Relocating from New York to Colombia Transformed My Life and Finances

After spending eight years in the hustle and bustle of New York City, moving to Colombia has been incredibly refreshing for me both personally and financially.

My financial capacity is noticeably greater in South America, allowing me to make more of my dollars. I've had prior experience moving abroad, and this decision was a straightforward one.

My Journey Begins in New York

Arriving in New York in 2017 with dreams and ambitions, I subscribed to the work-hard-play-hard mentality. Armed with my degree and a vibrant internship experience in Vienna, I took the leap across the Atlantic with only a suitcase and my career aspirations in tow – it was like living a cinematic moment.

For years, I maneuvered through the bustling streets in fashionable heels, energized by my first corporate role. Transitioning to a dynamic PR firm, where I now serve as Vice President, I continued my writing endeavors, though often from the comfort of my bed due to the lack of space for a proper desk in my initial apartment.

Craving New Experiences

Over time, my lifestyle evolved: moving from cramped living conditions in Manhattan to a larger abode in Brooklyn, pursuing further education, and gaining clarity on my mental well-being. Despite these upgrades, I yearned for the stability New York couldn't offer. Relationships felt insubstantial, dating was challenging, and my income quickly vanished to cover living costs.

Approaching 30, I felt the impulse for change more than ever before.

The Decision to Move Overseas

After spending five months living with family in Europe, New York's allure began to diminish. My enthusiasm for the city's vibrant lifestyle waned, and I found myself staying indoors apart from trips to the gym. The city's bold persona started feeling like an expectation I no longer wished to meet, and it dawned on me that I was outgrowing the lifestyle it offered.

With the lease on my East Harlem apartment concluding and my workplace supporting remote work, the timing for a change was perfect. So, I embarked on an impromptu journey to Argentina, trekked the trails of Machu Picchu, and eventually arrived in Medellín—a place celebrated by the global nomad community for being a paradise.

Embracing Life in Colombia

As I took in the breathtaking view of Medellín from the airport, the scenery had a profound effect similar to the iconic New York skyline. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the city offered immediate friendships with locals, facilitating my rapid proficiency in Spanish. Sundays now meant beach volleyball and barbecue nights, seamlessly merging local and expat cultures unlike the previous feelings of isolation in New York.

Financial Freedom in a New Land

Initially staying in the Laureles area, I later moved to another Airbnb in Ciudad del Río, maintaining the flexibility of not committing to a long-term lease. Now residing in a high-end studio, I enjoy amenities like a pool and spa, spending a fraction of what similar offerings would cost in NYC. Grocery shopping is a delight here, rarely exceeding $50 weekly, and enjoying a coffee with a pastry is refreshingly affordable.

A Visit to New York Solidified My Choice

Returning to New York for a short visit in August underscored the vast difference in my experiences. While reconnecting with friends was exciting, I was soon reminded of the stress I had adapted to. The high grocery costs and insurance hurdles were jarring compared to the tranquility I found in South America.

Celebrating a New Chapter

Flying back to Colombia, a sense of peace and accomplishment washed over me. Proud of my courageous move and the life choices that led me here, I felt at home as I reconnected with friends in Medellín. This place is more than just a destination; it represents a new beginning, steeped in the spirit of Latin America.