Is Bilbao or Lima cheaper to live in?

Lima is 30% cheaper than Bilbao. The average monthly cost in Lima is $1,170, while Bilbao costs $1,664 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Bilbao or Lima?

For digital nomads, Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps. Lima is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Bilbao has a NomadIQ score of 6.4/10 while Lima scores 7.1/10.

What is the rent difference between Bilbao and Lima?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $1,181/month in Bilbao and $705/month in Lima. Lima has 40% lower rent.

Is Bilbao or Lima safer?

Bilbao has a higher safety score of 5.1/10. Bilbao scores 5.1/10 for safety while Lima scores 3/10.

Should I move to Bilbao or Lima as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Lima if budget is important ($1,170/month). Choose Bilbao for better safety. Bilbao is better for remote work with 170 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Bilbao vs Lima

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/mo6.4/10

Lima

Peru

$1,170/mo7.1/10

Bilbao

Spain

$1,664/moNomadIQ 6.4/10

Lima

Peru

$1,170/moNomadIQ 7.1/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Bilbao

Lima

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,664

$1,170

Lima

Rent (1BR)

$1,181

$705

Lima

Groceries

$360

$260

Lima

Transport

$38

$60

Bilbao

Healthcare

$55

$120

Bilbao

Safety Score

5.1/10

3/10

Bilbao

Internet Speed

170 Mbps

90 Mbps

Bilbao

NomadIQ Score

6.4/10

7.1/10

Lima

Which city is better for digital nomads?

For digital nomads choosing between Bilbao and Lima, the answer depends on your priorities. Here's our analysis:

Best for Budget

Lima

$1,170/mo

Best Internet

Bilbao

170 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Lima

7.1/10

Our Recommendation: Lima is the clear winner for digital nomads, offering both affordability and excellent nomad infrastructure.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bilbao vs Lima

When comparing Bilbao and Lima for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Lima is the more budget-friendly option at $1,170/month versus Bilbao's $1,664/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Bilbao leads with 170 Mbps average internet speed, ideal for video calls and large file transfers. Lima offers 90 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5.1/10, Bilbao provides a more secure environment than Lima (3/10).

Overall: Lima's NomadIQ score of 7.1/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Lima is 30% cheaper than Bilbao.

• Bilbao rent: $1,181/mo
• Lima rent: $705/mo
• Difference: $476/mo

Safety Comparison

Bilbao has a higher safety score (5.1/10) compared to Lima (3/10).

5.1/10

Bilbao

3/10

Lima

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Bilbao offers faster internet at 170 Mbps vs 90 Mbps.

170 Mbps

Bilbao

90 Mbps

Lima

Which City Is Better for Expats?

Both cities are excellent choices for expats, with each having unique strengths.

Bilbao: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Lima: Best for budget-conscious expats

Bilbao vs Lima

Bilbao

Lima

Bilbao

Lima

Detailed Comparison

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Bilbao vs Lima

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Bilbao vs Lima