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 mid-range for living costs and 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. 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. Many newcomers don’t expect this. 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.
Cost of transport in Peru
The cost of transport in Peru is low. Buses, the Metropolitano rapid transit network, the Lima Metro, and taxis are the main ways of getting around, and all are affordable. Buses are widely available but can be slow, and overcrowding is common. Ride-hailing apps such as Uber, Cabify, DiDi, and inDrive are popular in Lima and a handy alternative to street taxis.
Owning a car is worth considering if you want to venture out beyond the cities or prefer the freedom of your own wheels, but it is pricier than public transport. The government taxes fuel, so petrol is not cheap at the pump. You’ll also pay for insurance and city parking.
Cost of groceries in Peru
The cost of groceries in Peru is relatively low. 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 pays to know your stalls.
Plaza Vea is one of the country’s largest supermarket chains and handy for a big shop under one roof. 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, where the teaching is to a higher standard, and pupils can 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.
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 widely available, 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. Take out full health insurance 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.
Cost of living in Peru chart
Prices are listed in Peruvian soles (PEN) and may vary depending on the product and service provider. The list below shows average prices for Lima in September 2026.
| Accommodation (monthly rent) | |
| One-bedroom apartment in the city centre | PEN 2,600 |
| One-bedroom apartment outside the city centre | PEN 1,200 |
| Three-bedroom apartment in the city centre | PEN 4,300 |
| Three-bedroom apartment outside the city centre | PEN 2,250 |
| Shopping | |
| Eggs (dozen) | PEN 10 |
| Milk (1 litre) | PEN 5.50 |
| Rice (1kg) | PEN 4.65 |
| Loaf of white bread | PEN 8 |
| Chicken breasts (1kg) | PEN 20 |
| Cheese (500g) | PEN 15 |
| Eating out | |
| Three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | PEN 110 |
| Big Mac Meal | PEN 24 |
| Coca-Cola (330ml) | PEN 3.50 |
| Cappuccino | PEN 10 |
| Local draft beer (500ml) | PEN 9 |
| Utilities | |
| Mobile phone monthly plan with calls and data | PEN 55 |
| Internet (uncapped cable or fibre, average per month) | PEN 95 |
| Basic utilities (average per month for a standard household) | PEN 230 |
| Transport | |
| Taxi rate (per kilometre) | PEN 6 |
| Bus/train fare in the city centre | PEN 2.50 |
| Gasoline/petrol (per litre) | PEN 5.50 |