159 cities covered · Currency: PEN (S/) · Capital: Lima
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | S/16.70 ($4.45) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | S/66.78 ($17.81) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | S/5.01 ($1.34) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | S/378 ($101) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | S/61.22 ($16.32) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | S/161 ($43.04) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | S/46.75 ($12.47) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | S/46.75 ($12.47) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | S/12.24 ($3.26) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | S/696 ($186) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | S/484 ($129) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | S/1,452 ($387) | per month |
Lima · pop. 10,320,000
La Libertad · pop. 1,067,700
Arequipa · pop. 1,008,290
Callao · pop. 567,702
Lambayeque · pop. 552,508
Piura · pop. 473,025
Cusco · pop. 428,450
Ancash · pop. 395,100
Junín · pop. 378,203
Loreto · pop. 377,609
Ucayali · pop. 326,040
Tacna · pop. 286,240
Ica · pop. 282,407
Puno · pop. 276,110
San Martín · pop. 240,453
Ayacucho · pop. 216,444
Cajamarca · pop. 201,329
Lima · pop. 200,585
Huánuco · pop. 196,627
Piura · pop. 162,434
Lima · pop. 160,000
Puno · pop. 128,637
Cajamarca · pop. 127,523
Ancash · pop. 118,836
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Peru
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Peru
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Peru
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Peru
Living costs in Peru vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of S/1,597 ($426) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.