Are you dreaming of living by the ocean?

If you plan to relocate to Chile and stay for the long term, not just for a vacation, renting accommodation will become a key expense. To save more, it’s important to sign a year-long contract under notarized terms, which requires a residency permit (like a temporary or permanent visa). This allows you to secure rates up to half of those for short-term rentals (e.g., on Airbnb).

The prices listed below are in USD and were gathered from Portal Inmobiliario – the primary resource for rental searches in Chile. At the end of the article, we will estimate the utility costs, which are paid separately.

Santiago: Business and Prestige

Santiago is a metropolis with a population of about 8 million people, consisting of 21 communes. La Dehesa (Lo Barnechea), Vitacura, and Las Condes are considered leaders in comfort and safety:

• Apartment (1 bedroom): $750 – 1000, often with modern amenities like swimming pools, gyms, and security.
• Apartment (2 bedrooms): $1200 – 1600, ideal for families or working from home.
• Housing (4–5 bedrooms/houses): $4000 – 7000, featuring private yards, swimming pools, and garages.

You can find more budget-friendly housing options in the central districts of Santiago – they will cost approximately half as much.

Viña-del-Mar: Living with an Ocean View

A coastal resort city where you not only want to live, but fully enjoy weeks (and years) by the ocean:

• 1-bedroom apartments: Around $700, often with coastal views.
• 2-bedroom apartments: $1000 – 1200.
• Private houses (4–5 bedrooms): $3000 – 5000, but availability is limited, especially during peak season.

Viña-del-Mar is highly sought after during peak season; renting accommodation can be challenging. Therefore, it’s more advantageous to consider it for investment rather than long-term rental.

Concón: Tranquility, New Developments, and Ocean Views

Concón is a relatively young city with numerous modern residential complexes. It’s quieter than Viña del Mar, yet still close to the sea:

• Apartments (1 bedroom): 600.
• Apartments (2 bedrooms): 1,000.
• Houses/Apartments (4–5 bedrooms): Up to $4,000, many newly built with spacious layouts.

Concón is ideal for those who value comfort, modern housing standards, and proximity to nature.

In addition to rent, there are monthly utility expenses – let’s discuss them separately.

Housing Type and Utilities:

• 1-bedroom apartment: approximately $150
• 2-bedroom apartment: 250
• 4–5 bedroom house/apartment: 700
• Includes electricity, water, gas, security, and maintenance of common areas (pool, gym, elevator).

Conclusion: What to Choose?

• Santiago: For those who value infrastructure, a dynamic lifestyle, access to services, and status.
• Viña-del-Mar: For an inspiring life by the ocean, but be prepared for limited availability.
• Concón: For a peaceful, relaxed life in new homes close to the coast.

The most important thing is to secure a long-term rental agreement with a temporary residency permit and to budget not only for the rent but also for the utilities. This will ensure your move is comfortable, predictable, and economical.