The first step in moving to Uruguay is deciding on a place to live. The place you live will determine a number of other factors that you will have to face in Uruguay.

My recommendation, and that of pretty much every expat I have spoken with, is that it is always best to rent first, and buy later. I am an investor by nature and I know firsthand that deciding hastily, even when you are 100% positive it is the right choice, is never a good idea. So, before you even come to Uruguay, it is a good idea to research different areas, and make a list of the places where you are seriously considering relocating. Then, when you arrive in Uruguay systematically visit each one.

Montevideo is usually the first place on everyone’s list, but I believe that is just because its the only Uruguayan city most people know. The cost of living in Montevideo is higher than anywhere else in the country, except the popular Punta del Este. Areas along the coast running from west of Punta del Este to Colonia are cheaper than actually being within the city, and living in the interior of Uruguay is by far the cheapest option. So, if money is your chief concern, then by all means, move out to Gaucho Country.

There are, however, other factors that come into play, such as your need for an internet connection. Internet can be difficult to get in the interior and it is most readily available within Montevideo (best packages, greatest amount of bandwidth, etc.).

Another thing to consider is purchasing a vehicle. If you plan on living in the city, there is no real need to buy a car, as public transportation and taxi services are readily available. Living in the interior without a car, on the other hand, would be a little more difficult.

While exploring a neighborhood for possible relocation look to stay at an ‘aparthotel.’ These apartment/hotel establishments are well priced, and give you the opportunity to get a better feel of what life is really like in the area than a normal hotel does. In general aparthotels offer a sleeping area a sitting area, and a small kitchen, and they are located in residential neighborhoods, oftentimes in converted houses.

The local inmobiliarias, as real estate offices are called, are oftentimes the best places to start your search for housing, whether you are looking for a long-term or short-term rental, or the purchasing of a home. I recommend using the inmobiliaria as opposed to the internet because pricing on the internet is generally 10% or so higher. (Gotta love that gringo tax!) To get a pricing idea and to see what is on the market check out CASAS.com.uy and APARTAMENTOS.com.uy.

Even if you don’t speak Spanish, many of the real estate agents, especially in the typical expat communities, speak English.

Just remember: Don’t rush. Take your time to consider your options, and what you can and can’t live without while deciding where to relocate in Uruguay.