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Lima🇵🇪

Peru · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Timezone
America/Lima
Nomad community
Medium

City metrics

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)$600/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)$400/mo
Rent 3BR (centre)$1,300/mo
Cost of living (national avg)52 (USA=100, World Bank ICP)
Cheap meal$5.00
Mid-range meal for 2$15.00
Monthly groceries~$260

Infrastructure

Internet speed55 Mbps
Internet reliability7/100
Healthcare index60/100
Coworking spaces~18

Lifestyle

Safety index42/100
Air quality80 AQI — Moderate
Walkability60/100
Climate score68/100
English proficiencylow
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communityMedium
Visa easeeasy
Budget score8/100
Lifestyle score6/100
Overall nomad score
6/100
Source: NoodlePants composite (World Bank ICP, Ookla, OpenAQ) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

This vibrant South American city is a surprisingly affordable option for digital nomads. Expect to pay around $600 for a 1-bedroom in a central, desirable area, or $400 a bit further out. Daily expenses are low too, with a cheap meal costing about $5. Groceries run around $260 monthly. This makes it ideal for budget-conscious nomads or those looking to stretch their dollar further. The internet is decent at 55 Mbps, and there’s a medium-sized nomad community with 18 coworking spaces. Healthcare is fair, and the visa process is easy. However, be prepared for some challenges: English proficiency is low, so brushing up on your Spanish will significantly enhance your experience. Also, the air quality can be unhealthy at times, which is a key consideration for some. In short, it’s a great value pick for adventurous nomads who don't mind a little grit with their ceviche.

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Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Lima.

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Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Lima as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Lima averages around $600 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Peru sits at 52 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Lima safe for digital nomads?+

Lima scores 42/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Stick to well-known nomad neighbourhoods and avoid walking alone late at night.

How fast is the internet in Lima?+

Headline average internet speed in Lima is around 55 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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