Chile vs Peru: Which Is Cheaper?
Peru is the cheaper country overall — about 12% less than Chile, or roughly $946 versus $1,073 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 3 and 2 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $587 in Chile against $682 in Peru. Chile rates higher on safety (60 vs 49/100). Internet is faster in Chile (344 vs 236 Mbps). Healthcare scores 66 vs 58/100, favouring Chile.
Chile vs Peru at a glance
| Metric | Chile | Peru |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $1,073 | $946 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $587 | $682 |
| Safety | 60/100 | 49/100 |
| Internet | 344 Mbps | 236 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 66/100 | 58/100 |
| Walkability | 65/100 | 53/100 |
| English spoken | 12% | 10% |
| Avg temperature | 73°F | 72°F |
| Digital nomad visa | No | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 2 cities in Chile and 3 in Peru.
Cost range by country
In Chile, monthly costs run from Valparaiso at $960 up to Santiago at $1,089.
In Peru, monthly costs run from Arequipa at $700 up to Lima at $977.
Chile vs Peru FAQ
Is Chile or Peru cheaper to live in?
Peru is cheaper — about $946 a month for a single person versus $1,073 — roughly 12% less.
Is Chile or Peru safer?
Chile scores higher on safety: 60/100 versus 49/100.
Is Chile or Peru better for retirement?
It depends on priorities: Peru is cheaper ($946 vs $1,073/mo), while Chile scores higher on healthcare (66 vs 58/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Chile or Peru?
Chile has faster internet (344 vs 236 Mbps), but Peru stretches a remote income further at $946/mo.
Is Chile or Peru better to visit?
Peru is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $946 a month for day-to-day costs, while Chile edges it on safety (60/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 2 cities in Chile and 3 in Peru.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Chile comes out ahead — it leads on cheaper rent, higher safety, faster internet, though Peru is cheaper at $946/mo if budget is your top priority.
Choose Chile for
- cheaper rent
- higher safety
- faster internet
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Peru for
- a lower cost of living