Expatriatesai
Latin America · moderate destination

Cost of living in Uruguay for expats

A realistic monthly budget for one person living comfortably in Uruguay — rent, food, transport, and everyday costs in Montevideo.

Monthly budget

$1,500–2,200

One person, all-in, in Montevideo

Rent (1-bed)

$600–1,000

1-bedroom city-centre apartment, per month

Budget tier

Moderate

~$1,500–2,800/mo

What to know

What makes Uruguay stand out, and what to watch for

Why expats choose Uruguay

The region's top marks for safety, clean institutions and drinkable tap water, with an easy residency path and a stable, calm lifestyle.

Watch out for

It's South America's most expensive country and imported goods are notably pricey — you pay more here for the stability and safety.

Costs vary a lot by city, neighbourhood, and lifestyle — these are directional monthly bands for the main expat city, current as of 2026. Treat them as a starting point, not a quote. Information only, not financial advice.

Compare

Cost of living elsewhere in Latin America

All 16 in Latin America →
CountryMonthly budget
Mexico$1,400–2,200
Argentina$1,500–2,000
Costa Rica$1,600–2,500
Panama$1,700–2,800
Colombia$1,100–1,600
Ecuador$1,000–1,500

Uruguay, side by side

The rest of the move
Managing your money

Moving to Uruguay?

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Information only, not legal advice — we never file anything with any government. Requirements change; verify with the official source or a licensed immigration advisor before you apply.