Living in Lima
Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)
Country
Peru
Monthly Cost
$1,170
Internet
90 Mbps
Safety
3/10
Rent (1BR)
$705
Living in Lima — Quick Take
Best for: Remote workers seeking value
Cost level: Low ($1,170/mo)
Main downside: Street smarts needed
Quick Facts
$1,170/mo
Low3/10
Variable90 Mbps
Fast$705
Cheap$628/mo
10.1M
Major CityMonthly Living Cost Breakdown
Who Is Lima For?
The combination of pricing and connectivity works well for online professionals.
Budget-wise, $1,170/month is competitive globally.
Retirement here is feasible given the safety and expense levels.
Want more amenities? Krakow offers a higher standard.
Best Neighborhoods in Lima
4 neighborhoods rated for expats and digital nomads — Miraflores tops the list at /10
Miraflores is one of Lima’s most popular districts for expats, offering ocean views, modern amenities, shopping centers, and a vibrant nightlife scene.
Neighborhood ratings based on expat livability, cost, and lifestyle fit. Data reflects current conditions in Lima, Peru.
Pros and Cons of Living in Lima
Pros
- Very affordable cost of living - ideal for budget-conscious expats
- Adequate internet speed for most remote work needs
- Very affordable rent for 1-bedroom apartments
Cons
- Safety concerns exist - research specific neighborhoods
Job & Income Overview
Avg Local Salary
$628/mo
Salary-to-Rent Ratio
0.9x
The salary-to-rent picture isn't great—many expats rely on foreign income sources.
On a local salary alone, making ends meet is tight. Remote work or savings bridge the gap.
Cost Insight
Lima is one of the more affordable options for expats. Your money stretches further here.
Housing takes up most of your budget here—about 60% of total costs. The rest is relatively cheap.
That's 227% cheaper than Krakow at $3,823/month.
Common Questions About Lima
How much does it cost to live in Lima?
About $1,170/month for one person. Actual costs vary based on habits and neighborhood.
Is Lima safe for expats?
Lima is variable by neighborhood with a 3/10 safety score. Standard precautions apply.
Is Lima good for remote workers?
With 90 Mbps average speeds, Lima is excellent for remote work. Coworking options exist.
How much is rent in Lima?
A 1-bedroom averages $705/month. Prices vary by neighborhood and proximity to center.
Calculate Your Cost in Lima
Get personalized estimates based on your lifestyle
Explore More About Lima
NomadIQ Score
out of 10
Very Good
Quick Stats
Safety Score
3/10
Internet Speed
90 Mbps
Monthly Cost
$1,170
Explore Similar Cities
Final Thoughts
Lima is a solid choice for those seeking a change of scenery looking to relocate abroad. With a monthly cost of living around $1,170, a safety score of 3/10, and internet speeds of 90 Mbps, the city offers a balanced package for international residents. Whether you're drawn by the culture, the cost savings, or the lifestyle opportunities, Lima deserves a spot on your shortlist. We recommend visiting for a few weeks before making a long-term commitment to ensure it aligns with your personal and professional needs.
Data sources include public cost-of-living datasets, user-reported data, and internal analysis. Last updated: August 2026.
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