Living in Bolivia as an expat
Expats moving to Bolivia will find it diverse in every sense. The country's local culture draws strongly from its multi-ethnic indigenous roots, centuries of Spanish occupation, and the influence of its five neighbouring countries. Bolivia is home to the soaring peaks of the Cordillera Real, the stunning salt flats of Uyuni, and the tropical rainforest environment of the Amazon Basin.
The population of expats in Bolivia is small, and you will find most foreigners in the capital cities, Sucre and La Paz, or in other major hubs like Santa Cruz de la Sierra and Cochabamba. Most expats work for NGOs or volunteer for brief periods, although the government has policies to encourage foreign business investment. In a significant move to boost tourism and investment, Bolivia lifted visa requirements for citizens of the United States and several other countries in late 2025.
Bolivia is one of the poorest countries in South America. While it holds vast oil, natural gas, and mineral resources, the economy has faced significant challenges recently, including currency shortages and fuel supply issues that expats must contend with.
You can find plenty of housing options in Bolivia, primarily detached houses, although apartments are also available. Renting accommodation and buying property are feasible options, and costs vary depending on location and property size.
Public transport is affordable but often falls short of international standards. Driving in Bolivia is not for the faint-hearted. If you are brave enough to get behind the wheel, be aware that road infrastructure is often poor, and driving conditions can be chaotic. Social unrest and protests can occasionally lead to roadblocks, known as bloqueos, which may disrupt travel between cities.
While there are some good private hospitals in Bolivia, the general standard of medical facilities is low. Hospitals are typically underfunded, and waiting times are long. You must ensure you have a comprehensive health insurance policy that covers treatment outside Bolivia and medical evacuation.
Although Bolivia is generally peaceful, safety and security can still be a concern. Petty theft is common, especially in major tourist hubs, so you should always take precautions to keep valuable items out of sight.
Cost of living in Bolivia
The cost of living in Bolivia is low compared to North America or Europe, with everything from transport and rent to groceries costing significantly less. That said, recent inflation and the scarcity of imported goods due to currency fluctuations can affect prices.
Local salaries are low, so you will do well to work remotely and earn in a foreign currency. Retirees will find they do not need a hefty pension to live comfortably, often spending much less than they would at home.
Families and children in Bolivia
If you're moving to Bolivia with a family and children, private and international schools will likely be your preferred choice. Public schooling in Bolivia is generally of lower quality, and facilities are often poorly maintained. Fortunately, you can find international schools that allow your children to continue with a familiar curriculum, whether American, British, French, or German.
Bolivia is child friendly, as family is an integral part of the culture. You will discover plenty to do with the kids, such as exploring the countryside, visiting museums and landmarks, or relaxing in a local plaza (square) or park.
Climate in Bolivia
The climate in Bolivia is as varied as its geography, ranging from humid and tropical to cold and semi-arid. In high-altitude regions, temperatures can swing from warm sunshine during the day to freezing at night, while the lowlands are generally hot and humid year-round. Winter, from June to September, is the dry season, while summer, from November to March, is the wet season. In the main cities, you can expect climates ranging from cool and alpine in La Paz to hot and tropical in Santa Cruz.
Moving to Bolivia may take some getting used to. You'll need to adjust to a slower pace of life and prepare to overcome bureaucratic hurdles. Making an effort to understand the country’s culture, traditions, and languages will help you settle in. Despite the challenges, if you have a sense of adventure, you are sure to enjoy life in this land of unparalleled natural beauty.
Fast facts
Official name: Plurinational State of Bolivia
Population: Over 12.3 million
Capital cities: Sucre (constitutional) and La Paz (administrative)
Other cities: Santa Cruz de la Sierra (largest city), El Alto, Cochabamba
Neighbouring countries: Bolivia is bordered by Peru to the west, Brazil to the north and east, Paraguay to the southeast, Argentina to the south, and Chile to the southwest.
Geography: Bolivia is landlocked and has a diverse geography, including vast plains, rocky mountainous regions (the Andes), and the Amazon Basin.
Political system: Unitary presidential constitutional republic
Major religions: Roman Catholicism and Protestantism
Main languages: Bolivia's official language is Spanish, but the country also recognises over 30 indigenous languages, including Quechua, Aymara, and Guaraní.
Money: The Bolivian Boliviano (BOB) is divided into 100 centavos. Expats typically need a residence permit to open a bank account, and the process often requires a Spanish translator. Cash is accepted more readily than credit cards, and ATMs, although common in cities, often charge high fees.
Tipping: Tipping is not always expected, but a small tip of five to 10 percent of a restaurant bill is always appreciated.
Time: GMT-4
Electricity: 230V, 50Hz. Plugs are two-pronged with round pins or flat blades (type C and type A).
Internet domain: .bo
International dialling code: +591
Emergency contacts: 110 (police), 165 (ambulance), 119 (fire)
Transport and driving: Cars drive on the right-hand side of the road. Public transport, such as buses and taxis, is affordable and widely available, though standards and infrastructure are often poor compared to developed countries.