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Barranquilla, Colombia
Capital City

Follows Colombia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$900
Retiree Score
78.0
Safety Index
48.4
Healthcare
18 facilities

Despite Barranquilla's strategic importance as Colombia's fourth-largest city and a major port, the reality of living here is a mixed bag. With a population of 1,326,588, the city boasts a vibrant economy and cosmopolitan feel, but bureaucracy is a persistent headache and the tropical climate can be oppressive. Violent crime, while declining, remains an issue, with a homicide rate (22 per 100,000) that exceeds the national average. Those drawn to Barranquilla's cultural riches, from its famed carnival to its diverse cuisine, may find the tradeoffs worthwhile, but it's not for the faint of heart.

Can I afford Barranquilla?

$

Barranquilla

You could save

2,100/mo

Savings Rate70%

Monthly Costs

Rent $380
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$520

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
70/100
Retiree Score
(i)
78/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Colombia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
48
Safety
18
Healthcare
100
Walkability
100
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$7
Meal (Mid-range) $95
Cappuccino $3
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $158
Mobile Plan (mo) $11
Gym (mo) *$28
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $380
1BR Outside (mo) *$344
3BR Center (mo) $750
3BR Outside (mo) *$630

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
El Golf, Riomar
Best For
business professionals, families

Expat Life Notes

A major port city known for its Carnival. It is less touristy than Cartagena but offers a more authentic coastal life.

Pros

  • ✓ Friendly people (Costeños)
  • ✓ Developing modern infrastructure
  • ✓ Relatively safe in wealthy districts

Cons

  • ✗ Extreme tropical heat
  • ✗ Loud noise levels
  • ✗ Spanish is essential

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
23°C°C - 32°C°C
Annual Rainfall
1083 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Barranquilla

Click any question to expand the answer.

Barranquilla has a population of approximately 1,326,588 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $950 per month in Barranquilla, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $380/month.

The nearest airport to Barranquilla is BAQ, approximately 11km away.

Barranquilla is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 48.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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