Let me tell you, Argentina stole my heart faster than I could say “mate.” The energy in Buenos Aires is electric—I spent my mornings people watching in Palermo’s cafes and evenings learning tango in San Telmo until 3 AM. And Mendoza? Those sunny days sipping Malbec with the snowcapped Andes as my backdrop made me seriously consider never leaving.
From cosmopolitan cities to charming wine regions, these are the best places in Argentina to create your dream life abroad. Whether you’re chasing that perfect work-life balance or ready to embrace the legendary Argentine lifestyle (warning: dinner before 9 PM doesn’t exist here), I’m breaking down the 12 spots that’ll make you want to start practicing your Spanish ASAP.
Best Places to Live in Argentina
Looking for the best places to live in Argentina? Experience the vibrant culture of Buenos Aires, the stunning landscapes of Bariloche, the renowned wine country of Mendoza, and the breathtaking scenery of Ushuaia, the southernmost city in the world. Whether you seek urban excitement, outdoor adventures, or a relaxed lifestyle, these destinations offer incredible living experiences.
- Best for vibrant city life: Buenos Aires
- Best for outdoor adventures: Bariloche
- Best for wine enthusiasts: Mendoza
- Best for end-of-the-world experience: Ushuaia
- Best for academic and cultural richness: Córdoba
- Best for historical charm: Salta
- Best for urban riverside living: Rosario
- Best for coastal lifestyle: Mar del Plata
- Best for trekking and nature: El Chaltén
- Best for trendy urban atmosphere: Palermo
- Best for glacier explorations: El Calafate
- Best for innovative urban planning: La Plata
1. Buenos Aires
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Rich cultural scene 🎭, European-style architecture 🏛️, and vibrant nightlife 🍷
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌸 (pleasant weather)
- 🏆 Perfect For: City dwellers 🏙️, artists 🎨, digital nomads 💻
Welcome to Buenos Aires, a city that’s as bold, passionate, and full of life as its famous tango. Argentina’s capital is where European elegance meets Latin energy, creating a place that’s bustling, stylish, and endlessly exciting.
Each barrio (neighborhood) has its own distinct flavor—Palermo is trendy and artsy, Recoleta is all about old-world charm, and San Telmo is a history-lover’s dream. The city is a paradise for foodies, with juicy asado (Argentine barbecue), empanadas, and world-class Malbec wine at every turn.
But Buenos Aires isn’t just about fast-paced city life. Stroll through Bosques de Palermo, sip coffee at historic cafés, or catch a live tango performance in a dimly lit bar. With an affordable cost of living, thriving expat community, and 24/7 culture, Buenos Aires is the perfect place for those who love energy, culture, and big-city vibes.
2. Bariloche
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,500 – $3,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Stunning lakes 🌊, snow-capped mountains 🏔️, and a Swiss-like charm 🧀
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Winter ❄️ (ski season) or summer ☀️ (hiking season)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Outdoor enthusiasts 🚵, skiers ⛷️, nature lovers 🌲
If living in a postcard is your dream, Bariloche is calling. Tucked into the foothills of the Andes, this Patagonia gem is a paradise of turquoise lakes, dense forests, and snow-dusted peaks. It’s like stepping into a European alpine village—but with a distinctly Argentine soul (and next-level chocolate).
Cerro Catedral, South America’s largest ski resort, turns the town into a winter wonderland, drawing snowboarders and skiers to its pristine slopes. In summer, the region transforms into an outdoor playground, with epic hiking trails, kayaking on Nahuel Huapi Lake, and breathtaking viewpoints like Cerro Campanario.
Unlike many tourist hotspots, Bariloche feels lived-in, with a tight-knit community, artisan breweries, and local markets that keep it authentic. Living here is more affordable than Buenos Aires, but the quality of life is unbeatable—crisp mountain air, jaw-dropping scenery, and adventure waiting around every corner.
3. Mendoza
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,800
- 🌟 Unique Features: World-famous wine 🍷, Andes mountain views ⛰️, and a relaxed lifestyle
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🍇 (grape harvest season)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Wine lovers 🍷, retirees 🌿, foodies 🍽️
Picture this: rolling vineyards, sun-soaked afternoons, and a glass of world-class Malbec in hand. Welcome to Mendoza, Argentina’s wine capital, where life revolves around good food, stunning landscapes, and a relaxed pace. If you’re looking for a place where every day feels like a getaway, Mendoza delivers.
Beyond the vineyards, Mendoza is a city built for strolling, with tree-lined streets, European-style plazas, and charming cafés serving up rich coffee and local pastries. The backdrop? The majestic Andes, offering hiking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, and even a shot at climbing Aconcagua—the highest peak in the Americas.
Despite its luxury appeal, Mendoza remains affordable, especially compared to Buenos Aires. The locals are warm and welcoming, and weekends are for long lunches at family-run bodegas, exploring olive groves, or soaking in the thermal baths of Cacheuta. If you crave a wine-country lifestyle with a side of adventure, Mendoza is the dream.
4. Ushuaia
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: The world’s southernmost city 🌎, stunning glaciers 🏔️, and adventure sports 🚀
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️ (for milder weather)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Adventurers 🏕️, explorers 🧭, remote workers 💻
Ever dreamed of living at the edge of the world? In Ushuaia, you actually can. The southernmost city on Earth, Ushuaia is a wild, rugged, and breathtakingly beautiful place where the Andes meet the sea and adventure is part of daily life.
Summers bring hiking in Tierra del Fuego National Park, sailing past glaciers, and spotting penguins on the Beagle Channel, while winters transform the region into a snowy wonderland perfect for skiing, snowboarding, and even dog sledding. Despite its remote location, Ushuaia has modern amenities, fresh seafood, and a tight-knit, welcoming community that embraces its frontier spirit.
It’s not for everyone—the winters are long and cold, and it’s far from Argentina’s bigger cities—but for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking true solitude, Ushuaia offers a lifestyle that’s as thrilling as it is unique.
✈️ My #1 Hack for Cheap Flights:
If you’re not using Going, you’re probably overpaying for flights. I’ve scored roundtrips to Europe for under $300 - and I never would’ve found them on Google Flights.
Their free version is great, but Premium is where the real magic happens. I recommend doing the 14-day free trial. And right now, you can get 25% off Premium or Elite with my code: JON25.
Seriously, it’s the best travel upgrade I’ve ever made.
5. Córdoba
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,400
- 🌟 Unique Features: Colonial history 🏛️, lively student life 🎓, and affordable living
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring 🌸 (comfortable climate)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📚, young professionals 💼, history buffs 📜
If you’re looking for big-city energy without the overwhelming hustle, Córdoba is the perfect balance. Argentina’s second-largest city is a lively mix of colonial charm, modern innovation, and student-driven vibrancy, thanks to its prestigious universities. The youthful crowd keeps the city buzzing with art shows, concerts, and cultural festivals year-round.
The historic center is packed with cobblestone streets, 17th-century churches, and picturesque plazas, while the surrounding Sierras de Córdoba offer a natural escape with hiking, waterfalls, and charming villages. The cost of living is much lower than Buenos Aires, making it an attractive option for both locals and expats.
Córdoba’s laid-back yet dynamic lifestyle makes it easy to love. Whether you’re sipping mate in a sun-drenched plaza, enjoying the city’s booming café culture, or heading to the mountains for a weekend getaway, Córdoba has something for everyone.
6. Salta
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,100 – $2,300
- 🌟 Unique Features: Breathtaking desert landscapes 🏜️, rich folklore 🎶, and colorful architecture 🏡
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🍂 (mild temperatures)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Culture lovers 🎭, nature enthusiasts 🌵, photographers 📷
Known as Salta la Linda (“Salta the Beautiful”), this northwestern gem blends colonial elegance with breathtaking Andean landscapes. Its Spanish-style plazas, colorful markets, and historic churches give the city an old-world charm, while the surrounding region is a dream for nature lovers and wine enthusiasts.
Salta’s cost of living is low, and its slow, relaxed pace makes it a great alternative to Argentina’s bigger cities. The nearby Calchaquí Valleys are home to some of the country’s best vineyards, while rugged red rock formations and desert landscapes rival those of the American Southwest.
On weekends, you can take the Train to the Clouds, explore ancient Incan ruins, or sip Torrontés wine in the scenic town of Cafayate. Salta is rich in culture, nature, and affordability, making it an underrated but incredible place to call home.
7. Rosario
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: Riverside charm 🌊, booming arts scene 🎨, and historic architecture 🏛️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️ (for waterfront activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Artists 🎭, entrepreneurs 🚀, young professionals 💼
Sitting along the mighty Paraná River, Rosario offers the best of both worlds—a lively, culture-filled city with easy access to nature and waterfront living. Known for being the birthplace of Che Guevara and Lionel Messi, Rosario thrives on its artsy, progressive spirit and has a growing reputation as an ideal place for young professionals and creatives.
The city’s cost of living is far more affordable than Buenos Aires, yet it offers great restaurants, bars, museums, and nightlife. The riverfront, known as La Florida, is lined with beaches, parks, and bike trails, making it a perfect escape from city life.
Rosario’s creative energy is undeniable, with street art, indie theaters, and a thriving music scene. Whether you’re enjoying a riverside asado, taking in a concert, or just embracing the laid-back lifestyle, Rosario is an exciting, affordable city that’s full of life.
8. Mar del Plata
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,300 – $2,700
- 🌟 Unique Features: Argentina’s beach capital 🏖️, seafood paradise 🦞, and summer festivals 🎉
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️ (peak beach season)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Beach lovers 🏝️, surfers 🏄, families 👨👩👧👦
Love the ocean breeze and beach town vibes? Mar del Plata is Argentina’s ultimate coastal city, offering a relaxed yet vibrant lifestyle with plenty of sun, surf, and seafood. While it’s a popular summer destination, it’s also a great place to live year-round, thanks to its affordable cost of living and strong local community.
The city boasts miles of sandy beaches, a bustling fishing port, and a thriving cultural scene, including the annual Mar del Plata Film Festival. The waterfront promenade is perfect for biking, jogging, or just soaking up the stunning ocean views.
Despite its resort-town reputation, Mar del Plata has solid job opportunities, particularly in tourism, fishing, and tech. Plus, the city’s relaxed atmosphere and friendly locals make it an easy place to settle down. If you’ve always dreamed of living by the ocean without the hefty price tag, this might just be your spot.
9. El Chaltén
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,600 – $3,200
- 🌟 Unique Features: Patagonia’s hiking capital 🥾, breathtaking mountains 🏔️, and untouched nature 🌿
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️ (best for outdoor activities)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Hikers 🚶, photographers 📷, solitude seekers 🌲
Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, El Chaltén is Patagonia’s ultimate hiking paradise. Nestled in Los Glaciares National Park, this small town sits at the foot of the legendary Mount Fitz Roy, offering some of the best trekking routes in the world.
Living here means waking up to towering peaks, turquoise rivers, and endless trails—no car needed, just lace up your boots and go. The cost of living is lower than in bigger cities, and the tight-knit, eco-conscious community makes it feel like home.
While the winters can be harsh and remote, the trade-off is unmatched natural beauty and a chance to truly disconnect. After a day of hiking to Laguna de los Tres or exploring the Río de las Vueltas valley, unwind in a local cervecería, sipping a craft beer brewed with pure glacial water. For those who crave adventure and serenity in equal measure, El Chaltén is for you.
10. Palermo
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,400 – $3,000
- 🌟 Unique Features: Trendy cafes ☕, parks 🌳, and a cosmopolitan vibe 🌍
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring & fall 🌸 (best for city life)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Expats 🌎, digital nomads 💻, nightlife lovers 🍸
Trendy, artistic, and effortlessly cool—Palermo is where Buenos Aires comes alive. This bohemian-meets-bougie neighborhood is packed with lush parks, colorful street art, and some of the city’s best bars, cafés, and boutiques. Whether you’re after a cozy wine bar, an all-night club, or a weekend street market, Palermo has it all.
The neighborhood is divided into distinct districts, each with its own personality. Palermo Soho is the creative hub, filled with indie shops, artisanal cafés, and vintage stores. Palermo Hollywood is the go-to for trendy restaurants, speakeasies, and film studios, while Palermo Chico offers a more exclusive, residential feel with elegant mansions and leafy streets.
Despite being one of Buenos Aires’ most desirable areas, Palermo remains affordable compared to major global cities. With efficient public transport, bike-friendly streets, and endless entertainment options, it’s the perfect spot for those who want a dynamic city vibe without sacrificing charm and walkability.
11. El Calafate
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,700 – $3,400
- 🌟 Unique Features: Home to the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier 🏔️, adventure sports 🚵, and a peaceful vibe
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Summer ☀️ (warmer temperatures)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Adventure seekers 🚀, nature lovers 🌲, photographers 📷
Imagine living just a short drive from one of the most spectacular glaciers on Earth. That’s life in El Calafate, the gateway to Los Glaciares National Park and the stunning Perito Moreno Glacier. This small Patagonian town offers a unique mix of adventure, nature, and laid-back living.
El Calafate is a tourist hotspot, which means job opportunities in hospitality, guiding, and eco-tourism are plentiful. Despite the tourism boom, the town keeps its chill, small-town vibe, with charming wooden buildings, local artisan shops, and cozy cafés.
Beyond the glacier, you can hike, kayak, or explore endless Patagonia landscapes, with mountains, lakes, and wide-open spaces in every direction. If you crave peace, fresh air, and the kind of views that never get old, El Calafate is an incredible place to call home.
12. La Plata
- 💰 Average Monthly Cost: $1,200 – $2,500
- 🌟 Unique Features: University city 🎓, excellent public transport 🚆, and European-style streets 🏙️
- 📅 Best Time to Live There: Spring 🌸 (best for enjoying the city)
- 🏆 Perfect For: Students 📚, academics 🎓, young professionals 💼
Last but definitely not the least, just an hour from Buenos Aires, La Plata is Argentina’s most underrated city. Known as the “City of Diagonals” for its unique grid layout, it’s a perfect blend of historic charm, modern energy, and affordability.
As a university city, La Plata is full of students, artists, and academics, giving it a youthful, creative vibe. You’ll find museums, theaters, street markets, and a thriving café culture, all without Buenos Aires’ high costs. Plus, with lush parks like Paseo del Bosque, there’s plenty of green space to relax in.
Housing is much cheaper than in the capital, but you still get the perks of city living—restaurants, nightlife, and culture—without the chaos. Whether you’re a student, remote worker, or just looking for a chill but lively place to live, La Plata is an excellent hidden gem.
