Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Colombia Property Pack
Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Colombia Property Pack
Santa Marta's property market has experienced explosive growth, with prices surging 59% from 2022 to mid-2025.
As of September 2025, the average property price in Santa Marta reaches COP 7,300,000 per square meter, positioning this Caribbean coastal city significantly above Colombia's national average. Beachfront areas command premium prices up to COP 12,000,000 per square meter, while suburban properties offer more affordable options starting around COP 3,500,000 per square meter.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Colombia, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Santa Marta property prices average COP 7,300,000 per square meter as of September 2025, with apartments commanding higher prices than houses.
The market has seen 59% growth since 2022, driven by tourism development and infrastructure improvements, making it one of Colombia's most expensive property markets.
| Property Type | Average Price (COP/m²) | USD Equivalent |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Average | 7,300,000 | $1,826 |
| Apartments | 8,116,385 | $2,029 |
| Houses | 3,600,250 | $900 |
| Beachfront Properties | 7,300,000-12,000,000 | $1,826-$3,000 |
| City Center | 5,500,000+ | $1,375+ |
| Suburban Areas | 3,500,000-5,000,000 | $875-$1,250 |
| Luxury Properties | 9,000,000-12,000,000+ | $2,250-$3,000+ |
What's the current average selling price per square meter for properties in Santa Marta?
The current average selling price for properties in Santa Marta is COP 7,300,000 per square meter, equivalent to approximately $1,826 USD per square meter as of September 2025.
This figure represents all property types combined and positions Santa Marta as one of Colombia's most expensive real estate markets. The price reflects the city's growing appeal as a Caribbean tourist destination and its strategic location along Colombia's northern coast.
Apartments command significantly higher prices than houses, with median apartment prices reaching COP 8,116,385 per square meter. Studio apartments represent the premium segment, with prices up to COP 10,445,406 per square meter in desirable locations.
Houses offer more affordable options at a median price of COP 3,600,250 per square meter, making them attractive for families and investors seeking larger properties. The price differential between apartments and houses is substantial, often exceeding 50%.
It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.
What's the current average rental price per square meter for properties in Santa Marta?
The average monthly rental price in Santa Marta is approximately COP 27,666 per square meter, equivalent to around $8.50 USD per square meter as of September 2025.
Furnished apartments in expensive areas typically rent for COP 9,350,000 to COP 10,500,000 per month for 85-square-meter units. This translates to monthly rates between COP 110,000 and COP 123,529 per square meter in premium locations.
The rental market shows strong demand, particularly in beachfront and tourist-oriented areas where short-term rentals can command premium rates. Properties closer to El Rodadero and Playa Salguero consistently achieve higher rental yields.
Rental prices vary significantly by location and property type, with luxury furnished apartments in prime areas commanding the highest rates. Unfurnished properties in suburban areas offer more affordable rental options for long-term residents.
How have average prices per square meter in Santa Marta changed over the past 12 months?
Santa Marta property prices have increased by approximately 7-9% annually since August 2024, continuing the city's remarkable growth trajectory that began in 2022.
The broader trend shows even more dramatic growth, with prices surging 59% from 2022 to mid-2025. This represents one of the most significant price appreciations in Colombia's real estate market during this period.
Prime coastal areas have experienced the strongest price growth, driven by infrastructure improvements, increased tourism, and high demand for beachfront properties. New developments in areas like Playa Salguero and Pozos Colorados have set new price benchmarks.
The growth has been fueled by several factors including improved airport connectivity, new hotel developments, and increased international investor interest. The completion of major infrastructure projects has also contributed to sustained price appreciation.
What's the price range per square meter between the cheapest and most expensive areas in Santa Marta?
Property prices in Santa Marta vary dramatically by location, ranging from COP 3,500,000 per square meter in suburban areas to over COP 12,000,000 per square meter in exclusive beachfront zones.
| Area | Price Range (COP/m²) | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Playa Salguero/Pozos Colorados | 7,000,000+ | Premium beachfront, new developments |
| Bello Horizonte | 6,500,000+ | Upscale residential, mountain views |
| El Rodadero | 6,000,000+ | Tourist zone, established area |
| Historic Center | 5,500,000+ | Colonial architecture, cultural appeal |
| Suburban/Residential | 3,500,000+ | Family neighborhoods, more affordable |
| Prime Land Plots | 7,000,000-12,000,000 | Development opportunities |
What's the breakdown of price per square meter for apartments versus houses in Santa Marta?
Apartments in Santa Marta command significantly higher prices per square meter than houses, with median apartment prices at COP 8,116,385 per square meter compared to COP 3,600,250 per square meter for houses.
Studio apartments represent the premium segment of the apartment market, reaching prices up to COP 10,445,406 per square meter due to their popularity among tourists and short-term rental investors. These compact units often deliver the highest returns per square meter.
Houses offer better value for families and investors seeking larger living spaces, with prices ranging from COP 3,600,250 to COP 3,854,112 per square meter for larger, newer properties. The lower price per square meter reflects the inclusion of outdoor spaces and land value.
The price differential between apartments and houses reflects market demand patterns, with apartments benefiting from tourist rental potential and lower maintenance requirements. Houses appeal to permanent residents and those seeking more space and privacy.
Don't lose money on your property in Santa Marta
100% of people who have lost money there have spent less than 1 hour researching the market. We have reviewed everything there is to know. Grab our guide now.
What's the breakdown of price per square meter for new builds versus older properties in Santa Marta?
New construction properties in Santa Marta command premium prices starting from COP 7,300,000 per square meter and above, particularly luxury beachfront developments that benefit from modern amenities and better construction standards.
Older properties typically range from COP 3,500,000 to COP 5,500,000 per square meter, depending on their location, condition, and maintenance history. Properties requiring renovation or updates fall toward the lower end of this range.
The price premium for new builds reflects several factors including modern construction techniques, energy-efficient systems, contemporary design, and compliance with current building codes. Buyers often pay 30-50% more for new construction.
Older properties in prime locations like the Historic Center or established neighborhoods can still command good prices when well-maintained, but generally require renovation investments to compete with new developments.
How does the price per square meter differ between beachfront, city center, and suburban areas in Santa Marta?
Beachfront properties represent the premium segment of Santa Marta's real estate market, with prices ranging from COP 7,300,000 per square meter up to COP 12,000,000 per square meter in exclusive zones, with luxury units potentially exceeding these levels.
City center properties command approximately COP 5,500,000 per square meter and above, benefiting from proximity to cultural attractions, restaurants, and business districts. The Historic Center offers unique colonial architecture but may require renovation investments.
Suburban and residential areas provide the most affordable options, ranging from COP 3,500,000 to COP 5,000,000 per square meter. These areas appeal to families and permanent residents seeking more space and lower acquisition costs.
The price differential reflects accessibility to amenities, investment potential, and lifestyle preferences. Beachfront properties offer rental income potential and appreciation prospects, while suburban areas provide better value for owner-occupiers.
What's the median price per square meter in Santa Marta compared to the national average in Colombia?
Santa Marta's median apartment price of COP 8,116,385 per square meter significantly exceeds Colombia's national average of COP 3,456,805 per square meter for apartments, representing a premium of approximately 135%.
For houses, Santa Marta's median price of COP 3,600,250 per square meter also surpasses the national average of COP 3,186,099 per square meter by about 13%, though the differential is much smaller than for apartments.
This pricing premium reflects Santa Marta's appeal as a tourist destination, its limited beachfront land supply, and recent infrastructure improvements that have attracted domestic and international investment.
The gap between Santa Marta and national averages has widened since 2022, indicating the city's emergence as a premium real estate market within Colombia's Caribbean coast region.
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.
What's the price per square meter for land plots in Santa Marta?
Prime land plots in Santa Marta command prices between COP 7,000,000 and COP 12,000,000 per square meter, with significant variation based on location, zoning, and development potential.
The average price per acre for land is approximately $50,000 USD, though this figure varies dramatically depending on proximity to the coast, existing infrastructure, and development permissions. Beachfront plots command the highest premiums.
Land prices have appreciated significantly alongside built properties, driven by limited coastal availability and increased development interest. Prime development sites near existing resort areas show the strongest price performance.
Investors should consider zoning restrictions, environmental regulations, and infrastructure access when evaluating land purchases, as these factors significantly impact development costs and potential returns.
It's something we develop in our Colombia property pack.
What's the price per square meter for luxury properties in Santa Marta?
Luxury beachfront properties in Santa Marta command prices between COP 9,000,000 and COP 12,000,000 per square meter, with exceptional properties in exclusive zones potentially exceeding COP 12,000,000 per square meter.
These premium properties typically feature high-end finishes, prime beachfront locations, resort-style amenities, and professional property management services. Many cater to the luxury tourism and short-term rental markets.
The luxury segment has shown robust growth, driven by international buyers seeking vacation homes and investment properties in Colombia's Caribbean coast. New luxury developments continue to set higher price benchmarks.
Luxury properties often include additional amenities such as private beach access, concierge services, spa facilities, and exclusive dining options, justifying their premium pricing in the Santa Marta market.
What's the price per square meter for budget properties in Santa Marta?
Budget properties in Santa Marta start around COP 3,500,000 per square meter and can go up to COP 5,500,000 per square meter, typically found in outer neighborhoods and older residential areas.
These affordable options often require renovation or updating but provide entry points for first-time buyers and investors with limited budgets. Properties in established residential neighborhoods offer the best value within the budget segment.
Budget properties may lack modern amenities or prime locations but can offer good investment potential through renovation and improvement projects. Many are located in areas with good local infrastructure and community services.
Buyers should carefully evaluate renovation costs, neighborhood development plans, and resale potential when considering budget properties, as total investment including improvements can approach mid-market pricing.
What are the transaction volumes and number of listings currently on the market in Santa Marta, and how do they correlate with price trends?
Santa Marta currently has approximately 388 rental properties available on the market, indicating active inventory levels that support both residential and investment demand.
Transaction volumes remain strong across all market segments, with particularly buoyant activity in coastal and new-build areas focused on luxury and tourist-oriented properties. The high transaction volume correlates directly with continued price appreciation.
The correlation between transaction volumes and price trends shows robust market health, with high demand driving both sales velocity and price growth, especially in beachfront and investment zones where properties often sell quickly upon listing.
Market indicators suggest continued strong demand from both domestic and international buyers, supporting sustained transaction activity and ongoing price appreciation across most property segments in Santa Marta.
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.
Santa Marta's property market represents one of Colombia's most dynamic real estate opportunities, with prices reflecting its premium coastal location and tourism appeal.
The significant price growth and strong transaction volumes indicate a mature market with continued investment potential, though buyers should carefully consider location and property type to maximize returns.
Sources
- Sobrenatural Inmobiliaria - Price per Square Meter in Santa Marta
- Overseas Property Alert - Top Property Market Performers
- Properstar - Santa Marta House Prices
- Rentberry - Santa Marta Apartments
- Expatistan - Cost of Living Santa Marta
- The LatinVestor - Santa Marta Real Estate Market
- The LatinVestor - Santa Marta Property
- Aparthotel - Colombia Analysis