Buenos AiresvsLima
Overall
💰+5.0%
Buenos Aires is 5.0%more expensive
Rent
🏠+12.0%
Housing is 12.0% higher
Dining
🍽️0.0%
Restaurants 0.0% same
Groceries
🛒+18.4%
Food shopping 18.4% more
Comparing the cost of living between Buenos Aires, Argentina and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Buenos Aires is more expensive than Lima by approximately 5.0%. This comparison covers essential living expenses including housing, food, transportation, and utilities, providing you with a complete picture of what to expect financially in each city.
Key Cost Differences
Housing costs in Buenos Aires are lower than in Lima by 11%. A one-bedroom apartment in Buenos Aires's city center costs around ARS 400,000, while the same in Lima is approximately PEN 2,000.
Dining out in Buenos Aires costs about the same compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs ARS 4,000 in Buenos Aires versus PEN 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in Buenos Aires is more expensive, with monthly passes at ARS 2,500 compared to PEN 100 in Lima.
Grocery shopping in Buenos Aires is more affordable by approximately 16%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show lower prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Buenos Aires can expect to spend approximately ARS 101,900 per month (excluding rent), while in Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PEN 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about ARS 356,650 monthly in Buenos Aires versus PEN 3,035 in Lima. These estimates include groceries, dining out, transportation, utilities, and entertainment, providing a realistic picture of day-to-day living costs in each city.
Detailed Cost Comparison
🏠 Housing Costs (Monthly Rent)
🍽️ Food & Dining
🛒 Groceries
🚌 Transportation
💡 Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Buenos Aires to Lima, the cost savings can be substantial, particularly in housing and daily expenses. However, it's important to factor in salary differences and job opportunities. Conversely, moving from Lima to Buenos Aires requires careful financial planning. Consider negotiating salary adjustments that reflect the higher cost of living, and research neighborhoods outside the city center for more affordable housing options while maintaining reasonable commute times.
Quality of Life Indices
Buenos Aires
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Buenos Aires more expensive than Lima?
The cost of living in Buenos Aires and Lima is relatively similar, with only minor differences in specific categories. Your actual expenses will depend on your lifestyle choices.
How much salary do I need in Buenos Aires compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 1.1x of your Lima salary when living in Buenos Aires. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $52,500 in Buenos Aires for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Buenos Aires and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in groceries. Grocery costs differ by roughly 16%, affecting your daily shopping expenses. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Lima offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Lima provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Buenos Aires if you prioritize cultural experiences, or Lima for better value.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Buenos Aires vs Lima?
In Buenos Aires, a single person needs approximately ARS 401,900 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about ARS 956,650. In Lima, these figures are PEN 2,067 for singles and PEN 5,235 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Buenos Aires and Lima in 2025 shows moderate differences across various expense categories. Whether you're planning a relocation for work, considering retirement options, or simply curious about living costs, understanding these differences is crucial for making informed financial decisions.
Need to calculate salary equivalence?
Find out how much you need to earn in Lima to maintain your lifestyle from Buenos Aires
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