Chile : Cost of Living by CityHow Much Does It Cost to Live in Santiago?
Whether you will find Santiago an affordable place for your future living depends on the country you are coming from.
Actually, for the majority of developed countries, living in Santiago will be an inexpensive experience where they will be able to enjoy life.
Besides the fact that the city is very welcoming to foreigners, its scenery, rich culture, modernity and affordable cost of living make this destination one of the most desirable among migrants.
Cost of Living Breakdown in Santiago
RESTAURANTS
The cost of food in Santiago has a huge impact on the restaurant costs there, and these expenses are affordable only to the members of the upper class, while those belonging to lower class would not be able to afford going out frequently.
| Average Restaurant Prices | |
|---|---|
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | $8.99 |
| Domestic Beer (0.5 Liter) | $3.75 |
| Water (0.33 Liter) | $1.03 |
MARKETS
There are grocery stores in Santiago where the prices may be a bit higher especially when it comes to imported food items.
Better deals can be found at the supermarkets which offer discounts, while fresh products, such as vegetables and fruit are more affordable at the local markets.
| Average Market Prices | |
|---|---|
| Milk (1 Liter) | $4.62 |
| Loaf Bread (500g) | $1.28 |
| Eggs (12) | $2.91 |
TRANSPORTATION
When transportation costs are in question, a big factor is how you choose to commute.
The gasoline prices are high, and other expenses related to the vehicle and driving are also high, so it is advisable using public transport system, at least at the start of your new life here.
| Average Transport Prices | |
|---|---|
| One Way Ticket | $1.08 |
| Monthly Pass | $51.48 |
| Gasoline | $4.60 |
UTILITIES (MONTHLY)
Besides paying the monthly rent in Santiago, the capital of Chile, electricity, water and heating costs come around $150 each month, not including the Internet access which is around $40.
Utilities are not too expensive, but when compared to the minimum salary, they are not cheap at all.
| Average Utilities Prices | |
|---|---|
| Basic (Water, Electricity, Garbage, Heating, Cooling) | $130.50 |
| 1 min. of Prepaid Mobile Tariff Local | $0.15 |
| Internet (Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL) | $39.42 |
SPORTS & LEISURE
Entertainment is important part of young people’s lives and those who are interested in sport will be satisfied with low cinema ticket prices.
Tennis court rent is expensive here, as the price of one hour of tennis is almost equal as the monthly fitness pass.
| Average Leisure Prices | |
|---|---|
| Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult | $37.62 |
| Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour) | $21.46 |
| Cinema, 1 Seat, International Release | $7.49 |
CLOTHING & SHOES
Buying clothes in Santiago can be a whole lot cheaper than in most places in the world, as the designer clothes are quite affordable here.
If you are not into branded products, you can find apparel at even more affordable prices in some less famous stores in Santiago.
| Average Clothing Prices | |
|---|---|
| 1 Pair of Jeans (Levis 501 Or Comparable) | $54.13 |
| 1 Summer Dress in a Chain Store (Zara, etc...) | $32.62 |
| 1 Pair of Adidas Walking Shoes (Mid-Range) | $64.17 |
RENT PER MONTH
Once coming to Santiago, you might not be able to afford buying your place to live, so renting an apartment is ideal solution, at least for the beginning of your new life.
It is great that apartments are not so expensive here, even though they have the highest prices in the whole country.
| Average Rent Prices | |
|---|---|
| Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Center | $503.57 |
| Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Center | $407.44 |
| Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Center | $914.55 |
How Does the Average Person Spend Their Money in Santiago?
Even though it has the highest prices in the country, Santiago is a popular destination and getting acquainted with the average spendings of its citizens will help you manage your own budget.
Rent is not too expensive, thus does not take as much money as food, which is of utmost importance.
Pretty high amount of money is spent in restaurants and on transportation, which are not considered too pricey.
People in Santiago like to entertain themselves, so they give for it 7% of the monthly budget.
Average Costs Breakdown
Santiago: Average Salary, Minimum Wage & Mortgages
The difference between the average and minimum salary in Santiago is huge, and it is important to have in mind when negotiating your future salary.
You should know that it is difficult for low-income families to live comfortably and provide for the necessities.
Leading a decent life, which will include paying the rent, would be possible only with the average salary or above.
Buying a place to live can be a solution for saving some money on rent and the mortgage rates are 4%.
Santiago de Chile Safety Overview
READ THE FULL REPORT: Santiago de Chile Safety Review
| OVERALL RISK | MEDIUM |
|---|---|
| TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK | MEDIUM |
| PICKPOCKETS RISK | HIGH |
| NATURAL DISASTERS RISK | MEDIUM |
| MUGGING RISK | HIGH |
| TERRORISM RISK | MEDIUM |
| SCAMS RISK | HIGH |
| WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK | LOW |
I’m really curious about your perspective on the local culture in Santiago. Do you think the affordability impacts how locals and expats interact, or does it create a more vibrant mix of communities?
Santiago sounds like a hidden gem! Who knew that living in such a vibrant city could be so budget-friendly? I might just start looking into flights, although finding a place with a view can’t be that cheap, right?