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Digital Nomads in Medellín: Living and Working Guide
We clear up all your doubts about how to live as a digital nomad in Medellín. Tips for your stay, paperwork, cost of living so that you can travel soon.
Medellín, known as the “city of eternal spring”, has a pleasant climate and modern infrastructure, as well as an affordable quality of life that not only makes it a great place to work but also to have fun.
In this guide, you’ll find out why being a digital nomad in Medellín is ideal if you’re looking to work remotely while discovering new destinations. We’ll take a look at what makes this city so captivating, such as the visa for digital nomads, the cost of living, the tax system and other factors that enrich the experience. Get ready to discover why Medellín could be your next temporary home.
Why choose Medellín to live as a digital nomad?
There are many reasons why Medellín has gained recognition as one of the best destinations for digital nomads in Latin America:
- Nomad communities: Medellín is home to diverse communities of digital nomads where you can connect, share experiences and learn from others. There are social networking groups and regular meetings that facilitate networking.
- Quality of life: The city is known for its mild climate, with temperatures ranging between 18 and 28 degrees Celsius all year round, making it a pleasant place to live.
- Security: Compared to other Latin American cities, Medellín has improved significantly in terms of safety, which gives its inhabitants peace of mind.
- Connectivity: Medellín has airports with direct domestic and international flights to several destinations in Latin America. Internet access is also good, which is important for any digital nomad in Medellín.
- Authentic culture: The city is a rich cultural experience, full of art, music and food.
Is there a digital nomad visa for Medellín?
Colombia launched a digital nomad visa in 2022, one of the first in Latin America, designed for remote workers of foreign companies.
The digital nomad visa allows you to reside in Colombia for two years. It requires proof of a minimum income of $800 per month, as well as health insurance. The application process is done online through Migración Colombia and costs approximately 200 to 250 dollars.
Advantages
- Legal stay for up to two years
- Access to local benefits such as medical services and the option to open bank accounts.
- Flexibility to travel within Colombia and the region.
If you plan to become a digital nomad in Medellín, it is important that you know all about this procedure. Read more in our article on the digital nomad visa for Colombia.
Best towns to live as a digital nomad in Medellín
Medellín has several neighbourhoods that have become popular destinations for digital nomads, each with unique characteristics that suit different lifestyles. These neighbourhoods offer a combination of good connectivity, security, coworking spaces, and high quality services, making them ideal places to live while working remotely.
El Poblado: The heartland of digital nomads
El Poblado is one of the most popular and sought-after neighbourhoods for digital nomads in Medellín. This is the perfect area if you’re looking to be close to the action, with easy access to coworking spaces, restaurants, cafes, shopping centres, and a lively nightlife.
- Coworking spaces: El Poblado is home to the majority of coworking spaces in Medellín, such as Selina, WeWork, and Tinkko, all of which are located in strategic areas for digital nomads to work in a professional environment. Prices range from $100 to $250 per month, depending on the space and services included.
- Active social life: This neighbourhood has an excellent range of bars, restaurants, and cafés for networking or enjoying the evening after a day’s work.
- Safety: It is one of the safest neighbourhoods in the city, providing peace of mind for tourists and residents alike.
- Access to transport: With the Medellín metro and multiple public transport options, getting around the city is quick and easy.
Laureles: A relaxed, residential neighbourhood
If you prefer a quieter and more residential environment, but without moving away from the comforts of the city, Laureles is an excellent option. Just minutes from the centre of Medellín, Laureles offers a more relaxed but well-connected environment.
- Residential environment: This neighbourhood is for those looking for a quieter experience. It’s a place generally home to families and local professionals, but it’s also popular with digital nomads who want to escape the hustle and bustle of El Poblado.
- Green areas: Laureles Park is one of the most appreciated spaces by residents, perfect for going for a stroll or exercising outdoors. It is close to other parks such as the Parque de los Deseos and the Parque del Rio, where you can enjoy nature while you work.
- Cafés and restaurants: Laureles has an excellent selection of cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy local cuisine or work in a relaxed atmosphere. Prices are lower than in El Poblado.
- Coworking spaces: It does not have as many spaces as El Poblado, but it has some options with competitive rates, and is more accessible for those who prefer living in a less touristy area.
Envigado: A suburban-style escape
Envigado is a small town just south of Medellín, and although it is not directly part of the city, it boasts excellent connections to Medellín. It has become one of the most popular destinations for digital nomads looking for a quieter experience, but who still want to be close to the urban environment.
- Friendly and local atmosphere: Envigado is known for its friendly and warm atmosphere, both by locals and expatriates. Here you’ll feel like you’re in a smaller, more local community, which can be perfect for those looking to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of the city.
- Lower cost of living: Compared to El Poblado and Laureles, Envigado has a more affordable cost of living, which makes it an attractive option for digital nomads who prefer a cheaper space without losing quality of life.
- Access to nature: In Envigado there are several parks and natural areas to enjoy hiking or just being in contact with nature. The Parque Principal de Envigado is a popular meeting point.
- Coworking spaces: Envigado has seen an increase in coworking spaces, such as CowFe Envigado which has spaces for nomads looking for a more relaxed but well-connected work environment.
Accommodation options
| Co-living spaces | On Selina and WeWork Coliving’s websites you can find shared and private rooms, ideal for digital nomads in Medellín. Fares range from $250 and $600 per month. |
| Flats and hotels | You can find flats through platforms such as Airbnb or Booking.com, where prices vary according to location and season. |
Coworking spaces
Coworking spaces in Medellín are varied and offer an excellent infrastructure for working:
| Tinkko | This platform has multiple locations available in Medellín and rates start at $150. |
| La Casa Redonda, Medellín | This space provides you with a creative atmosphere, with rates starting at $100. |
Internet connection
Internet speed in Medellín is quite good, with an average of 30 to 100 Mbps, depending on the area. With the Holafly data eSIM you will have unlimited data and high speed internet in Medellín. Best rates, quick and easy connection and no need for a plastic chip!
There are several public places with internet connection that are ideal for digital nomads who want to work outside their usual space.
| Parks | Parque de los Deseos, El Poblado and Parque de la Bailarina offer free Wi-Fi, allowing you to enjoy nature while you work. |
| Libraries | The EPM Library, Belén and the Biblioteca España, also provide a quiet environment and a good connection. |
| Shopping centres | El Tesoro, Santafé, Oviedo and La Strada have free Wi-Fi in their common areas, making it easy to work during a shopping trip or simply in a comfortable environment. |
| Metro stations | Stations such as San Antonio and El Poblado have incorporated free Wi-Fi in their facilities, which is very useful for staying connected while moving around the city. |
What taxes do I have to pay as a digital nomad in Medellín?
As a digital nomad in Medellín you need to understand the tax regulations if you decide to settle or spend an extended period of time in Medellín:
- Tax residency: If you spend more than 183 days in Colombia in a year, you may be considered a tax resident and therefore subject to local taxes. Tax rates include income tax and VAT.
- Double taxation treaties: Colombia has treaties with 15 countries, including Canada, Spain and Mexico. Find out if your home country has an agreement with Colombia as this may help you to avoid double taxation.
Health insurance and quality of health service in Medellín
In Medellín, the System of Identification of Potential Beneficiaries of Social Programmes (SISBEN) is limited for foreigners, so many opt for the private system, which offers fast and quality care in renowned hospitals and clinics such as Hospital Pablo Tobón Uribe, Clínica del Prado and Clínica Universidad de La Sabana. Many of these centres have English-speaking staff, facilitating communication.
It is a mandatory requirement for the digital nomad visa that foreigners have health insurance to cover emergencies and clinic care. In this guide, we recommend some insurance policies that guarantee access to quality medical care and protect you against unforeseen expenses during your stay in Medellín.
- SafetyWing: An international health insurance popular with digital nomads, with worldwide coverage, including medical services, hospitalisation and emergencies. It costs between $40 and $70 per month, depending on the coverage.
- Sura and Nueva EPS are local insurances that offer comprehensive medical coverage, including consultations, hospitalisation, medicines and emergencies. Prices for local insurance vary, but are typically between $50 and $150 per month, depending on the plan chosen and the coverage required.
Basic expenses for the daily life of a digital nomad in Medellín
Transport and mobility
Medellín has an efficient public transport system, including metro, buses and taxis.
- Fares: Underground and bus fares are inexpensive, ranging from $0.70 to $1.
- Driving licence: You can use your foreign licence for up to 90 days. For longer stays, obtaining a Colombian licence is advised.
Managing your finances as a digital nomad in Medellín
Digital nomads can easily open bank accounts at Bancolombia and Davivienda, two of Colombia’s largest banks, which offer services for foreigners and account options in dollars or Colombian pesos. Nequi and DaviPlata are Colombian digital banks that allow you to manage your finances without the need for a physical account.
The most recommended ATMs to avoid high fees are those of Bancolombia and Davivienda, which tend to charge lower fees for international withdrawals, around USD 3-5 per transaction. Other banks, such as BBVA and Banco de Bogotá, may have higher fees, between 6 and 8 dollars per ATM withdrawal.
Food costs in Medellín
In Medellín, the main supermarket chains are Éxito and Olímpica, where prices are quite affordable. An average expenditure on food staples for a week can be between $30 and $50.
For eating out, inexpensive restaurants offer dishes from $5 to $10 in neighbourhoods such as Laureles or Envigado, while more touristy places can be more expensive.
If you’re looking to save money, consider eating at markets like Plaza Minorista, where you can find fresh and inexpensive options. In addition, food trucks and fast food stalls are tasty and affordable alternatives for less than 3 to 5 dollars.
Entertainment for digital nomads in Medellín
Medellín offers a wide variety of entertainment activities for all tastes.
The city is surrounded by nature, so hiking is a popular option, with routes such as the Arví Park and the Cerro de las Tres Cruces, which have breathtaking views. If you want outdoor plans, paragliding in San Felix or cycling along the city’s cycle paths are excellent alternatives for enjoying yourself.
Nightlife in neighbourhoods such as El Poblado and Laureles is very active, with bars, discos and restaurants. For culture lovers, Medellín has museums such as the Museo de Antioquia and the Museo El Castillo, as well as events such as fairs and music festivals.
Best seasons to be in Medellín
Medellín’s climate is warm and temperate all year round, but the best times to visit are between December and March, when there is less rainfall.
For digital nomads in Medellín, wearing light, comfortable clothing and having an umbrella handy for the rains from May to October are recommended.
Cost of living of a digital nomad in Medellín
If you’re thinking of becoming a digital nomad in Medellín, the affordable living costs and quality of services will allow you to concentrate on your work while exploring all that the city has to offer. Medellín is without a doubt an excellent option to live in as a digital nomad!
| Category | Description | Approximate cost |
|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | Varies according to location and type of accommodation. | 250-600 USD/month (co-living) 300-800 USD/month (flats) |
| Food | Inexpensive food in markets or food trucks; more expensive options in tourist areas. | 30-50 USD per week 120-200 USD/month |
| Transport | Affordable and efficient public transport system. | 0.70 to 1 USD (metro/bus per trip) |
| Coworking spaces | Varies according to space and services included. | 100-250 USD/month |
| Entertainment | Cultural activities, nightlife and outdoor leisure. | 50-100 USD/month (museums, bars, activities) |
| Approximate total cost of living | 1.300 USD/month |
Frequently asked questions about being a digital nomad in Medellín
Yes, Medellín has a variety of accommodation options, from co- living spaces such as Selina and WeWork to private flats on platforms such as Airbnb. Prices vary between $250 and $800 per month, depending on location and type of accommodation.
Yes, Medellín has improved in terms of security in recent years. Neighbourhoods such as El Poblado, Laureles and Envigado are known for their security and are popular choices for digital nomads. However, as in any city, it is important to maintain basic precautions.
The average internet speed in Medellín is 30 to 100 Mbps, which is adequate for most online work activities. In addition, many cafés, coworking spaces and public places offer good quality free Wi-Fi.
International health insurance such as SafetyWing, or local insurance such as Sura or Nueva EPS is recommended. The cost of these insurances varies between USD 40 and USD 150 per month, depending on the coverage chosen.
If you spend more than 183 days in Colombia during the year, you may be considered a tax resident and subject to local taxation. However, Colombia has double taxation treaties with several countries that can help you avoid paying taxes twice.
Medellín offers a wide variety of leisure activities, such as hiking in the Arví Park, cycling on the city’s bicycle paths, museums, nightlife in El Poblado, and cultural events throughout the year. What’s more, there are gyms, spas and parks with free Wi-Fi for working outdoors.
Yes, digital nomads can open bank accounts in Colombia without any problems. Banks such as Bancolombia and Davivienda offer options for foreigners, and there are also digital banks such as Nequi and DaviPlata. International ATM withdrawal fees are typically between USD 3 and USD 5 per transaction.
