Finding Housing in Peru
Peru's rental market offers good value, especially for those willing to commit to longer leases. Most expats concentrate in Lima's southern districts.
Renting as an Expat
Furnished apartments: Common in expat areas, especially for short and medium-term stays. Prices 20-40% higher than unfurnished.
Lease terms:
- Monthly/Airbnb: Highest prices, most flexibility
- 6-month lease: Better rates, typical for new arrivals
- 12-month lease: Best rates, standard for settled expats
Deposits: Typically 1-2 months rent. Some landlords require guarantor (fiador) which can be challenging for foreigners.
Popular Expat Neighborhoods
Lima:
| Area | Vibe | 1BR Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Miraflores | Main expat hub, ocean views, walkable | $600-1,200 |
| Barranco | Artsy, bohemian, nightlife | $500-1,000 |
| San Isidro | Business district, upscale, quiet | $700-1,400 |
| Surco | Residential, family-friendly, malls | $400-800 |
| Magdalena | Emerging, more local, affordable | $350-600 |
Arequipa:
| Area | Vibe | 1BR Rent |
|---|---|---|
| Centro Historico | Colonial architecture, walkable | $300-500 |
| Yanahuara | Residential, views of El Misti | $350-550 |
| Cayma | Quieter, local feel | $250-450 |
Cusco:
| Area | Vibe | 1BR Rent |
|---|---|---|
| San Blas | Artisan quarter, tourist hub | $400-700 |
| Centro | Near Plaza de Armas, colonial | $350-600 |
| Wanchaq | Modern, local, affordable | $250-450 |
Where to Search
Online platforms:
- Airbnb - good for initial 1-3 months exploration
- Urbania.pe - largest Peruvian real estate site
- Adondevivir.com - major listing platform
- Facebook groups - very active for expat housing
- OLX Peru - classifieds with rental listings
Requirements for Renting
What landlords typically need:
- Passport copy
- Visa or carné de extranjería copy
- Proof of income (bank statements)
- References (if available)
- Deposit (1-2 months)
- Some require a fiador (guarantor)
Utilities
Typically not included in rent:
- Electricity: $30-80/month (higher with AC on coast)
- Water: $10-25/month
- Gas: $10-20/month (cooking/hot water)
- Internet: $20-50/month (fiber in Lima)
- Building maintenance (mantenimiento): $30-80/month
Buying Property
Foreigners can buy property freely:
- No residency or visa required to own
- Property ownership alone doesn't grant residency
- Notarized purchase agreement (minuta) required
- Registration at SUNARP (public registry)
- Expect 3-5% in closing costs
- Property prices: $800-2,000/sqm in Lima's good districts
Pro Tips
- •Start with Airbnb for 1-2 months to explore neighborhoods
- •Miraflores is the safest and most convenient for new expats
- •Long-term leases (6-12 months) save 20-40% over monthly rates
- •Facebook expat groups are excellent for housing leads
- •Barranco offers more character and nightlife than Miraflores
Have questions about housing in Peru?