12 min read
Bolivia is one of Latin America’s most underrated gems—where colonial cities, Andean villages, and tropical lowlands all offer a different kind of freedom and simplicity. For those seeking authenticity and affordability, discovering the best places to live in Bolivia might just surprise you.
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Bolivia is a beautiful and vibrant country that is home to many enticing locations. For those looking for the best places to live in Bolivia, La Paz is an incredibly sought-after option due to its cosmopolitan atmosphere, museums, cultural attractions, and an array of outdoor activities.
Cochabamba offers stunning Andean scenery as well as business opportunities, while Santa Cruz is a wonderful place for those seeking modern city amenities combined with tranquil nature areas.
Furthermore, Tarija has earned various titles over the years such as “the land of wine” and “the city of spring” due to its mild climate and numerous vineyards. If you are interested in living off the beaten track, then Sucre provides a relaxing atmosphere ideal for those wanting an introduction to Bolivian culture.
Whichever option you choose when relocating to Bolivia, you won’t be disappointed in your decision.
Table of Contents
Bolivia—an ideal destination in South America for seeking unique living experiences.
15 of the best places to live in Bolivia, South America
Find the Best Place for You in Bolivia 💻👨👩👧👦🏖️🏔️– Not sure which city or town fits your lifestyle? Whether you’re a remote professional, raising a family, retiring soon, or chasing adventure, Bolivia has a place for you. Scroll down to see our full guide showing which cities are ideal for each type of lifestyle.
Explore the Best Places to Live in Bolivia
1. La Paz – 💻 A Top Place to Live in Bolivia
A bustling city with plenty of culture and activities to keep you busy. Located in the southwestern region of Bolivia, La Paz offers a unique cultural and living experience.
Its central location provides easy access to recreational destinations along the shore of Lake Titicaca as well as bustling city attractions. La Paz features numerous outlying villages full of Bolivian charm, panoramic mountain views, and breathtaking cliff side roads meandering toward the city center.
The mild climate pairs with its nearby ski slopes for an added bonus. La Paz is a great city to live in if you’re seeking a diverse and vibrant lifestyle.
2. Cochabamba – 💻 Enjoy Living in Bolivia’s Heart
Located in the Central Bolivian valley and surrounded by picturesque mountains, Cochabamba is one of the most beautiful cities in Bolivia.
It’s a smaller city with a relaxed vibe and stunning mountain views with a temperate climate so you can enjoy outdoor activities year-round. The city also hosts a variety of cultural festivals, from small neighborhood celebrations to international events and street markets that attract people from all over the globe.
Cochabamba has also grown from an agricultural hub into a diversified business center powered by agribusiness, oil, and manufacturing, making it Bolivia’s third most important economic city.
With an abundance of parks and trails, and with its proximity to the mountainous regions, adventurers are sure to be delighted with opportunities for hiking and climbing.
3. Santa Cruz de la Sierra – 💻 Modern Life in Bolivia
The economic center of Bolivia, with all the shopping and nightlife you could want. Santa Cruz is a vibrant, dynamic city that offers many benefits.
In addition to being the country’s largest city, it is rich in natural beauty and culture, offering plenty of outdoor activities as well as a range of modern facilities.
Santa Cruz has a bustling nightlife with lively bars and restaurants. It also serves as an important economic hub for the entire nation, providing jobs in the tourism and manufacturing industries far beyond what you would expect from a regional center.
All this makes Santa Cruz one of the most attractive cities in Bolivia to live in. With its improving infrastructure yet still holding on to a laid-back atmosphere, this is truly an ideal place for people searching for a place to call home.
A Bolivian city framed by the majestic Andes Mountains in the background.
4. Tarija – 👨👩👧👦🏖️ Relaxed Living in Bolivia
This charming city in the south is full of colonial-era architecture. Tarija is an ideal place to live if you’re looking for a city close to nature with plenty of things to do.
Located in Bolivia’s humid subtropical zone, the temperature averages around 25°C (77°F) throughout the year and is perfect if you want to escape cold winters.
Tarija is known as the Bolivian wine capital and has plenty of spots to go out and eat or shops to explore. If outdoor activities are your thing, Tarija has some great hikes and camping opportunities in its nearby national parks.
Whether you seek a perfect climate, stunning views, or cultural experiences, living in Tarija offers something for everyone and it might turn out to be exactly the place you were looking for.
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5. Potosí – 🏔️ Historic Charm for Those Who Live in Bolivia
Perched high in the Altiplano, Potosí offers plenty of sunshine and breathtaking views that range from the snow-capped Andes to the encircling mountains and valleys.
The city itself has a strong colonial heritage, it’s a historic mining town that’s now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Potosí has many interesting historical sites including its famous Cerro Rico (Rich Hill).
Locally grown fruits and vegetables offer residents affordable, fresh options while local markets provide plenty of opportunities to buy beautiful handmade goods.
Meanwhile, at over 4 km (2.4 mi) above sea level, the mountain air is crisp but not too chilly. The locals of Potosí are warm, welcoming, and willing to share their culture with newcomers—making it easy for people looking for fresh beginnings to settle here comfortably.
6. Sucre – 👨👩👧👦🏖️ Colonial Beauty in Bolivia
The constitutional capital of Bolivia, known for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture. Sucre is a city in Bolivia renowned for its vibrant culture, resilient economy, and captivating beauty.
Its downtown historic district has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site and features stunning colonial-style squares, churches, and government buildings.
The people are warm and welcoming, and the Bolivian cuisine provides endless delicious options. Education is made accessible in Sucre with top-quality schools and universities, plus numerous cultural centers that enrich lives with music, dance, art, and traditional festivals.
Shopping can be found at weekly markets as well as in malls fit for anyone’s tastes from high-end to traditional fabrics woven by local artisans. With all its charm and appeal Sucre is an excellent place to consider living in Bolivia.
An overview of the lake town of Copacabana—one of the most scenic and peaceful places to live in Bolivia.
7. Oruro – Cultural Living in Bolivia
With its breathtaking mountain views, outdoor activities, and proximity to other interesting Bolivian cities, it is the perfect place to call home.
Residents of Oruro can enjoy a variety of open-air markets selling hand-crafted housewares and textiles, or take advantage of the diverse cultural influences seen in its restaurants and nightlife.
Packed with history, there are plenty of landmarks such as stone-arch bridges that have been standing since colonial times. The city is well connected by bus routes making it possible to explore more of Bolivia with ease.
Plus, the cost of living here is lower than in most other Bolivian cities, making Oruro ideal for expats who want an authentic Bolivian experience without overspending.
8. Sorata – 🏔️ Mountain Retreats in Bolivia
Located high in the Bolivian Andes, Sorata is an excellent place to call home. With impressive mountains at its doorstep and a rooted local culture, this town offers a unique experience of Bolivia that you can’t find elsewhere.
The layer of mystique provided through the dense forests and trails gives Sorata a natural beauty like no other place in Bolivia. For those who are looking for excitement in their lives, there are numerous outdoor events and activities — such as sightseeing trips to exotic locations — that can be enjoyed year-round.
Additionally, with access to the city of La Paz only 130 km (81 mi) away and several charming villages within its area, Sorata offers plenty of options for leisurely living while still providing convenience.
Exploring your options in South America?
Don’t miss our guide to the Top 5 Best Cities to Live in South America for more inspiration.
9. Rurrenabaque – 🏔️ Jungle Adventures for Those Living in Bolivia
Rurrenabaque is a municipality in the Beni region of northern Bolivia, and is an ideal place to live for those looking for a tropical and rural lifestyle.
With its lush rainforest-covered mountains, beautiful rivers, breathtaking waterfalls, and abundant wildlife, residents are surrounded by natural beauty.
The pleasant climate also contributes to its appeal: temperatures rarely dip below 26°C (80°F). Additionally, the average cost of living in Rurrenabaque is low compared to other cities in the region, making it an attractive option for budget-minded ex-pats.
While there may be limited roads and services compared to larger cities in Bolivia, this small city offers plenty of cultural experiences like local shops, markets, festivals, and more. For those interested in immersing themselves in Bolivian culture while still enjoying access to health care and amenities, Rurrenabaque provides a unique opportunity.
A Bolivian woman in traditional dress smiles as she carries her baby on her back—reflecting the warmth, family values, and cultural richness of some of the best places to live in Bolivia.
10. Copacabana – 💻🏖️ Lakeside Life in Bolivia
Copacabana is an excellent place to live in Bolivia due to its unique combination of stunning scenery, rustic culture, and warm climate.
Located on the shore of Lake Titicaca, the views of the lake and mountains are impressive and inspiring. With a pleasant year-round temperature that rarely drops too low or rises too high, it’s an ideal environment for outdoor activities like fishing, birding, and even skiing if you venture further up into the nearby mountains.
Beyond exploring nature, living in Copacabana gives you easy access to local culture with bustling marketplaces where you can find artisan goods and authentic Bolivian dishes every day. Whether you’re looking for a place to retire or a base for adventure, living in Copacabana promises an enriching experience!
11. El Alto – 💻 Urban Living in Bolivia
It’s the highest capital city in the world at 4,150 m (2.57 mi) and has breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped mountains. The people of El Alto are friendly and welcoming, with many thriving businesses scattered throughout the city.
Public transportation is reliable and affordable, while nearby La Paz offers a wide range of opportunities for entertainment and culture. Education levels in Bolivia are higher than in other countries in South America, making El Alto an appealing destination for families seeking quality education systems.
El Alto is a smart choice if you’re looking for a vibrant city surrounded by incredible landscapes populated by incredibly warm, community-oriented people.
12. Montero – 👨👩👧👦 Community Life in Bolivia
Montero is a wonderful place to make a life in Bolivia. Its convenient location between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba allows for easy access to both major cities, making travel and commuting a breeze.
The city offers many amenities, including high-quality healthcare facilities, international schools, modern-day shopping centers, religious centers, and plenty of recreational facilities.
In addition, the average cost of living is quite affordable and Montero strikes the perfect balance between serenity and convenience — making it one of the best places to live in Bolivia.
Before deciding on Bolivia, compare what life is like next door with our post Pros and Cons of Living in Ecuador.
13. Trinidad – Riverfront Living in Bolivia
Trinidad is an enchanting and vibrant city located in the Bolivian lowlands, making it one of the most attractive provinces to live in. It’s surrounded by beautiful natural landscapes, including rainforests and rivers, so you can enjoy nature while still living in an urban area.
There are great amenities as well, like good public transport infrastructure, healthcare, and educational facilities. The locals are known for their welcoming nature and positive attitude towards living simply and respectfully.
And with a moderate climate throughout the year, you’ll be able to enjoy all that Trinidad has to offer without the extreme highs and lows of seasonal weather. All of this makes it the perfect place for anyone looking for a change of pace.
A flock of flamingos feeding in a shallow sandflat pond, with the snow-covered Andes mountains—highlighting the natural beauty of Bolivia’s best places to live.
14. Riberalta – 🏔️ Amazon Living in Bolivia
Riberalta is an excellent destination to live in Bolivia as it offers its residents the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture and bask in the beauty of nature.
Located near the Madre de Dios River, Riberalta boasts stunning topography with numerous attractions such as its extensive wildlife, untamed jungles, and tranquil waterways. In addition to the impressive landscape, Riberalta has a wide array of diverse cultures making it a great place for those looking to appreciate traditional customs and practices.
With a variety of activities like bird watching, fishing, and exploring nearby waterfalls, Riberalta offers something for anyone looking for an unforgettable experience.
With some of Bolivia’s most affordable housing prices found here, Riberalta is an ideal location for people wanting to meet their financial needs while enjoying fabulous amenities and magical nature views. There’s no wonder why Riberalta is one of the best places to call home in Bolivia.
15. Yacuiba – 🏔️ Border Town Life in Bolivia
With its moderate climate, low cost of living, proximity to the border with Argentina, and network of highways providing easy access to major Bolivian cities and cultural attractions, Yacuiba has much to offer.
There are plenty of exciting activities in the immediate area – swimming in local rivers and strolls around town – or day trips to nearby villages like Bella Vista or El Villon. The friendly people of Yacuiba also contribute to its charm – they’ll be sure to make any newcomer feel right at home.
All these factors combined make Yacuiba a wonderful choice for anyone looking for a safe place to settle down and call home in Bolivia.
Who Should Live Where in Bolivia?
| Who are you | Cities | Why It Fits |
|---|---|---|
| Remote Professional 💻 | La Paz, Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Cochabamba, El Alto | Urban hubs with reliable internet, coworking spaces, modern amenities, and plenty of networking opportunities. |
| Family 👨👩👧👦 | Sucre, Montero, Tarija | Safe, community-focused towns with access to schools, parks, and family-friendly activities. |
| Retiree / Soon-to-be Retired 🏖️ | Copacabana, Tarija, Sucre | Relaxed pace, scenic landscapes, rich culture, and affordable living for a peaceful retirement. |
| Adventure Seeker 🏔️ | Sorata, Rurrenabaque, Potosí, Riberalta, Yacuiba | Mountains, jungle, Amazon, and border regions offering trekking, wildlife, water adventures, and exploration. |
Why So Many Choose to Live in Bolivia
Bolivia is full of diverse places to live, each offering its own unique charm and character. From the vibrant urban life of La Paz and Santa Cruz to the tranquil beauty of Sucre and the breathtaking landscapes of Tarija, there’s a perfect spot for anyone looking to live in Bolivia.
As a developing country, Bolivia presents both opportunities and challenges, making it an intriguing destination for expats who want to immerse themselves in a rich cultural experience. The rapid growth in cities is accompanied by ongoing efforts to improve infrastructure and services, enhancing the living experience over time.
Whether you seek the cultural richness of historical cities or the serene environment of rural towns, Bolivia’s heritage and stunning scenery, coupled with its evolving landscape, make it an inviting place to live in South America.
Freedom is closer than you think.
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