Colombia is fast becoming one of the most popular destinations for expats, digital nomads, and retirees, thanks to its diverse landscapes, vibrant cities, rich culture, and affordable cost of living. From the cosmopolitan feel of Bogotá and Medellín to the beachfront beauty of Cartagena and the tranquil charm of smaller towns like Salento, Colombia offers a variety of environments to suit any lifestyle. Expats are drawn to the welcoming locals, affordable healthcare, and the high quality of life without the hefty price tag seen in other countries.
How to Be a Digital Nomad, Expat, or Retire in Colombia from the USA, Canada, and Western Countries
1. Visa Options
- Digital Nomad Visa: Allows remote workers to stay in Colombia for up to two years. Applicants must:
- Hold a passport from a visa-exempt country.
- Show proof of remote work or freelancing for foreign companies.
- Demonstrate a minimum monthly income of approximately $995 USD (three times the Colombian minimum wage).
- Have health insurance covering their stay in Colombia.
- Retirement (Pensionado) Visa: Designed for retirees with a pension. Requirements include:
- Proof of a monthly pension income of at least three times the Colombian minimum wage (~$970 USD).
- A clean criminal record.
- A health certificate and insurance coverage.
- Resident Visa: Ideal for those seeking long-term residency. Available for:
- Individuals who have held a temporary visa and lived in Colombia continuously for five years.
- Parents of Colombian nationals.
- Tourist Visa: U.S., Canadian, and most Western country citizens can stay in Colombia visa-free for up to 90 days, with the possibility of extending for another 90 days. This visa does not allow employment or long-term residence.
2. Cost of Living
Colombia offers an affordable lifestyle compared to North America and Europe. Living costs vary by location:
- Single Individual: $1,000–$1,500 USD per month
- Couple: $1,500–$2,500 USD per month
Major cities like Bogotá and Medellín have higher costs, while smaller towns and rural areas are more budget-friendly.
3. Healthcare
Colombia has a high-quality healthcare system with both public and private options:
- EPS (Entidades Promotoras de Salud): The public healthcare system available to residents at low cost.
- Private Healthcare: Colombia has many world-class hospitals and clinics with affordable private insurance options.
Most expats opt for private healthcare due to shorter wait times and broader coverage.
4. Internet & Work Infrastructure
Colombia offers reliable internet in major cities and expat hubs:
- Urban Areas: Fast, stable internet with numerous coworking spaces and cafes.
- Smaller Towns: Internet is available but may be slower with fewer coworking options.
It’s best to research specific areas to ensure they meet your remote work needs.
5. Best Places to Live
- For Digital Nomads:
- Medellín – “City of Eternal Spring” with a strong expat community and fast internet.
- Bogotá – The capital city offers a vibrant culture and professional networking opportunities.
- For Expats/Retirees:
- Cartagena – A historic coastal city with colonial charm and Caribbean beaches.
- Pereira – A relaxed city in Colombia’s coffee region with a temperate climate.
6. Things to Keep in Mind
- Learn Basic Spanish – It greatly improves daily life and integration.
- Adjust to the Pace – Life in Colombia follows a slower, more relaxed rhythm.
- Visit First – Spend time in your preferred location before committing to a move.
- Research Safety – While many areas are safe, some regions require extra caution.
This list highlights the top 10 places to live in Colombia, based on affordability, lifestyle, culture, and expat communities. Whether you’re a digital nomad looking for fast internet, a retiree seeking a quiet retreat, or someone wanting a more urban, social life, Colombia offers a place for everyone.
1. Medellín – Best for Innovation, Weather & Expat Communities
🌟 Why? Known as the City of Eternal Spring, Medellín boasts perfect weather year-round, a thriving tech scene, and a growing expat community.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with affordable housing and food.
🌱 Lifestyle: Innovation hubs, outdoor activities, and vibrant social life.
2. Bogotá – Best for Urban Living & Culture
🌟 Why? Colombia’s capital city offers a mix of modern and colonial architecture, along with rich cultural and historical offerings.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate, with a variety of housing options.
🏙️ Lifestyle: Museums, nightlife, and business opportunities, combined with a rich cultural scene.
3. Cartagena – Best for Beach Living & Historic Charm
🌟 Why? A historic coastal city with colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and a laid-back yet lively atmosphere.
💰 Cost of Living: Moderate, with higher costs near the historic center.
🏖️ Lifestyle: Beach life, colonial charm, and a tourist-friendly vibe.
4. Pereira – Best for Balanced City Life & Coffee Culture
🌟 Why? Located in Colombia’s Coffee Triangle, Pereira offers a mix of urban convenience, natural beauty, and a lower cost of living.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with affordable housing.
☕ Lifestyle: Coffee culture, mild climate, and access to outdoor activities.
5. Santa Marta – Best for Nature Lovers & Coastal Living
🌟 Why? A stunning coastal city near Tayrona National Park and the Sierra Nevada mountains, offering an affordable lifestyle and access to nature.
💰 Cost of Living: Low to moderate, with affordable housing near the beach.
🏞️ Lifestyle: Beachfront living, hiking, and close-knit local communities.
6. Manizales – Best for Coffee Culture & Scenic Views
🌟 Why? Nestled in the Coffee Triangle, Manizales offers beautiful mountain views, a thriving coffee culture, and a peaceful environment.
💰 Cost of Living: Low, with affordable housing and local produce.
🌄 Lifestyle: Coffee tours, nature walks, and a calm atmosphere.
7. Barranquilla – Best for Caribbean Vibe & Beaches
🌟 Why? A vibrant, Caribbean coastal city known for its beaches, and lively atmosphere.
💰 Cost of Living: Low, with affordable housing and fresh local food.
🎉 Lifestyle: Festivals, beachfront living, and a mix of Caribbean and Colombian cultures.
8. Salento – Best for Peaceful Mountain Living & Nature
🌟 Why? A picturesque town in the Coffee Triangle, known for its mountain views, lush greenery, and quaint village atmosphere.
💰 Cost of Living: Low, with affordable real estate options in a tranquil setting.
🏞️ Lifestyle: Hiking, nature exploration, and a slower pace of life.
9. Bucaramanga – Best for Affordable Living & Natural Beauty
🌟 Why? Known for its beautiful parks, low-cost living, and proximity to both mountains and beaches, Bucaramanga is an affordable, pleasant place to live.
💰 Cost of Living: Low, with affordable housing and amenities.
🌳 Lifestyle: Green spaces, mountain access, and a calm pace of life.
10. Villa de Leyva – Best for Colonial Charm & Peaceful Living
🌟 Why? A colonial town with beautiful architecture, cobbled streets, and a peaceful vibe, perfect for retirees or those seeking a quiet lifestyle.
💰 Cost of Living: Low, with affordable housing and peaceful surroundings.
🏰 Lifestyle: Colonial architecture, outdoor markets, and a charming small-town feel.
Summary
Colombia offers a diverse selection of cities and towns that cater to expats, digital nomads, and retirees, from the urban vibrancy of Medellín and Bogotá to the coastal beauty of Cartagena and Santa Marta. For those who love nature, Manizales and Salento in the Coffee Triangle provide mountain views, coffee culture, and tranquility. Barranquilla offers a Caribbean and salsa vibes, while Bucaramanga is perfect for those seeking an affordable lifestyle with access to nature. Villa de Leyva rounds out the list as a peaceful colonial town ideal for quiet living. Colombia’s affordable cost of living, friendly locals, and diverse environments make it an ideal destination for those looking to embrace a new chapter in life.
Disclaimer
This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. While we strive for accuracy, information may change over time. Always consult with local experts, legal professionals, and financial advisors before making decisions related to moving to or living in Colombia.