Medellin: What Is the Current Cost Of Living?

Medellin, often referred to as the “City of Eternal Spring”, is an incredibly attractive destination for travelers and foreign residents alike. With beautiful colonial architecture, exquisite cuisine, vibrant culture and welcoming people, it’s no wonder that the city continues to draw in travelers from around the world. But while the attractions are certainly a draw, one must also consider the cost of living in Medellin before making the move.

For starters, when budgeting your lifestyle in Colombia’s second largest city, you should plan to spend around $750 to $1000 USD per month on living expenses. Accommodation in particular is one of the biggest expenses associated with living in Medellin. Apartment rentals generally range from $500 to $1000 USD an month. You can find properties with lower rates if you’re willing to live a bit further away from the city center or if you opt to rent a room in a shared apartment. Utilities are also something to consider when budgeting rent. The typical rate for: electricity ranges from $25-$35USD a month; water ranges from $2-$3 a month; and internet ranges from $25-35 USD a month.

As far as everyday living expenses like food, transportation and entertainment, budgeting $250 to $500 USD a month should be ample. In terms of groceries and food costs, groceries typically range from $50-70USD a month depending on where you shop and what type of food you buy. Public transport services like the Metro and MetroCable are incredibly affordable and cost only around $1 USD for a single journey. You can also hail a taxi to move around the city, although do remember that it’s always a good idea to confirm pricing with your driver before starting your journey. For entertainment, there is an abundance of affordable options for eating out and spending your spare time with friends or family. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs around $7 USD, while a nice mid-range meal can cost anywhere from $14 to $20 USD.

In conclusion, living in Medellin can be very affordable if you choose your accommodation and lifestyle wisely, but it is important to bear in mind certain factors when budgeting. Make sure to factor utilities into your monthly rent budget, and remember that living outside of the city center or in a shared apartment can significantly reduce your spending. As far as other day-to-day expenses go – like transport, groceries, and entertainment – they can all be managed within a set budget of around $250-$500USD a month. For more useful information on the cost of living in Medellin, I recommend reviewing this excellent guide from the Colombia Tax website.

Insider’s Guide to Medellin: A Vibrant and Affordable City

Planning a trip to Medellin? The second largest city in Colombia, Medellin is a destination that is emerging as a top spot for tourists. Offering a rich history, an emerging contemporary art scene, and a range of affordable attractions, the city of eternal spring has plenty to keep visitors busy.

History and Culture

Located in the Andean mountains and surrounded by natural beauty, Medellin is a melting pot of cultural influences. The city has a fascinating history, which includes stories of drug cartels, but is now reinventing itself and promoting ideas of sustanability and innovation.

To get a sense of the city’s past, take a stroll through the Museo Casa de la Memoria, which guides you through the development of the city and the violence it has experienced. The nearby Museum of Antioquia is also a must visit, featuring works by Colombian artist and sculptor Fernando Botero and a variety of other artists from the region.

Outdoor Adventures

For an outdoor adventure, make a trip to the Parque Arvi, a beautiful national park that is easily accessible by cable car. Once there, you can hike through the forests and take in panoramic views of the city below.

Another option is to explore the nearby town of Guatape and climb the famous El Penon de Guatape, a giant monolith that offers breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside.

Dining and Nightlife

The food in Medellin is sure to satisfy your cravings, with regional specialties like bandeja paisa and arepas, a corn-based snack filled with cheese or beef.

For a unique dining experience, head to Carmen, a hidden gem of a restaurant located in a restored colonial house in the trendy El Poblado neighborhood. If you’re looking for a more bohemian atmosphere, El Cielo is a French-Colombian fusion spot with inventive tasting menus.

When it comes to nightlife, Medellin is a hub for salsa dancing, and there are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from. Envy Rooftop Bar has an excellent view of the city, and the Son Havana club is the place to go for those who love Cuban music and cigars.

Off the Beaten Path

For a taste of the real Medellin, venture off the beaten path. One option is to visit the Jardin Botanico, a vast botanical garden with a collection of native and exotic plants, hidden within the city.

Another off-the-beaten-path choice is a market visit to the San Alejo, where you can peruse local wares and enjoy street food. Getting here can be an adventure on its own, as it’s located next to a small hilltop community that’s just a little rough around the edges but charming in its own way.

Cost of Living in Medellin

With all the attractions and amenities that the city has to offer, you might be wondering about the cost of living in Medellin. Compared to most Western cities, the cost of living in Medellin is quite low.

You can easily find a comfortable furnished apartment for $500-700 per month, with all utilities included. Meals at local restaurants average around $5-$6, and even higher-end restaurants are affordable compared to prices in other cities.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, Medellin offers a unique blend of history, outdoors, nightlife, and culture, all at an affordable price point. Plus, with direct flights from many North American cities, it’s never been easier to visit the city known as the City of Eternal Spring. Don’t miss an opportunity to visit Medellin and explore everything this diverse and vibrant city has to offer.