What are the Montevideo best neighborhoods?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Uruguay Property Pack

Yes, the analysis of Montevideo's property market is included in our pack

Who is the author of this content?

THELATINVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in Latin American countries (Uruguay, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, 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 Uruguay. 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 Uruguayan 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 Montevideo, Punta del Este, and Colonia. 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.

What's your monthly budget for rent or purchase in Montevideo?

Monthly rental budgets in Montevideo's desirable neighborhoods range from $450 to $1,100 for unfurnished apartments as of June 2025.

Studio and one-bedroom apartments in central areas like Pocitos, Cordón, and Centro typically cost $450-$600 monthly for unfurnished units. Two-bedroom properties in these same neighborhoods command $700-$1,100 monthly, depending on specific location and amenities.

Extended-stay furnished studios or one-bedrooms require approximately $1,100 monthly, which includes furniture and often basic utilities. Premium neighborhoods like Punta Carretas and upscale sections of Pocitos push rental prices toward the higher end of these ranges.

For property purchases, studio and one-bedroom units in central Montevideo start around $95,000-$135,000. Two-bedroom apartments typically range from $160,000-$290,000, with luxury options in premium areas exceeding $350,000.

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

How many square meters are you ideally looking for in a home or apartment?

Montevideo apartments follow standard sizing patterns that align with international norms for urban living spaces.

Studio apartments typically range from 35-55 square meters (375-600 square feet), providing efficient living for single professionals or students. One-bedroom units span 50-75 square meters (540-800 square feet), offering comfortable space for individuals or couples.

Two-bedroom apartments measure 75-110 square meters (800-1,200 square feet), suitable for small families or those needing home office space. Three-bedroom properties extend to 110-140 square meters (1,200-1,500 square feet), accommodating larger families or investors seeking higher rental yields.

These sizes represent typical offerings in neighborhoods like Pocitos, Malvín, and Cordón, where most international buyers focus their searches.

How long does it typically take to commute from this neighborhood to the city center or your workplace?

Commute times in Montevideo vary significantly based on neighborhood location and transportation method.

Central neighborhoods including Centro, Cordón, Pocitos, and Malvín offer commutes of 10-30 minutes to the city center via walking or short bus rides. These areas benefit from frequent public transport connections and walkable distances to major employment centers.

Suburban or outlying neighborhoods require 30-60 minutes by bus or car, depending on traffic conditions and distance from central areas. Peak hour traffic can extend these times, particularly for areas requiring multiple bus transfers.

The bus network provides reliable coverage throughout Montevideo, with central neighborhoods enjoying the most frequent service and direct routes to business districts.

What's the average price per square meter in this neighborhood?

Montevideo real estate prices per square meter show clear geographic patterns as of mid-2025.

Neighborhood	Price per m² (USD)	Market Tier
Pocitos	$3,500-$4,000	Premium
Punta Carretas	$3,500-$4,000	Premium
Malvín	$3,500-$4,000	Premium
Cordón	$2,950-$3,250	Mid-range
La Blanqueada	$2,950-$3,250	Mid-range
Centro	$2,800	Mid-range
Tres Cruces	$2,800	Mid-range
Las Acacias	$750-$875	Budget
Peñarol	$750-$875	Budget

How safe is the area, based on recent crime statistics?

Montevideo presents moderate to high crime levels, with significant variation between neighborhoods.

Overall crime statistics show moderate to high levels for property crime and theft citywide. Perceived safety while walking alone during daytime rates as moderate to high, while nighttime safety drops to low levels across most areas.

Home break-ins and theft concerns register at moderate levels (55/100), while violent crime including mugging and robbery shows moderate to high risk (64/100). These statistics reflect the urban challenges common to South American capitals.

Safer neighborhoods include Pocitos, Punta Carretas, and Malvín, which residents and expats consider quiet and relatively secure, especially for families. These areas benefit from better lighting, more foot traffic, and proximity to commercial activity that provides natural surveillance.

Central areas like Cordón and Centro experience higher crime rates due to increased foot traffic and commercial activity, though they remain reasonably safe during daylight hours.

What are the average utility costs per month in this neighborhood?

Monthly utility expenses in Montevideo depend primarily on apartment size and usage patterns.

Studio apartments of approximately 45 square meters incur monthly utility costs of $75-$80 (around $U2,928-$U3,197). These costs cover electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage collection.

Two-bedroom apartments spanning 85 square meters typically cost $120-$180 monthly ($U4,686-$U7,023), with variation based on heating and cooling usage during seasonal extremes. Winter heating represents the largest variable cost component.

Utilities are generally reliable throughout Montevideo, with minimal variation between neighborhoods. Premium areas don't necessarily incur higher utility costs, as infrastructure quality remains consistent across central districts.

How walkable is the neighborhood — are supermarkets, pharmacies, schools, and parks within walking distance?

Central Montevideo neighborhoods offer excellent walkability compared to many Latin American cities.

Pocitos, Malvín, Cordón, and Centro provide supermarkets, pharmacies, schools, and parks within 5-15 minutes' walking distance. These neighborhoods feature well-developed commercial corridors with essential services clustered along main avenues.

Montevideo's compact urban design and mixed-use development patterns create highly walkable environments. Residents can accomplish most daily errands on foot, reducing transportation costs and improving quality of life.

The city's walkability significantly exceeds many U.S. cities, with sidewalks, pedestrian crossings, and neighborhood commercial centers supporting foot traffic. Public parks and green spaces are distributed throughout central areas, providing recreational options within walking distance.

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

What's the average internet speed and reliability in the area?

Uruguay leads Latin America in internet infrastructure, with Montevideo offering world-class connectivity.

Mobile internet speeds average 149 Mbps, ranking Uruguay among the world's fastest countries and placing Montevideo second globally after Dubai. This exceptional mobile coverage supports remote work and digital nomad lifestyles.

Household connectivity reaches 88% with high fiber optic penetration throughout the city. Fixed internet plans offering 60 Mbps or higher with unlimited data cost approximately $50 monthly ($U2,016).

Internet reliability remains consistent across neighborhoods, with minimal variation between premium and budget areas. The government's significant investment in telecommunications infrastructure ensures stable connections for business and personal use.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Uruguay 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.

What percentage of residents are expats or foreigners, and is the community international-friendly?

Montevideo maintains a growing expat community, particularly concentrated in specific neighborhoods.

While exact percentage figures aren't published, the city hosts significant expatriate populations from Argentina, Brazil, and Europe. Recent years have seen increased migration due to Uruguay's political stability and favorable economic conditions.

Pocitos, Punta Carretas, and Malvín attract the highest concentrations of international residents, offering amenities and services that cater to expat needs. These areas feature international schools, English-speaking services, and restaurants serving diverse cuisines.

The city demonstrates strong international-friendliness, with English widely spoken in business districts and tourist areas. Government services increasingly accommodate foreign residents, and the banking system readily serves international clients.

Uruguay's residency programs and tax advantages continue attracting retirees and remote workers, contributing to the expanding international community throughout Montevideo.

What are the public transport options, and how frequent and reliable are they?

Montevideo relies exclusively on buses for mass public transportation, operating an extensive network throughout the metropolitan area.

1. **Bus System Coverage**: The comprehensive bus network reaches all neighborhoods, with frequent service in central areas and reduced frequency in suburban zones.2. **Fare Structure**: Single rides cost $U29-$U36 (approximately $0.75-$1), while monthly passes cost $U2,292 (around $60), providing unlimited travel.3. **Service Frequency**: Central neighborhoods enjoy buses every 5-15 minutes during peak hours, while suburban areas may wait 20-30 minutes between services.4. **Route Information**: Bus stops lack route maps, requiring mobile apps like Moovit or Cómo ir for navigation and schedule information.5. **Reliability**: Services generally maintain schedules, though traffic congestion can cause delays during peak hours, particularly on main arterial routes.

What are the average air quality and noise pollution levels in the area?

Montevideo's environmental conditions vary by location and seasonal factors.

Air quality generally rates as good throughout the year, though certain periods reach "unhealthy" levels for sensitive groups. Recent monitoring shows occasional "poor" to "unhealthy" days, but most of the year maintains "fair" to "good" air quality standards.

Noise pollution on main streets measures 74-77 decibels during working days, equivalent to busy urban environments. Traffic represents the primary noise source, while leisure activities including music and social gatherings contribute to noise levels in commercial areas.

Residential side streets typically experience lower noise levels, while apartments facing main avenues encounter consistent traffic noise. Double-glazed windows and interior courtyards help mitigate noise issues in many newer buildings.

What's the estimated rental yield or long-term appreciation rate if you're considering an investment?

Montevideo's real estate investment market shows promising returns compared to regional alternatives.

Neighborhood	1-Bedroom Yield	2-Bedroom Yield	Investment Outlook
Malvín	6.4%	6.7%	Excellent
Cordón	5.3%	5.0%	Good
Centro	5.1%	5.0%	Good
Pocitos	4.5%	4.3%	Moderate
Punta Carretas	4.2%	4.0%	Moderate

Property appreciation shows moderate but steady growth, with 0.9% in 2023 and 2.9% in 2024. Forecasts predict continued moderate appreciation of 2-3% annually, with stronger performance in gentrifying neighborhoods like Ciudad Vieja and emerging areas of Malvín.

It's something we develop in our Uruguay 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.

Sources

1. International Living - Uruguay Cost of Living
2. Global Property Guide - Uruguay Rental Yields
3. Numbeo - Montevideo Cost of Living
4. International Living - Montevideo Guide
5. TheLatinvestor - Montevideo Property Analysis
6. Global Property Guide - Uruguay Price History
7. Numbeo - Montevideo Crime Statistics
8. Uruguay XXI - Internet Speed Rankings