🇨🇴

Moving to Colombia

South America • Rank #9 for American Expats

80
Overall Score

Overview

Colombia has undergone a remarkable transformation and now ranks among the top destinations for American expats. The combination of affordable living, warm culture, and the famous Medellín climate attracts thousands of newcomers each year.

The Digital Nomad Visa makes Colombia accessible for remote workers, requiring proof of income (approximately $3,000/month) and health insurance. Retirement and investment visas are also available with reasonable requirements.

Medellín, known as the 'City of Eternal Spring,' offers perfect weather year-round (70-80°F), modern infrastructure, and a large expat community. Cartagena offers Caribbean beaches and colonial charm. Bogotá is the business and cultural capital.

Healthcare in Colombia is excellent and affordable. The country has several internationally accredited hospitals, and routine medical care costs a fraction of US prices.

Learning Spanish is important for integration, though you can get by in expat-heavy areas with English. The Colombian people are known for their warmth and friendliness.

Safety has improved dramatically, though it's important to research specific neighborhoods and exercise normal urban precautions.

✅ Highlights

  • Very affordable
  • Warm, welcoming culture
  • Beautiful landscapes
  • Growing expat community
  • Excellent value healthcare

⚠️ Challenges

  • !Safety concerns in some areas
  • !Spanish necessary
  • !Less developed infrastructure

Other Countries in South America

Compare Colombia with Other Countries

See how Colombia stacks up against other top destinations.

Open Comparison Tool →