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Chile offers a high quality of life at a relatively affordable cost. While not the cheapest, expenses are lower than in many North American and Latin American cities. Basic living costs for a couple range from CLP 902,000 to CLP 1,302,000 monthly, with good value in healthcare, food, and housing.
The cost of living in Chile is reasonable. The prevailing stereotype is that Chile is expensive, especially Santiago. And, indeed, there are better places to settle if budget is a critical consideration.
Reviewed By Kathleen Peddicord
Kathleen is the Live and Invest Overseas Founding Publisher. She has more than 30 years of hands-on experience traveling, living, and buying property around the world.
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But is it truly that expensive? You might be surprised. Take a look at these popular expat destinations, using consumer prices (excluding rent) from crowd-sourced Numbeo:
To give a North American frame of reference, check out these cities:
However, despite its many advantages (including the relatively low cost of real estate), Chile is not the cheapest option around for retiree expats.
Expats report that the cost of living in Chile is a great value.
You might say, you get what you pay for. Chile offers a near-First World lifestyle for less overall than you’d pay in North America or Europe.
Many basic goods, such as groceries and some household expenses, cost about the same in the U.S. and in Chile.
Eating out in a decent restaurant in La Serena runs US$20 to US$25 per person, including wine.
Medical care costs less than in the U.S: A doctor’s visit runs US$60 to US$80, though several expats mentioned that the quality of care for both medical and dental work is not as high as that in the U.S. Health insurance is also scarce (BUPA International was the insurer mentioned most often.)
Check the currency conversion at today’s exchange rate.
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | CLP 250,000 – CLP 500,000 |
| Transportation (bus, taxi etc) | CLP 20,000 |
| Gas (cooking/heating) | CLP 7,000 |
| Electricity | CLP 60,000 |
| Water | CLP 35,000 |
| Telephone | CLP 20,000 |
| Internet | CLP 25,000 |
| Cable TV | CLP 15,000 |
| Entertainment | CLP 50,000 |
| Groceries | CLP 75,000 |
| Total | CLP 557,000 – CLP 807,000 |
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | CLP 400,000 – CLP 700,000 (2 bedroom) |
| Transportation (bus, taxi etc) | CLP 20,000 |
| Gas (cooking/heating) | CLP 7,000 |
| Electricity | CLP 60,000 |
| Water | CLP 35,000 |
| Telephone | CLP 20,000 |
| Internet | CLP 25,000 |
| Cable TV | CLP 15,000 |
| Household Help | CLP 70,000 |
| Entertainment | CLP 100,000 – CLP 200,000 |
| Groceries | CLP 120,000 |
| Gym Membership | CLP 30,000 |
| Medical Appointment | CLP 30,000 |
| Total | CLP 902,000 – CLP 1,302,000 |
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent | CLP 400,000 – CLP 700,000 (2 bedroom) |
| Transportation (bus, taxi etc) | CLP 20,000 |
| Gas (cooking/heating) | CLP 7,000 |
| Electricity | CLP 60,000 |
| Water | CLP 35,000 |
| Telephone | CLP 20,000 |
| Internet | CLP 25,000 |
| Cable TV | CLP 15,000 |
| Household Help | CLP 70,000 |
| Entertainment | CLP 100,000 – CLP 200,000 |
| Groceries | CLP 120,000 |
| Gym Membership | CLP 30,000 |
| Medical Appointment | CLP 30,000 |
| Total | CLP 902,000 – CLP 1,302,000 |
Reviewed By Kathleen Peddicord
Kathleen is the Live and Invest Overseas Founding Publisher. She has more than 30 years of hands-on experience traveling, living, and buying property around the world.
Start Your New Overseas Life Today
A world full of fun, adventure, and profit awaits! Sign up for our free daily e-letter, Overseas Opportunity Letter, and we’ll send you a FREE report on the 12 Best Places To Retire Overseas In 2026
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Chile’s cost of living is among the highest in South America, yet it is still very budget-friendly for those used to U.S. prices. Most couples can plan to spend under US$2,000 monthly, which includes rent, food, insurance, and other costs.
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