Buenos Aires offers a unique combination of European charm and Latin American affordability. However, understanding the true cost of living requires looking beyond simple dollar conversions.
Housing Costs
Rent varies significantly by neighborhood:
Popular Expat Neighborhoods
- Palermo: $600-1200/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
- Recoleta: $700-1300/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
- San Telmo: $500-900/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
- Villa Crespo: $450-800/month for a 1-bedroom apartment
Keep in mind that rental prices can be quoted in USD or ARS, and the market changes rapidly with economic conditions.
Food & Groceries
Weekly grocery costs for one person typically range from $40-70, depending on eating habits:
- Fresh produce at local markets is very affordable
- Imported goods can be expensive
- Eating out at local parrillas costs $15-25 per person
- Coffee at a café: $2-4
- Empanadas: $1-2 each
Transportation
Buenos Aires has excellent public transportation:
- Subway (Subte): $0.20-0.30 per ride
- Bus (Colectivo): $0.20-0.40 per ride
- Taxi: Starting at $2, roughly $0.50 per km
- Monthly transport pass: Available for frequent users
Most residents use the SUBE card for all public transport, which offers discounted fares.
Healthcare
Healthcare costs vary based on coverage:
- Public hospitals: Free but can have long wait times
- Private insurance (prepaga): $100-300/month depending on age and coverage
- Out-of-pocket doctor visits: $30-80
- Medications: Generally affordable, many generic options available
Utilities
Monthly utility costs for a 2-bedroom apartment:
- Electricity: $30-60
- Gas: $20-40
- Water: $15-30
- Internet: $20-40
- Cell phone: $10-25
Utility costs can spike during summer (air conditioning) and winter (heating).
Entertainment & Leisure
Buenos Aires offers plenty of free and affordable entertainment:
- Cinema ticket: $5-8
- Theater show: $15-40
- Museum entry: Often free or $2-5
- Gym membership: $30-60/month
- Craft beer at a bar: $3-5
Sample Monthly Budget
Here’s a realistic monthly budget for a single person living comfortably:
- Rent (1-bedroom): $700
- Groceries: $250
- Eating out: $200
- Transportation: $30
- Utilities: $100
- Health insurance: $150
- Entertainment: $150
- Miscellaneous: $150
Total: ~$1,730/month
Important Considerations
Currency Exchange
The official exchange rate differs from the “blue” dollar rate. Many expats save significantly by bringing cash and exchanging at better rates through legal currency exchange houses (cuevas).
Inflation
Argentina experiences high inflation, so prices can change rapidly. Always budget some buffer and stay informed about economic conditions.
Banking Challenges
Getting money into Argentina can be tricky. Research the best methods before moving, whether through Western Union, crypto, or bringing cash.
Cost Comparison
Compared to major US or European cities, Buenos Aires is generally 40-60% cheaper overall, though this gap has narrowed in recent years for dollar earners.
Bottom Line
Buenos Aires remains affordable for remote workers earning in USD or EUR, though it’s not as cheap as it once was. Quality of life is excellent, with world-class food, culture, and social scenes accessible at reasonable prices.