Colombia
Cost of Living in Medellín
Monthly expenses, rent & budget analysis — Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates
COL+Rent: 19.1Rent: 8.9Groceries: 30.2Restaurant: 24
Monthly Budget Estimates
Minimal
$454/mo
Outside-center room, basic groceries, public transit
Typical
$705/mo
City-center 1BR, regular groceries & dining out
Comfortable
$899/mo
Premium apartment, frequent dining, entertainment
Monthly Costs Breakdown
| Category | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR City Center) | $332 |
| Rent (1BR Outside Center) | $217 |
| Groceries (monthly) | $198 |
| Restaurant Meal | $7 |
| Transit Pass (monthly) | $27 |
| Utilities (monthly) | $43 |
Source: Numbeo 2026 country rankings (cost indices) and OECD 2025 PPP rates · Reviewed April 2026
Can You Afford Medellín?
Compare Medellín with other cities at specific budget levels:
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Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Medellín?
A minimal monthly budget in Medellín is approximately $454, a typical budget is $705, and a comfortable lifestyle costs around $899 per month.
How much is rent in Medellín?
A 1-bedroom apartment in Medellín city center costs approximately $332/month. Outside the center, expect around $217/month.
Is Medellín expensive compared to New York?
Medellín's COL+Rent Index is 19.1 compared to New York's 100, meaning Medellín is about 81% cheaper than NYC overall.
What is the average grocery cost in Medellín?
Monthly groceries in Medellín cost approximately $198. The city's Groceries Index is 30.2 (NYC = 100).