Buying real estate in Uruguay?

We've created a guide to help you avoid pitfalls, save time, and make the best long-term investment possible.

How much does a house cost in Uruguay?

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

buying property foreigner Uruguay

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Uruguay Property Pack

Understanding house prices in Uruguay is crucial for anyone considering investing or relocating to this stable South American country.

As of September 2025, Uruguay offers diverse real estate options ranging from affordable inland properties to luxury coastal homes, with prices varying significantly based on location and property type. The market shows steady appreciation with transparent regulations that make it attractive for foreign buyers.

If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Uruguay, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The LatinVestor, 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 the current average price per square meter for houses in Uruguay?

As of September 2025, house prices per square meter in Uruguay vary significantly by location and property type.

In Montevideo, the capital city, residential properties range from $2,420 to $3,500 per square meter for standard homes. Premium neighborhoods like Carrasco and Punta Carretas command prices exceeding $4,000 per square meter due to their proximity to beaches, upscale amenities, and established infrastructure.

Punta del Este, Uruguay's premier beach resort destination, averages $4,000 per square meter for typical properties. Beachfront and luxury developments can reach $7,000 to $10,000 per square meter, reflecting the area's status as a high-end international destination.

Smaller inland towns offer more affordable options, typically ranging from $1,000 to $1,750 per square meter. These areas provide approximately 50% cost savings compared to coastal and capital locations while maintaining good infrastructure and livability standards.

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

How much does a typical two-bedroom house cost in different Uruguay locations?

Two-bedroom house prices in Uruguay show clear regional variations based on location desirability and local market dynamics.

Location Price Range (USD) Market Characteristics
Montevideo $167,000-$220,000 Capital city, established neighborhoods
Punta del Este $200,000-$400,000 Beach resort, higher for oceanfront
Inland Towns $80,000-$120,000 Rural areas, lower cost of living
Coastal Secondary Cities $120,000-$180,000 Beach access, growing communities
Montevideo Suburbs $140,000-$190,000 Commuter-friendly, family areas
Tourist Areas (excl. Punta del Este) $150,000-$250,000 Seasonal demand influences pricing
Agricultural Regions $70,000-$110,000 Rural lifestyle, larger properties

What's the complete range of house prices in Uruguay from cheapest to most expensive?

Uruguay's housing market offers options across a wide price spectrum to accommodate different budgets and lifestyle preferences.

The most affordable properties start at $50,000 to $80,000 for basic homes in interior regions. These typically include older construction or smaller properties in rural towns with essential amenities but limited luxury features.

Standard city and coastal homes represent the middle market segment, ranging from $160,000 to $250,000. These properties offer modern amenities, good construction quality, and access to urban infrastructure and services.

At the luxury end, Punta del Este properties can reach $1 million to $20 million for exceptional beachfront estates, penthouses, and architectural masterpieces. These high-end properties often feature $7,000 to $10,000 per square meter construction costs with premium finishes and prime locations.

The market shows healthy distribution across price points, making Uruguay accessible for various investment budgets and lifestyle requirements.

How much does land cost per square meter for building your own house?

Land prices in Uruguay for construction purposes vary dramatically between rural, urban, and premium coastal locations.

Rural agricultural land averages $4,887 per hectare, which translates to approximately $0.49 per square meter for basic farmland. Higher-quality southern cropland commands $10,000 to $12,000 per hectare, or $1 to $1.20 per square meter.

Urban and coastal building plots represent a significant price jump, ranging from $150 to $800 per square meter depending on location, infrastructure access, and development potential. Prime coastal locations and established city neighborhoods command the highest prices within this range.

Developers and individual builders should factor in additional costs for site preparation, utility connections, and permits when budgeting for construction projects beyond the raw land purchase price.

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investing in real estate in  Uruguay

What are typical monthly mortgage payments for different house values?

Mortgage payments in Uruguay depend on interest rates, down payment amounts, and loan terms available through local and international lenders.

As of September 2025, typical interest rates range from 6% to 10% annually, with most lenders requiring 20% to 30% down payments for foreign buyers. Local banks may offer more favorable terms for residents and citizens.

For a $100,000 house with a 20% down payment ($80,000 loan) at 8% interest over 20 years, monthly payments would be approximately $836. This calculation assumes standard amortization without interest-only periods.

A $300,000 house with the same terms ($240,000 loan) would result in monthly payments around $2,509. These examples demonstrate how loan amounts directly impact monthly obligations for property buyers.

Buyers should also budget for property insurance, taxes, and maintenance costs beyond the mortgage payment when calculating total housing expenses.

How much do property taxes cost annually in Uruguay?

Uruguay's property tax system is relatively straightforward with moderate rates compared to other South American countries.

Annual property taxes typically range from 0.25% to 0.5% of the official fiscal property valuation. Importantly, fiscal valuations are generally below actual market values, making effective tax rates lower than the stated percentages suggest.

For example, a property with a market value of $200,000 might have a fiscal valuation of $150,000, resulting in annual taxes of $375 to $750 depending on the specific rate applied by local authorities.

Property taxes fund local municipal services and infrastructure, with rates varying slightly between different departments and municipalities within Uruguay.

What are average monthly utility costs for houses?

Monthly utility expenses for houses in Uruguay are generally reasonable compared to regional standards and depend on property size and usage patterns.

Utility Type Monthly Cost (USD) Notes
Electricity $60-$100 80-100 sqm house, standard usage
Water & Sewer $25-$40 Municipal services
Natural Gas $40-$60 Heating and cooking
Internet (100 Mbps) $30-$40 High-speed fiber options available
Cable/Satellite TV $25-$35 Optional entertainment services
Total Basic Utilities $155-$240 Excludes premium services
Seasonal Variation +20-30% Winter heating increases costs

How much are closing costs and fees when buying a house?

Uruguay's real estate transaction costs are transparent and standardized, making it easier for buyers to budget accurately for purchases.

Notary fees represent the largest single cost at 3% plus VAT (3.66% total) of the property value. These fees cover legal documentation, title verification, and transaction recording with government authorities.

Real estate commission adds another 3% plus VAT (3.66% total) paid by the buyer, which is higher than many countries where sellers typically pay agent fees. Property transfer tax costs 2% of the fiscal property value.

Additional charges include stamps and registration fees of approximately 0.5% of the purchase price for various governmental filings and documentation requirements.

Total closing costs typically range from 8% to 9% of the purchase price, which buyers should factor into their total investment budget beyond the property cost itself.

infographics rental yields citiesUruguay

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 does home insurance typically cost per year?

Home insurance in Uruguay is affordable and provides essential protection for property investments.

Basic fire insurance for a $100,000 home typically costs $150 to $300 annually, covering structural damage from fire, storms, and other natural disasters. This represents approximately 0.15% to 0.3% of property value.

Comprehensive coverage including theft, water damage, and liability protection increases annual premiums to $300 to $600 for similar properties. Many lenders require insurance coverage as a condition of mortgage approval.

Property owners should compare coverage options from multiple insurers to find optimal protection levels and pricing for their specific circumstances and risk tolerance.

How much does house renovation cost per square meter?

Renovation costs in Uruguay depend heavily on the scope of work, materials selected, and whether projects involve structural changes or cosmetic updates.

Basic renovations including painting, flooring updates, and fixture replacements typically cost $600 to $800 per square meter. These projects focus on refreshing existing spaces without major structural modifications.

Comprehensive remodeling involving kitchen and bathroom upgrades, electrical and plumbing updates, and interior redesign ranges from $800 to $1,200 per square meter for quality finishes and professional installation.

High-end luxury renovations with premium materials, custom features, and architectural modifications can exceed $1,200 per square meter. These projects often involve imported materials and specialized contractors.

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

What rental income can you expect from houses?

Rental yields in Uruguay provide steady returns for property investors, with rates varying by location and property type.

Location Gross Annual Yield Monthly Rent Example
Montevideo (2-bedroom) 4.2-5.2% $763 (on $216,400 property)
Punta del Este (seasonal) 6-8% Higher during summer months
Inland Towns 5-7% Lower rents but higher yields
Coastal Secondary Cities 4.5-6% Growing rental demand
Student Housing Areas 6-8% Stable academic year demand
Tourist Hotspots 7-10% Seasonal variation significant
Long-term Residential 4-6% Stable tenant relationships

How much do house values appreciate annually in Uruguay?

Property appreciation in Uruguay shows consistent growth patterns with regional variations reflecting local market dynamics and development trends.

Coastal areas including Punta del Este demonstrate the strongest appreciation at 6% to 10% annually over recent 12-month periods. This growth reflects continued international interest and limited beachfront supply.

Montevideo's urban residential market shows more moderate but steady appreciation of 3% to 5% annually. The capital benefits from economic stability, infrastructure improvements, and consistent population growth.

Interior regions maintain appreciation rates of 3% to 5% annually, supported by agricultural prosperity and improved connectivity to major cities. These areas offer potential for above-average returns as infrastructure develops.

Uruguay's political stability, transparent legal system, and growing international recognition contribute to sustained long-term property value growth across all market segments.

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. Uruguay Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
  2. Uruguay Real Estate Analysis - Aparthotel
  3. Average House Price in Uruguay - The LatinVestor
  4. Montevideo Price Forecasts - The LatinVestor
  5. Uruguay Buy Property Guide - The LatinVestor
  6. Best Countries Real Estate Investment 2025 - BinaryX
  7. Uruguay Real Estate Market - The LatinVestor
  8. Uruguay 2-Bedroom Prices - Global Property Guide
  9. Uruguay Property Prices - PropertyStar
  10. Uruguay Land Prices 2024 - Farmland Uruguay