Cost of Living in Argentina: Rent, Housing & Income

Argentina is large, and its prices are tied to a currency that has swung widely. Buenos Aires holds a large share of the population and the jobs, while Córdoba, Mendoza, Rosario and the Patagonian towns all have their own price levels. The figures here are national averages converted to US dollars, so they work best as a rough guide.

The exchange rate is the main caveat. The Argentine peso has lost value quickly at times, and more than one exchange rate has been in use at various points. A converted figure can therefore be well above or below what a visitor actually pays, depending on how and where they get their pesos. Check the current rate you would use before budgeting.

The data comes from Livingcost, which compiles crowd-sourced prices. These are estimates that update continuously.

The World Bank's price level ratio for Argentina was 45.7 in 2025, with the U.S. at 100. At market exchange rates, the same basket of goods and services cost about 46% of its U.S. price.

GDP per capita, adjusted for purchasing power, was 32,587 international dollars in 2025 (U.S.: 90,027 international dollars in 2025). Consumer prices rose 219.9% in 2024 (U.S.: 2.9% in 2024).

Livingcost lists $536/mo for one person without rent and $894/mo with it. The average salary after tax is listed at $729/mo.

A one bedroom apartment in a city centre is listed at $393/mo, and a cheaper one bedroom at $276/mo. For three bedrooms, the centre is listed at $820/mo and the cheaper option at $584/mo.

Rental practice can differ from what visitors expect. Leases are often long and may carry rules on how rent is adjusted over time, and some landlords ask for guarantees or a larger upfront payment. Short stays are easier to arrange through furnished apartment listings, which cost more per month. Read any contract carefully, including how the price is set and in which currency it is paid, and consider asking a local lawyer to review it.

Utilities for one person are listed at $64.90/mo, an internet plan at $22.80/mo, and a monthly local transport ticket at $29.60/mo.

Public transport in large cities is inexpensive on the listed ticket, though fares and subsidies can change. Gas and electricity pricing has been a topic of policy changes, so a bill from last year may not predict next year's.

A lunch menu is listed at $12.80 each. That is a high number next to the rest of the budget, and it shows that restaurants, especially in Buenos Aires, can be pricey relative to salaries. A liter of milk is listed at $1.29 each and a dozen eggs at $2.61 each. Cooking at home, shopping in markets and eating at neighborhood places lower the food line compared with the restaurants in tourist areas.

Regional differences matter. Buenos Aires has the widest range of restaurants, cultural venues and rentals, and its prices lead the country. Smaller cities such as Córdoba and Rosario can offer lower rents with a university-town feel, while Patagonia tourism towns see prices rise sharply in peak season. Choose your city before you pick a budget.

For a family of four, Livingcost lists $2,177/mo including rent and $1,590/mo without it. Private schools and private health coverage are not itemized here. Ask providers for current fees, and ask in which currency they bill.

The honest answer is that it depends on the month. Prices rise quickly in pesos, and the dollar value of those prices rises and falls with the exchange rate. A budget made in one season can be out of date by the next. Revisit your numbers regularly if you live there, and keep a margin if you earn in another currency.

1. Decide which city you will live in and price three or four apartments there.
2. Find out how rent is adjusted during the lease.
3. Check how you will convert money and what rate that gives you.
4. Add bills and food, using local prices where you can.
5. Leave a buffer for price changes.

• Health insurance and private medical care
• Visa and residency fees
• Flights and long distance buses
• Private school tuition
• Taxes, which depend on your status and where your income comes from

Immigration, tax and currency rules change often. Check the official Argentine immigration site and ask a licensed advisor before you plan.