Beirut vs. Cartagena: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Beirut Beirut Image by:Jo Kassis
Cartagena Cartagena Image by:Josué Rodríguez

Beirut and Cartagena present distinct profiles for cost of living and quality of life. Beirut has a higher Cost of Living Index (76) compared to Cartagena (38), making Cartagena significantly more affordable. However, Beirut scores higher in overall Quality of Life (91) than Cartagena (92), though this index is based on different metrics and may not be directly comparable.

Climate Index
94.7 / 56
Cost of Living Index
50.4 / 38.1

Beirut   Cartagena

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For housing, Beirut's Property Price to Income Ratio is 11.3, while Cartagena's is 30.7, indicating Cartagena's housing market is more expensive relative to income. Healthcare costs are lower in Cartagena (average monthly $53) than in Beirut ($113). Public transportation is cheaper in Cartagena ($1.63 per km) than in Beirut ($0.53 per km).

Health Care Index
64.9 / 51.7
Pollution Index
93.6 / 50.6

Beirut   Cartagena

Safety is a concern in both cities, with Beirut's Safety Index at 48 and Cartagena's at 48. Healthcare quality is lower in Cartagena (52) than in Beirut (62). Climate is more temperate in Beirut (62) than in Cartagena (56).

Purchasing Power Index
36.3 / 28.8
Quality of Life Index
90 / 91.6

Beirut   Cartagena

Economically, Beirut has a higher GDP per capita ($39,300) than Cartagena ($18,700), but Cartagena has a slightly higher population growth rate (0.48%) than Beirut (0.50%).

Safety Index
53.3 / 47.9
Traffic Commute Time Index
39.3 / 30

Beirut   Cartagena

Overall, Cartagena offers a lower cost of living and potentially better value, while Beirut provides a higher quality of life and economic opportunities. The choice depends on individual priorities regarding cost, safety, healthcare, and climate.

BeirutBeirut
CartagenaCartagena

Local cuisine & dishes

Beirut

Kebab MechawiGrilled lamb skewers marinated in cumin, paprika, and olive oil, served with a side of pita bread and a spicy sauce. The meat is tender and smoky, with a hint of garlic and herbs, perfectly complementing the crispbread and tangy sauce.
BaklavaLayers of flaky phyllo dough filled with ground walnuts or pistachios, drizzled with honey syrup. The texture is a delightful mix of crispy layers and chewy nuts, creating a sweet, nutty explosion in every bite.
Shawarma SandwichA pita-filled delight with thin slices of grilled chicken or lamb, tomatoes, pickles, and a creamy garlic yogurt sauce. The soft, warm bread cradles the juicy meat and fresh veggies, offering a burst of flavors in every bite.

Cartagena

Ceviche de PescadoA vibrant and zesty dish made with fresh corvina fish marinated in a tangy citrus dressing of lime and lemon juice, mixed with chopped onions, cilantro, and a hint of local herbs like culantro. Served cold, it explodes with flavor, offering a delicate balance of textures from the tender fish to the crisp vegetables.
Arepas de Yuca con ChivoFlaky yuca fritters stuffed with spiced goat meat, slow-cooked until tender and flavorful. The yuca dough is fried to a golden crunch, while the chivo filling is seasoned with cumin, garlic, and a touch of chili, creating a harmonious blend of textures from the crispy exterior to the soft interior.
Frituras CartageneasA delightful platter of fried treats including plantain chips (tostones), yuca sticks (chicharrón de yuca), and fish fritters (frittos). Crispy on the outside, these bites are served with a side of spicy sauce or a tangy tamarind dipping sauce, offering a perfect mix of textures and bold flavors.
BeirutBeirut
CartagenaCartagena

Travel & attractions

Beirut

Beirut National MuseumA historical museum showcasing artifacts from prehistory to modern times.
The Pigeon RocksIconic sea stacks located off the coast of Raouche, known for their unique shape.
Solidere Central DistrictA modern commercial and residential area featuring sleek architecture and high-end shops.
Beirut SouksAn upscale shopping complex with a variety of stores, restaurants, and cafes.
The Martyrs' SquareA public square surrounded by important buildings, commemorating Lebanon's martyrs.

Cartagena

Walled City of CartagenaA UNESCO World Heritage Site, this historic district features colorful colonial buildings and fortifications.
Castle of San Felipe de BarajasOne of the largest Spanish fortresses ever built, it offers a glimpse into the city's history and military past.
Getsemani NeighborhoodKnown for its vibrant street art, lively music scene, and colorful colonial architecture.
Palace of InquisitionA museum housed in a former Spanish Inquisition tribunal, showcasing the history of the Inquisition in Cartagena.
Convento de la PopaA hilltop monastery with stunning views over Cartagena and the Caribbean Sea.

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Real estate & living comparison

Beirut Cartagena
Price per Square Meter to Buy Apartment Outside of Centre 1809 USD 1942.82 USD
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 435.64 USD 445.1 USD
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of City Centre 980.17 USD 607.35 USD
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax) 642.33 USD 391.35 USD
GDP Growth Rate: 0.15 USD 0.61 USD
Monthly Public Transport Pass (Regular Price) 77.5 USD 31.02 USD
Basic Utilities for 85 m2 Apartment (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) 181.8 USD 153.06 USD
Population 2,421,354 914,552

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Last updated: 2026-05-09T04:52:03+00:00

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