If you follow this blog, you’ll have realised I love Chile. It’s a country which has given me sunshine, friends and my third child. However it’s not perfect.
Crazy prices, not so crazy wages
It’s expensive. Compared to other countries I’ve lived in, it has the worst cost of living I’ve ever experienced. My family grocery bill is just stupid.
Yes, there are ways round the costs to a certain extent. Hunt out the cheaper stores. Bulk buy. Shop local…
It’s personal
However, there’s no getting away from it. Public healthcare is lacking and private options are very, very expensive. Don’t even get me started on the cost of private education. Wages just don’t seem to compensate, even for supposedly ‘rich’ expats like me. Personally, as much as I love Chile it’s just not worth it when other countries can afford my family a better quality of life.
It’s not just me. Complaints about the dreadful cost of living echo among expat groups and locals alike. It’s one of the main reasons why those who can choose to leave.
Every cloud…
Still, I’m sad to go. Chile is expensive, too expensive. But my goodness, it’s wonderful.
I’m going to miss the mind numbingly beautiful landscapes, the incredible weather and most of all, my friends from near and far. I’m annoyed I didn’t get to see more of the country. Patagonia, Atacama and Cajon de Maipo are still on my bucket list.
But hey, it’s not all bad. I will be back to visit friends in Chile again for sure. And very soon, we’ll be jetting off to Quito in Ecuador. Bring on the next adventure!
Are you just moving to Chile? Sorry to have missed you! Here’s a directory of all the places I loved in Santiago to help you find your feet…
