Moving to Latin America
Salaries, Lifestyle, and Family Considerations
Why Teach in Latin America?
Moving to Latin America as an international teacher offers a dynamic and diverse teaching landscape. There are opportunities in well-established international schools in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, as well as growing demand in emerging markets like Colombia, Chile, Guatemala and Peru.
Teachers drawn to vibrant cultures, warm climates, and a lower cost of living will find Latin America an exciting destination.
While salaries may be lower than in Asia or the Middle East, the affordable cost of living and strong expat communities make it a rewarding choice for educators and their families.
Latin America Overview
While major cities like Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and Sao Paulo are pricier, affordable housing and lower daily expenses make salaries stretch further in many areas.
Teachers who budget wisely can still save, particularly in lower-cost countries like Colombia and Peru.
Many international school packages include housing, health insurance, and tuition discounts, improving financial viability.
Salary Expectations in Latin America
Let’s review what you can expect to earn in different areas throughout Latin America.
Mexico
$2,000 – $3,500 USD/month
Higher wages in Mexico City and Monterrey.
Brazil
$2,000 – $4,000 USD/month
Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro offer top-tier packages.
Argentina
$1,500 – $3,000 USD/month
Lower cost of living helps balance salaries.
Colombia
$1,800 – $3,200 USD/month
Demand for qualified international teachers is growing.
Chile
$2,000 – $3,500 USD/month
Santiago has the best pay opportunities.
Peru
$1,500 – $3,000 USD/month
Lower salaries but strong benefits packages at good schools.
Cost of Living in Latin America
The average monthly cost of living for a family of four in Latin America generally ranges from $1,500 to $4,500 USD, depending on the country, city, and the benefits included in your teaching contract. In many parts of the region, especially smaller cities or rural areas, day-to-day life can be quite affordable. But costs can climb in larger urban centers like Mexico City, São Paulo, or Lima, particularly if you’re living an expat lifestyle with Western groceries, or travel.
Most international schools in Latin America offer modest but livable salaries, often paired with teacher perks like housing stipends or allowances, tuition discounts, private health insurance, and flights (usually start and end of contract, but depends on each school’s policies). However, packages may be less generous than those in the Middle East or Asia, so it’s important to budget carefully—especially if your children are school-aged.
Living in countries like Colombia, Ecuador, or Peru can be cost-effective, especially if you shop locally and embrace local food and customs. But in Chile, Argentina, or Brazil, inflation and currency fluctuations can create financial pressure, especially if you’re trying to save or send money home.
Impact on Costs
Your financial comfort will depend on things like:
- Whether your housing is provided or just subsidised (and how far it is from school)
- How much of your children’s tuition and school-related fees are covered
- Your reliance on imported goods or international healthcare providers
- Whether you travel regionally or internationally during breaks
Many families find they can live well and enjoy Latin America’s natural beauty and vibrant culture on a reasonable budget—especially if they adapt to local norms. However, currency instability, increased cost of living (especially since COVID) and out-of-pocket medical expenses can affect long-term savings potential.
For a more detailed look at country-specific expenses, check out:
- Numbeo – Real-time, user-reported cost-of-living data for cities like Bogotá, Buenos Aires, and Quito
- Expatistan – Great for comparing life in Latin America with your home country or between cities
- Facebook groups like Expats in Mexico, South America Families, or Living in Lima – Ideal for asking current expats what they spend on rent, schooling, or groceries
School Types in Latin America
Let’s take a look at common types of Latin America schools where international educators are in demand.
Top International schools
Highly competitive, offering IB and American curricula, requiring experience and certifications.
Bilingual & Private Schools
Moderate pay, widespread in urban areas, a good fit for teachers with fewer qualifications.
Language Institutes & Universities
Lower pay but flexible schedules and strong cultural immersion opportunities.
Latin America: Hiring Seasons, Visas, Schools and Safety
Hiring Seasons
Peak Hiring Time: September – March for an August start date. Some schools in Latin America operate on a southern hemisphere calendar so will recruit around June to August for a February to March start.
Mid-Year Openings: Some schools hire in December – January, particularly in high-turnover locations.
Visa Processes
Visa requirements vary by country. Many require teachers to secure a job before arrival, while others allow teachers to enter on a tourist visa and complete work permits locally (such as Peru).
Countries like Mexico and Colombia have relatively straightforward visa processes, while Brazil and Argentina can be more bureaucratic.
International Schools
Major cities like Mexico City, Bogota, and Santiago have strong international school networks offering IB, British, and American curricula. Many top-tier schools offer tuition benefits for teachers’ children, making it easier to bring families.
Some of these schools can be more bilingual than truly international, so learning Spanish may be critical for your child’s immersion.
Healthcare and Safety
Mexico, Brazil, and Chile: High-quality private healthcare facilities with international doctors.
Colombia, Argentina, and Peru: Good medical care in major cities but fewer options in rural areas.
Safety Considerations: Some areas require extra caution, particularly in large cities, but expat communities tend to live in safer, well-patrolled neighborhoods.
Living and Teaching in Latin America
Central and South America has welcoming, active expat communities, often centered around international schools, embassies, and social hubs.
Cities like Mexico City, Buenos Aires, and Bogota offer extensive networking, social, and support groups to help newcomers adjust quickly.
