How are Americans living in Cartagena, Colombia?

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Who is the author of this content?

THELATINVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in Latin American countries (Colombia, Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, etc.).

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Colombia. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At TheLatinvestor, we explore the Colombian real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Bogotá, Medellín, and Cartagena. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How many Americans are currently living in Cartagena?

As of June 2025, there is no official census data tracking the exact number of Americans living in Cartagena permanently.

Based on expat community activities and online groups, the American population in Cartagena is estimated to be in the hundreds to low thousands of permanent residents. The "English Cartagena" Meetup group alone has hundreds of members, indicating a substantial and active American presence in the city.

The American expat community in Cartagena continues to grow as more retirees, digital nomads, and investors discover the city's appeal. This growth has accelerated since 2020, with remote work opportunities making international relocation more feasible for working Americans.

Cartagena ranks among the top destinations for American expats in Colombia, alongside Medellín and Bogotá, though exact comparative numbers are not available from official sources.

Why do Americans choose to move to Cartagena instead of other places in Colombia or Latin America?

Americans select Cartagena over other Latin American destinations primarily due to its unique combination of Caribbean coastal lifestyle and rich colonial heritage.

The city offers year-round warm weather with beautiful beaches, creating an ideal retirement environment that many Americans find superior to other inland Colombian cities like Bogotá or Medellín. Unlike these cooler mountain cities, Cartagena provides consistent tropical temperatures that appeal to those seeking to escape harsh U.S. winters.

Cartagena's UNESCO World Heritage colonial architecture and vibrant cultural scene distinguish it from other beach destinations in Latin America. The city combines historical significance with modern amenities, offering Americans both cultural enrichment and practical convenience.

The healthcare system in Cartagena is particularly attractive, with high-quality medical facilities and English-speaking doctors available at costs significantly lower than comparable U.S. cities. This factor often tips the decision for American retirees comparing Cartagena to other Latin American options.

Transportation connectivity also favors Cartagena, with direct flights to major U.S. cities and excellent regional connections throughout Latin America, making it easier for Americans to maintain ties with home while exploring the region.

What are the most common ways Americans end up relocating to Cartagena?

Retirement represents the most common path for Americans relocating to Cartagena, driven by the ability to stretch retirement savings significantly further than in the United States.

Remote work arrangements have become increasingly popular since 2020, with many Americans working for U.S. companies while living in Cartagena to take advantage of the lower cost of living. The city's reliable internet infrastructure and coworking spaces support this trend.

Real estate investment motivates another significant group of American relocations, as investors purchase properties for rental income from the growing tourism and expat markets. Many start as investors and eventually transition to full-time residents.

Lifestyle change seekers form a growing category of American expatriates who move to Cartagena for cultural immersion, language learning, or simply to experience a different pace of life. These individuals often include early retirees or those taking career breaks.

Some Americans relocate to Cartagena for entrepreneurial opportunities, particularly in tourism, hospitality, or services catering to the growing expat community.

What's the general cost of living for an American in Cartagena compared to cities like Miami or New York?

Living costs in Cartagena are dramatically lower than major U.S. cities, with overall expenses running approximately 50% less than Miami and even more compared to New York.

Expense Category	Cartagena Cost	Savings vs. Miami
Rent (1-bedroom apartment)	$300-800/month	81.6% lower
Restaurant meals	$3-15 per meal	62.3% lower
Groceries (monthly)	$150-300	50.9% lower
Utilities (monthly)	$50-100	60% lower
Transportation	$20-50/month	70% lower
Healthcare (private)	$50-150/month	80% lower
Entertainment	$100-200/month	65% lower

A comfortable lifestyle in Cartagena typically requires $1,500-3,000 per month, depending on housing choices and lifestyle preferences. Americans living in desirable neighborhoods like Bocagrande or the Old City may spend towards the higher end of this range.

While local purchasing power is lower than the U.S., American expats benefit significantly because their income sources (pensions, remote work, investments) are typically in stronger currencies.

Do most locals in Cartagena speak English, or will I need to learn Spanish to live there comfortably?

Spanish is essential for comfortable daily life in Cartagena, as English proficiency among locals is limited primarily to tourist areas, hotels, and upscale restaurants.

Outside the historic center and major tourist zones, English speakers are rare among shop owners, service providers, government officials, and healthcare workers. Americans planning to live in Cartagena long-term should prioritize learning basic Spanish before arrival.

Google Translate and translation apps provide temporary solutions for immediate needs, but they cannot replace language skills for building relationships, handling emergencies, or navigating bureaucratic processes effectively.

Many American expats in Cartagena report that learning Spanish significantly enhances their experience and integration into the local community. Language barriers often determine whether Americans remain in the expat bubble or truly integrate into Colombian society.

Spanish language schools and private tutors are readily available and affordable in Cartagena, making it easier for Americans to improve their language skills after arrival.

What are some of the biggest lifestyle differences between living in Cartagena and living in the United States?

The pace of life in Cartagena operates on a fundamentally different rhythm than typical American cities, with greater emphasis on relationships and social interaction over strict scheduling.

Time concepts in Colombia are more flexible, with social events and even business meetings often starting 15-30 minutes later than scheduled. This cultural difference requires adjustment for Americans accustomed to punctuality as a priority.

Family and community ties play a much larger role in daily Colombian life, with multiple generations often living in close proximity and participating in regular family gatherings. Americans may find this community-oriented approach both welcoming and sometimes overwhelming.

Infrastructure reliability differs significantly from U.S. standards, with occasional power outages, water interruptions, and internet connectivity issues, particularly during rainy season from September to November.

The climate requires significant lifestyle adjustments, as Cartagena maintains hot, humid conditions year-round with temperatures consistently between 80-90°F and high humidity levels that can be challenging for Americans from temperate climates.

What aspects of life in Cartagena do Americans generally find better than back home?

The affordability factor allows Americans to enjoy a higher quality of life on smaller budgets, often affording domestic help, frequent dining out, and travel that would be prohibitively expensive in the United States.

1. **Social warmth and hospitality**: Colombians demonstrate genuine friendliness and willingness to help newcomers, creating a welcoming environment that many Americans find refreshing compared to more reserved U.S. social norms.2. **Cultural vibrancy**: Daily life includes spontaneous music, colorful festivals, and rich historical surroundings that provide constant cultural stimulation.3. **Healthcare accessibility**: High-quality medical care at affordable prices, with shorter wait times and more personal attention than typical U.S. healthcare experiences.4. **Outdoor lifestyle**: Year-round warm weather enables constant outdoor activities, beach access, and a more active lifestyle than possible in many U.S. climates.5. **Fresh, local food**: Access to tropical fruits, fresh seafood, and local markets offering high-quality produce at low prices.

Many Americans report feeling less stressed about financial security and healthcare costs, allowing them to focus more on personal relationships and experiences rather than career advancement and wealth accumulation.

What are the downsides or challenges Americans commonly face when living in Cartagena?

Language barriers create the most significant ongoing challenge for Americans, affecting everything from medical appointments to utility issues and social integration.

The tropical climate proves difficult for many Americans, particularly those from cooler regions, as the constant heat and humidity can be exhausting and limit outdoor activities during peak sun hours. Air conditioning costs can also be substantial.

Infrastructure limitations cause regular frustrations, including power outages during storms, inconsistent internet speeds, and flooding in some neighborhoods during heavy rains. These issues are particularly challenging for Americans working remotely.

Bureaucratic processes in Colombia operate differently than U.S. systems, often requiring multiple visits, extensive paperwork, and patience that can test American efficiency expectations. Banking, visa renewals, and utility connections frequently take longer than expected.

Safety concerns, while manageable, require constant vigilance against petty crime, particularly in tourist areas where Americans may be targeted for pickpocketing, bag snatching, or tourist scams.

Is Cartagena considered a safe city for foreigners, especially Americans?

Cartagena ranks among the safer Colombian cities for foreigners, with significant police presence in tourist areas and ongoing security improvements throughout the city.

Petty crime represents the primary safety concern for Americans, particularly pickpocketing and bag snatching in crowded areas like the Old City, Bocagrande beach, and popular restaurants. These crimes typically target tourists and expats who display expensive items or appear unfamiliar with local customs.

Violent crime against foreigners is relatively rare, especially in the neighborhoods where most Americans live and frequent. The Colombian government prioritizes tourist and expat safety due to their economic importance to the city.

Americans living in Cartagena successfully minimize risks by following common-sense precautions: avoiding flashy jewelry, using registered taxis or ride-sharing apps, staying in well-lit areas at night, and keeping copies of important documents separate from originals.

The expat community maintains active communication about safety issues through online groups and social networks, helping newcomers learn which areas and situations to avoid for optimal safety.

Can Americans buy property in Cartagena, and if so, what's the process like?

Americans enjoy the same property ownership rights as Colombian citizens, making real estate investment straightforward and legally secure.

The property purchase process requires several key documents: valid U.S. passport, proof of funds demonstrating legitimate income sources, and often a Colombian tax identification number (NIT) for larger transactions. No visa or residency status is required for property ownership.

Legal procedures involve hiring a Colombian attorney for due diligence, title verification, and contract preparation, followed by notarization of the final sale. The entire process typically takes 30-60 days for straightforward transactions.

Property taxes in Cartagena are significantly lower than most U.S. locations, typically ranging from 0.3% to 1% of assessed value annually. Americans can also benefit from favorable currency exchange rates when purchasing with U.S. dollars.

It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Colombia versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

Are there American communities or expat groups in Cartagena that help newcomers settle in?

Active American and international expat communities provide substantial support networks for newcomers through organized social events, practical assistance, and ongoing friendship opportunities.

The "English Cartagena" Meetup group serves as the primary networking hub, organizing regular social gatherings, cultural events, and practical workshops for new arrivals. This group includes both Americans and other English-speaking expats.

Facebook groups like "Expats in Cartagena" and "Americans in Colombia" offer daily communication platforms where members share recommendations for services, housing, healthcare providers, and social activities.

Professional networking groups cater to Americans working remotely or running businesses in Cartagena, providing both social connections and business development opportunities.

Many established American expats actively mentor newcomers, offering practical advice about everything from finding housing and healthcare to navigating Colombian bureaucracy and cultural norms.

What practical considerations should Americans be aware of before making the move?

Visa requirements depend on the intended length of stay and purpose, with tourist visas allowing 90-day stays that can be extended once, while longer-term residence requires investment, retirement, or work visas with specific income requirements.

Consideration	Requirements	Timeline
Tourist Visa	Valid passport, return ticket	90 days (extendable once)
Retirement Visa	$750/month pension proof	3-6 months processing
Investment Visa	$35,000+ property investment	4-8 months processing
Banking	Passport, proof of income	2-4 weeks
Healthcare Insurance	Private or public EPS	Immediate to 30 days
Utilities Setup	Property deed, ID	1-2 weeks
Internet Installation	Address verification	1-3 weeks

Healthcare options include both public EPS system enrollment and private insurance, with many Americans choosing combination coverage for comprehensive care. Private healthcare costs typically range from $50-150 monthly for comprehensive coverage.

Banking relationships require establishing local accounts for utility payments and daily transactions, though major banks like Bancolombia and Davivienda accommodate foreign account holders with proper documentation.

It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.

Sources

1. Meetup Groups for Americans in Colombia
2. Expat Exchange Cartagena Community
3. Robe Trotting - Expat Living in Colombia
4. Premier Casa - Expats in Cartagena
5. Live and Invest Overseas - Cartagena Retirement
6. Expat Exchange - Pros and Cons of Cartagena
7. International Living - Cartagena Guide
8. Numbeo Cost Comparison Miami-Cartagena
9. International Living - Colombia Healthcare
10. Colombia Law Connection - Property Buying