, Dutch, and Scandinavian retirees live in this part of Spain, and often locals speak English as a second language.

The cost of living in the Costa Blanca can vary depending on the specific location within the region. For example, one of the most expensive places is Benidorm, which is also very touristy. In general, the larger coastal cities and tourist areas may have a higher cost of living compared to smaller towns and inland areas.

Cons of retiring in the Costa Blanca

Two drawbacks of living in Costa Blanca are that crowded beaches and tourist spots, especially in summer, make it hard to relax, and some areas have limited public transportation, making it difficult for retirees without cars.

Valencia – Likely the Best Place to Retire not only in Spain but Entire of Europe

Population: 794,288
Number of hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants: 2.1 (Comunidad Valenciana)
Income per capita: €22,289 (Comunidad Valenciana)
HDI: 0.944 (Comunidad Valenciana)
Average cost of living for a couple: €1,500 – €2,000 per month
Average max. temperature in July: 29°C
Average temperature in January: 12°C
Cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city center: €650 – €900 per month

Valencia, the Best Place to Retire in Spain — Valencia, the best place to retire in Spain. Image edited by ExpatriateConsultancy.com team using resources from Canva.

If you already saw our ranking of the best cities to retire in Europe, you know that Valencia has far more pros than cons.

Spain’s third largest city is extremely safe (it has a homicide rate of 0.6 murders per 100K residents and lower criminality than the more hyped Barcelona for example).

The living costs in the city are remarkably low when compared to other trendy places in Europe. According to Vivre Valencia, anyone can easily find a house with a swimming pool close to the coast for less than a third of the price of the French Riviera.

But the attractiveness of a city that is considered by many the ideal retirement destination also raised some issues. Expats should be prepared when trying to find a place to live since competition for housing can be intense, and in some areas, prices increased considerably.

Pros of Retirement in Valencia

Valencia is one of the most popular destinations for expatriates in Spain. Foreigners represent almost 13% of the city population, and there are many events for this public.
There is a large English speaking community in the city.
High HDI – The city has a high Human Development Index (0.944), reflecting a high quality of life.
High-quality healthcare infrastructure
Airline and rail connections to other parts of Europe.
With close to 800k residents, Valencia is neither too large nor too small for most people.

Cons of Retirement in Valencia

Competition for housing can be fierce, particularly in popular areas.
Increasingly crowded – As Valencia became more popular, the city can feel crowded, particularly during peak tourist season.

Conclusion: The Best Places to Retire in Spain

Taking into consideration factors like the Human Development Index (HDI), the number of hospital beds per 1000 inhabitants, the average cost of living for a couple, the average cost of housing, and temperatures in July and January, we ranked the best places to retire in Spain:

11 – Madrid

10 – Mallorca

8 – Bilbao and San Sebastián

7 – The Canary Islands

4 – Málaga, Costa del Sol and Costa de Azahar

2 – Alicante and Costa Blanca

1 – Valencia – The Best Place to Retire in Spain

If you enjoyed this article about the best places to retire in Spain, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

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Living Costs

Retiring in Switzerland: All You Need to Know

Pros, Cons, and What Do You Need for Retiring in Switzerland

Have you ever wondered if retiring to Switzerland could be the perfect fit for you? With a sip of Swiss chocolate that could really make your day or hiking through the Alps to get your day started, this looks like a dream come true, but before you pack your bags and say goodbye to your home country, you should know a few things about retiring to Switzerland.

Our consultancy’s team wrote this article about this popular retirement destination after similar pieces about other places, such as:

Why Retiring in Switzerland

Have you ever thought in your mind, “Is Switzerland the right place to retire?”

Well, to cut a long story short, it depends on the canton.

With incredible political and financial stability, breathtaking natural beauty, a world-class healthcare system, and a strong economy, the Swiss confederation offers a high quality of life that is hard to beat. Here are some primary reasons why some retirees chose Switzerland:

Pros of Living in Switzerland

Photo of Swiss City for Paragraphs about Cons of Retirement in Switerzland — What are the pros and cons of living and retiring in Switzerland?

Healthcare

The Swiss healthcare system is marked by excellence, both in the private and public spheres. Retiring to Switzerland offers you peace of mind regarding healthcare, with top-notch facilities and access to high-quality medical services. The pricing of policies for health and accident insurance for residents is always wholly open to scrutiny. In order to keep people from spending more than 10 percent of their income on insurance, the government provides health care subsidies on a tiered basis.

Safety

Switzerland is famous for being a safe country, with low crime rates and a high standard of living. Switzerland is known for its high safety standards, making it an ideal retirement destination for those who want a stress-free and secure lifestyle. The homicide rate in Switzerland is 0.7% below the OECD average, and it consistently ranks highly in terms of personal security and overall safety.

Taxes

Switzerland has a progressive tax system, which means that Swiss taxes are based mostly on income. However, the Swiss government has tax treaties with many other countries, which can help reduce the amount of taxes you pay. The country is known for its low taxes, making it an attractive choice for retirees looking to minimize the amount they pay. Also, if you are retired and your income is less than a certain amount, you may not have to pay any income tax.

Beautiful nature and Language Variety

Switzerland has a varied climate, with four distinct seasons, and is also home to some of the most stunning and varied landscapes in the world. Switzerland is also a country with four official languages. Its cities are full of a variety of cultural attractions and activities, including museums, art galleries, theaters, and festivals. Switzerland is a great place for people who like to be outside because there are so many things to do there, like hiking, skiing, and water sports.

The special retirement residency program

For those planning on retiring in Switzerland, the government prepared a special scheme of residence permit. More details about it below.

Why NOT Retire in Switzerland

While Switzerland has a lot of attractive qualities for ex-pats looking to retire abroad, it’s only for some. Listed below are several reasons why you may wish to retire elsewhere:

Cons of Living in Switzerland

High Cost of Living: Switzerland is an expensive country to live in, and retirees often find it difficult to adjust their pension income to the high costs of groceries, transportation, rent, medical care, and other living expenses.
Bureaucracy: Switzerland is known for its bureaucracy, and navigating the country’s complex bureaucracy can be challenging for retirees. This can include getting a visa and a permit to live there, as well as doing things like opening a bank account or getting a car registered.
Lack of Healthcare Options: While Switzerland has an excellent healthcare system, it can be expensive, especially for retirees not covered by the public system. Private health can be a good option, but a private Swiss health insurance can be costly, and the coverage may not be as comprehensive as what the government offers.
Limited Social Security Benefits: Social security benefits in Switzerland are limited compared to those in other countries, and some of the Swiss retirement benefits are available to citizens or those with permanent residency.
There is no uniform legislation for many matters. Switzerland is not a country like France or Netherlands. It is a federation, and a real one (many countries, like Brazil, are technically federations, but the central government holds most legislative power). That means the Swiss Confederation is composed of smaller entities called cantons. Every canton has its own constitution, legislature, police force, and courts. So laws and the tax burden can vary drastically between each one of them. Because of this, if you are moving to Switzerland, you should look for a lawyer who is an expert in the canton where you want to live.

The Cost of Retiring in Switzerland

The cost of retiring in Switzerland is highly dependent on the individual’s lifestyle and preferences, as well as where they choose to live. In general, the cost of living in Switzerland is quite high. Without rent, the average monthly cost for a single person is about $1544.

The costs of retiring may also increase depending on the individual’s healthcare needs, and all residents of Switzerland are required to have health insurance coverage, whether through a public or private plan. All Swiss residents must have public health insurance, which is paid for by premiums paid by employees and employers. The increase can be anywhere from 3.9% to 9.5% depending on the canton.

The cost of housing in Switzerland can be high, especially in Zurich and Geneva. Renting an apartment is a popular option for ex-pats, and you can find a range of options, including furnished and unfurnished apartments and short-term and long-term rentals. If you prefer to own a home, you can find a range of properties for sale in Switzerland, including houses, apartments, and chalets. However, get ready to pay an average of $1380 per person for a 44-square-meter living area.

The average Swiss family spends approximately $430 to $700 per month on groceries, which is more than some people may be used to paying at home. However, the country is famous for its high-quality food, including cheese, chocolate, and other specialty items.

Photo of Swiss City for Paragraphs about the costs of Retirement in Switerzland — What are the costs of living or retiring in Switzerland? The answer is below.

Cost of Living in Zug (Switzerland) vs Valência (Spain) and Tampa (the USA)

It’s time for a comparison of the cost of living in Switzerland. I will not compare the living costs of Switzerland with those of New York or London, because nearly anywhere in the world is cheaper than those two cities.

Let’s compare the cost of living in a mid-sized Swiss city (Zug) with the best city for retirement in Europe (Valencia, Spain) and one of the favorite cities for pensioners in the USA (Tampa, Florida).

All prices are from Numbeo and Expatistan (in the few situations where there is no data from Zug, we used numbers from nearby Zurich), two websites that crowdsource prices and living costs from thousands of users and contributors.

Values in USD	Zug	Valencia	Tampa
Meal for 1 Person, Inexpensive Restaurant	32.46	11.59	21
Domestic Beer (0.5-liter draught) in a Supermarket	2.04	2.9	1.57
Eggs (regular) (12)	6.21	1.98	3.29
Chicken Fillets (1kg)	19.49	6.4	11.24
Gasoline (1 liter)	2.01	1.56	1.2
Utilities (Electricity, Water, Garbage, etc.) for 85m2 Apartment, monthly	195.26	128.6	182.51
Internet (60 Mbps or More)	58.4	31.88	63.85
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat	19.47	7	14
Short visit to private doctor (15 minutes)	–	73	98
A standard men’s haircut in the expat area of the city	–	20	23
Rent of an apartment (1 bedroom)	2181.71	720.77	2,035.75
Price per Square Meter to Buy an Apartment	–	2,999.91	4,635.63

Cost of different items in Zug (Switzerland), Valencia (Spain), and Tampa (Florida, the USA).

What does an American moving to Switzerland Need to Have?

Retirement Visa Switzerland – Steps to Have a Visa to Retire in Switzerland

The people, the beaches, the sunsets, the culture, and everything else in this country make it an appealing choice for everybody. But it’s important to know that moving to Switzerland, especially for Americans, can be hard.

What Are the Requirements to Retire in Switzerland?

To enter Switzerland, one needs one of the multiple entry visas:

The 1-year Schengen multiple-entry visa is issued to applicants who have used three single-entry Schengen visas within the preceding two years.
The 3-year Schengen multiple entry visas are issued to applicants with the 1-year multiple entry visa who lawfully used it within the previous two years.
The 5-year Schengen multiple entry visa is issued to those who used a multiple entry visa with at least two years of validity in the past three years.
The Switzerland retirement visa is issued to pensioners based on certain criteria that are dependent on their nationality

Switzerland Retirement Visa

These are some of the criteria. Cantons may also impose additional requirements.

Be over the age of 55
Be financially self sufficient, meaning have the ability to show sufficient means of financial support, including to family members when needed.
Live in Switzerland for almost a year.
Have proof of a personal link to Switzerland, such as Swiss origin, spending a relatively long time in Switzerland, owning real estate, etc.

The Switzerland Retirement Visa is valid for 12 months and has to be renewed once it expires.

Best Cities to Retire in Switzerland

The best place to retire in Switzerland depends on various factors, such as lifestyle preferences, budget, and proximity to family and friends. Some of the major cities (or cantons) for retirees are below.

Geneva

Geneva has a population of about 200,000, yet its downtown is small enough to be explored on foot. It is one of Switzerland’s wealthiest urban areas and offers a wide variety of restaurants, cultural attractions, and outdoor infrastructure.

The city is easy to navigate, either on foot or by using the convenient public transportation system. Because of this, it doesn’t matter where you live in the city; you’ll have easy access to all parts of it.

Canton of Zurich

Although it has never served as the nation’s capital, this major city holds several physical records and is the largest in the country. Uetliberg, a major tourist destination in the country, can be found in this metropolis. Residents and tourists can enjoy breathtaking views of the city below from this mountain summit, which juts out to the southwest.

Prominent personalities in the modern Protestant movement can trace their roots back to Zurich. Also, Lake Zurich, on the city’s outskirts, is a beautiful spot to unwind, thanks to its picturesque location and refreshingly clear and warm waters.

Canton of Zug

The canton of Zug in Switzerland has some of the most favorable tax rates as compared to those of the other cantons in Switzerland. This is the location of the famous Aegeri Lake, which has crystal clear waters and breathtaking scenery that will brighten your day by lounging on the shore, but if you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also walk up Zugerberg Mountain along its circular hiking routes and enjoy the scenery from above.

If you enjoyed this article about how to retiring in Switzerland, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

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Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, creator of the channel The Expat, and best-selling author. Some of the links of this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.

Best Countries Ranking

The 7 Countries With the Worst Work Life Balance…

There are some shocking data about the countries with the worst work-life balance.

When I was still working in the financial area, it was not uncommon to work 13, sometimes 14 hours per day. Since most of our income was variable, staying at the office for long hours was standard practice for young, ambitious college graduates willing to build their bank accounts.

Unfortunately, it became common for many of my coworkers to lose their hair, gain weight, and get sick with things like high blood pressure and diabetes. I won’t even talk about the constant bad mood of an overworked professional.

Working long hours for a short period is probably doable and has only minor health impacts. But in the long term, the effects may be sinister (unless you really enjoy your job).

Recently, I came across the OECD ranking of work-life balance, involving dozens of countries all over the world.

As someone who has worked on four continents and visited over 50 countries, I couldn’t agree more with the results.

Some of the countries mentioned are pretty obvious (as you may guess, South Korea is among them), but others are quite surprising.

Before we get into the ranking, let’s go over the context and the criteria that were used.

Ps: check also our Youtube channel The Expat.

What is the OECD

The Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development (OECD) is a group of 38 countries, mostly western, that work together to improve their economies. People often call it a think tank group (and is also a very well-established source of economic and social statistics).

It says that its goal is to change policies in ways that increase opportunity, prosperity, and well-being. It has worked on a wide range of issues over the years, such as raising the standard of living in its member countries, helping international trade grow, and working for economic stability.

The OECD was founded in 1961 and has its headquarters in the Chateau de la Muette, in Paris, France.

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The indicators used to define the countries with the worst work life balance

While multiple rankings are based on subjective perceptions and anecdotal evidence, the OECD took the time to establish two objective criteria to measure the work-life balance between multiple countries.

Time devoted to leisure and personal care

This indicator shows the average number of hours spent each day on activities like sleeping, eating, socializing with friends and family, hobbies, working out, etc.

Employees working very long hours

This criterion shows the percentage of workers who worked an average of 50 hours or more per week in the most recent year for which data is available.

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The 7 Worst Countries (of the OECD) in Terms of Work Life Balance

Australia

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.4 hours, which is below the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 12.5%, which is above the average (10%) of all OECD members.

One of the worst problems in Australia is the number of people that simply do not use their leave days.

According to the international consulting firm Michael Page, Australians have, on average, 16 days of holiday they don’t use. More research showed that 2.4 million Australians who work full-time haven’t taken a vacation in over a year and that 86% of them are feeling burned out as a result.

Israel

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.3 hours, meaning less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 14.1%, which is above the average (10%) of all OECD members.

According to a survey published by the Times of Israel, most Israeli workers are unhappy with the balance between work and life, and a lot of them work while they are sick.

The survey, which comprised around 600 employees over the age of 18, found that 57 percent of Israelis are unhappy with their current work-life balance. A similar number of respondents also said that their employers are not flexible enough to let them work from home.

South Korea

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.8 hours, slightly less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 19.7%, almost twice the average (10%) of all OECD members.

Long work hours aren’t the only thing that makes it hard to balance work and life in South Korea. Because of long commutes and the “socializing after work” culture, people often don’t have much time for their families, friends, or even sleeping.

The horrible work-life balance likely contributes for South Korea to experience one of the worst fertility declines in the world.

Curiously, South Korea is one of the best countries in the world for education.

South Africa

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.2 hours, which is almost one hour less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 15.4%, more than 1.5X the average (10%) of all OECD members.

One of the problems in South Africa is that the low productivity of the workforce often causes employees to work longer hours to achieve the same output — something that Botswana managed to partially solve.

South Africa’s rate of productivity growth is the lowest among emerging economies, and together with Brazil and Argentina are the only countries with negative rates.

The low productivity in South Africa is caused by a lack of skills, high business costs, and a lack of competition in many markets. The skills of students are below the OECD average, and the education system is very unequal, with a small number of students doing very well and a large number doing very badly.

Check also: Why This Country in Africa Is Growing So Fast?

Japan

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.1 hours, almost one hour less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 15.7%, more than 1.5X the average (10%) of all OECD members.

It is not a surprise to see Japan in this ranking, since they popularized the idea of working long hours. There is even a word in the Japanese language (karoshi) that means “death from overwork”.

But in the last few years, the country has been pushing for better work-life balance.

One of Shinzo Abe’s (the late Prime Minister) main concerns was Japan’s overworking trend. The Work Style Reform Bill was signed into law by his government.

The bill was a key part of his plan to make Japan’s work and life balance more equilibrated. Initiatives include putting limits on how long people can work and giving them more flexibility, as well as requiring people with at least 10 days of unused leave to choose at least five days off.

Check also our article about the Japanese Visa Application Guide for digital nomads and remote workers.

Turkey

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 14.6 hours, which is less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 25%, meaning 2.5X the average (10%) of all OECD members.

Turkey has a relatively long work week: 45 hours. There is also a propensity in some sectors to push extra hours. Put on top of that the fact that major cities like Istambul have considerable traffic jams during rush hours, and you have a recipe for an unbalanced life.

One may wonder if such an unbalanced work-life relationship may harm the activity of health professionals in Turkey since the country is a hotspot for medical tourism and things like gastric sleeve surgery abroad.

Mexico

Time devoted to leisure and personal care: 13.5 hours, meaning one and a half hours less than the average of 15 hours per day of all OECD members.

Employees working very long hours: 27%, almost three times the average (10%) of all OECD members.

The worst country in this ranking has a whopping 27% of all employees working very long hours, and only 13.5 hours per day on average for all things non-job related.

Mexico has some of the longest average annual hours of work (2137 hours), and its average lunch breaks are also some of the shortest in the world, at only 30 minutes. Put that together with the endemic violence on the Mexican streets and it is a recipe for a stressful day. Ironically, Mexico is also one of the best countries in Latin America for those willing to retire abroad.

Somehow, the South Park music about Mexicans working all week long sounds true.

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Conclusion: The Countries With Worst Work-Life Balance

One curious fact is that there are no European countries among the 7 worst countries for work-life balance, despite the fact that 26 of the 38 countries of the OECD are European.

In other words, of the 12 non-European countries that are part of the organization, more than half (7) are at the bottom in terms of work-life balance.

Here is the list of the worst 7:

7 — Australia

6 — Israel

5 — South Korea

4 — South Africa

3 — Japan

2 — Turkey

1 — Mexico

If you enjoyed this article about the countries with the worst work life balance, here are a few other reading suggestions for you:

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Levi Borba is the founder of The Expatriate Consultancy, and best-selling author. Some of the links of this article may be affiliate links, meaning that the author will have a commission for any transaction.