The Real Cost of Living in Medellín (2025 Update)
An Honest Breakdown for Expats, Digital Nomads, and Retirees.
How much does it really cost to live in Medellín in 2025? We’ve broken it down — rent, groceries, healthcare, and more.
Why Medellín Is Still a Top Pick in 2025
Medellín, Colombia
Medellín continues to attract remote workers, retirees, and digital nomads looking for year-round spring weather, fast Wi-Fi, and a high quality of life at a lower cost than the U.S. or Europe.
But how affordable is it really in 2025?
The truth: prices have gone up — especially in areas like Provenza — but Medellín is still one of the best-value expat cities in Latin America. Here's what you can expect based on where and how you live.
Rent: Your Biggest Monthly Expense
| Neighborhood | 1BR Furnished Airbnb | 1BR Long-Term Rental | Vibe |
|---|---|---|---|
| Provenza (El Poblado) | $1,200–$1,800 | $1,000–$1,400 | Trendy, walkable, touristy |
| Manila/Las Lomas (El Poblado) | $900–$1,300 | $800–$1,100 | Quieter, close to Provenza |
| Laureles | $700–$1,100 | $600–$900 | Local, flat, relaxed |
| Envigado | $600–$900 | $500–$800 | Family-friendly, less touristy |
Pro Tip: You’ll save 20–30% by signing a 6-month+ lease directly through a local agency instead of staying in Airbnbs.
1BR furnished Airbnb, Medellín
Groceries: Name Brand or No-Frills?
Carulla = Whole Foods (imported goods, clean layout, high-end)
Éxito = Walmart/Target hybrid (mid-range)
D1 / Justo y Bueno = Aldi-style discount chains (limited selection, low cost)
Local markets = Cheapest and freshest for produce and meats
| Item | Price (USD) |
|---|---|
| 1L Milk | $1.00 |
| Dozen Eggs | $1.30 |
| Chicken Breast (1kg) | $3.50 |
| Fresh Veggies (1 week) | $7–10 |
| Craft beer (restaurant) | $3–5 |
| Glass of wine (restaurant) | $4-7 |
Utilities & Lifestyle
| Expense | Estimated Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Electricity + Gas | $25–50 (varies by A/C usage) |
| Water | $10–20 |
| Internet (200+ Mbps) | $20–30 |
| Mobile plan (10GB+) | $10–15 |
| Private Gym | $30–60 |
| Coworking Membership | $80–180 |
Coworking space, Medellín
Health Insurance Options
SURA EPS (local): ~$30–50/month (public/private hybrid, decent for minor care)
Private plans: $100–250/month depending on age, deductible, and provider
International travel insurance: Varies widely (good for short-term expats)
Tip: Many expats pay out-of-pocket for minor doctor visits — a consultation can be $20–40 with a specialist.
Digital Nomad vs Retiree Budget
| Expense Category | Nomad Lifestyle | Retiree Lifestyle |
|---|---|---|
| Housing (furnished) | $1,200 | $800 |
| Food & Drink | $600 (eating out) | $300 (home-cooked) |
| Transportation | $80 (Uber) | $30 (Metro/Taxi) |
| Health Insurance | $120 | $150 |
| Coworking/Gym | $150 | $60 |
| Entertainment | $200 | $100 |
| Monthly Total | $2,350–2,500 | $1,400–1,600 |
Is Medellín Still a Bargain?
Yes — but it depends how you live.
If you want high-rise living in Provenza and a cappuccino every day, expect to pay closer to U.S. prices. But if you're willing to explore beyond the tourist zones, cook at home, and use local markets, you can live very well for under $1,500/month.
Want to Budget Your Exact Move? Let’s plan it together:
Book a free 15-minute discovery call with Brian
