Living in Cali: the ultimate expat guide

Cali is one of Colombia's four major industrial centers, alongside Bogotá, Medellín, and Barranquilla. The local economy is driven by services, manufacturing, and an emerging technology sector. For expats seeking employment or business opportunities, understanding the local job market and visa requirements is essential.

Key Industries and Job Market

The city's economy is diverse, with the services sector employing approximately 65% of the workforce. Key industries include textiles, food processing, pharmaceuticals, and sugar production from the surrounding Valle del Cauca region. Cali is also rising as a software development hub, with the World Bank reporting that Bogotá, Medellín, and Cali account for over 70% of Colombia's tech job openings. Major employers include local companies and multinationals in manufacturing, healthcare, education, and BPO services.

Work Permits and Visas

Foreign nationals wishing to work in Colombia need the appropriate visa. The Digital Nomad Visa (Type V) allows remote workers employed by foreign companies to live in Colombia for up to two years. Requirements include proof of remote employment, minimum monthly income of approximately USD 1,000 (three times the Colombian minimum wage), and valid health insurance. The M-5 Worker Visa is required for those employed by Colombian companies. Both visas can be applied for online through the Cancillería (Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

The following table shows key employment indicators for the Cali metropolitan area:

Sources: DANE (National Administrative Department of Statistics), Trading Economics

Cali is a major educational hub in southwestern Colombia, home to several prestigious universities offering programs in Spanish and, increasingly, in English. The city attracts students from across Latin America and beyond, with institutions known for engineering, health sciences, and business programs.

Major Universities

Universidad del Valle (Univalle) is the region's most important public university and one of the top three in Colombia. Founded in 1945, it serves over 30,000 students across two main campuses in Cali and eight regional locations. The university offers 189 undergraduate programs and 129 graduate programs, including doctoral degrees in various fields. It holds High-Quality Institutional Accreditation from the Colombian Ministry of Education and has cooperation agreements with universities in Europe, North America, and Asia.

Universidad ICESI is a private institution ranked among Colombia's best for business and economics. It offers undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on entrepreneurship and innovation. Universidad Autónoma de Occidente specializes in engineering, communications, and design, with modern facilities in southern Cali. Pontificia Universidad Javeriana Cali provides programs in social sciences, law, engineering, and health.

International Students

International students can apply through each university's international relations office. Universidad del Valle welcomes approximately 180 international students annually through exchange programs and direct enrollment. Tuition fees at public universities range from USD 500 to USD 2,000 per semester for international students, while private universities charge between USD 2,000 and USD 6,000 per semester depending on the program.

Sources: Universidad del Valle, Universidad ICESI, QS World University Rankings

Families relocating to Cali will find a selection of international and bilingual schools offering curricula from various countries. While the majority of international schools in Colombia are concentrated in Bogotá, Cali has reputable options catering to expat communities seeking English-language or international education.

International and Bilingual Schools

Colegio Bolivar is the leading American international school in Cali, offering education from Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 12. Accredited by AdvancED and the Colombian Ministry of Education, it follows a U.S. college-preparatory curriculum with state-of-the-art facilities, extensive extracurricular activities, and a diverse student body. The campus is located in the Pance area in southern Cali.

Colegio Colombo Británico provides a bilingual education with a British emphasis, serving students from Nursery through Grade 12. The school is known for its rigorous International Baccalaureate (IB) program and commitment to developing well-rounded students through academics, sports, and arts programs.

Liceo Francés Paul Valéry is a French international school offering education from Maternelle (Preschool) through Terminale (High School). Part of the AEFE network (Agency for French Education Abroad), it follows the French national curriculum with trilingual instruction in French, Spanish, and English.

Enrollment and Fees

International school fees in Cali typically range from USD 5,000 to USD 15,000 per year, depending on the grade level and institution. Enrollment usually requires academic transcripts, immunization records, and may include entrance assessments. The school year for most international schools follows Calendar B (August to June), aligning with the Northern Hemisphere academic calendar.

Sources: Colegio Bolivar, Colegio Colombo Británico, Liceo Francés Paul Valéry

Cali offers diverse housing options across its many neighborhoods, from colonial homes in historic districts to modern apartments in gated communities. Rental prices are significantly lower than in major North American or European cities, making it possible to live comfortably in upscale areas on a modest budget.

Popular Neighborhoods for Expats

Granada is the city's premier gastronomic and nightlife district, located in northern Cali. This upscale neighborhood features tree-lined streets, boutique shops, and over 65 restaurants serving international cuisine. It is safe, walkable, and highly popular with expats and affluent locals. El Peñón is a peaceful, upscale area adjacent to the Cali River, known for its cultural institutions like the Museo La Tertulia and proximity to the historic San Antonio neighborhood.

San Antonio is a charming, bohemian neighborhood on a hilltop near downtown. It features colorful colonial houses, artisan cafés, and panoramic city views. Popular with young professionals and creatives, it offers an authentic Colombian experience. Ciudad Jardín in southern Cali is one of the city's most exclusive residential areas, featuring gated communities, mansions, and modern shopping centers like Jardín Plaza. It is considered one of the safest neighborhoods but is farther from central attractions.

Rental Prices

The following table shows average monthly rental costs in Cali:

Rental agreements typically require a deposit of one to two months' rent. Foreigners may need a Colombian co-signer or can use an insurance company as a guarantor. The estrato system (1-6) determines utility costs, with higher estratos paying more for services.

Sources: Numbeo, local real estate listings

Cali's cultural scene is among the richest in Colombia, driven by its Afro-Caribbean heritage and status as the world's salsa capital. From world-class dance performances to natural attractions, the city offers diverse experiences for all interests.

Salsa and Nightlife

Salsa is the heartbeat of Cali. The city is home to numerous salsa schools where visitors and residents can learn the fast-paced salsa caleña style. Popular schools include Baila la Vaina and Arrebato Caleño. The Salsa Route (Ruta de la Salsa) guides visitors through key cultural sites, including the Museo de la Salsa and Plazoleta Jairo Varela, dedicated to the founder of legendary group Grupo Niche.

Nightlife centers around classic clubs like Tin Tin Deo, La Topa Tolondra, and Zaperoco. Every weekend, locals and visitors gather to dance until the early hours. The annual Feria de Cali (December 25–30) is the city's signature event, featuring the Salsódromo parade, concerts, and the World Salsa Festival.

Attractions and Nature

The Cristo Rey statue overlooks the city from a nearby peak, offering panoramic views after a scenic hike. The Zoológico de Cali is one of Colombia's best zoos, featuring native species in naturalistic habitats. Barrio San Antonio charms visitors with its colorful colonial houses, artisan shops, and cafés with city views. The Museo La Tertulia showcases contemporary art, while the Iglesia La Ermita is a neo-Gothic landmark on the Cali River.

Nature lovers can explore Pance River for swimming and hiking, or visit Farallones de Cali National Park for trails through cloud forests. From July to October, whale-watching tours depart from nearby Buenaventura on the Pacific coast.

Sources: Colombia Travel, Zoológico de Cali

Daily life in Cali is characterized by warm weather, friendly people, and a relaxed pace that balances work and leisure. The city offers modern conveniences while maintaining a strong connection to Colombian traditions and culture.

Getting Around

Cali's primary public transportation system is the MIO (Masivo Integrado de Occidente), a bus rapid transit network operating since 2009. The system covers approximately 72% of the city's transportation needs with 90+ routes and dedicated bus lanes. A single fare costs approximately COP 3,200 (around USD 0.78). The MIO connects major neighborhoods, universities, and commercial areas.

The city also has the MioCable, an aerial gondola system serving hillside communities. Taxis are affordable and widely available, with fares starting around COP 5,000 (USD 1.20). Ride-hailing apps like Uber and inDrive operate throughout the city. Many residents use motorcycles to navigate traffic, though expats typically rely on taxis and public transport.

Lifestyle and Culture

Caleños are known for their warmth and openness, making it easy for newcomers to integrate. Spanish is essential for daily life, though English is increasingly spoken in business settings and tourist areas. Grocery shopping can be done at supermarkets like Éxito, Jumbo, and Carulla, or at traditional markets offering fresh local produce at lower prices. Dining out is affordable, with a typical meal at a local restaurant (corrientazo) costing between COP 15,000–25,000 (USD 3.50–6).

The city operates on a relaxed schedule, with businesses typically open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though many restaurants and shops stay open later. Nightlife starts late, with salsa clubs and bars filling up after 10:00 PM.

Sources: Metro Cali, Alcaldía de Santiago de Cali

Cali offers one of the most affordable costs of living among major Colombian cities. With a favorable exchange rate for those earning in USD, EUR, or GBP, expats can enjoy a comfortable lifestyle at a fraction of what they would spend in North America or Europe.

Monthly Budget for a Single Person

The following table provides estimated monthly expenses for a single person living a moderate lifestyle in Cali:

Monthly Budget for a Family of Four

The following table provides estimated monthly expenses for a family of four:

Sources: Numbeo, DANE