Retiring abroad sounds like a dream—and for many, it is. But the reality? It requires planning, flexibility, and a fair bit of research. If you’ve been scanning the globe and Peru keeps popping up on your radar, you’re not alone. From the snow-capped Andes to the lush Amazon, Peru offers more than just postcard views. It’s also home to one of the most cost-effective and culturally rich retirement destinations in the world.
So, what makes Peru such a solid choice in 2025? Let’s dive into what you need to know—beyond the brochures and dreamy Instagram shots.
🌅 Why Peru? Why Now?
First things first—why should Peru even be on your retirement shortlist?
1. Affordable Cost of Living:
Compared to North America and Western Europe, Peru is refreshingly affordable. You can live comfortably on $1,500–$2,000 a month, depending on your location and lifestyle. Rent in cities like Arequipa or Trujillo can be as low as $300–$500 for a modern apartment. Groceries? Dirt cheap if you shop local. A meal at a decent local restaurant? Under $5.
2. Healthcare That Won’t Bankrupt You:
While Peru’s public healthcare system (EsSalud) may not match U.S. or European standards across the board, private healthcare in cities like Lima and Cusco is surprisingly good—and affordable. Many expats opt for private insurance, which typically ranges from $50–$150 per month depending on age and coverage [source: Expatica.com]..
3. Visa-Friendly Policies:
Peru offers a retirement visa—called the Rentista Visa—specifically tailored for retirees. More on that in a bit.
4. An Enchanting Culture (With Great Food):
Let’s not forget the rich cultural experience. Ancient ruins, colorful markets, warm people, and a culinary scene that’s taken the world by storm. Lima has become a foodie capital, with Peruvian cuisine—especially ceviche—gaining international fame.
📍Best Cities for Retirees in Peru
Peru isn’t just Machu Picchu and Lima (although those are great, too). Here’s a quick round-up of retiree favorites:
🌄Arequipa: The White City
Known for its stunning colonial architecture and beautiful landscapes, Arequipa is a top choice for retirees. The climate is mild, and the cost of living is lower than in Lima, making it an ideal place to settle down. Arequipa offers a quieter lifestyle with all the necessary amenities, and it has a growing expat community.
🗺️Cusco: Gateway to the Sacred Valley
For retirees who want to experience Peru’s rich history, Cusco is a must-visit. It’s the former capital of the Inca Empire and offers breathtaking views of the Andes. Although Cusco sits at a high altitude, its rich cultural heritage and proximity to Machu Picchu make it a popular spot for retirees looking to immerse themselves in history. The cost of living here is affordable, but be aware of the altitude, which might affect some people.
🏙️Lima: The Cosmopolitan Capital
For those who prefer a more urban lifestyle, Lima is the place to be. It offers modern amenities, great shopping, world-class restaurants, and beautiful coastal views. While the cost of living here is higher than in other cities, Lima is still relatively inexpensive compared to major global cities. It’s the best option for retirees looking for a big-city feel.
🏖️Trujillo: Coastal Living with Rich Culture
If you’re seeking a coastal city, Trujillo offers a peaceful and picturesque atmosphere with a lower cost of living. The region is rich in culture, with a variety of traditional festivals and ancient archaeological sites to explore. It’s a great choice for those who love the beach and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle.
🛂Getting the Rentista Visa in 2025
Ah yes, the paperwork. Not the sexiest part of retirement, but arguably the most important.
What is the Rentista Visa?
It’s a residency visa offered to foreign retirees who can show a permanent income of at least $1,000 per month from a pension or similar source.
Requirements:
- Proof of a lifelong pension of $1,000/month or more
- Criminal background check from your home country
- Apostilled and translated documents (Peru is particular about this)
- Application form (Formato F-004)
- Visa application fee
The Rentista Visa allows indefinite residency—no need to renew every year. You won’t be able to work on this visa, but you can own property and open a bank account.
How Long Does It Take?
Typically, 1 month. It’s a one-and-done deal compared to countries with annual renewals.
Pro tip: Hire a local immigration lawyer or visa facilitator. It’ll cost you, but it’ll save you headaches.
🏡Buying or Renting Property
You don’t need to be a citizen to buy property in Peru. Foreigners can own land, houses, apartments—pretty much anything, except near borders.
Renting
The rental market is competitive but manageable. A one-bedroom apartment in a safe area can cost between $300–$600/month. Make sure to negotiate, especially if you’re renting long-term.
Buying
Prices vary by city, but you can find condos starting at $50,000 in smaller cities. Just make sure the title is clean—land disputes are common, so hire a good lawyer before signing anything.
🏥What About Healthcare?
We touched on it, but let’s get into the nitty-gritty.
Public vs. Private
Public hospitals serve the local population but can be crowded. Most expats go private. Clinics like Clinica Internacional in Lima and Hospital AUNA offer modern facilities and English-speaking staff.
Health Insurance
International plans are common. Some retirees opt for local coverage through providers like Rímac or Pacífico Salud.
🗣️Learning the Language
Spanish is the national language, and while you can get by with English in some areas, speaking even basic Spanish will enrich your life dramatically. Locals appreciate the effort.
Consider hiring a tutor or enrolling in a class. Apps like Duolingo are a good start, but immersion is the real teacher.
🔒Is Peru Safe?
Let’s not sugarcoat it—like anywhere, there are risks. Petty theft is the most common issue, especially in crowded places like markets or buses. Violent crime is rare but not nonexistent. Stick to safe neighborhoods, stay aware, and you’ll be fine.
Cities like Arequipa and Trujillo are generally safer than parts of Lima. Do your research before renting or buying property.
📦 Can You Bring Your Stuff?
Yes, but think twice.
Shipping furniture and appliances is expensive. Most expats buy new or rent furnished apartments.
You can import personal belongings tax-free if you apply within your first six months on a resident visa.
🧾 Taxes as a Retiree in Peru
Peru only taxes Peruvian-sourced income.
Your pension or Social Security isn’t taxed unless you’re earning money within the country.
Still, always check with a tax advisor to understand how Peru and your home country interact tax-wise.
🍽️ Food Scene
Retiring in Peru is also retiring into one of the world’s best culinary countries.
- Ceviche in Lima
- Rocoto Relleno in Arequipa
- Aji de Gallina anywhere
- Cheap eats at local markets
- Fusion food like Nikkei (Peruvian-Japanese)
And yes, the coffee is fantastic too ☕.
✈️ Travel & Flights
- Direct flights from the U.S., Canada, and Europe.
- Lima’s Jorge Chávez International Airport is the main hub.
- Domestic flights are frequent and cheap: e.g., Lima to Cusco for under $50.
✨Cultural Shifts & Adjustments
Life in Peru isn’t the same as life back home—and that’s the point. Things move slower. Bureaucracy can be a pain. Internet might glitch. But guess what? The sun sets beautifully, the food is incredible, and the people are warm.
Expect some culture shock. Roll with it. You’re not just retiring—you’re reinventing.
Final Thoughts: Is Peru Right for You?
If you’re looking for a retirement with warm weather, lower costs, stunning scenery, and vibrant culture, Peru might be your dream come true. It’s not for everyone—altitude, language, and a few bumps in infrastructure might be deal-breakers—but for many, those are small trade-offs for a fulfilling new chapter in life.
So pack your sense of adventure, brush up on your Spanish, and maybe, just maybe, you’ll find your version of paradise nestled somewhere between the Andes and the Amazon.
At Get Visa Info, we offer friendly, straightforward advice on visas, immigration, travel, food, and everything in between. Whether you’re looking to move, retire, or just roam the world—we’ve got you covered.
