Live and work in Arica.
Arica, Chile offers a warm desert climate and low costs, making it a rising destination for digital nomads seeking a relaxed beach lifestyle. With reliable internet and a safe environment, it's ideal for remote workers who value simplicity and outdoor activities.
Remote worker score
Five practical signals that shape day-to-day life for a remote worker.
What living here really costs
Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in Arica averages 450 USD, with utilities around 50 USD extra. Meals are very affordable at 8 USD for a local lunch. Coworking spaces charge about 130 USD for a dedicated desk, though many nomads work from cafes. Hidden costs include higher prices for imported goods and occasional need for air conditioning in summer.
Workspace and connectivity
Coworking spaces in Arica are limited but functional, with reliable Wi-Fi speeds around 35 Mbps. The main option is Cowork Arica, offering a friendly community and basic amenities. Many nomads prefer working from beachfront cafes with good connectivity, though power outlets can be scarce. Internet at home is generally stable, suitable for video calls.
Small details that matter
Healthcare and personal safety
Healthcare in Arica is decent for routine care, with public hospitals and private clinics available. The city has a few well-rated doctors and pharmacies. For serious conditions, most expats travel to Santiago or abroad. Emergency services are reliable, and the city is considered safe with low crime rates, though petty theft can occur.
Getting around
Arica is quite walkable in the center, but buses and collectivos cover the rest of the city cheaply (30 USD monthly budget). Uber and Cabify are available for longer trips. The city has a small international airport with flights to Santiago, Lima, and other hubs. Traffic is minimal, making scooter or bike rentals a viable option for exploring.
Weather and climate
Arica enjoys a subtropical desert climate with virtually no rainfall year-round. Temperatures range from 16°C (60°F) in winter to 27°C (80°F) in summer, with constant sunshine. The coastal breeze keeps humidity low and the air comfortable. The best time to visit is from September to March when the weather is warmest and most pleasant for outdoor work and leisure.
Best areas for remote workers
Visas and nomad taxes
Chile offers a 90-day tourist visa for many nationalities, extendable for another 90 days. A new Digital Nomad Visa allows remote workers to stay up to one year with proof of income and health insurance. Border runs to Peru are common but now less necessary thanks to the nomad visa.
- Tourist Visa (90 days)
- Digital Nomad Visa
- Student Visa
Language and culture
Chileans are polite and reserved initially but warm up over time. Punctuality is valued, and greetings often include a kiss on the cheek (one kiss). English is not widely spoken, so learning basic Spanish phrases is crucial. Tipping is optional but appreciated. Cultural events like the Carnaval de Arica (January) showcase local music and dance.
Food and everyday spending
Local cuisine features fresh seafood, empanadas, and traditional Chilean dishes like pastel de choclo. A meal at a mid-range restaurant costs around 8 USD. Street food is safe and abundant. Tap water in Arica is treated and safe to drink, but many nomads use filters for taste. The city has good supermarkets and a lively market for fresh produce.
Strengths, trade-offs and common mistakes
A balanced view of what works well and what requires planning.
Strengths
- Low cost of living compared to Santiago
- Year-round warm climate and beautiful beaches
- Safe city with low violent crime
- Friendly locals and growing expat community
- Reliable internet for remote work
- Access to Peru and Bolivia for weekend trips
Trade-offs
- Limited English spoken outside tourist areas
- Few coworking spaces and remote worker hubs
- Desert climate can be dusty and dry
- Occasional earthquakes (though mild)
- Far from major Chilean cities and airports
- Nightlife is quiet during weekdays
Common mistakes in Arica
- Not learning basic Spanish before arriving
- Assuming tap water is safe to drink (it is, but some prefer bottled)
- Underestimating the desert temperature drop at night
- Relying solely on Uber/Cabify instead of local buses
- Forgetting sunscreen and a hat for the strong sun
- Not checking earthquake preparedness protocols
- Expecting a bustling nightlife every night
How the data is built
Estimates combine public market indexes, published local prices and remote-work infrastructure data. Figures are directional planning benchmarks rather than a personal financial quote.