Cost of Living Arequipa Peru 2026: Less Than Half of Lima

Arequipa, Peru's second city, is the most affordable option in this series when compared to Lima. This conclusion is drawn from a series of cost comparisons based on the source's data, which is published as of September 18, 2026.

Utility bills, rent, and dining out all contribute to the lower cost of living in Arequipa. The city is built on white volcanic stone at an altitude of approximately 2,300 meters, which influences the cost of living and health considerations. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center averages 1,218 soles per month, equivalent to around US$362. This figure is significantly less than the average US$767 for a similar apartment in central Lima.

The savings extend beyond housing. Basic utilities cost about 81.67 soles per month (US$24), which is a sixteenth of the costs in Nassau and much lower than those in other cities mentioned in the guide. Dining out is also much cheaper in Arequipa. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs about 12 soles, roughly US$3.56, which is the lowest figure in this series.

The monthly net salary in Arequipa is approximately 2,117.60 soles, or US$629. This wage, which takes up to three-fifths of the average net income, still allows for affordable living. Local transport costs about one sol per trip (US$0.30), with petrol priced at 5.15 soles per liter (US$1.53).

The cost of living in Arequipa is made even more affordable by the fact that salaries are lower than in other cities, but rent still takes up a significant portion of the average income. This makes the city affordable for both locals and foreigners. The guide concludes by stating that Arequipa is "the cheapest city covered in this series, and the margin is not narrow."