If you're looking for the ideal place to spend your retirement years, then you might want to consider living in South America. Several cities in South America present a high standard of living at an incredibly affordable price for U.S. and European retirees. Moreover, the continent is reachable by direct flight from the U.S., has countries whose currency is tied to the dollar, and boasts sunny corners throughout. From the vineyards of Argentina to a bohemian beach community in Uruguay, here are the best places to retire in South America.
Buenos Aires, Argentina
Buenos Aires is an excellent choice for retirees who want to maintain a fast-paced city lifestyle. In the Argentine capital, you’ll discover a seductive charm that blends the best of European architectural elegance with Latin customs and a burgeoning culinary scene. It’s a metropolis of round-the-clock action with a thriving café culture, superb performing arts venues, and vibrant nightlife. Political and financial uncertainty is ingrained into Argentine society, but if you can put it to the back of your mind, then this is an extremely enjoyable and low-cost place to live. The U.S. dollar is strong, meaning that comprehensive medical insurance is available for less than $200 per month and eating out is cheap.
Cuenca, Ecuador
Nestled in the foothills of Ecuador’s southern Andes, the colonial city of Cuenca offers culture on the cheap. Its stand-out attraction is the UNESCO-listed historic center, where glorious churches and the flower-filled balconies of mansions frame cobblestone streets. Complementing this time-honored setting is access to modern amenities and conveniences such as high-speed internet connection. The clean mountain air that accompanies a mild, year-round climate characterized by warm days and cool nights is an extra plus. Ecuador uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency, which means no unwanted exchange fees.
Mendoza, Argentina
If strolling through shady boulevards and sipping wine surrounded by leafy green vineyards sounds like a good way to spend your retirement, then make your way to Mendoza, Argentina. The gateway to both Argentina's wine country and the thrilling Andes mountains, the city embodies a laid-back vibe that conceals a heart of adventure. Between the world-class vino, the mountain hikes, and the city attractions, you can ensure a retirement filled with the finer things in life.
La Barra, Uruguay
Home to a solid banking system, Uruguay is a safe haven for offshore investors and an attractive place to relocate. It’s also arguably the South American country with the least corruption, lowest poverty levels, and lower crime rates. From Punta del Este to the Brazilian border, Uruguay’s Atlantic seaboard is still an undiscovered treasure. La Barra has a cluster of colorful houses spread along a rugged coastline of excellent surf beaches. There’s also a growing number of private woodland neighborhoods and contemporary apartment towers with international-standard amenities. The town’s beaches, bars, and restaurants are buzzing in summer but come the off season, it’s truly a locals-only hangout.
Medellín, Colombia
Like Cuenca, Medellín is positioned in the Andean foothills and it boasts a pleasant climate that earns it the nickname as the "City of the Eternal Spring." Once notorious for civil wars and drug cartels, Medellín now makes a name for itself with its eco-conscious planning, innovative design, and modern infrastructure. This is a city of beautiful parks, colonial-era plazas, and tree-lined avenues that showcase years of Spanish influence. European undertones are also visible in the fashion styles and mannerisms of younger city residents. Owing to a neutral accent, Colombia is often considered among the best places to learn Spanish in South America, which will enhance your transition to a Latin culture.
