Cochabamba - Future Resident Questions - Anyone?

by Jim C.
(Seattle, WA, USA)

My family and I are planning to relocate from the US to Cochabamba in mid 2012, for 12-24 months. I've been researching as much as possible, but have a number of questions that I can't seem to find answers to. Any help from other expats in Cochabanda will be greatly appreciated!

1. Furnished rental housing (house, townhouse or condo):

Our budget is $600-650 for monthly rent (3-4 bedrooms, furnished, 2 baths/showers). We're targeting the Sarco neighborhood and other good neighborhoods in a 2-3 km radius of the Mall and IC Norte. Is this budget feasible for what we want (above) in these neighborhoods? If not, what would be more realistic?

2. Is rental accommodation still readily available (as of December 2011)? I can't find much being advertised - although have read that this is typical.

3. Any suggestions for a good real estate (rental) agency - English speaking? I understand the limits of agency help but don't (yet) speak Spanish!

4. Any tips for other good neighborhoods that would fit our rental budget for 3-4 bedrooms? We won't have a car, so don't want to be too far away from supermarkets and good shopping areas. Schools are not an issue.

5. I've heard that many homes don't have hot water electric heating, washers and dryers - is this true for Cochabamba too?

So sorry for all the questions, but these are the big gaps in my research. Any help will be greatly appreciated!

Many thanks.
Jim C.

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Apr 26, 2015
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Helpful info for those traveling to Cochabamba
by: Marcelo Canedo

Hello!!! may name is Marcelo I've been living in the US for the last 14 years (already a US citizen) and if you are planning on traveling to Bolivia and specially to Cochabamba let me know, I have plenty of friends and family still there, as a matter of fact my Father in law owns a small hotel in downtown Cochabamba (Boston Hotel), might not be the most modern or the best but is safe, economical and he is a very honest man, proud owner and trust worthy person, he is actually European (Croatian to be precise) and my wife is of German descent on her mother's side of the family also, yes quite mix and of course I'm 100% Cochabambino. Unfortunately I won't be going back any time soon but will get there eventually. Well anyways if you are planning to travel there give me a holler..by the way this is a test since the last comment I see here is fro 2014.

Jan 30, 2014
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Help in Bolivia, come on down!
by: Anonymous

I have lived in Cochabamba for over 7 years. I love the climate, the cost of living and the lack of crime, in good areas.
I would be glad to help anyone coming here with rental or purchase advice.
There is a movie theater with I think 8 screens, there are some good restaurants. You can live on about 100 dollars a month for two not including housing. If you aren't adventurous there are three supermarkets where you can buy most anything that you would find in America. However, if you are a beef lover, you will find the meat extremely tough, it is all grass fed and of course is more healthy, but sure lacks the tenderness and flavor of the US. Chicken is plentiful and reasonable.
In truth the diet here is much better for you than the US. Most fruits and vegetables are very fresh. The one thing you will have to get used to is that they aren't colored with chemicals like the states and don't look like are great supermarkets. Taxis and bus fares are cheap, you don't need a car and if you have a car it is nearly impossible to find a parking space. Driving here is one scary experience, except that they have few accidents, which amazes me.
Like I said, I will be happy to help anyone who is interested in this great climate.
fredpstaff@yahoo.com

Aug 21, 2013
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American Living in Cochabamba
by: Char

I've lived in Cochabamba with my son since Sept. 1 2012. I miss having hot water, washer dryer, meat and hotdogs...We are here because this is my husband's home. It's frustrating to find my way around here as there is no directory of shops, restaurants etc. You can ask people for what you're looking for but they can't tell you because they don't know either. Dogs roam the streets and bark/fight all night long so it's hard to sleep, loud parties, no police will help you with anything. It seems their main function is to only guard the banks. People are friendly. We haven't had any trouble here. We don't speak the language yet. I'm interested in visiting other cities. I lost 55 lbs during my stay here. I love the fresh food sold on every street corner. I make and sell jewelry to help support us.

May 17, 2013
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How was your experience
by: David

I was wondering how your experience was since I'm thinking of moving there what was your average monthly expenses, any tips. Thanks

May 17, 2013
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How was your experience
by: Anonymous

I was wondering how your experience was since I'm thinking of moving there what was your average monthly expenses, any tips. Thanks

May 17, 2013
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How was your experience
by: Anonymous

I was wondering how your experience was since I'm thinking of moving there what was your average monthly expenses, any tips. Thanks

Feb 14, 2012
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Get in touch
by: Gustavo

I live in cochabamba and I think I can help you,
my email is dguevaral@hotmail.com.

Jan 22, 2012
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Google Translate is a great tool
by: James Luck

Many thanks for your feedback and specific tips - greatly appreciated!

I've been using Google Translate (https://translate.google.com/#)and it helps a lot with understanding adverts.

All comments point to Cochabamba being a great choice. I lived in Africa for many years, where there is what I imagine to be similar contrasts - evidence of extreme poverty, diverse cultures and languages. Yet Africa has a warmth and charm of its own. We're looking forward to the experience!

Thanks again!

Jim

Jan 22, 2012
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rentals in Cochabamba
by: Romaraad

there is a website: www.vendohogar.net where you can click on alquileres and it will show you places to rent most with photos, however it is all in spanish but it'll give you an idea of what's available and the rental amounts. You can also go to www.lostiempos.com and under clasificados go to inmuebles and from there to casas or departamentos en alquiler to give you an idea. Furnished are advertised as amoblados.
Cochabamba is very nice and the climate is just perfect, I have lived there for a total of 2 1/2 years and really loved it. This was however in the time before Evo Morales, have visited since and it is still OK and inexpensive to live. At IC Norte you can find lots of international food items and then there is La Cancha, an absolute must on Saturdays for fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers as well as everything else your heart may desire. Beware of culture shock

Jan 13, 2012
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Cochabamba information
by: Phil Hughes

While I find a lot of "local information" and such about Cochabamba, moving there/living there seems to just not be well covered. I am also seeking this information and, if I start getting useful info, I will make it available on-line. (I have done this for Nicaragua information.)
If you have some info or can help/point me in the right direction, please let me know. A comment here or, better yet, a message to nicafyl at gmail.com.
Thanks.

Dec 30, 2011
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Cochabamba
by: Anonymous

Thanks, Richard. Greatly appreciated! I'm looking forward to Cochabamba!

Dec 29, 2011
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RE: Cochabamba-Future Resident
by: Richard

Hi Jim,

I'm sure you will enjoy your stay in Cochabamba. People are friendly and welcome foreign visitors.
As an expat I can tell you that your budget is very realistic.
The hot water is a luxury. However, some new buildings have it. Also note that you will not get washer/dryer appliances included in your rental.
As for the real state agencies, I would recommend finding a friend who can translate your requirements to them.
You can contact a family who is living in Cochabamba and may offer you useful tips at the following URL: http://linworthbaptist.org/Linworth/Hart.html

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