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What it's actually like here
Imagine living large on a small budget. That's Arequipa. You're looking at around $300 for a 1-bedroom in the center, or a steal at $180 further out. Even your monthly groceries are a reasonable $150, and a good meal out sets you back just $10. This city is perfect for budget-conscious nomads who appreciate a slower pace and want their money to go far. Internet speeds are decent at 60 Mbps, good enough for most remote work, and there are 8 coworking spaces for when you need a dedicated office. However, with "low" English proficiency, you'll definitely want to brush up on your Spanish to truly connect. The main caveat? The nomad community is small. If you thrive on a bustling expat scene, this might feel a bit isolating. But for those who value authenticity and affordability, Arequipa is a gem.
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Who this suits
Featured neighbourhoods
Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Arequipa.
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Frequently asked questions
How much does it cost to live in Arequipa as a digital nomad?+
As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Arequipa averages around $300 per month, and the overall cost-of-living index sits at 30 (vs Switzerland = 101). Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.
Is Arequipa safe for digital nomads?+
Arequipa scores 60/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most central neighbourhoods are fine with normal big-city awareness.
How fast is the internet in Arequipa?+
Headline average internet speed in Arequipa is around 60 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.
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