Cost of Living in Buenos Aires

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The cost of living in Buenos Aires has increased dramatically, now reaching levels comparable to many US and European cities. The country’s ongoing economic instability and high inflation have pushed prices up significantly. Your lifestyle, preferences and expectations will have a major effect on the cost of living in Buenos Aires.

Cost of accommodation in Buenos Aires

The cost of accommodation in Buenos Aires will be one of your biggest expenses. That said, the rental market has changed dramatically after the recent rent control reforms which repealed rent control laws and increased rental supply significantly, and real rental prices have dropped from their peak levels.

You’ll find plenty of apartments in modern high-rises and older buildings with traditional architecture. Palermo and Recoleta bring an upscale atmosphere, and areas like San Telmo and Almagro offer more budget-friendly options.

Securing a rental requires an Argentine guarantor (someone who owns property locally) plus deposits equivalent to several months’ rent upfront. Many expats turn to insurance companies as guarantor alternatives, although this adds to costs. Utilities were traditionally subsidised and cheap, but recent energy subsidy cuts mean electricity and gas bills have increased substantially.

Renting Accommodation in Buenos Aires
Areas and Suburbs in Buenos Aires

Cost of transport in Buenos Aires

Public transport in Buenos Aires is extensive and still relatively affordable, despite the increases in fares. The city’s public transport system of buses, subways, and trains that still offer good value for your commute. Subway fares have increased dramatically in peso terms, although this largely reflects currency devaluation rather than real price increases. Expect regular fare adjustments: authorities are implementing a 2 percent monthly increase plus inflation adjustments.

You can pay for subway rides with credit cards or digital wallets, although buses still require a SUBE card. Taxis and ride-sharing services can be pricier, especially during rush hour or at night.

High import duties and a small domestic car production sector make car ownership expensive, although some recent changes have eliminated tariffs on low-cost electric and hybrid vehicles. Second-hand cars offer better value, but financing and insurance costs can be prohibitive for short-term residents.

Transport in Buenos Aires

Cost of groceries in Buenos Aires

Grocery costs in Buenos Aires have surged beyond recognition, making a budget-friendly destination into one with prices rivalling developed Western countries. Local markets known as ferias still offer fresh produce and meat at lower prices than supermarkets, but even these have seen dramatic increases.

Supermarkets provide a wider selection and convenience features like delivery services, but you’ll pay accordingly. Shopping strategies matter: many expats report success mixing feria shopping for fresh items with selective supermarket purchases for pantry staples and imported necessities. Imported goods, including cheese and wine, carry substantial markups over local products.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Buenos Aires

The cost of entertainment and eating out in Buenos Aires has exploded from budget-friendly to expensive. Restaurant prices outpace grocery inflation significantly, and many locals have reduced restaurant visits as economic pressures mount. You’ll still find traditional Argentine dishes like empanadas, asado, and mate alongside international cuisine, but expect Western European pricing levels.

You can enjoy a wide range of cultural and entertainment options in the city, including museums, theatres, art galleries, live music, and sports events. To save money on entertainment in Buenos Aires, take advantage of free outdoor activities, such as visiting the many parks and plazas, soaking in the street art scene, and attending public events and festivals.

Some top attractions and things to see in Buenos Aires include the iconic Recoleta Cemetery, the colourful Caminito street in La Boca, the historic Teatro Colón, and the lively tango shows and milongas.

Entertainment in Buenos Aires
Top Attractions and Things to See in Buenos Aires

Cost of education in Buenos Aires

The cost of education in Buenos Aires can be a significant expense, especially if you’re an expat seeking private or international schooling options. Public schools in Argentina are free of charge and available to all residents, but they are taught in Spanish, which may be a barrier for your children if they are not fluent in the language.

Private schools can be a viable option for your family, as many offer bilingual education in English and Spanish or other languages. International schools in Buenos Aires are another option, offering education in English or other languages and often following international curricula such as the International Baccalaureate (IB) programme.

Education and Schools in Buenos Aires
International Schools in Buenos Aires

Cost of healthcare in Buenos Aires

Public healthcare in Argentina is free of charge and available to all residents, although this is changing. Starting in July 2025, non-citizens and non-residents will be charged for healthcare and hospital visits in public facilities. The quality of care may vary, and waiting times for appointments can be long.

The city has a good public healthcare system, but you may prefer private healthcare for better quality and faster service. Health insurance in Argentina has become substantially more expensive, with private insurance costs doubling under current economic conditions. General healthcare costs for things like visits to the doctor, hospital stays, and non-prescription medicines have increased significantly.

Argentina now requires foreign visitors to present valid health insurance covering their entire stay, making travel insurance mandatory rather than optional for tourists and short-term visitors.

Healthcare in Argentina
Healthcare in Buenos Aires