Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Buenos Aires (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Buenos Aires, Argentina
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Buenos Aires, Argentina for an expat in 2026 averages $850 per month for rent (1br palermo furnished). Key costs include rent (1br palermo furnished) ($850), groceries ($200), dining out ($300).
Buenos Aires is a popular destination for expats relocating to Argentina. Buenos Aires is a city of 3 million (15 million in Greater BA) that operates on its own schedule, its own cultural logic, and its own culinary religion. Dubbed the 'Paris of the South' more for its Haussmann-influenced boulevards and café culture than mere flattery, it is a genuine world city that happens to be significantly cheaper than Paris. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR Palermo furnished) | $850 |
| Groceries | $200 |
| Dining out | $300 |
| Transport (SUBE + Uber) | $45 |
| Utilities | $30 |
| Internet + mobile | $20 |
| Health insurance (OSDE) | $90 |
| Entertainment & misc | $250 |
| Total (comfortable) | $1,785 |
Buenos Aires Quick Facts
Monthly Budget
$800–$1,200
Best For
Digital nomads, culture lovers, foodies
Internet Speed
~35 Mbps avg.
English Level
Moderate
Palermo 1BR furnished rent
$700–$1,000/month USD
Recoleta 1BR rent
$800–$1,200/month USD
Subte (subway) fare
ARS 1,206 (~$0.85 USD)
Climate
Humid subtropical; hot summers, mild winters
Airports
Ezeiza (EZE) international; Aeroparque (AEP) domestic
Time zone
UTC-3, no daylight saving
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Buenos Aires per month?
Monthly costs in Buenos Aires depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1br palermo furnished) ($850), groceries ($200), dining out ($300). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Buenos Aires affordable for expats?
Buenos Aires is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Buenos Aires?
Rent (1BR Palermo furnished): $850