Argentina is a beautiful country with a stunning variety of landscapes. The people are friendly and welcoming and enjoy sharing their culture and history with visitors and expats alike. There are plenty of activities to keep you busy in your spare time, whether you’re into hiking, learning to tango, fishing, or simply exploring this extraordinary country and sampling the fine wines and cuisine at very affordable prices.
If you are considering moving to Argentina, the various costs listed below will help you make an informed decision on what costs are involved when moving and living in this part of South America.
Quick Argentina Facts:
- Population: 46,127,790 (2022 estimate)
- Official Language:Spanish is the official language of Argentina, with around 40 million speakers representing about 93% of the population. It is followed by Italian with 1.6 million speakers (4%), English with 1.5 million speakers (3.5%), German with 220,000 speakers (0.5%), and French with 180 thousand speakers (0.4%).
- GDP Per Capita:$10,728.23
- Parks: Parks in Argentina offer plenty of activities for tourists and locals alike. From trekking and mountain biking to bird watching and picnicking, there is something for everyone. Some of the most popular parks in Argentina include Los Glaciares National Park, Iguazú National Park, and Tierra del Fuego National Park.
- Currency: Argentine peso ($ or Arg$). As of October 2022, 1Arg$ = $0.0067, 1 Arg$ = €0.0069, 1Arg$= 0.0092 CAD, 1Arg$ = 0.012 AUD
1. Moving and Shipping Costs to Argentina
Here are some sample container shipping rates to Argentina from other countries around the world.
You can also find moving companies in Argentina here.
2. Argentina Housing Costs
There’s a wide variety of housing option to choose from in Argentina, from palatial homes to comfortable apartments. The purchase price or rent reflects the area in which the property is situated and obviously, popular cities like Buenos Aires are going to be more expensive. That said, house and flat prices in Argentina are very affordable compared with most countries in the world.
Monthly Rental Prices in Argentina
- 1 bedroom apartment in City Centre: $22,232 – $69,809
- 1 bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: $14,821 – $51,875
- 3 bedroom apartment in City Centre: $44,464 – $14,8216
- 3 bedroom apartment outside the City Centre: $29,643 – $11,8572
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy in City Centre: $177,859 – $452,503
- Price per square metre (10.7 square feet) to buy outside City: $140,805 – $370,540
Argentina Housing Cost Comparison
This is how rents in Argentina compare with other countries around the globe.
United Kingdom is 338.36% more expensive
United States is 568.90% more expensive
Canada is 376.53% more expensive
Australia is 402.05% more expensive
Germany is 266.51% more expensive
France is 112.98% more expensive
Spain is 201.92% more expensive
Italy is 186.71% more expensive
Source: Numbeo
How to Save on Housing Costs
- Share an apartment or house. Have a look at the following sites to find your perfect room or flat mate: Mente Argentina, iRoommates, erasmusu, and airbnb
- Different areas – different prices. Many residents of Argentina have moved to the country from various parts of the world. This makes for an interesting country with diverse and exciting neighborhoods. If you are fortunate enough to go for the top end of the market, then areas like La Plata, Mar del Plata, and Rosario will be a good option. Prices in these areas are slightly more reasonable than in the capital, and you can find some really nice places to live.
3. Argentina Food, Grocery and Restaurant Costs
Argentina’s large expat population means that there are many different types of restaurants serving food from around the globe. There are restaurants for those who enjoy fine dining and restaurants for those who love a good burger.
- Inexpensive Restaurant: $626.95- 1482.16
- Takeout Coffee: $ 518.76 – 1625.93
- Bottle of Coke: $ 88.93– 296.43
- 1L of milk: $ 74.11 – 158.59
- Loaf of Bread: $72.63 – 444.65
- 12 Eggs: $ 99.30- 355.72
- 1kg Chicken: $ 296.43 -889.30
- 1kg Beef: $ 592.86– 1482.16
- 1kg Apples: $111.16 – 349.79
- 1kg White Rice: $ 74.11 – 222.32
This is how restaurants and food prices compare with other major cities in the world.
- UK restaurants are 144.54% more expensive and groceries are 83.19% more expensive than Argentina.
- United States restaurants are 152.51% more expensive and groceries are 173.92% more expensive than Argentina.
- Canadian restaurants are 134% more expensive and groceries are 146.36% more expensive than Argentina.
- Australian restaurants are 134.27% more expensive and groceries are 170.67%more expensive than Argentina.
- German restaurants are 102.67% more expensive and groceries are 88.76% more expensive than Argentina.
- French restaurants are 142.48% more expensive and groceries are 143.85% more expensive than Argentina.
- Spanish restaurants are 86.55% more expensive and groceries are 53.17% more expensive than Argentina.
- Italian restaurants are 124.21% more expensive and groceries are 95.05% more expensive than Argentina.
Source: Numbeo
Bonus Tips for Cheaper Food, Restaurants and Groceries
- Know your supermarkets: Argentina has many independently owned grocery stores and supermarket chains. There are also farmers’ markets and shops which sell health foods and organic foods. Popular supermarkets in Argentina are Makro, Disco, Carrefour, and Jumbo.
- Find Cheap Eats:Eating out in Argentina is exceptionally affordable compared with most countries around the globe. Have a look at the following sites for suggestions on where to find restaurants that are really cheap but still serve great food – Wanderlog, Lonely Planet, Eater, and Vamo Spanish.
4. Argentina Alcohol Costs
Argentines enjoy social drinking. The relaxed, outdoor lifestyle lends itself to sitting, having a cocktail and watching the world go by.
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a restaurant/pub: $148.22 – $499.49
- Bottle of imported beer at a restaurant/pub: $ 207.50 – $592.86
- Pint (0.5L) domestic beer at a supermarket: $ 91.89 – $296.43
- Bottle of imported beer at a supermarket: $ 148.22 – $397.22
- Mid-range bottle of wine at a supermarket: $ 296.43 – $852.24
How to drink for less in Argentina
- Keep an eye on the local papers and flyers for cheap drinks, either in supermarkets or in bars, clubs and restaurants.
- Look out for happy hours where you can buy drinks at a reduced price at certain times of day – usually early evening.
- Avoid tourist traps – these are usually the places with the highest prices.
- Drink local wine and beer instead of imported drinks, which will be more expensive.
5. Argentina Transportation Fares
Argentina’s transport system is one of the best in South America and is constantly improving. The country has an extensive network of highways, railways, airports and ports that make it possible to move people and goods around the nation with ease. All these modes of transportation are affordable, and the fares are generally reasonable.
Here are some example ticket costs.
- One-way Ticket (Local Transport) $ 44.46 – $84.48
- Monthly Pass (Regular Price) $ 963.40 – $3,866.96
- Taxi Start (Normal Tariff) $ 88.93 – $296.43
How to save money on public transport
- Look for free rides and free transfers from bus to rail and vice versa
- Buy a weekly ticket $4,335.32 for 7 days of unlimited travel
- Buy a bike. Cycling is big in Argentina. There are cycles lanes and lots of rides in and around the larger cities.
- Many people walk to work and the shops in Argentina.
6. Cost of Internet in Argentina
In Argentina, the average price of a basic broadband package is around US$22.27 per month (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL). This puts it on the more expensive side when compared to other South American countries, but it is still cheaper than many developed nations around the world.
Some of the most popular ISPs in the country include:
- Arnet Telecom – Starts at US$64 per month for 30 Mbps
- Claro Argentina – Starts at US$25 for 4Mbps
7. Cost of Clothing, Personal Items, Gym and Leisure
The climate in Argentina ranges from subtropical in the north to subpolar in the far south. The country experiences a wide variety of weather conditions, depending on the location. The average temperature in Buenos Aires in the summer is 25C. The city experiences hot and humid summers and cool, dry winters. January and February are the hottest months, while July is the coldest. Rainfall is evenly distributed throughout the year because of the influence of the Atlantic Ocean and the annual average rainfall is 577.79mm.
Here are some clothing prices, together with other useful prices.
- Pair of Jeans: $3,705.40 – $14,821.61
- Summer Dress: $2,667.89 – $11,857.29
- Running Shoes (Trainers): $7,410.80 – $24,211.10
- Business Shoes: $5928.64 – $26,176.44
- Deodorant: $56,766.76
- Shampoo: $64,770.43
- Toilet Paper (4 rolls): $51,579.20
- Gym membership: $1,534.04
- Movie (cinema) ticket: $444.65 – 1227.23
Source: Numbeo and Expatistan
8. Cost of Owning a Car and Driving a Car in Argentina
Second hand cars hold their price well in Argentina and there’s often not much difference between a second hand vehicle and a new one so, if you can afford it, buy a new car. You’ll then know that it has no traffic fines attached to and there will be no surprise maintenance costs. You’ll need an international driving licence or an Argentine driving licence, proof of address in Argentina, a tax number, insurance and a copy of your passport in order to buy a car.
Take note that Argentines are fast drivers and short on patience, so drive accordingly. They also have a habit of not signalling when turning, so keep your eyes peeled at all times.
Here are some other sample costs of owning and operating a car in Argentina
- Volkswagen Golf:$ 2816105 – 5449757
- 1 litre (¼ gallon) of gas (petrol):$ 88.93 – 185.27
- Other costs: You’ll need to pay for vehicle registration which varies per region and vehicle, insurance and road tax.
Source: Numbeo and Expat Info Desk
Ways to save money driving in Argentina
- Car sharing or pooling is one way to save money. Try Carpool World and Expat.
- Taxis can sometimes be a cheaper option, especially if you are going to have to park all day. Try Uber and Cabify.
9. Taxes in Argentina
The Argentine government imposes a number of taxes including value-added tax (VAT), income tax, capital gains tax, and inheritance tax. Argentina’s VAT rate is 21%, one of the highest in the world. It has a progressive income tax system, ranging from 5 percent to 35 percent. Capital gains tax is 15%.
10. Flight Costs from Argentina
If you do make the move to Argentina, here’s approximately how much it will cost to fly to other major world cities based on lowest, one-way fares from Skyscanner as of late 2022:
- London: $105,946
- New York: $84,333
- Los Angeles: $61,079
- Toronto: $82,663
- Vancouver: $87960
- Dubai: $181,661
- Sydney: $280 064
- Melbourne: $304,766
- Cape Town: $150,615
- Hong Kong: $173,286
Other Argentina Relocation Tips
The costs and pricing above should give you a good idea of the cost of living in Argentina but perhaps the following extra tips will make your move go smoothly.
11. Relocating to Argentina Alone
Moving is always a stressful time but moving on your own can be exceptionally difficult. The relatively laid back atmosphere in Argentina and the friendly people will help you ease into your new life. Here are a few tips about settling in Argentina.
- Meetups:Argentina has many Meetup groups covering a wide range of activities from learning to tango to wine tasting.
- Attend local events: There is always something going on in Argentina and many of the activities are free. Have a look at the following sites for inspiration – Escape artist, Travel2next, Culture Trip, and Menteargentina.
12. Moving to Argentina with a Family
There are many benefits of moving to Argentina as a family. The country is home to some of the world’s most beautiful scenery, including the Andes Mountains and the Argentine pampas. The cost of living in Argentina is also very reasonable, and families can find affordable housing and child care. In addition, Argentina offers excellent educational opportunities for children. Families moving to Argentina will also find that the country has a rich cultural heritage and a diverse population.
- New parents (or parents to be):Check out Expatwoman for advice, courses and ways to meet other parents or parents to be.
- Live in a family friendly area:Tigre is a family friendly suburb of Buenos Aires is full of green spaces and parks, plus there are also good schools and childcare options. San Telmo is another suburb favoured by expat families. The cities of Mendoza and Cordoba are also great places to live for families.
- Find things to do with the kids:Argentina has lots for children to do. Have a look at the following website for inspiration – Culture trip, Rainforest Cruises, Family Travel, Travelmamas, and Inspirerock.
13. Moving to Argentina for Work
If you’re considering moving to Argentina for work, you should keep a few things in mind. First, the Argentine economy is fairly unstable, so it’s important to have a solid financial plan in place. The Argentine job market can be competitive, so it’s important to have the right skills and qualifications for the positions you’re interested in.
That said, there are plenty of opportunities for foreigners looking to work in Argentina. The country has a strong agriculture and livestock sector, as well as a growing tourism industry. There is also a need for skilled workers in a variety of industries, including engineering, information technology, and finance.
Here are a few things to consider when moving for work:
- Salary:Salaries in Argentina are generally lower than in other developed countries. However, the cost of living is also relatively low compared with other countries. You can check salary ranges on sites such as Salary Expert and Payscale.
- How to find work: If you want to have a job lined up before you move to Argentina, but aren’t sure where to begin, the following sites are good places to start :com, Glassdoor, WeXpats and Indeed. You may also want to Google recruiters in your industry, as they can often help land you some initial interviews as well.
14. Moving to Argentina from Australia
Argentina and Australia have a good relationship and there is a small Aussie contingent living in Argentina. If you are thinking of moving from Australia to Argentina, here are a few things to consider.
- Size comparison:If you look at the population of Argentina and compare it with Australia, it’s around the same but Argentina is 2.8 times larger than Australia.
- Join expat groups: Expats and Internationsoffer ways of meeting up with other Australians in Argentina.
15. Moving to Argentina from Canada
There are a comparatively large number of Canadians living in Argentina. If you’re considering making the move from Canada here are a few things to consider.
- Size:If you compare the population size of Argentina with Canada, Argentina is a much smaller country with a population of around 46 million people, while Canada has a population of over 38 million people.
- Expat groups:Meeting up with fellow Canadians helps the moving process. Link up through sites such as Internations and Meetup.
16. Moving to Argentina from the United Kingdom
The climate and way of life in Argentina attracts people from the UK. In fact, there are many working in the country, especially in hospitality, so if you’re considering joining them, here are a few bonus tips:
- Size: Looking at the population size of Argentina, it’s the second largest country in South America, with a population of over 46 million people. In comparison, the tiny UK has a population of just over 67 million.
- Expat groups:If you want to get together with others from the UK who are enjoying the weather, then go to Internations and Meetup.
Hopefully, the tips and costs above are helpful. If want to get started pricing out how much it will cost you to move to Argentina you can start by comparing moving quotes here.
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