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- Live in Lo Barnechea
21/07/2017, updated 20/10/2023
Where is Lo Barnechea in Santiago?
This the most northerly city, and most probably the poshest of all the metropolitan region. Most expat and wealthy families live in the north and west areas of this city, especially in the surroundings of the golf clubs of la Dehesa.
If you decide to search a house by yourself, we recommended to stay away from certain districts. The Pueblito Cerro 18 (Juan Pablo II, Lomas I, Lomas II and Lomas Blancas) is an area where most of the population is underprivileged, which contrasts with the rest of the city. This area regularly faces violence between rival groups and hosts some traffics. Not very recommended.
What type of accommodation can you find in Lo Barnechea?
Lo Barnechea is divided in two main areas, by the avenida La Dehesa:
- the part located on the east of avenida La Dehesa is the oldest one. Here you can find medium and small houses (140 to 180 sqm), around 15-20 years old most of the time. There are new real estate developments on the north part of this area, near Av. Paseo Pie Andino
- the part located on the west of avenida La Dehesa is actually called La Dehesaa. This is the most modern area, where you can find mostly bigger houses and apartments in luxury condominiums, and where most of the expatriates prefer to live in.
Average cost of accommodation in Lo Barnechea
- 3-bedroom apartments: $900,000 to $1,700,000
- Houses : $2,500,000 to $4,000,000 (and some luxurious mansions well above this range)
You can find cheaper houses, but they will be most of the time located in the east part of Lo Barnechea. Therefore the quality of construction and insulation will not be in line with what you can find in modern houses. This translates into higher heating cost during winter. Therefore, we don't recommend going with cheaper houses. It is better to choose a smaller house but more modern, than a big old house.
We recommend Lo Barnechea for
Expat families. Lo Barnechea is an ideal area for families willing to send their kids to one of numerous international schools and colleges of the area (Santiago College/Lincoln Academy/Nido de Aguilas/Craighouse).
Example of houses for rent in Lo Barnechea
The following selection of photos is for reference only. This is not our current portfolio of available properties. If you are looking for a property for rent in Lo Barnechea, please contact us and send us all the details of what you are looking for (budget, size, number of bedrooms, furnished or not...). The more details you provide us with, the better.
Lo Barnechea Neighborhoods: Where to Live
Lo Barnechea offers diverse residential areas, from ultra-luxury developments to more affordable family neighborhoods. Understanding each area's characteristics will help you choose the best location for your family's needs and budget.
La Dehesa
La Dehesa is Lo Barnechea's most prestigious and modern area, highly favored by expatriates and Chile's upper class.
Property Types:
- Luxury houses and mansions (200-800 sqm)
- High-end condominiums with premium amenities
- Modern apartments in exclusive buildings
- Houses: $2,800,000 - $5,000,000+ CLP monthly
- Apartments: $1,200,000 - $2,500,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Most modern construction standards and architecture
- Largest properties with extensive gardens and pools
- Golf course communities and country club access
- 24/7 private security and gated communities
Golf and Recreation:
- Club de Golf La Dehesa: 75 hectares, par 72, built in 1964
- Lomas de la Dehesa Golf Club: Par 72, built in 1980
- Private tennis courts and recreational facilities
- Exclusive social clubs and country club lifestyle
International Schools:
- International School Nido de Aguilas (American curriculum)
- Santiago College (bilingual Chilean-IB programs)
- Craighouse School (English curriculum)
- Mayflower School
Shopping and Services:
- Portal La Dehesa: Modern shopping center
- Espacio Urbano La Dehesa: Lifestyle center
- Premium supermarkets and specialty stores
- Professional services and healthcare facilities
Best For: Wealthy expat families seeking luxury homes, golf course access, and top international schools.
Los Trapenses
A family-oriented area with excellent amenities and strong community atmosphere, popular with both expats and affluent Chilean families.
Property Types:
- Large family houses with gardens (180-400 sqm)
- Modern condominiums and apartment complexes
- Houses: $2,200,000 - $4,200,000 CLP monthly
- Apartments: $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Family-focused community with parks and recreational areas
- Well-planned neighborhoods with green spaces
- Mix of modern and established residential areas
- Strong sense of community among residents
Amenities:
- Paseo Los Trapenses: Shopping and dining complex
- Mall Vivo Los Trapenses: Family shopping center
- Community parks and recreational facilities
- Sports clubs and fitness centers
Schools:
- Close proximity to international schools in La Dehesa
- Several high-quality Chilean bilingual schools
- Easy access to school transport services
Connectivity:
- Direct road connection to Chicureo and other areas
- Good access to major highways
- Regular public transportation to Santiago center
Best For: Families seeking a community atmosphere with good schools, shopping, and recreational facilities at a more moderate price point than La Dehesa.
El Arrayán
An established affluent area known for beautiful properties and mature neighborhoods.
Property Types:
- Traditional large houses with extensive gardens
- Luxury estates and mansions
- Some modern condominiums
- Houses: $2,000,000 - $4,500,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Mature, well-established neighborhood
- Large properties with beautiful landscaping
- Mix of traditional and contemporary architecture
- Quiet, residential atmosphere
Advantages:
- Beautiful natural setting with mountain views
- Well-maintained streets and infrastructure
- Proximity to recreational facilities
- Strong property values and appreciation
Best For: Families seeking established luxury neighborhoods with large properties and natural beauty.
El Huinganal
An exclusive residential sector featuring some of Lo Barnechea's most luxurious properties.
Property Types:
- Luxury mansions and estates
- Properties with extensive grounds (1,000+ sqm lots)
- Custom-built homes with premium finishes
- Houses: $3,500,000 - $8,000,000+ CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Exclusive, low-density residential area
- Maximum privacy and security
- Premium construction and architectural design
- Large lots with extensive landscaping possibilities
Best For: Ultra-high-net-worth families seeking maximum luxury, privacy, and exclusivity.
Traditional Lo Barnechea (Pueblo de Lo Barnechea)
The original village center offering more affordable housing options while maintaining access to the area's amenities.
Property Types:
- Traditional Chilean houses (15-20 years old)
- Medium-sized properties (140-180 sqm)
- Some newer developments in northern areas
- Houses: $1,500,000 - $2,800,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- More affordable than western Lo Barnechea areas
- Traditional community feel with local character
- Access to local services and traditional markets
- Growing new developments in northern sections
Considerations:
- Older construction may have higher heating costs
- Less modern amenities compared to La Dehesa
- Smaller international expat community
Best For: Families seeking more affordable options while maintaining access to Lo Barnechea's schools and amenities.
Transportation and Connectivity
Public Transportation:
- Limited metro access (requires bus connections)
- Bus services to major Santiago metro stations
- School bus services to international schools
- You will likely need a car if you live in Lo Barnechea
Highway Access:
- Excellent connectivity to major Santiago highways
- Direct access to Costanera Norte and other major routes
- Connection road to Chicureo and northern areas
- 30-45 minutes to Santiago center by car
Airport Access:
- 45-60 minutes to Santiago International Airport
- Private transfer services available
International Schools and Education
Several international schools are located in Lo Barnechea, such as:
- Nido de Aguilas: American curriculum, 1,800 students, 50+ nationalities
- Santiago College: Founded 1880, bilingual Chilean-IB programs
- Craighouse School: English curriculum, established institution
- Mayflower School: Smaller international school option
There are other ones. See the list of international schools in Chile for more information.
School Transport:
- Private dedicated school bus services to all major schools
- Safe, well-organized transportation systems
Educational Advantages:
- Concentration of top international schools in the area
- Strong academic programs and university preparation
- Diverse international student bodies
- Extensive extracurricular and sports programs
Shopping and Commercial Areas
The major Shopping Centers are:
- Portal La Dehesa: Modern mall with international brands
- Mall Vivo Los Trapenses: Family-oriented shopping center
- Espacio Urbano La Dehesa: Lifestyle center with dining and services
- Paseo Los Trapenses: Shopping and entertainment complex
Recreation and Lifestyle
Golf and Sports:
- Multiple golf courses including Club de Golf La Dehesa, Valle Escondido
- Tennis courts and racquet clubs
- Equestrian facilities and riding clubs
- Fitness centers and sports complexes
Parks and Nature:
- Numerous parks and green spaces throughout
- Mountain hiking and outdoor recreation access
- Bicycle paths and walking trails
- Proximity to Andean foothills and nature reserves
Social and Cultural:
- Active expat communities and social groups
- International cultural events and activities
- Country club social activities
- Community festivals and celebrations
Safety and Security
Security Measures:
- 24/7 private security patrols in residential areas
- Gated communities and controlled access
- Advanced security systems in luxury developments
- Quick police response times
Safety Considerations:
- Generally very safe area with low crime rates
- Comprehensive security infrastructure
- Well-lit streets and secure residential complexes
- Active community watch programs
Cost of Living in Lo Barnechea
Housing Costs (2025):
- La Dehesa Houses: $2,800,000 - $5,000,000+ CLP monthly
- Los Trapenses Houses: $2,200,000 - $4,200,000 CLP monthly
- El Arrayán Houses: $2,000,000 - $4,500,000 CLP monthly
- Traditional Lo Barnechea: $1,500,000 - $2,800,000 CLP monthly
- Apartments: $1,200,000 - $2,500,000 CLP monthly
Additional Costs:
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): $120,000 - $200,000 CLP monthly
- Internet and cable: $40,000 - $60,000 CLP monthly
- Private security services: $50,000 - $100,000 CLP monthly
- Golf club memberships: $200,000 - $500,000 CLP monthly
- International school fees: $8,000 - 20,000 USD annually per child
Areas to Avoid:
- Pueblito Cerro 18 (Juan Pablo II, Lomas I, Lomas II, Lomas Blancas): Lower-income area with higher crime rates and social issues. Not recommended for expat families.
Do you want to go more in detail?
I wrote the Chile Handbook for Foreigners for anyone and everyone looking to move permanently and enjoy life in Chile. It's a 265-page book that goes over all aspects of relocating to Chile. Here is what you get:
✅ Practical tips based on 7-year relocation experience
✅ To-do lists to help you start
✅ Last updated in 2025
