Why Digital Nomads Choose Cartagena
Cartagena ranks #243 out of 366 cities in our global digital nomad index, scoring 58/100 overall. While not in the top tier, Cartagena appeals to nomads looking for extremely low costs who can work around certain limitations.
Cost of Living in Cartagena
Cartagena is a budget-friendly destination for digital nomads. A comfortable monthly budget including city centre rent, mid-range dining, and public transport comes to approximately $888 — that's 25% below the global average of $1,180.
Rent is the biggest expense: a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $569/month, while moving outside the centre drops that to $509. Eating out is reasonably priced — a cheap meal costs $7 and a cappuccino runs $2. Budget-conscious nomads who cook at home and live outside the centre can manage on as little as $985/month.
See the full cost breakdown for Cartagena →
Internet and Connectivity
Average internet speed in Cartagena is 30 Mbps download and 13 Mbps upload, which is adequate for most remote work. Reliability scores 5.7/10. This handles most remote work tasks including video calls, though simultaneous large uploads may cause slowdowns.
The city has 19 coworking spaces with average speeds of 22 Mbps — roughly matching residential connections. Day passes start at $11 and monthly memberships average $92.
Full internet and WiFi guide for Cartagena →
Safety and Healthcare
Cartagena scores 50/100 for safety (Good), which is below the global average. Exercise standard precautions: avoid poorly-lit areas at night, keep valuables secure, and research neighbourhoods before booking long-term accommodation.
Healthcare quality scores 71/100. Excellent hospitals and private clinics are accessible, with many offering English-speaking staff and modern equipment. Air quality scores 51/100 and walkability 46/100.
Full safety and health guide for Cartagena →
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Cartagena has a tropical, with warm temperatures year-round and a distinct rainy season. Expect temperatures between 25-35°C year-round. The dry season (typically November-March) is the most popular period for nomads, though accommodations may cost more. The wet season brings afternoon downpours but also lower prices and fewer tourists.
Visa Information for Colombia
Colombia offers the Digital Nomad Visa (V Visa) for remote workers. It allows stays of 2 years, costs $52 application fee, and requires a minimum income of 3x Colombian minimum wage (~$900/month). Tax note: No Colombian tax if non-resident (under 183 days)
Full Colombia digital nomad visa guide →
How Cartagena Compares
Compared to the global average, Cartagena is 25% cheaper, has slower internet (30 vs 67 Mbps average), and is less safe (50 vs 67 average).
Looking for something cheaper? Consider <a href="/cities/dhaka/">Dhaka</a> ($415/mo), <a href="/cities/port-vila/">Port Vila</a> ($421/mo), <a href="/cities/hanoi/">Hanoi</a> ($442/mo).
Need faster internet? Check out <a href="/cities/rotterdam/">Rotterdam</a> (249 Mbps), <a href="/cities/sapporo/">Sapporo</a> (248 Mbps), <a href="/cities/busan/">Busan</a> (240 Mbps).