How to Make Money in Medellín as a Foreigner: Real Expat Stories
Moving to Medellín is a dream for many foreigners. The weather, culture, and cost of living make it one of the most popular expat destinations in Latin America. But while life here can be vibrant, one of the biggest questions newcomers face is:
“How do I actually make enough money to support myself in Medellín?”
Unlike the glossy images on Instagram or YouTube, making a living in Colombia as a foreigner isn’t always straightforward. Local wages are low, jobs are competitive, and without a visa strategy, your options are limited. That’s why hearing directly from expats already living here — their struggles, strategies, and income streams — is far more valuable than vague advice.
This guide blends real stories from expats in Medellín with practical tips on how foreigners can successfully earn money, whether through remote jobs, investments, businesses, or creative hustles.
Why Local Jobs Aren’t the Answer
One of the most common misconceptions among new arrivals is that they’ll be able to find a “regular” job in Medellín. The reality is harsh:
Wages are low. Even doctors and lawyers often earn around $1,000 per month. Call center jobs or English teaching might pay even less.
Jobs are prioritized for Colombians. Colombian labor law protects local workers, so foreigners are rarely hired unless they bring a very specialized skillset.
Visa limitations. Without a proper work visa, foreigners aren’t legally allowed to work in Colombian companies.
As one expat bluntly put it in a community thread:
“If you couldn’t make money in the U.S., it’s going to be harder in Colombia.”
The bottom line: earning locally isn’t viable. The winning formula is almost always the same — earn in dollars, spend in pesos.
Income Streams That Work for Expats in Medellín
So what do successful expats actually do? Here are the most common (and realistic) income streams shared by those already here.
1. Remote and Online Work
Remote work is by far the most sustainable option for foreigners in Medellín. Thanks to strong internet infrastructure in the city, digital jobs are widely accessible.
Tech & IT: Expats with coding, cybersecurity, or IT backgrounds often keep their U.S. jobs while living in Colombia. One poster mentioned he works remotely in IT and has managed this for 7+ years.
Sales & Marketing: Several expats earn money through high-ticket sales roles, SaaS sales, or running digital marketing agencies. One entrepreneur shared how he started cold-calling businesses in the U.S. while teaching English in Medellín — today, he owns a brokerage firm.
Content Creation: From YouTube channels about Medellín real estate to OnlyFans management, digital content and online audiences can become serious income sources.
Freelancing: Platforms like Upwork or Fiverr remain entry points for writers, designers, and consultants.
💡 Pro tip: Many recommend securing the remote job before moving. That way, you know your income is steady before you relocate.
2. Pensions and Passive Income
A large percentage of long-term expats are retirees or veterans who rely on guaranteed monthly payments.
Social Security or VA Pensions provide stability.
U.S. Rental Properties: Owning income-producing property back home is one of the most reliable ways to support life in Colombia. One expat wrote:
“I live off rental properties in the States and in Colombia. It’s steady income and covers everything.”
Investments in Colombia: With a proper visa and cedula, you can open a Colombian bank account and invest in CDs (CDTs) that often pay 8–9% interest.
This strategy works best if you already have savings or assets to leverage.
3. Entrepreneurship in Medellín
While local wages are low, there is space for foreign-run businesses if you approach it strategically.
Restaurants and Cafés: A few expats reported opening eateries in popular neighborhoods like Comuna 13. High risk, but possible with the right connections.
Real Estate & Airbnb: Buying apartments and renting them out on Airbnb can be profitable if you understand regulations and taxes.
Niche Tourism: Safety services, relocation consulting, or “authentic Medellín experiences” can attract high-paying travelers.
One seasoned expat emphasized:
“Find what people want — safety, unique experiences, good housing — and provide it. If you have what someone needs, they’ll pay.”
4. Side Hustles and Creative Paths
Some of the more unconventional (but real) income sources mentioned:
Adult industry (OnlyFans management, studios).
Crypto trading (though high risk).
Teaching English online (competitive, but still viable for some).
Remote volunteering or NGO work with stipends.
While not for everyone, these examples show the variety of ways foreigners hustle to make Medellín work.
Real Expat Stories
To keep this grounded, here are direct stories adapted from community members:
David G.: “I fund businesses in the U.S. Sometimes I use my own money, sometimes just my contacts. I collect about $800 daily, Monday–Friday. Even when I don’t work, money comes in.”
Andrew M.: “I started cold-calling for digital marketing gigs while teaching English here. Over the years, I built a team and eventually opened a brokerage. No degree, just self-taught.”
Colombian Living: “I manage parking lots remotely in the States and run a restaurant in Comuna 13 with my wife.”
Victor M.: “90% plus of people on this page don’t live here. They save money in the US and spend it all in a few days, weeks, or months. Most of the immigrants that live here are on a pension or have rich parents.”
Bruce B.: “I rely on U.S. rental income, plus Colombian bank CDs paying 8–9%. With Social Security, I don’t need to work.”
Challenges and Pitfalls
Expats were also quick to highlight pitfalls:
Romanticizing Medellín: Many foreigners move here expecting low costs, only to find rents in El Poblado rival U.S. cities.
Anonymous Dreaming: Several commenters criticized vague planning: “If you don’t know how you’ll earn, this lifestyle isn’t for you.”
Overreliance on YouTube advice: Influencers often exaggerate. Real life is pricier and more complex.
Visa and tax planning: If you live in Colombia over 183 days, you may become a tax resident. Some remote workers get caught in double taxation without planning.
Practical Advice Before Moving
If you’re considering the leap, here’s a distilled checklist based on expat wisdom:
Secure income first. Aim for at least $2,500–$3,000/month in USD.
Have savings. Most recommend at least 6–12 months of expenses in reserve.
Pick the right visa. Digital nomad, retirement, or investment visas are most common.
Understand taxes. If you stay more than 183 days, get professional advice.
Live modestly at first. Avoid El Poblado or Laureles until you know your long-term plan.
FAQs About Making Money in Medellín
Q: Can foreigners work regular jobs in Medellín?
A: Very unlikely. Wages are low and jobs are protected for locals.
Q: What’s the most common income source for expats?
A: Remote work in USD or pensions from abroad.
Q: How much do I need per month?
A: At least $2,500–$3,000 USD for a comfortable lifestyle in expat neighborhoods.
Q: Can I start a business in Medellín?
A: Yes, but it’s risky. Restaurants, real estate, and niche tourism can work if you have capital and experience.
Final Thoughts
Making money in Medellín as a foreigner isn’t about finding a job “there” — it’s about bringing income with you. Expats who thrive here usually:
Have pensions or investments,
Work remotely for U.S. or global companies,
Or run businesses tied to international markets.
The dream is possible, but it takes planning, savings, and skills. As one expat put it:
“Earn in dollars, spend in pesos. That’s the formula.”
Thinking about relocating to Medellín? At OnCallColombia, we help foreigners with visa strategies, relocation planning, and security services so you can focus on building the lifestyle you want — without costly mistakes.
📲 [Contact us today on WhatsApp] to get started.
