SantiagovsLima
Overall
đź’°-23.6%
Santiago is 23.6%cheaper
Rent
đźŹ-20.0%
Housing is 20.0% lower
Dining
🍽️-30.0%
Restaurants 30.0% cheaper
Groceries
đź›’-18.2%
Food shopping 18.2% less
Comparing the cost of living between Santiago, Chile and Lima, Peru reveals significant insights for anyone considering relocation or travel in 2025. Our comprehensive analysis shows that Santiago is more affordable than Lima by approximately 23.6%. 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 Santiago are higher than in Lima by 25%. A one-bedroom apartment in Santiago's city center costs around CLPÂ 500,000, while the same in Lima is approximately PENÂ 2,000.
Dining out in Santiago is notably more expensive compared to Lima. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs CLPÂ 7,000 in Santiago versus PENÂ 15 in Lima.
Public transportation in Santiago is more expensive, with monthly passes at CLPÂ 33,000 compared to PENÂ 100 in Lima.
Purchasing power in Santiago is notably stronger, meaning residents can afford more goods and services with their local salaries compared to Lima.
Grocery shopping in Santiago is more expensive by approximately 22%. Basic items like milk, bread, and eggs show higher prices across the board.
Monthly Budget Breakdown
When breaking down monthly expenses, a single person in Santiago can expect to spend approximately CLPÂ 286,600 per month (excluding rent), while in Lima, the same lifestyle would cost around PENÂ 867. For families, these figures increase significantly, with a family of four requiring about CLPÂ 1,003,100 monthly in Santiago versus PENÂ 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
đź›’ Groceries
🚌 Transportation
đź’ˇ Utilities & Internet
Tips for Moving Between Cities
For those considering a move from Lima to Santiago, 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 Santiago to Lima 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
Santiago
Lima
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Santiago more expensive than Lima?
No, Santiago is approximately 23.6% cheaper than Lima. You'll find significant savings in housing, food, and transportation costs.
How much salary do I need in Santiago compared to Lima?
To maintain the same standard of living, you would need approximately 81% of your Lima salary when living in Santiago. For example, if you earn $50,000 in Lima, you'd need about $40,441 in Santiago for a comparable lifestyle.
What are the biggest cost differences between Santiago and Lima?
The most significant cost difference is in dining out. Restaurant prices vary by about 43%, which can significantly impact your entertainment budget. Transportation and utilities show notable variations between the two cities.
Which city is better for expats and digital nomads?
Santiago offers better purchasing power, making it more attractive for those earning in strong currencies. However, Santiago provides lower living costs, which benefits budget-conscious travelers. Consider Santiago if you prioritize earning potential, or Lima for affordability.
What's a reasonable monthly budget for Santiago vs Lima?
In Santiago, a single person needs approximately CLPÂ 636,600 per month (including rent), while a family of four requires about CLPÂ 1,653,100. In Lima, these figures are PENÂ 2,067 for singles and PENÂ 5,235 for families. These estimates include housing, food, transportation, and basic entertainment.
The cost of living comparison between Santiago and Lima in 2025 shows significant 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 Santiago
Calculate Salary Equivalence