Is Cartagena or Rome cheaper to live in?

Cartagena is 27% cheaper than Rome. The average monthly cost in Cartagena is $1,410, while Rome costs $1,943 per month.

Which city is better for digital nomads: Cartagena or Rome?

For digital nomads, Rome offers faster internet at 140 Mbps. Cartagena is more budget-friendly with lower living costs. Both cities have their strengths - Cartagena has a NomadIQ score of 6.8/10 while Rome scores 6.9/10.

What is the rent difference between Cartagena and Rome?

A 1-bedroom apartment costs $932/month in Cartagena and $1,356/month in Rome. Cartagena has 31% lower rent.

Is Cartagena or Rome safer?

Rome has a higher safety score of 5.3/10. Cartagena scores 4.8/10 for safety while Rome scores 5.3/10.

Should I move to Cartagena or Rome as an expat?

The choice depends on your priorities. Choose Cartagena if budget is important ($1,410/month). Choose Rome for better safety. Rome is better for remote work with 140 Mbps internet.

Back to Comparison Tool

Cartagena vs Rome

Cost of Living, Safety & Expat Guide (2026)

Cartagena

Colombia

$1,410/mo6.8/10

Rome

Italy

$1,943/mo6.9/10

Cartagena

Colombia

$1,410/moNomadIQ 6.8/10

Rome

Italy

$1,943/moNomadIQ 6.9/10

Detailed Comparison

Factor

Cartagena

Rome

Winner

Total Monthly Cost

$1,410

$1,943

Cartagena

Rent (1BR)

$932

$1,356

Cartagena

Groceries

$300

$380

Cartagena

Transport

$50

$45

Rome

Healthcare

$100

$130

Cartagena

Safety Score

4.8/10

5.3/10

Rome

Internet Speed

85 Mbps

140 Mbps

Rome

NomadIQ Score

6.8/10

6.9/10

Rome

Which city is better for digital nomads?

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

Best for Budget

Cartagena

$1,410/mo

Best Internet

Rome

140 Mbps

Best NomadIQ Score

Rome

6.9/10

Our Recommendation: Choose Cartagena if budget is your top priority, or Rome if you need the fastest internet for remote work.

Digital Nomad Analysis: Cartagena vs Rome

When comparing Cartagena and Rome for digital nomads, several factors come into play.

Cost of Living: Cartagena offers a more affordable lifestyle at $1,410/month compared to Rome's $1,943/month.

Internet & Remote Work: Rome provides faster connectivity at 140 Mbps compared to Cartagena's 85 Mbps.

Safety: With a safety score of 5.3/10, Rome offers better security than Cartagena (4.8/10).

Overall: Rome's NomadIQ score of 6.9/10 gives it an edge for remote workers.

Cost of Living Comparison

Cartagena is 27% cheaper than Rome.

• Cartagena rent: $932/mo
• Rome rent: $1,356/mo
• Difference: $424/mo

Safety Comparison

Rome has a higher safety score (5.3/10) compared to Cartagena (4.8/10).

4.8/10

Cartagena

5.3/10

Rome

Digital Nomad Friendliness

For remote workers, internet speed is crucial. Rome offers faster internet at 140 Mbps vs 85 Mbps.

85 Mbps

Cartagena

140 Mbps

Rome

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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

Cartagena: Best for budget-conscious expats

Rome: Best for those prioritizing amenities

Cartagena vs Rome

Cartagena

Rome

Cartagena

Rome

Detailed Comparison

Which city is better for digital nomads?

Digital Nomad Analysis: Cartagena vs Rome

Cost of Living Comparison

Safety Comparison

Digital Nomad Friendliness

Which City Is Better for Expats?

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Frequently Asked Questions: Cartagena vs Rome