Expat Life in Paraguay – Costs, Culture & Tips
Moving to Paraguay: What Life in Paraguay Is Really Like
Tired of watching your freedom shrink while prices rise, bureaucracy grows, and everything feels… heavier?
What if there was still a place where things are simple, people are kind, and your money – and your time – go much further?
Paraguay isn’t perfect. But for thousands of freedom-seekers, remote workers, early retirees, and families who’ve had enough of the Western hamster wheel, it’s become a quiet, practical alternative.
What’s it really like to live in Paraguay?
This page gives you a real-world look at daily life here – the lifestyle, mindset, infrastructure, cost of living, and why more and more people are choosing Paraguay over Panama, Mexico or the EU.
Whether you’re a solo traveler, an off-grid soul, a young family, or someone looking for peace in retirement…
you might just feel something click as you read on.
| Why Paraguay? | What It Means for You |
|---|---|
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💸 Up to 3x lower cost of living than Europe or the US |
Enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without financial stress – even on a modest income
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🌴 Safe, peaceful, and family-friendly |
Ideal for solo travelers, remote workers, families, and retirees looking to slow down
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🧾 0% tax on foreign income and crypto |
Save thousands each year while keeping your assets and profits legally protected
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🚀 Fast and affordable residency process |
One of the easiest and most accessible paths to a second home (and Plan B)
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☀️ Warm weather year-round |
Sunny days, clean air, and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle that supports your health and longevity |
From Over-Regulated to Overjoyed: Why We Chose Paraguay
Europe started feeling less and less like a place where we could live freely, peacefully, or predictably. Rising costs. Growing taxes. Increasing restrictions and bureaucracy. It was becoming harder to feel in control of our own lives – let alone our health, time, or finances.
We knew we had two choices:
Keep hoping things would improve…
Or take action and build a life on our own terms.
Paraguay offered exactly what we were looking for:
✔️ A significantly lower cost of living
✔️ Minimal government interference in day-to-day life
✔️ Friendly conditions for entrepreneurs and investors
✔️ And best of all – a path to true personal and financial freedom.
For us, Paraguay didn’t just become a backup plan.
It became Plan A.
The Paraguayan Mentality: Slow, Warm, and Deeply Human
Paraguayans have a special gift: they know how to live simply – and fully.
They don’t schedule their lives in spreadsheets or calendar blocks. They live by relationships, smiles, and shared time.
If someone stops you on the street, it’s not a police check – it’s a neighborly hello.
And if you’re invited to an asado (a traditional barbecue), it’s not a quick meal – it’s an evening-long experience. Food, tereré (cold herbal tea), and unhurried conversations under a tree – that’s their world.
People here value connection over perfection. Spanish is widely spoken, and you’ll hear Guaraní everywhere – especially in relaxed, heartful conversations. You don’t need to be fluent. A smile and a few kind words are more than enough to be welcomed.
Formalities don’t matter much. Who you are matters far more.
Punctuality? Roughly.
Trust, warmth, and presence? Essential.
And maybe that’s one of Paraguay’s biggest gifts – it teaches you to slow down… and remember what really matters.
Lifestyle & Climate: Where Time Slows Down
Life in Paraguay flows at a different pace.
No one’s in a rush. Deadlines don’t dominate your day. And no one’s honking at you from the next lane.
The sun rises slowly – and people rise with it.
Mornings start with tereré, the local cold-brewed yerba mate. Afternoons are made for being outside. Evenings are for family, friends, and neighbors – not screen time or stress.
And the climate? Mostly sunny and pleasantly predictable.
Summers are hot – often around 35°C (95°F) or more – but you’ll likely be wearing shorts under a mango tree or swimming somewhere nearby. Winters are mild, just cool enough to pull out a light hoodie. It rains sometimes, but never for long. And because of the warm weather, most of life happens outdoors – close to nature, and always moving.
Free time here isn’t managed by a Google calendar.
People play football, swim in rivers, host barbecues, and just… live.
If you’re tired of Western’s “everything needs to happen now” mindset, Paraguay offers a quiet rebellion: a slower, softer way of life that starts not in your head – but in your heart.
Infrastructure & Services: Expect a Bit of Everything
Paraguay’s infrastructure has improved a lot in recent years – especially in bigger cities like Asunción and Encarnación.
Urban roads are generally in good shape, but once you head out into the countryside, it’s smart to have a vehicle with higher clearance. One day it’s smooth asphalt, the next it’s a dirt track. That’s part of the charm – and part of the adventure.
Internet? Surprisingly solid.
In the cities, 50–100 Mbps is the norm – more than enough for remote work, video calls, or running an online business.
Cafés, coworking spaces, and modern shopping centers are widely available in some parts of Asunción.
Public services and business processes, however, still carry a bit of that laid-back South American vibe.
Things can take longer than expected. Banks may test your patience. Deliveries aren’t always lightning fast. But here’s the thing: once you stop obsessing over the clock, life actually gets better. Paraguay teaches you how to unclench – and that’s an upgrade worth learning.
Cost of Living in Paraguay: Freedom Comes Cheaper Here
One of the first things that blew us away about Paraguay was how affordable life is here. Compared to Europe (or the U.S. / Canada), nearly everything costs less – sometimes up to three times less.
A nice apartment in Asunción? You’ll pay around $300–600 per month.
Prefer a simple house in the countryside? You can cut that in half.
Local markets are full of fresh fruits, vegetables, and meat at a fraction of what we used to pay back home. A meal at a casual restaurant? Expect to pay just $3 to $7 – and it’s not fast food. Best of all? You don’t feel like you’re constantly budgeting or stressing over every cent.
Of course, if you stick to imported goods or try to live exactly like back home, things can add up. But even then, a monthly budget of $400–800 per person is totally doable – and comfortable. For a small family, you’re looking at around $600–900.
Paraguay gives you space to breathe – financially and mentally.
| Product | Guaraní (PYG) | Dollar (USD) | Euro (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Water (1.5 liters) | 3700 | $0.47 | €0.45 |
| Rice (1 kg) | 6300 | $0.81 | €0.77 |
| Bottle of wine | 47400 | $6.07 | €5.79 |
| Onion (1 kg) | 6100 | $0.78 | €0.75 |
| Local beer (0.5 l) | 6000 | $0.77 | €0.73 |
| Imported beer (0.33 l) | 10600 | $1.36 | €1.30 |
| Milk (1 l) | 6300 | $0.81 | €0.77 |
| Lettuce (1 pc) | 4000 | $0.51 | €0.49 |
| Apples (1 kg) | 15200 | $1.95 | €1.86 |
| Oranges (1 kg) | 7600 | $0.97 | €0.93 |
| Potatoes (1 kg) | 6400 | $0.82 | €0.78 |
| Chicken breast (1 kg) | 25600 | $3.28 | €3.13 |
| Bananas (1 kg) | 6500 | $0.83 | €0.79 |
| Fresh cheese (1 kg) | 45200 | $5.79 | €5.52 |
| Veal (1 kg) | 45000 | $5.77 | €5.50 |
| Tomatoes (1 kg) | 11200 | $1.44 | €1.37 |
| Bread (1 kg) | 5500 | $0.70 | €0.67 |
| Dozen eggs | 13700 | $1.76 | €1.67 |
Average prices at local markets (updated mid-2025).
Prices may vary slightly depending on region.
Family-Friendly Living in Paraguay
Paraguay isn’t just a place for adventurers or investors – it’s also a great option for families looking for a calmer, more relaxed lifestyle. Family holds a big place in Paraguayan culture. Kids are welcome almost everywhere – in restaurants, at markets, in parks – and people are generally very friendly towards them.
Education options are surprisingly diverse. In larger cities, you’ll find well-equipped private and international schools offering classes in English or Spanish. We were genuinely surprised by the quality of some schools and the wide range of after-school activities available.
And what did we personally fall in love with the most? Life outdoors. Kids spend a lot of time in nature, on playgrounds and sports fields. And because life moves at a slower pace here, they simply have time to be… kids. No stress, no pressure. Just freedom.
Healthcare & Education
When we were considering life in Paraguay, one of the big questions was: “What about healthcare and schools?” The answer turned out to be a pleasant surprise.
In larger cities – especially in Asunción – you’ll find modern private clinics that meet international standards. We’ve had experience with routine check-ups and minor procedures, and everything was fast, professional, and cost just a fraction of what we were used to in Europe. For full peace of mind, we recommend getting international health insurance to cover more serious treatments – or at least starting with a good, flexible travel insurance you can easily turn on and off as needed.
When it comes to education, there are solid options in both Spanish and English. Some international schools offer high-quality programs with a wide range of extracurricular activities. Many families choose a mix of local and international education – or even homeschooling – depending on their long-term plans for their kids.
Overall, we found that it’s absolutely possible to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle in Paraguay without compromising on healthcare or education – and without financial stress.
Expat Community & Networking
One of the things that truly surprised us in Paraguay was the strength of the expat community. If you’re worried about feeling isolated here – don’t be. Quite the opposite is true.
In the capital city of Asunción, there’s a vibrant expat “crypto community.” Entrepreneurs, crypto investors, and people who enjoy the city vibe and nightlife meet here regularly. Informal expat gatherings are held often, offering a great opportunity to exchange experiences, get practical advice, and build valuable connections.
On the other hand, those seeking a quieter, more nature-oriented lifestyle often choose the city of Encarnación. Located on the beautiful Paraná River (which forms the border with Argentina), Encarnación offers a relaxing vibe, a clean river ideal for swimming, and even a nice urban beach. It’s a great place for families with kids.
There’s also a strong group of Germans and other Europeans who moved to Paraguay for the same reasons you might be considering now.
All this makes it fairly easy to meet new friends and like-minded people who are on a similar journey. (To be honest, we often found it easier than back home.)
Nature & Freedom of Movement
Paraguay may not have a coastline, but it offers something many other countries have long lost – space. Real space. Room to breathe, to wander into unmarked landscapes, and to discover a world where peace and quiet still reign.
The scenery is diverse: in the north, you’ll find wild areas full of palms and savannas; in the south, rolling hills with lakes, forests, and farmland. In between, two great rivers flow – the Paraguay and the mighty Paraná, which forms the natural southern border with Argentina. Whether you want to swim, fish, or simply watch the sunset by the water, there’s plenty to choose from.
What surprised us most? How many beautiful places are out there with no crowds, no entry fees, no signs telling you what not to do. Just you, nature, and time – which, for once, doesn’t seem to be in a rush. Many places are easily reachable by car, and just one hour out of the city on a weekend feels like stepping into another world.
Paraguay is perfect for those who love open landscapes, silence, and the feeling of getting completely lost – only to end up finding themselves.
Pictures from: geologiadelparaguay.com.py
Practical Tips for Settling In
Starting a new life in Paraguay might seem like a big leap, but once you know what to expect, it’s a lot more manageable. Here are a few things we wish someone had told us at the start:
Paraguay není místo pro ty, kdo hledají dokonalý systém. Je to místo pro ty, kdo chtějí žít svobodněji, klidněji a s větší lehkostí.
So… what’s next?
Maybe Paraguay has been on your radar for a while.
Maybe this is the first time you’re seriously considering it.
Or maybe you’re still not sure if it’s really for you.
We get it.
Leaving Europe, stepping out of the comfort zone, questioning the system – it’s not easy.
We wrestled with it too.
But looking back, it was one of the best decisions we’ve ever made.
✅ Lower cost of living
✅ More freedom, less pressure
✅ Peace – for your life, your family, your projects
✅ A community that supports you instead of judging you
If something in you says “go” – maybe it’s time to listen.
You don’t have to commit. Just give yourself a chance to explore.
🔍 I want to understand the whole process
Ultimate Guide: How to Get Permanent Residency in Paraguay (2025) →
A clear and practical article that will save you hours of research.
🚀 I’m ready to take the next step
See our service packages →
Choose the option that fits your situation and pace best.
❓ I still have questions
Check our Frequently Asked Questions →
Honest answers to what most people wonder about before making the move.
The life you’re looking for doesn’t start somewhere else.
It starts with a choice. Maybe this is yours.
What others are saying
Real people. Real freedom. Real results.
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“After retiring, I realized I didn’t want to just sit in the same place and watch the world go crazy. Paraguay offered peace, sunshine, and a slower rhythm. I was surprised how straightforward the residency process turned out to be. With clear guidance, it all went smoothly.”
– Alan T., United Kingdom
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“We wanted a place to raise our kids without fear, pressure, or propaganda. Paraguay felt like a breath of fresh air. The whole residency process was simple to follow, and the communication was always clear. Now we sleep better knowing we have a solid Plan B.”
– Emma & Daniel K., Canada
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“I was looking for a legal, clean way to protect my crypto and get part of my assets outside the EU. Paraguay’s tax system caught my eye, but I didn’t want to risk mistakes. With the right help, the process was smooth and fast. I’d recommend it to anyone thinking seriously about long-term freedom.”
— Petr S., Slovakia
Choose your way
Two paths to freedom. Pick yours
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What makes us different
Trusted by 110+ clients. Fine-tuned by real-world experience.
We’ve been in your shoes.
We’re not an agency – we’re digital nomads who personally went through this process, made mistakes, wasted money, and learned the hard way. Now we’re helping others avoid all that.
With our help, you can get Paraguayan residency faster, cheaper, and without the stress or confusion.
Got a question?
Feel free to send us a message on WhatsApp – we’ll help you understand the process and recommend the best option for your situation. We usually reply within a few hours.
If you didn’t find your answer in the FAQ section above, you can also contact us directly by email:
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