Best Places for Digital Nomads to Live in Chile
Chile, the long and narrow country in South America, is a popular destination for digital nomads. With its stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and affordable cost of living, it offers an ideal setting for remote workers and travelers. In this article, we'll explore seven captivating cities and towns in Chile that are sure to delight digital nomads.
Santiago
As the capital city and commercial hub of Chile, Santiago is a must-visit destination. Known for its modern infrastructure, excellent public transportation, and lively arts and culture scene, Santiago provides digital nomads with ample opportunities for work and play. The city boasts several museums, including the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Santiago is relatively low compared to other major cities in the region. A decent, one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $500 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $50, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $15.
Nomad Tip: Be sure to check out the vibrant Barrio Bellavista neighborhood, known for its bohemian vibe and lively nightlife. Don't miss the weekly open-air market on Sundays, where you can find local crafts, food, and music.
Where to Stay & Eat: The trendy Lastarria neighborhood is a popular choice among digital nomads, with numerous furnished rentals and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Check out the delicious vegan and vegetarian options at Bio Bio Vegana or the traditional Chilean dishes at La Casa del Marqués.
Valparaíso
Located just a short drive from Santiago, the colorful and hilly port city of Valparaíso is a favorite among digital nomads. Its diverse arts and culture scene, stunning coastal views, and unique architecture make it an inspiring place to work and live. Valparaíso is home to several museums, including the Museo de Bellas Artes and the Museo de Historia Natural.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Valparaíso is slightly lower than in Santiago. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $400 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $45, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $12.
Nomad Tip: Make sure to take the ascensores (funiculars) to explore the city's various neighborhoods and take in the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. The annual International Film Festival is a must-see event for digital nomads and film enthusiasts alike.
Where to Stay & Eat: The Cerro Concepción neighborhood is a popular choice for digital nomads, with numerous furnished rentals and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Don't miss the delicious seafood dishes at El Marqués de Altamira or the vegan and vegetarian options at La Fonda de la Cueva.
Viña del Mar
Located on the coast of Chile, Viña del Mar is a charming beach town that offers digital nomads a relaxing and inspiring atmosphere. With its beautiful beaches, temperate climate, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Viña del Mar is an ideal destination for remote workers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Chile. The town is home to several parks and gardens, including the beautiful Quinta Vergara and the Jardín Botánico.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Viña del Mar is slightly higher than in Santiago and Valparaíso. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $600 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $60, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $18.
Nomad Tip: Don't miss the annual International Song Festival, which attracts performers and audiences from around the world. Take a stroll through the beautiful Parque Quinta Vergara and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Where to Stay & Eat: The O'Higgins neighborhood is a popular choice for digital nomads, with numerous furnished rentals and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Check out the delicious seafood dishes at La Marmita or the vegetarian and vegan options at El Rincón Vegana.
Puerto Varas
Located in the beautiful Lakes District, Puerto Varas is a picturesque town that offers digital nomads a serene and inspiring atmosphere. With its stunning lake views, temperate climate, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Puerto Varas is an ideal destination for remote workers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Chile. The town is home to several parks and gardens, including the beautiful Parque Coñahue and the German Colonial Museum.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Puerto Varas is slightly higher than in Viña del Mar. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $700 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $75, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $20.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Osorno Volcano and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the delicious chocolate and fruit ice creams at the local ice cream shops.
Where to Stay & Eat: The downtown area is a popular choice for digital nomads, with numerous furnished rentals and a variety of cafes, restaurants, and bars. Check out the delicious seafood dishes at La Paloma or the vegetarian and vegan options at El Cóndor.
Arica
Located in the north of Chile, Arica is a charming coastal town that offers digital nomads a unique and inspiring atmosphere. With its beautiful beaches, temperate climate, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Arica is an ideal destination for remote workers who want to enjoy the natural beauty of Chile. The town is home to several museums, including the Museum of Pre-Columbian Art and the Museum of the Sea.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Arica is slightly lower than in Puerto Varas. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $550 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $55, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $15.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Parque Nacional de Tarapacá and enjoy the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the nearby desert landscape. Don't miss the delicious seafood dishes at El Faro or the vegetarian and vegan options at La Casa Verde.
Concepción
Located in the central part of Chile, Concepción is a bustling city that offers digital nomads a dynamic and inspiring atmosphere. With its modern infrastructure, excellent public transportation, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Concepción provides digital nomads with ample opportunities for work and play. The city is home to several museums, including the Museum of Natural History and the Museum of Contemporary Art.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Concepción is lower than in Santiago. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $450 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $45, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $12.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Parque Nacional Tolimán and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. Don't miss the delicious seafood dishes at La Mariscal or the vegetarian and vegan options at La Cosecha.
Castro
Located on the island of Chiloé, Castro is a charming and unique town that offers digital nomads a one-of-a-kind and inspiring atmosphere. With its colorful wooden houses, stunning lake and ocean views, and vibrant arts and culture scene, Castro is an ideal destination for remote workers who want to experience the authentic beauty of Chile. The town is home to several museums, including the Museum of Chiloé and the Museum of Archaeology.
Cost of Living: The cost of living in Castro is lower than in Concepción. A one-bedroom apartment in a central neighborhood can be rented for around $350 per month. Groceries for one person for a week cost around $40, and a moderate dinner out with a drink comes in at around $10.
Nomad Tip: Take a day trip to the nearby Chiloé National Park and enjoy the stunning views of the lake and the surrounding forests. Don't miss the delicious seafood dishes at La Cazuela or the vegetarian and vegan options at La Casa de la Abuela.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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