Housing Options for Expats in Lima, Perú
Lima, the capital of Peru, is a vibrant coastal city with a rich mix of colonial charm, modern amenities, and a growing international community. For expats moving to Lima—whether for work, retirement, study, or a long-term stay—finding the right housing is a crucial step toward a smooth transition.
This guide explores the various housing options for expats in Lima from our real state perspective in Lima, from upscale apartments in cosmopolitan districts to more budget-friendly rentals in secure, family-oriented neighborhoods.
1. Furnished Apartments (Departamentos Amoblados)
Overview:
The most popular option for newly arrived expats, furnished apartments are move-in ready and often rented short or mid-term (3–12 months). These units usually include furniture, kitchen appliances, linens, and sometimes even utilities and Wi-Fi.
Pros:
- Ideal for temporary stays or while house-hunting.
- No need to invest in furniture.
- Available on platforms like Airbnb, Booking, or local classifieds like Adondevivir and Urbania.
Cons:
- More expensive than unfurnished rentals.
- Prices may be inflated for foreigners or in tourist-heavy districts.
Average Monthly Rent:
- Miraflores/San Isidro (1BR): $700–$1,200 USD
- Barranco/Surco (1BR): $600–$1,000 USD
Best for: Digital nomads, new arrivals, remote workers, diplomats.
2. Unfurnished Apartments (Departamentos sin Amoblar)
Overview:
Once settled, many expats opt for unfurnished apartments, which are significantly cheaper and offer long-term stability. However, «unfurnished» in Peru can mean no refrigerator, no stove, and sometimes no light fixtures—so be prepared.
Pros:
- Lower monthly rent.
- More negotiating power with landlords.
- Long-term rental contracts (usually 12 months, renewable).
Cons:
- Upfront costs to furnish.
- Requires time and effort to move in.
Average Monthly Rent:
- San Borja/Surco/La Molina (2BR): $400–$800 USD
- San Isidro/Miraflores (2BR): $700–$1,200 USD
Best for: Long-term residents, families, and expats with a stable income or local work contracts.
3. Shared Housing / Rooms in Flats
Overview:
Sharing an apartment or renting a room in a shared flat is a common option for younger expats, students, or solo travelers. Rooms are usually rented by the month and include shared access to the kitchen, laundry, and living areas.
Pros:
- Low cost of living.
- Flexible contracts.
- Built-in social network with roommates.
Cons:
- Less privacy.
- Varying quality of landlords and flatmates.
Average Monthly Rent:
Private room in Miraflores/Barranco: $200–$400 USD
Best for:
Students, interns, budget travelers, and those staying 3–6 months.
4. House Rentals (Casas en Alquiler)
Overview:
Detached houses are available in suburban areas and upscale gated communities. This option is especially attractive for expats with families, pets, or those seeking more space.
Pros:
- More space, gardens, and private parking.
- Ideal for families and long stays.
- Often located in secure neighborhoods with controlled access.
Cons:
- Higher rent and maintenance.
- Requires a car in some areas (e.g., La Molina, Surco)
Average Monthly Rent:
- La Molina/San Borja/Surco (3–4BR house): $900–$2,500 USD
- Exclusive areas like La Planicie or Camacho: $2,000+ USD
Best for: Families, embassy staff, business executives.
5. Gated Communities (Condominios y Urbanizaciones Cerradas)
Overview:
Some expats prefer living in gated communities, which offer extra security, communal amenities (e.g., pools, gyms, green areas), and a more suburban feel.
Pros:
- High security.
- Sense of community.
- Great for kids and families.
Cons:
- Can feel isolated from local culture.
- Typically located away from central Lima.
Locations:
- La Molina (La Planicie, Rinconada)
- Surco (Las Casuarinas, Chacarilla)
- San Borja (quiet, residential zones)
Best for: High-income families, long-term expats, those prioritizing safety.
6. Short-Term Vacation Rentals
Overview:
Ideal for exploratory visits or while waiting for a long-term lease, these are often managed via platforms like Airbnb or Vrbo.
Pros:
- Flexibility and ease of booking.
- Fully furnished with utilities included.
- No long-term commitment.
Cons:
- More expensive on a per-night basis.
- Not viable for long-term stays unless negotiated.
Best for: Tourists, scouting trips, remote workers testing the waters.
Neighborhoods Popular with Expats
| District | Why Expats Like It |
|---|---|
| Miraflores | Walkable, safe, coastal views, active social scene |
| San Isidro | Elegant, quiet, diplomatic and business area |
| Barranco | Artsy, bohemian, beach access, boutique lifestyle |
| La Molina | Family-friendly, suburban, elite schools and universities |
| Surco (Chacarilla, Monterrico) | Balanced, calm, close to malls and business hubs |
Renting in Lima: Tips for Expats
- Contracts: Usually for 12 months. Ensure it is in Spanish and clearly states terms. Many landlords ask for a guarantor (aval).
- Deposits: 1–2 months of rent as a security deposit is standard.
- Payment: Most landlords prefer cash in soles. Bank transfers are common once trust is established.
Real estate agents: Agents often charge one month’s rent paid by the landlord.
Beware of Scams
Always visit the property in person and never send money in advance unless you’re using a verified platform and ask for «partida electrónica» as a prove that whoever is offering the property is the real owner.
Final Thoughts
From fully furnished apartments in the heart of the city to quiet suburban houses with gardens, Lima offers a wide variety of housing options for expats. The right choice depends on your lifestyle, budget, length of stay, and personal preferences.
If you’re new to the city, it’s wise to start in a furnished apartment in Miraflores or Barranco, explore the city, and then commit to a longer-term rental. With careful planning and local guidance, you can find a home in Lima that’s safe, comfortable, and suits your needs.
Need help understanding rental contracts, neighborhoods, or the housing process in Peru? I can assist with more personalized advice or help you prepare questions for landlords and real estate agents.
Now that you have general understanding of the housing options for expats in Lima Perú, let me know how long you’re staying or what kind of lifestyle you’re aiming for, and I’ll guide you further.
---Contact me:
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Email: andresberger@gmail.com