Living in Cali: A Practical Guide for Expats
What you need to know about establishing yourself in Colombia's salsa capital, from neighborhood choices to administrative processes and everyday logistics.
Who This Guide Is For
- Expats interested in Colombian culture, music, and dance
- Those seeking more affordable living than Medellín or Cartagena
- People who prefer warm weather and a less touristy environment
- Anyone researching Colombian cities beyond the main expat hubs
At a Glance
Typical ranges for Cali. These are estimates and vary based on location, lifestyle, and circumstances.
Typical rent (1BR Granada)
$400–800/mo
Popular expat-friendly area; good value
Typical rent (1BR South)
$500–1,000/mo
Ciudad Jardín and similar upscale areas
Groceries (monthly)
$180–300
Generally cheaper than Medellín; good local markets
Healthcare
Good regional options
Quality hospitals available; specialists in major areas
Climate
Warm year-round
75-85°F typical; warmer than Medellín; occasional rain
Internet
Reliable in main areas
Fiber available; less developed than major cities
What to Know Before You Arrive
Key considerations that affect your timeline and planning.
Cali has a smaller expat community
Unlike Medellín with its large digital nomad scene, Cali's expat community is smaller and less organized. This can mean more authentic immersion in Colombian culture but also less English-language support and fewer expat-oriented services. You'll need more Spanish and more independence.
The city is known for salsa—and lives up to it
Cali takes its title as salsa capital seriously. Dance schools, clubs, and cultural events are genuinely part of daily life, not just tourist attractions. If you're interested in Colombian culture and dance, this is an asset. If you're not, it may be less relevant to your experience.
Safety varies more than in Medellín
Cali has more variation in neighborhood safety than Medellín's main expat areas. Research specific neighborhoods carefully and get current local advice. The city has improved significantly but requires more awareness than staying in Medellín's Poblado.
It's warmer than Medellín
Cali sits at 3,300 feet—lower than Medellín—and is noticeably warmer. Typical temperatures are 75-85°F. This is between Medellín's spring-like climate and Cartagena's intense heat. Some prefer this middle ground; air conditioning is less essential than on the coast.
Neighborhoods & Areas
Cali stretches along a valley with the Andes to the west. The southern areas (Ciudad Jardín, El Peñon) are upscale and safe. Granada in the west is popular with the smaller expat community. The northern areas are more industrial and less recommended for newcomers. Unlike Medellín, there's no single dominant expat neighborhood—more integration into local areas.
For detailed cost breakdowns, see the Colombia cost of living guide.
Granada
Western neighborhood popular with expats and young professionals. Restaurants, cafes, nightlife. Good value compared to Medellín equivalents. Safe and walkable. Most English spoken here.
Ciudad Jardín
Upscale southern area. Large homes, quiet streets, family-oriented. Higher prices but excellent quality of life. Requires car for most activities.
El Peñon
Adjacent to Granada, similar character. Historic buildings, cultural venues. Mix of residential and entertainment. Popular with artists and professionals.
San Antonio
Historic neighborhood on a hill. Colonial architecture, bohemian vibe. Popular for day visits; some residential options. Character similar to Getsemaní in Cartagena.
Santa Teresita
Between Granada and the center. Mix of residential and commercial. More affordable than Granada. Improving area with growing amenities.
South Cali (Valle del Lili)
Modern development in the far south. Malls, newer apartments, gated communities. Requires car but offers suburban lifestyle at good prices.
Setup Priorities
Key areas to research and plan for when setting up in Cali. Each involves tradeoffs worth understanding before you arrive.
Visas & Residency
Migración Colombia has an office in Cali. Standard processes available. Less crowded than Bogotá or Medellín.
Local office handles most needs; smaller expat community means less shared knowledge.
View guideBanking
Major banks present in Cali. Fewer branches than Bogotá but adequate coverage. Same requirements as elsewhere.
Standard banking works; less English-language support than Medellín.
View guideHealthcare
Good hospitals including Fundación Valle del Lili (one of Colombia's best). Adequate for most needs without traveling.
Better healthcare than city size suggests; Valle del Lili is nationally recognized.
View guideCost of Living
Generally more affordable than Medellín, significantly cheaper than Cartagena. Good value for quality of life.
Best value among major Colombian cities; tradeoff is smaller expat infrastructure.
View guideCommon Pitfalls & Misconceptions
Issues that frequently affect expats settling in Cali.
- Expecting Medellín's expat infrastructure—Cali is more independent living
- Not researching neighborhoods carefully—safety varies more than in Medellín
- Underestimating the need for Spanish—less English spoken than tourist-oriented cities
- Assuming the salsa scene is just marketing—it's genuinely part of city culture
- Choosing a neighborhood without considering transport—the city is spread out
- Not budgeting for a car—public transport is less developed than Medellín or Bogotá
- Comparing directly to Medellín without appreciating Cali's different character
Key Things to Verify
Before committing to Cali, confirm these items based on your specific situation.
- Confirm your Spanish level is adequate for less English-speaking environment.
- Research specific neighborhoods with current safety information.
- Consider whether the smaller expat community suits your social needs.
- Evaluate transport options—many areas require a car or motorcycle.
- Visit during your target season—weather is consistent but worth experiencing.
- Understand that expat services and English support are more limited.
Common Next Steps
Continue your research with these related guides.
Related Guides
Explore our topic guides for detailed information on each aspect of expat life.
Important: This guide provides general information for planning purposes. Neighborhood characteristics, costs, and availability change frequently. Always visit areas in person, verify current information, and consult qualified professionals before making housing or financial decisions. This is not legal, tax, or real estate advice.