Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Cartagena costs approximately $960 per month for one person including rent. That is 41% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $951, Cartagena is on the more expensive side for Latin America & Caribbean. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $937 per month, or $456 outside the centre. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $6.80 and a monthly transit pass $32. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 135 Mbps and Cartagena scores 38/100 on safety (below average on safety), and Colombia offers a digital nomad visa. Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Cartagena is a city in Colombia, where a single person can expect to spend about $960 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $937 per month, or $456 outside the centre. Internet is solid at around 135 Mbps median download speed, and Colombia offers a digital nomad visa. On safety, Cartagena scores 38/100 — below average on safety for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 89°F and winter highs around 87°F, with roughly 357 sunny days a year.
Top for Party BeachTop for Medical TourismTop for Walking TourTop for CasinoDigital nomad visaLGBTQ+ friendlyFamily friendly
A single person should budget around $960 per month in Cartagena, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs.
How much is rent in Cartagena?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Cartagena averages $937 per month, dropping to about $456 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $1,583.
Is Cartagena safe?
Cartagena scores 38/100 on safety, which is below average on safety. Tourist safety is rated 42/100.
How fast is the internet in Cartagena?
Median download speeds in Cartagena are around 135 Mbps — solid for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 22 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Colombia offer a digital nomad visa?
Yes — Colombia offers a digital nomad visa. US passport holders can typically stay 90 days visa-free before applying.
What is the weather like in Cartagena?
Cartagena sees summer highs around 89°F and winter highs near 87°F, with about 357 sunny days and 180 rainy days per year.
