Moving to Colombia

A comfortable life costs $1,500-2,500/month in Medellín or Bogotá. Budget living is possible at $800-1,200/month. Rent ($400-1,200), food ($200-400), utilities ($50-100), health insurance ($50-150), transport ($30-80), and entertainment ($100-300) are the main categories.

Major cities have safe expat neighborhoods with security comparable to mid-tier U.S. cities. Standard precautions apply: don't flash expensive items, use registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, learn your neighborhood. Medellín's expat areas (Poblado, Laureles, Envigado) feel very safe.

Not strictly in expat-heavy areas of Medellín or Cartagena, but basic Spanish is strongly recommended. It opens up housing options (cutting rent 30-50%), local friendships, and reduces dependence on intermediaries. Most expats reach conversational level within 3-6 months.

Most Westerners enter visa-free for 90 days (extendable to 180). For longer stays, the Digital Nomad Visa (V type) requires $3,000+/month income proof. The Retirement Visa requires a pension of 3x Colombian minimum wage (~$975/month in 2024). Apply through the Colombian consulate or online at cancilleria.gov.co.

Colombia has universal healthcare ranked #22 globally by WHO. The EPS system provides comprehensive coverage for $50-150/month. Private clinics in Medellín and Bogotá offer world-class care at a fraction of U.S. costs. Dental work, surgeries, and specialist visits are 50-80% cheaper than in the U.S.