Thinking about moving to Argentina?
Whether it’s the buzzing city life in Buenos Aires or the jaw-dropping landscapes in Patagonia, living in Argentina can be an adventure.
But before you pack your bags, it’s worth taking a quick look at the pros and cons of living in Argentina.
Every place has its perks and downsides, and Argentina is no different.
Let’s dive into what you need to know.
Pros Of Living In Argentina
There are many upsides to living in Argentina.
Here are the ones worth highlighting:
Affordable Cost Of Living
If you’re earning in a strong foreign currency like USD or EUR, Argentina can feel pretty affordable. It’s like getting a taste of European living at a fraction of the cost. Argentina offers that European vibe in Latin America, where you can enjoy a similar lifestyle without breaking the bank.
Some things – like rent, healthcare, and transportation, are much more affordable than in other Western countries. Buenos Aires, being the capital, is a bit pricier than other parts of the country, but it’s still cheaper than many big cities around the world. Head out to smaller cities or the countryside, and you’ll find your money goes even further.
That said, not everything is a bargain. Anything imported, like electronics, can be shockingly expensive. That’s thanks to high taxes and import restrictions. And for those relying on an Argentine salary, it’s a different story— life can be a real struggle.
Beautiful and Diverse Landscapes
Argentina is a big country.
In fact, it’s the 8th largest in the world.
That means whatever lifestyle you’re after, you can find it here.
Want to live in a big, bustling city?
Buenos Aires is where you’ll want to be. It’s a vibrant metropolis with a rich cultural scene and endless things to do.
Prefer wide-open spaces?
Head to Patagonia, where you’ll find breathtaking landscapes and a slower pace of life.
For wine lovers, Mendoza is your spot, with vineyards that rival those of southern France.
And if you’re a mountain enthusiast, Bariloche is a perfect choice.
Related Article: 6 Best Places to Live In Argentina
Rich Cultural Experience
Living in Argentina feels like getting a slice of Europe in Latin America.
The European influence is everywhere — from the stunning architecture in Buenos Aires, which has a vibe similar to Paris or Madrid, to the lively arts and theater scene.
The city’s grand theaters, like Teatro Colón, and its countless art galleries and historic cafes give you that European feel with a Latin twist. It’s a place where expats can enjoy a rich cultural life without leaving the continent.
But Argentina isn’t just about European flair; it has its own unique cultural heartbeat.
Tango is a big part of Argentina’s culture, with milongas and street performances keeping the tradition alive.
Football is a religion here, with everyone getting caught up in the excitement around teams like Boca Juniors and River Plate.
Life in Argentina also means sharing mate with friends, sipping on fernet and Malbec, and digging into some of the best steaks you’ll ever taste at an asado.
Throw in the lively street festivals and fairs, and you’ve got a culture that’s vibrant and always buzzing.
Great Weather And Climate
Argentina’s seasons are the opposite of the Northern Hemisphere, so when it’s winter up north, it’s summer down here. This flip can be a bit of an adjustment, but it also means you can escape cold winters for warmer weather in Argentina.
The climate is generally mild across the country, though it varies by region. In Buenos Aires, you’ll experience all four seasons, with hot, humid summers and cool, comfortable winters. Summers can get pretty warm, but the heat is manageable, and most places have air conditioning.
If you’re considering living further south, like in Patagonia, expect colder winters, but nothing too harsh (unless you go extremely south).
The great thing about Argentina’s climate?
You won’t have to worry about natural disasters—no hurricanes, tornadoes, or major earthquakes to disrupt your life.
The weather is usually stable, making it easy to plan your days.
Amazing Food & Wine
Argentina is a dream for anyone who loves steak and wine.
The asado, or barbecue, is a cornerstone of Argentine cuisine, with some of the best beef you’ll ever taste, grilled to perfection. Pair it with a glass of Malbec, and you’ve got a meal that’s hard to beat.
Pizza and empanadas are also big here. Argentine pizza is thick, cheesy, and hearty, while empanadas—little pastry pockets filled with meats, cheese, or veggies—are a go-to snack or quick meal.
That said, the food scene outside Buenos Aires can feel a bit repetitive.
The cuisine is heavy on meat and carbs, with not much variety or spice. If you’re used to more diverse flavors, you might find the options here a bit limited. But if you’re all about meat and wine, Argentina has you covered.
Safety
Argentina is the safest country in Latin America, making it a generally secure place to live compared to other countries in the region. While bigger cities like Buenos Aires have some areas with higher crime rates, most expat-friendly neighborhoods are safe.
Petty crime, like pickpocketing, can happen in crowded spots, but violent crime is rare. With a strong police presence in cities, you’ll feel secure. By taking simple precautions—like keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding risky areas—you can enjoy life here without much worry.
Choosing the right neighborhood is key.
Some places, like La Boca in Buenos Aires, may need extra caution, while others are very safe. In smaller cities and rural areas, crime is even less of an issue, making them peaceful spots for expats.
Easy to make friends
One of the best things about living in Argentina is how easy it is to make friends.
Whether you’re looking to connect with locals or fellow expats, you’ll find a welcoming community ready to embrace you.
Argentinians are known for their warmth and hospitality. From the moment you meet, an Argentinian will likely integrate you into their circles, inviting you to asados (traditional barbecues) and family events within a week of knowing you. It’s not just about being friendly; they genuinely enjoy sharing their culture and love making friends with foreigners.
Argentina also has a large and well-established expat community, making it easy to find people who share similar experiences.
The biggest expat community is in Buenos Aires, but you’ll also find expats in other major cities like Córdoba, Mendoza, Bariloche, Salta, and Mar del Plata.
Cons Of Living In Argentina
Of course, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows.
When moving to Argentina, like any new country, you have to take the good with the bad.
Here are some things to consider as you decide if Argentina is the right place for you.
Economic instability
One of the biggest challenges of living in Argentina is the economic instability. This instability is driven by high inflation and a complicated exchange rate system.
Inflation here is notoriously high, reaching double (or triple) digits annually, which means prices can jump unexpectedly.
To make things more complex, Argentina operates with two exchange rates: the official rate and the unofficial “blue dollar” rate. The latter is often much more favorable, but navigating this dual system can be tricky, especially when trying to get your money out of the country or make larger purchases.
If you’re earning in a strong foreign currency like USD, you’re somewhat shielded from these fluctuations, but even then, prices can shift significantly within a few months.
For those getting paid in Argentine pesos (ARS), the situation is far more challenging.
The constant devaluation of the peso against stronger currencies makes it difficult to maintain purchasing power, and budgeting becomes a moving target.
You can check current inflation rates to see just how fast prices can change.
Inefficiency
Living in Argentina means learning to embrace a slower, often frustrating pace when it comes to getting things done.
Whether you’re dealing with government offices, banking, or even basic services like getting a prescription filled, inefficiency is something you’ll encounter frequently.
It’s not unusual to spend hours waiting in line for something that might take minutes elsewhere, and you’ll often find that processes are more complicated than they need to be.
This inefficiency extends to many aspects of daily life.
For instance, it’s common for appointments or deliveries to be delayed without notice, and there’s little sense of urgency to correct mistakes.
For those used to a more streamlined, organized approach, this can be a significant adjustment.
However, with patience and a bit of flexibility, you can learn to navigate the system.
Just be prepared to spend more time on tasks you might have taken for granted elsewhere.
Far away from anything
One of the downsides of living in Argentina is its geographical isolation from many major global hubs.
Argentina is tucked away at the southern tip of South America, which means getting to other parts of the world can be extremely time-consuming.
To give you a clearer picture, here are the flight times from Buenos Aires to several major cities:
- 🇺🇸 Miami, USA: ~10 hours
- 🇺🇸 New York, USA: ~11 hours
- 🇪🇸 Madrid, Spain: ~12.5 hours
- 🇫🇷 Paris, France: ~13 hours
- 🇮🇹 Rome, Italy: ~13 hours
- 🇩🇪 Frankfurt, Germany: ~13.5 hours
- 🇳🇱 Amsterdam, Netherlands: ~13.5 hours
- 🇧🇷 São Paulo, Brazil: ~2.5 hours
- 🇨🇱 Santiago, Chile: ~2 hours
- 🇦🇷 Ushuaia, Argentina (Patagonia): ~3.5 hours
These long flight times make quick trips to other parts of the world a lot more challenging.
Conclusion
Moving to Argentina is a unique experience compared to relocating to Europe or other Western countries.
The pros and cons of living in Argentina go far beyond the allure of its famous steak and wine or the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires.
If you’re considering making Argentina your new home, it’s essential to weigh these benefits and challenges carefully.
Many are drawn to the warmth of its people, the rich cultural experiences, and the breathtaking landscapes.
But it’s equally important to be prepared for the economic instability, bureaucratic hurdles, and the distance from major global hubs.
Is there something else you’re curious about?
Feel free to reach out, and I’ll be glad to share more insights on the pros and cons of living in Argentina.
