Cartagena vs Medellin: Cost of Living Compared

Medellin is roughly 2% cheaper overall — about $940 versus $960 per month for a single person. A city-centre one-bedroom averages $642 in Medellin against $937 in Cartagena. Cartagena scores higher on safety (38 vs 35/100). Internet is faster in Medellin (207 vs 135 Mbps).

City Comparer

Cartagena, Colombia
CartagenaColombia
Medellin, Colombia
MedellinColombia
90%overall match
Cartagena leads in divingMedellin leads in hikingMedellin leads in rainy days
💰Cost🛡️Safety☀️Weather🎭Culture🏄Activities🌐Internet
CartagenaMedellin
Daily Cost$32/day
$31/day
Monthly Cost$960
$940
Rent$937
$642
Safety38
35
Healthcare79
79
Air Quality85
83
Tourist Safety42
45
Disaster Risk20
30
Winter High87°F
76°F
Summer High89°F
82°F
Sunny Days189
168
Rainy Days87
160
Nightlife60
68
Food72
74
Culture72
55
Coffee Culture65
85
Veg Friendly42
48
Late Night4/6
4/6
Cleanliness48
55
Green Spaces45
60
Hiking30
70
Beaches85
65
Surfing10
0
Skiing0
0
Diving50
0
Yoga45
55
Running40
50
Sports40
65
Bikeability20
30
Internet135 Mbps
207 Mbps
Transit35
55
Walkability62
62
Cowork Spaces22
55
Power Reliability99
99

Cartagena vs Medellin FAQ

Is Cartagena or Medellin cheaper to live in?

Medellin is cheaper — about $940 per month versus $960, roughly 2% less.

Is Cartagena or Medellin safer?

Cartagena scores higher: 38/100 versus 35/100.

Which has faster internet, Cartagena or Medellin?

Medellin — median download speeds are 207 Mbps versus 135 Mbps.