Colombia vs Peru: Which Is Cheaper?
Colombia is the cheaper country overall — about 8% less than Peru, or roughly $874 versus $946 a month for a single person (population-weighted across 5 and 3 cities). A city-centre one-bedroom averages $561 in Colombia against $682 in Peru. Peru rates higher on safety (49 vs 31/100). Internet is faster in Peru (236 vs 201 Mbps). Healthcare scores 68 vs 58/100, favouring Colombia.
Colombia vs Peru at a glance
| Metric | Colombia | Peru |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of living / mo | $874 | $946 |
| Rent (1BR, centre) / mo | $561 | $682 |
| Safety | 31/100 | 49/100 |
| Internet | 201 Mbps | 236 Mbps |
| Healthcare | 68/100 | 58/100 |
| Walkability | 57/100 | 53/100 |
| English spoken | 9% | 10% |
| Avg temperature | 74°F | 72°F |
| Digital nomad visa | Yes | Yes |
Figures are population-weighted averages across 5 cities in Colombia and 3 in Peru.
Cost range by country
In Colombia, monthly costs run from Santa Marta at $751 up to Cartagena at $960.
In Peru, monthly costs run from Arequipa at $700 up to Lima at $977.
Colombia vs Peru FAQ
Is Colombia or Peru cheaper to live in?
Colombia is cheaper — about $874 a month for a single person versus $946 — roughly 8% less.
Is Colombia or Peru safer?
Peru scores higher on safety: 49/100 versus 31/100.
Is Colombia or Peru better for retirement?
Colombia is the stronger pick for retirees — both cheaper ($874/mo) and higher on healthcare (68/100).
Which is better for digital nomads, Colombia or Peru?
Peru has faster internet (236 vs 201 Mbps), but Colombia stretches a remote income further at $874/mo.
Is Colombia or Peru better to visit?
Colombia is the more budget-friendly trip at roughly $874 a month for day-to-day costs, while Peru edges it on safety (49/100). Both offer plenty of variety — 5 cities in Colombia and 3 in Peru.
Which should you choose?
On balance, Colombia comes out ahead — it leads on a lower cost of living, cheaper rent, better healthcare and is the cheaper of the two at $874/mo.
Choose Colombia for
- a lower cost of living
- cheaper rent
- better healthcare
- better walkability
Choose Peru for
- higher safety
- faster internet