San Antonio, Chile

Capital City

Living in San Antonio means dealing with a port city’s grit. The Mediterranean climate keeps things mild, but the coastal winds can whip through town, especially near the waterfront. Winters are damp, and the 570mm of annual rain tends to fall in bursts, leaving streets slick and sidewalks slippery.

The port dominates the local economy, and when it shut down after the 2010 earthquake, the city felt the hit. Today, it’s back to being Chile’s main freight hub, but that industrial focus means San Antonio isn’t winning any beauty contests. Most of the population lives in urban areas, so expect apartment living unless you’re willing to commute from the outskirts. This city is for those who want a functional, no-frills base near the ocean, not a polished expat haven.