Argentina vs Peru: Which Is Cheaper?

Peru is the cheaper country overall — about 23% less than Argentina, or roughly $946 versus $1,224 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 3 and 3 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $492 in Argentina against $682 in Peru. Argentina rates higher on safety (59 vs 49/100). Internet is faster in Peru (236 vs 106 Mbps). Healthcare scores 67 vs 58/100, favouring Argentina.
Argentina vs Peru at a glance
| Metric | Argentina | Peru |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,224 | $946 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $492 | $682 |
| Safety | 59/100 | 49/100 |
| Internet | 106 Mbps | 236 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 67/100 | 58/100 |
| Walkability | 76/100 | 53/100 |
| English spoken | 14% | 10% |
| Avg temperature | 72°F | 72°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 3 cities in Argentina and 3 in Peru.
Cost range by country
In Argentina, monthly costs run from Mendoza at $680 up to Buenos Aires at $1,271.
In Peru, monthly costs run from Arequipa at $700 up to Lima at $977.
Argentina vs Peru FAQ
Is Argentina or Peru cheaper to live in?
Peru is cheaper — about $946 a month for a single person versus $1,224 — roughly 23% less.
Is Argentina or Peru safer?
Argentina scores higher on safety: 59/100 versus 49/100.
Is Argentina or Peru better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Peru is cheaper ($946 vs $1,224/mo), while Argentina scores higher on healthcare (67 vs 58/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Argentina or Peru?
Peru — it pairs faster internet (236 Mbps) with the lower cost of living ($946/mo), the combination most remote workers want.
Is Argentina or Peru better to visit?
Peru is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $946 a month for day-to-day costs, while Argentina edges it on safety (59/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 3 cities in Argentina and 3 in Peru.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Argentina comes out ahead — it leads on cheaper rent, higher safety, better healthcare, though Peru is cheaper at $946/mo if budget is your top priority.
Choose Argentina for
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Peru for
- a lower cost of living
- faster internet