Best Cities to Live in Argentina
If you’re considering relocating to Argentina, you’re in for a rich cultural experience, varied landscapes and generally affordable living—though it’s important to weigh both opportunities and challenges (such as inflation, currency fluctuations and variable infrastructure). Here are five of the best cities to live in Argentina—each with its own strengths, based on verifiable data.
Buenos Aires (CABA – capital federal)
Why it stands out
- Buenos Aires is widely recognised as the top city to live in Latin America according to the The Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) global livability index: the city ranked 66th out of 173 worldwide, and was the highest-ranking Latin American city.
- For expats in particular, the city is noted for its rich cultural life, arts, entertainment, outdoors cafés, wide choice of amenities, and cosmopolitan feel.
Considerations
- Argentina continues to face high inflation and economic instability, which affects purchasing power, savings and exchange‐rate risk.
- With high demand and central location, housing/rent costs in desirable neighbourhoods can be significantly higher than in smaller cities.
- Traffic, noise and the larger‐city issues are present—as you might expect in a major capital.
Ideal for
Those seeking maximum urban amenities, international connectivity, cultural richness, languages, and who are comfortable in a large dynamic city and/or working remotely with foreign currency or income.
Córdoba (Province of Córdoba)
Why it stands out
- Córdoba is Argentina’s second‐largest city (~1.3 million) and offers a blend of historic architecture, a large student population, cultural energy and lower cost of living compared with Buenos Aires.
- Cost of living data: According to Li
- Real estate / rental investment: According to TheLatinvestor, average rents for a three-bedroom in Cordoba might be around €650-€850 per month in central locations.
Considerations
- Although cheaper than the capital, salaries in Córdoba also tend to be lower; so the cost advantage applies mostly when you have foreign income or savings.
- Public transport, while present, has been reported by some expats to be less reliable than in top global cities.
- Summers can be hot and humid; depending on your climate preferences, this may matter.
Ideal for
Expats or remote workers who want a mid-sized city with good amenities, cultural life and lower costs; perhaps those tired of the capital’s bustle but not ready for rural/provincial life.
Mendoza
Why it stands out
- Mendoza offers a relaxed lifestyle, good access to nature (vineyards, mountains, outdoor activities) and is frequently noted as an attractive option for expats and retirees.
- Environment & urban green space: An article noted that Mendoza functions as a “city-forest” thanks to its extensive network of irrigation canals (acequias) and more than 45 m² of green space per person—well above WHO suggested levels.
Considerations
- While very appealing, being further away from major international flight hubs and some services may mean slightly reduced availability (than the capital).
- Infrastructure and legal/regulatory issues (as with many places in Argentina) need careful attention.
- Some environmental stresses (e.g., water scarcity) are noted as growing issues.
Ideal for
People who value outdoor lifestyle, moderate urban size, wine region culture, and cost-effective living; remote workers, retirees, nature lovers.
San Carlos de Bariloche (Patagonia)
Why it stands out
- Bariloche is a scenic city in Argentina’s lake district, offering access to mountains, lakes, skiing in winter, hiking in summer—a lifestyle appeal for nature‐oriented residents.
- Nomad/expat data: Nomad.watch gives Bariloche a “Nomad Score” indicating decent cost‐affordability and lifestyle metrics. nomad.watch
Considerations
- It is more seasonal (tourism‐dependent); housing and services can fluctuate. Real estate in prime lakefront areas is relatively expensive compared to other interior cities.
- In more remote locations there may be less access to some services that large capitals have (e.g., specialised medical care).
- Winter climate can be harsh, and some remote/parochial infrastructure issues may be present.
Ideal for
Nature lovers, those seeking a slower pace, remote workers or retirees who prioritise scenery and outdoor activities and can manage with somewhat less urban density of services
(Honourable Mention) Salta
Why it merits attention
- Salta, in northwest Argentina, is cited as a relatively affordable, culture‐rich city with beautiful surroundings, making it interesting for expats or longer-term stays.
Considerations
- Smaller city in comparison to Córdoba or Mendoza; fewer international flights/services.
- Job opportunities and large expat communities may be more limited.
- Infrastructure/amenities may not be at the same level as major urban centres.
Ideal for
Those looking for a lower‐cost lifestyle, culture/international immersion, a more local feel, possibly retirees or remote workers who prioritise affordability and adventurous location.
✅ Summary Table
| City | Strengths | Trade-offs |
| Buenos Aires | Capital amenities, culture, connectivity | Higher cost, inflation, hustle |
| Córdoba | Mid-sized city, cultural energy, lower cost | Lower salaries, less premium infrastructure |
| Mendoza | Outdoors, nature, relaxed lifestyle | Slightly less connectivity to big hubs |
| Bariloche | Nature, scenery, lifestyle change | Seasonal, less urban scale, some higher real estate |
| Salta | Very affordable, local culture | Smaller service base, fewer international links |
📝 Final Considerations & Tips
- Currency & Inflation: Argentina regularly experiences high inflation and peso devaluation. If you plan to move here, it helps to have income in a stronger currency (USD, EUR) or savings protected from inflation.
- Language: Spanish is key. While you’ll find English speakers in tourist/higher-end areas, managing residency, property, utilities, etc will be much easier if you either speak Spanish or have support.
- Residency & legal / visa issues: Moving long-term to Argentina involves understanding local visa/residency rules; checking property-ownership regulations, tax implications, etc.
- Healthcare & infrastructure: Major cities have good private healthcare; in smaller or remote places, options may be more limited—so check proximity and quality of services.
- Neighbourhood choice matters: Even in the same city, some districts will differ profoundly in safety, amenities, noise, cost. Research local barrios before committing.
- Lifestyle fit: Decide what you prioritise—urban entertainment vs nature peace, cost vs connectivity, larger expat community vs local immersion.
- Visit first: Before relocating, spend a decent amount of time in your chosen city (ideally at different seasons) to test weather, neighbourhoods, commuting, services.
