With so many remote workers flocking to this city, it comes as no surprise that remote worker life in Medellin is hugely attractive. The city has become the most popular destination for remote workers in Latin America and one of the world’s main digital nomad hotspots. It is really a mixture of the city’s many incredible qualities that attract so many individuals - a vibrant cultural mix, affordable living and easy access to incredible natural spaces are just some of the reasons the city is so popular.

Additionally, a strong global community in Medellin makes it a city filled with plenty of networking and social opportunities. Without a doubt, Medellin’s past may be a deterrent to some, but those who live and have lived in the city as remote workers frequently sing the praises of this unique South American spot.

Remote worker life in Medellin is affordable. Colombia in general is not an expensive country and while there are cheaper cities here, Medellin still offers prices well below the those in Europe, the Caribbean and North America. You can expect prices in Medellin for a 1-bedroom modern and central apartment to be around the 900USD range - for this sort of price you can expect a fully-furnished apartment in an excellent building with top-notch amenities. Simply check the listings on Airbnb. Studios and room can be priced much lower, with many going for as low as 300USD per month. At the same time, getting around Medellin is affordable too, with an efficient and reliable public transportation system that will save you pesos on taxis. Local fresh produce markets and menus del dia also make eating and living in the city affordable and accessible.

The city is obviously much more than its complicated past, and those visiting can expect remote worker life in Medellin to be filled with culture and friendly locals. Indeed, Paisa culture is known for its industriousness, friendly approach to life and lively spirit. Locals in Medellin are passionate about their city and culture, and are usually excited to be able to share it with willing visitors. As such, you can expect your time here to be filled with amazing food, cultural events and parties. The Medellin Flower Festival is known across the region and showcases impressive arrangements from around Antioquia and beyond, in what constitutes one of Colombia’s most important cultural festivals.

Asides from affordability and culture, remote workers are attracted to Medellin for its easy access to the rich and biodiverse nature that Colombia is known for. The city itself is home to lots of parks, squares and public green spaces such as the Nutibara Hill and Parque de los Pies Descalzos. Of course, Arvi Park located to the northeast of the city provides some of the best biodiversity hikes in the country and an excellent natural escape easily reachable from the center of Medellin. Short day trips from the city to towns such as San Rafael, Guatapé and Santa Fe offer additional opportunities to enjoy the Paisa countryside and the many activities it offers. Medellin is also located around 4-5 hours by car from the Eje Cafetero, and coffee-lovers will appreciate the many plantations and tours available to visitors there.

Despite the city’s affordability, those visiting should not also expect a lower standard of living. In fact, remote worker life in Medellin is relatively safe and very comfortable. Indeed, as long as you observe the usual precautions of living in a big city and keep to the main central neighborhoods of Medellin, the chances of becoming a victim of local crime are low. The city does continue to suffer from gang-related violence, but this tends to affect visitors to the city less and is not as common in the central neighborhoods. Beyond a reasonable expectation of safety, Medellin offers a good infrastructure in terms of access to clean water and efficient transportation, as well as some of the best clinics in Latin America.

Finally and importantly, you can expect remote worker life in Medellin to feel international and vibrant. The city’s many coworking and coliving spaces provide valuable opportunities for interaction between visitors and locals, as well as important networking events for entrepreneurs looking to grow their businesses across the region. Beyond the city’s establish remote worker and expat communities, Colombia itself is a fast-developing nation and Medellin is perhaps at the head of that development. The city has two airports and the one in Rionegro offers connections not only across Colombia but to the rest of Latin America and daily to the United States.

For more information about living in Medellin as a remote worker, check out our complete Medellin guide.