Chile
Cost of living in Santiago
Santiago is Chile's capital, in a central valley between the Andes and the Coastal Range. It has the highest cost estimates for rent in this dataset after Panama City, and a large metro network.
What it costs to live in Santiago
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Santiago comes to an estimated $1,700 a month: the 18th lowest of 19 cities and 58% above the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 53% of the total. Compared with the median city, you would spend more on rent, groceries, transport, utilities, internet, coworking and entertainment.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $810 | $1,210 | $1,720 |
| Average | $1,290 | $1,700 | $2,365 |
| Comfortable | $1,822 | $2,357 | $3,237 |
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 Santiago
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 | Santiago | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $900 | 53% | $540 |
| Groceries | $290 | 17% | $200 |
| Transport | $80 | 5% | $40 |
| Utilities | $85 | 5% | $58 |
| Internet | $35 | 2% | $28 |
| Coworking | $150 | 9% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $160 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $1,700 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Santiago
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 Santiago
Visa and residency rules in Chile depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Chile's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.