Top 10 Best Places to Live in Latin America
If you’re looking to live in Latin America, there are loads of places worthy of your consideration. You’ll find many exotic yet affordable destinations that offer a high quality of life.
No matter what stage of life you’re in, it is important to find out which cities best suit your needs. That’s why this list includes cities in 10 different Latin American countries. Let’s get started!
Why Latin America?
The number of expats moving to Latin America thas grown significantly since the worldwide recession. The economies of several Latin American countries are growing, and there’s an increasing standard of living in the region.
It’s much easier to move to Latin America from the U.S. and get a job than the other way around. And many people buy land in these countries to invest in real estate and turn their money into a business.
With many people working remotely nowadays, this has opened up a door to work from anywhere in the world. Your money goes a long way if you earn in dollars. Living in Latin America allows you to live life at a much more relaxed pace.
Top 10 Best Places to Live in Latin America
Here are the best cities to live in Latin America and why they are an amazing choice.
1. Santiago, Chile
Santiago is one of the most beautiful places in South America. Some consider Chile the best country to live due to its economy, education system, and people. People in Latin America are generally warm and welcoming to foreigners.
The capital of Chile is among the most attractive cities to live in South America because it’s big, liberal, modern, and offers amazing opportunities for professional and personal development. It also has many museums and a vibrant nightlife. If you’re looking to live in Latin America and love city life, Santiago is for you.
Another reason why Santiago made the list is its picturesque location between the coast and the Andes mountain range. The view is spectacular!
2. Medellín, Colombia
Over the last 20 years, Medellín has experienced a great transformation. Many travelers who have gone back recently cannot believe their eyes due its development and beauty. In 2012, the Wall Street Journal and CitiGroup declared Medellín the most innovative city of the year.
Medellín has become a world leader in innovation. It has had the greatest improvements in its urban environment and living conditions over the last years. If your career is in technology and innovation, this is a perfect fit for you.
3. Montevideo, Uruguay
Uruguay is a small country in South America which is considered by many experts to be the most progressive country in Latin America.
The quality of life is often compared with countries like Canada. In terms of democracy and freedom of speech, Uruguay has achieved amazing progress.
Montevideo is a city with endless entertainment options, delicious restaurants, and expressive people. In 2015, Montevideo was declared the city with the highest human development index in Latin America.
4. Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is a city that offers mesmerizing architecture, rich culture, a unique atmosphere, and excellent business opportunities. The people are friendly, and the food is some of the best I’ve ever tried in my life. There’s an epic book store called El Ateneo that used to be a theatre where you can get lost for hours!
Buenos Aires is one of the most developed on the South American continent. If you’re looking for a major city with art and culture, this is the place for you.
5. Mazatlán, México
Mexico is close to home for US expats, and it has many amazing cities to choose from. Did you know that Mazatlán is home to more US expats than any other place in Mexico.
Located in the state of Sinaloa, Mazatlán is on Mexico’s Pacific coast. It’s a place where you can walk for miles along pristine beaches—within the city limits. People here enjoy riding bikes, going to the local market, and visiting the colonial center.
Many travelers go to Mazatlan to escape the winter from December through June when the weather is ideal in this Mexican city.
6. Cuenca, Ecuador
Travelers and expats from all over the world adore Cuenca, Ecuador. Its beautiful location in the Andes mountains make it a perfect place for nature lovers. It has captivating colonial architecture and an amazing climate.
Cuenca offers a solid infrastructure, modern facilities and breathtaking skylines. It has bike paths, as well as a great light-rail system. It also offers state-of-the-art medical facilities and superb medical professionals. You’ll love living in this modern city with a colonial twist.
7. Las Terrenas, Dominican Republic
The Dominican Republic is much more than a resort destination for vacation. Dominicans are hospitable, warm and welcoming with foreigners. Las Terrenas is more cosmopolitan than you might think, due to its 40 years of commercial and cultural influences from Italian and French settlers.
It’s a developed area in the Caribbean where you can find a relaxing environment and plenty of places to go have fun. Many beach-loving expats choose this spot to retire.
8. La Antigua, Guatemala
Many people don’t know about this hidden wonder. It’s an amazing place to live and retire because it has so much history behind it. Antigua offers mesmerizing volcano views, a vibrant nightlife, cobblestone streets, and colonial architecture. It’s full of travelers from all over the world, quaint coffee shops, and world-class international cuisine.
The cost of living is 30% less than living in the U.S. It’s super close to the U.S., so it’s easy to visit and see if this picturesque town is the right fit for you.
9. Boca Chica, Panama
Panama’s economy has been steadily growing and Boca Chica is no exception. It’s a small fishing village with secluded beaches. Many call it a tropical fantasy.
This one is a bit remote; it’s paradise for beach lovers! Boca Chica is full of untouched nature and an incredibly beautiful place where locals and expats can buy a piece of land.
10. Cusco, Peru
Cusco is a colonial city like Antigua, only bigger. Cusco’s cobblestone streets are full of colonial architecture. Peruvian cuisine is world renowned. I’m personally intrigued by all the different kinds of potatoes Peru has to offer!
Going to Cusco is like stepping back in time, but it also offers the perks of a touristic city. It’s close to Machu Picchu, which is one of the 7 wonders of the world. So, if you’re an adventurer and like the contrast between two worlds, this is a great place for you to consider.
Live Abroad and Become a Native Spanish Speaker
Now that you’ve read the list of the best cities to live in Latin America, it’s time to start planning your move! Traveling and living abroad is an incredible experience. By choosing any of these incredible cities, you’ll be immersed in Spanish language and Latin American culture.
Spanish continues to grow in the U.S. According to The Economist, a person can earn $50,000 to $125,000 extra just by knowing a foreign language. If you move to one of these beautiful cities, it’ll open doors so that you can start a business or work there!
Learning Spanish empowers you to make your travels more enjoyable—and it’s an investment in your career. Sign up for a free class to practice your Spanish conversational skills before your big move to the Latin American city of your dreams.
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