Peru
Cost of living in Lima
Lima is Peru's capital, a coastal desert city on the Pacific that holds close to a third of the country's population. Costs vary sharply by district, and getting around relies on buses, the Metropolitano rapid bus line and Metro Line 1.
What it costs to live in Lima
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Lima comes to an estimated $1,073 a month: the 10th lowest of 19 cities and close to the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 49% of the total. Compared with the median city, you would spend more on transport.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $467 | $732 | $1,107 |
| Average | $793 | $1,073 | $1,538 |
| Comfortable | $1,207 | $1,517 | $2,107 |
Every figure is a modeled estimate in US dollars, not an individually observed price. Q1–Q2 2026 data, not re-verified since. Methodology
Your budget in Lima
Adjust the household, lifestyle and any category.
Monthly breakdown by category
One person, 1-bed apartment, average lifestyle. Median = the middle city of all 19.
| Category | Lima | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $530 | 49% | $540 |
| Groceries | $200 | 19% | $200 |
| Transport | $45 | 4% | $40 |
| Utilities | $60 | 6% | $58 |
| Internet | $28 | 3% | $28 |
| Coworking | $110 | 10% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $100 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $1,073 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Lima
Before signing, always ask about the deposit, any rent paid in advance, whether a guarantor is required and who pays utilities and building fees. These terms vary between landlords and are not fixed legal requirements.
Moving to Lima
Visa and residency rules in Peru depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Peru's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.