The cost of living in Peru: planning your life abroad 

Moving to Peru means discovering a country filled with contrasts. Modern neighbourhoods, historic cities, Pacific beaches, Andean landscapes, and Amazonian communities offer very different living experiences. 

Many expats are attracted by Peru’s relatively affordable living costs, internationally recognised food culture, and extraordinary variety of destinations. Whether you are beginning a new life in Lima, moving to the historic city of Cusco, or looking for a quieter environment in Arequipa, understanding your monthly expenses will help you prepare with confidence. 

Peru remains more affordable than most Western countries, although costs vary considerably between the capital and regional areas. 

Building a realistic monthly budget 

Your monthly expenses in Peru will depend largely on where you choose to live. Lima is the country’s most expensive city, particularly in expat-friendly districts such as Miraflores, Barranco, and San Isidro. Cities such as Arequipa, Trujillo, and Chiclayo generally offer lower housing costs, while Cusco can become more expensive in areas popular with tourists and international residents. 

Peru uses the Peruvian sol. Property rentals, international school fees, and premium services may occasionally be quoted in US dollars. 

A single person living comfortably in Lima may need approximately EUR 1,000 to 1,500 per month, including rent. Couples sharing accommodation can expect to spend around EUR 1,500 to 2,100, while a family may require EUR 2,300 to 3,500 or more, particularly when private education is included. 

Some of the main advantages of living in Peru include: 

• An internationally celebrated culinary culture. 
• Affordable local services and public transport.  
• Diverse landscapes, from the Andes to the Amazon.  
• A fascinating combination of Indigenous, European, African, and Asian influences.  
• A wide range of lifestyles and environments.

You are not simply moving to another country. You are discovering one of South America’s most diverse cultures. 

Your main expenses in Peru 

Choosing the right place to live 

Finding suitable accommodation is one of the most important steps when moving abroad. In Lima, a one-bedroom apartment generally costs between EUR 400 and 800 per month. Modern furnished properties in Miraflores, Barranco, or San Isidro can cost between EUR 700 and 1,100, particularly when they include security, parking, or shared facilities. 

A three-bedroom apartment in Lima usually ranges from EUR 700 to 1,500 per month. Premium properties with ocean views or luxury facilities may cost considerably more. 

Housing in regional cities is often more affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in Arequipa, Trujillo, or Chiclayo may cost between EUR 250 and 500 per month. In Cusco, rental prices vary according to the neighbourhood and proximity to the historic centre. Properties aimed at tourists and short-term residents can be relatively expensive. 

Utilities, including electricity, water, and gas, generally cost between EUR 40 and 100 per month. Internet typically adds another EUR 20 to 40. Buildings with security staff, lifts, gyms, or other shared facilities may also charge monthly maintenance fees. 

If you are considering buying property, prices vary significantly between Lima’s premium coastal districts and regional areas. Foreign nationals can generally purchase property in Peru, although restrictions may apply near national borders. 

With sufficient research, Peru offers housing options for a wide range of lifestyles, from modern city apartments to quieter homes in the Andes or close to the coast. 

Discovering Peru’s food culture 

Food is one of the great pleasures of living in Peru. The country is internationally recognised for dishes such as ceviche, lomo saltado, ají de gallina, causa, and anticuchos. 

For one person, groceries usually cost between EUR 150 and 300 per month. Shopping at traditional markets and choosing local products can reduce this amount, while imported food, international brands, and premium supermarkets will increase it. 

A meal at a small local restaurant may cost between EUR 3 and 7. Many restaurants offer an affordable set lunch known as a menú, which often includes a starter, main course, and drink. 

A meal at a mid-range restaurant generally costs between EUR 8 and 18 per person. A three-course dinner for two may cost around EUR 30 to 60, although Lima’s internationally renowned restaurants can be considerably more expensive. A coffee in a café normally costs between EUR 2 and 4. 

Highlights of Peru’s food culture include: 

• Fresh produce from local markets  
• Affordable lunch menus and neighbourhood restaurants  
• Excellent seafood along the Pacific coast  
• Distinctive regional cuisines  
• Indigenous, Spanish, African, Chinese, and Japanese influences  

Eating in Peru is not just another monthly expense. It is one of the best ways to experience the country’s culture. 

Travelling around cities and across the country 

Public transport in Peru is inexpensive, although quality and organisation vary between cities. Lima has a metro line, the Metropolitano bus system, and an extensive network of public and privately operated buses. 

A single public transport journey generally costs between EUR 0.50 and 1. Public transport users may spend approximately EUR 20 to 50 per month, depending on their route and frequency of travel. 

Taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available in major cities. A short journey may cost between EUR 3 and 7, while longer journeys across Lima can cost EUR 8 to 15 or more. Using a recognised ride-hailing platform can provide clearer pricing and additional security features. 

Fuel prices currently average approximately EUR 1.35 to 1.45 per litre, although prices vary by location and type of fuel. 

Domestic flights connect Lima with destinations such as Cusco, Arequipa, Iquitos, Piura, and Trujillo. Peru also has an extensive long-distance bus network, with premium services offering reclining seats, onboard entertainment, and meals. 

Distances can be significant, and mountain geography may make road journeys longer than expected. However, the country’s main cities and tourist destinations remain well connected. 

Accessing quality medical care 

Healthcare plays an important role in feeling comfortable in a new country. Peru has public healthcare services, social health insurance through EsSalud, and a private healthcare sector. 

Many expats prefer private clinics because they generally offer shorter waiting times, modern facilities, and easier access to English-speaking professionals. The most advanced private facilities are concentrated in Lima, particularly in districts such as Miraflores, San Isidro, and Santiago de Surco. 

Comprehensive international health insurance varies in price, depending on age, medical history, geographical coverage, and benefits. Plans that include treatment in the United States, maternity care, or medical evacuation can cost considerably more. 

Medical evacuation coverage deserves particular consideration if you plan to live or travel in remote areas of the Andes or Amazon, where specialist facilities may be limited.

You can discover more about healthcare in Peru in our guide.

As part of your relocation, having suitable health coverage is essential. At Global Health, we provide international health insurance solutions that support you in Peru and worldwide, giving you peace of mind wherever you are.

Planning for school and university costs 

If you are relocating with your family, education may represent one of your largest expenses. Peru has public and private schools, with lessons at public institutions generally taught in Spanish. 

Lima offers several bilingual and international schools following American, British, or International Baccalaureate programmes. Annual tuition fees typically range from EUR 3,000 to 16,000. Some of the capital’s most prestigious international schools charge more and may require substantial one-time admission fees. 

For example, annual tuition at some established bilingual schools begins at approximately PEN 20,000, while premium institutions can charge more than USD 15,000 per year. Registration, transport, uniforms, meals, books, and extracurricular activities may not be included. 

Peru also has public and private universities. Tuition for international students varies according to the institution and subject, but can range from approximately EUR 900 to 4,500 per year. Premium private universities and specialist programmes may charge more. 

Students generally need between EUR 300 and 600 per month for accommodation, food, transportation, and other living expenses. Costs are normally higher in Lima and popular areas of Cusco. 

Internet and mobile services in Peru 

Internet and mobile services are widely available in Peru’s major cities. Home broadband generally costs between EUR 20 and 40 per month, depending on the provider, location, and connection speed. 

Mobile plans typically cost between EUR 8 and 25 per month. Prepaid packages are also widely available and can be a flexible option when first arriving. 

Internet reliability is generally good in central areas of Lima, Arequipa, Cusco, and other major cities. Connections may be slower or less dependable in rural communities and remote parts of the Andes and Amazon. 

For remote workers, choosing accommodation with a verified fibre connection and a backup mobile data plan can make everyday work considerably easier. 

Peru and the United Kingdom: cost comparison 

Exchange rates used: €1 EUR ≈ S/3.87 and €1 ≈ £0.857. Exchange rates fluctuate, so these figures should be treated as estimates.

Is Peru affordable compared with other countries? 

Peru remains relatively affordable compared with the United States and most Western European countries. Housing, public transport, local restaurants, and personal services generally cost considerably less. 

Within Latin America, Peru is often more affordable than Uruguay and Chile. Its overall costs can be comparable to those found in Colombia or Ecuador, although prices depend heavily on the city and neighbourhood. 

Lima’s premium districts are more expensive than the national average. Choosing imported groceries, international schools, luxury accommodation, and frequent meals at high-end restaurants can quickly increase your monthly expenses. 

Regional cities provide opportunities to reduce housing costs, but access to international schools, specialised healthcare, and English-speaking services may be more limited. 

Peru gives you considerable flexibility. You can choose a modern lifestyle in Lima, a culturally immersive experience in Cusco, or a quieter and more economical life in one of the country’s regional cities. 

Preparing for your new life in Peru 

Peru continues to attract international professionals, entrepreneurs, retirees, students, and remote workers. Its affordable daily expenses, internationally recognised cuisine, and exceptional natural and cultural heritage make it an exciting place to live. 

However, everyday experiences vary significantly according to location. Traffic congestion and air pollution can affect life in Lima, while altitude requires adjustment in cities such as Cusco. Infrastructure, healthcare access, and internet reliability may be less consistent in rural and remote areas. 

Spanish is essential for many administrative and everyday situations. Learning the language can make it easier to find accommodation, manage local services, build relationships, and become part of the community. 

Moving to Peru is not only a financial decision. It is an opportunity to experience an exceptionally varied country. With realistic expectations and the right preparation, it can become an enriching and memorable new chapter.