Can I live cheaply in Chile?

Yes, you can live cheaply in Chile with smart choices. Many expats find their money goes much further here, especially outside of Santiago. Your biggest savings will come from housing. A one-bedroom apartment in a Santiago neighborhood like Ñuñoa might run you $500-$700 USD, but in Valparaíso or Concepción, you could find something similar for $350-$450. Groceries are also very affordable; expect to spend $250-$350 USD per month cooking at home. Eating out at local "picadas" (small eateries) is cheap, around $5-$8 for a full meal. Public transport is efficient and inexpensive. A monthly metro pass in Santiago is about $40 USD. If you earn income in Chile, the personal income tax rate starts at 0% for annual income up to ~$10,000 USD, then jumps to 4% for the next bracket. This is very favorable for lower earners. Overall, a single person can comfortably live in Chile for $1,000-$1,500 USD per month by prioritizing local options and avoiding tourist traps. Focus on smaller cities to stretch your budget further.