Cost of Living in Peru

The cost of living in Peru is moderate compared to other Latin American countries. You’ll pay more in the cities than in the countryside, and Lima is the priciest of the lot. Outside the main cities, expect a narrower choice of shops and services and less consistent produce.

Lima itself is a mid-range city in terms of living expenses. It is more affordable than many major international capitals, although housing in the sought-after neighbourhoods and imported goods can still be pricey.

Cost of accommodation in Peru

The cost of accommodation in Peru is highest in the larger cities, where apartments are pricier. Lima has the most expensive housing, particularly in areas such as Miraflores, Barranco, San Isidro, and San Borja.

Accommodation is likely to be your most significant expense when living in Peru. If you’re moving to the country as part of a corporate relocation programme, it’s a good idea to factor accommodation costs into contract negotiations. You’ll also need to budget for utilities such as electricity, water, gas, and internet, which are usually not included in the monthly rent. Upfront costs can be steep, so set aside enough for the deposit and any agency fees.

You’ll usually pay a monthly maintenance fee (mantenimiento) for shared areas and security on top of the rent, which many newcomers don’t expect. If Miraflores or Barranco prices are more than you want to pay, you’ll get more room for your money in districts a little further out, such as Pueblo Libre or Jesús María.

Accommodation in Peru

Cost of transport in Peru

Buses, the Lima Metro system, and taxis are the main forms of public transport in Peru. Buses are widely available but can be slow, and overcrowding is common. Public transport is cheap, though, and getting around is fairly easy. Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Cabify are also widely used in Lima and are a handy alternative to traditional taxis.

If you’d like to discover the rest of the country or prefer the convenience of having your own vehicle, you’ll find that running a vehicle can be expensive due to high import costs. The government levies several taxes on fuel, so petrol is fairly pricey at the pump.

Public Transport in Peru

Cost of groceries in Peru

Grocery prices in Peru are relatively affordable. Food at local fresh produce markets is generally cheaper than in supermarkets, and you can often haggle over the price. Quality is not always consistent, so it’s worth knowing your stalls.

For a wide selection under one roof, Plaza Vea is one of the country’s largest chains. Wong is at the premium end and pricier than its rivals, so budget-minded shoppers usually head to value chains like Metro or Mass, or to the neighbourhood markets.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Peru

Eating out in Peru is one of the country’s real pleasures, from traditional local eateries to fine dining. Mid-range and upscale restaurants can be more expensive, but street food and the local markets are the go-to options for a cheap, tasty meal.

Museums, live music, historical tours, and the cinema are all cheap in Peru. Peru’s nightlife is lively, especially in Lima and the other big cities. You can spend big at high-end venues, but there are plenty of cheaper nights out too.

Outdoor enthusiasts are spoilt for choice in Peru, from hiking in the Andes to surfing off the coast. You’ll need a guide or specialised equipment for some of it, but there are plenty of low-cost ways to get outdoors.

Cost of education in Peru

Public education in Peru is free, but the system is underfunded, and lessons are taught in Spanish. Most expat parents send their children to private or international schools, which offer a higher standard of education and allow pupils to continue in their home language or curriculum.

International school fees are a significant expense, so build them into your budget from the start. If you’re relocating for work, try to negotiate an education allowance into your package.

Public Education in Peru
International Schools in Peru

Cost of healthcare in Peru

Healthcare in Peru is split into public and private systems. The public system is cheap and reachable, but you’ll face long waits and patchy facilities. Private healthcare is a clear step up and is what most foreign residents choose, although it is more expensive. Full health insurance is worth taking out to cover private facilities and specialist consultations.

Some multinational companies include health insurance in their relocation packages. If you’re arranging your own, several international providers sell plans built for people living in Peru. Compare policies carefully and pick the best fit for your needs and budget.

Healthcare in Peru