There are one hundred and one reasons to spend time in Chile, whether you’re moving there as an immigrant, exploring as a digital nomad, or just passing through as a traveller. From geysers in the Atacama Desert to remote lakes in the depths of Patagonia, there are endless sights to be explored in Chile from top to bottom.
However, as one of the most economically developed countries in South America, you will also quickly find that it is one of the most expensive. This includes the day to day cost of living, like buying food and taking Ubers, to tourist expenses like tours, flights and hotels.
Despite this, Chile is really worth visiting both on its own or as part of a larger trip in South America. This guide takes you through the cost of living, with prices in US dollars for easy comparison. However, the currency in Chile is the Chilean Peso and US dollars aren’t widely accepted outside of tourist activities.
Contents
- Why Choose Chile for Affordable Living?
- Overview of Monthly Costs in Chile
- Accommodation Costs in Chile
- Food and Grocery Expenses
- Transportation Costs
- Utilities and Internet
- Healthcare Costs
- Leisure and Entertainment
- Living Affordably in Chile
- FAQs About the Cost of Living in Chile
- Conclusion
Why Choose Chile for Affordable Living?
Chile is one of the most economically stable and developed countries in South America, offering excellent infrastructure, modern amenities, and a safe living environment. While Chile is slightly more expensive than some of its neighbouring countries, it still provides great value for money, especially for those coming from North America or Northern Europe.
The country caters to a wide range of lifestyles. Whether you prefer the bustling metropolis of Santiago, the laid-back coastal vibes of Valparaíso, or the pristine wilderness of Patagonia, Chile offers something for everyone at a cost that can fit various budgets.
Overview of Monthly Costs in Chile
The overall cost of living in Chile varies depending on your lifestyle, location, and spending habits. Here’s a summary of typical monthly expenses for a single person.
| Expense Category | Budget ($) | Mid-Range ($) | High-End ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | 300–600 | 700–1,200 | 1,500+ |
| Groceries | 150–200 | 250–400 | 500+ |
| Eating Out | 100–200 | 300–500 | 600+ |
| Transportation | 50–100 | 150–250 | 400+ |
| Utilities (electricity, water, etc.) | 50–100 | 150–250 | 300+ |
| Internet | 25–50 | 50–100 | 150+ |
| Healthcare | 50–200 | 300–500 | 600+ |
| Leisure and Activities | 50–100 | 200–400 | 500+ |
| Total | 775–1,550 | 2,100–3,600 | 4,550+ |
Accommodation Costs in Chile
Chile offers a variety of housing options to suit all budgets, from small apartments in urban centres to larger homes in suburban or rural areas. Accommodation costs vary significantly depending on the city and neighbourhood. Santiago is the most expensive, followed by popular coastal cities like Valparaíso and Viña del Mar.
| Type of Accommodation | Monthly Rent in Santiago ($) | Monthly Rent in Valparaíso ($) | Monthly Rent in Smaller Cities ($) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Shared Room/Hostel | 200–400 | 150–300 | 100–250 |
| Studio Apartment | 400–700 | 300–500 | 250–400 |
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | 600–1,000 | 500–800 | 400–600 |
| 3-Bedroom House | 1,200–1,800 | 1,000–1,500 | 800–1,200 |
Short-term rentals on Airbnb typically range from $30 to $100 per night, while longer-term leases can often be negotiated for a discount.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Chilean food combines affordability with freshness, especially if you shop at local markets where produce and seafood are plentiful and reasonably priced. Imported goods and specialty items can be more expensive, but staples remain affordable.
| Grocery Item | Average Price ($) |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 litre) | 1–2 |
| Bread (loaf) | 1–2 |
| Eggs (dozen) | 2–3 |
| Chicken (1kg) | 5–7 |
| Rice (1kg) | 1–2 |
| Fresh Fruit (per kilo) | 1–3 |
| Vegetables (per kilo) | 1–2 |
Eating out in Chile offers a range of options, from cheap local meals to upscale dining experiences. Street food and small local restaurants (picadas) provide the most affordable dining options, while gourmet restaurants cater to higher budgets.
| Type of Meal | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Street Food Snack (e.g. empanada) | 2–5 |
| Local Restaurant Meal | 6–15 |
| Mid-Range Restaurant (3 courses) | 25–40 |
| High-End Restaurant (per person) | 50+ |
Transportation Costs
Chile’s transportation system is efficient and affordable, particularly in urban areas where buses, metro systems, and rideshares are widely available. In Santiago, the metro is a reliable and inexpensive way to get around.
| Transportation Type | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Local Bus | 1–2 per trip |
| Metro Ticket (Santiago) | 1–2 per trip |
| Taxi (per km) | 1–2 |
| Monthly Fuel Costs (for car) | 100–200 |
Intercity buses are also a popular and cost-effective way to travel long distances, with fares ranging from $10 to $50 depending on the destination.
Utilities and Internet
Utilities in Chile can be relatively affordable but vary based on the season, particularly for electricity and heating. Internet is reliable and reasonably priced, especially in urban centres.
| Utility | Monthly Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Electricity | 30–80 |
| Water | 10–20 |
| Gas (cooking/heating) | 20–50 |
| Internet (20–50 Mbps) | 25–100 |
Healthcare Costs
Chile is known for its excellent healthcare system, with a mix of public and private providers. Private healthcare is more expensive but offers shorter wait times and higher-quality facilities. Health insurance costs vary depending on the plan.
| Healthcare Service | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| GP Consultation | 30–70 |
| Specialist Appointment | 50–150 |
| Prescription Medication | 10–30 |
| Health Insurance (private) | 100–400 per month |
Leisure and Entertainment
Chile offers a wealth of affordable leisure options, from exploring its stunning natural landscapes to enjoying cultural events and activities. Many attractions, like national parks and hiking trails, are free or have a low entry fee.
| Activity | Cost ($) |
|---|---|
| Cinema Ticket | 5–10 |
| Gym Membership (monthly) | 20–50 |
| Yoga Class | 10–20 per class |
| Entry to National Parks/Ruins | 5–15 |
Living Affordably in Chile
Shopping at local markets is one of the best ways to save money while enjoying fresh, high-quality produce. Opting for public transport and cooking at home are also great ways to cut costs. In larger cities like Santiago, consider living slightly outside the city centre to find cheaper rent while staying well-connected to public transport.
Cost of Living in Chile FAQs
Is Chile really that expensive compared to other South American countries?
Yes, Chile is definitely one of the pricier countries in South America. You’ll notice this especially in cities like Santiago and tourist hotspots. However, while it’s more expensive than Bolivia or Peru, it’s still significantly cheaper than North America or Europe.
Is Chile cheap or expensive?
Chile sits at the higher end of the price spectrum for South America. While it’s more expensive than many of its neighbours, it’s still considerably cheaper than most Western countries. You’re paying for better infrastructure, modern amenities, and generally higher standards of living compared to other South American nations.
Is living in Chile expensive?
The cost of living in Chile is relatively high for South America but moderate by global standards. While cities like Santiago can be costly, particularly for rent in desirable areas, many people find the overall cost of living reasonable when balanced against the quality of life, infrastructure, and amenities available.
Can you live on $1000 a month in Chile?
While it’s possible to live on $1000 a month in Chile, it would be challenging and would require significant compromises. You’d need to live in a smaller city, share accommodation, cook all meals at home, and limit entertainment expenses. For a more comfortable lifestyle, especially in major cities, a budget of at least $1,500-2,000 is recommended.
Where should I live in Chile to keep costs down?
Look beyond Santiago and Valparaíso for better deals. Cities like La Serena, Concepción, and Temuco offer similar amenities at lower prices – you could save 20-30% on rent and daily expenses. Plus, these cities often provide a more authentic Chilean experience.
Are utilities expensive in Chile?
They’re relatively reasonable – expect to pay $60-150 monthly for basic utilities (electricity, water, gas) in an average apartment. Internet is reliable and costs $25-100 depending on your speed needs. Just watch out for winter heating bills, which can spike significantly.
How much should I budget for food in Chile?
If you cook at home and shop at local markets, you can easily manage on $150-200 monthly for groceries. Eating out ranges from $6-15 at local spots to $50+ at high-end restaurants. Street food like empanadas makes for cheap, tasty meals at $2-5 each.
Conclusion
Chile offers a high standard of living at a reasonable cost, making it an attractive destination for anyone looking to explore South America without breaking the bank. From its modern cities and delicious cuisine to its stunning natural beauty, Chile provides an excellent balance of affordability and quality. With proper planning and budgeting, you can enjoy all that this remarkable country has to offer, no matter your lifestyle or preferences.