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- Live in Providencia
21/07/2017, updated 20/10/2023
Where is Providencia in Santiago?
Providencia is located on the east side of Santiago Centro, and on the south of the Cerro San Cristobal (Cerro = hill). It is a residential area, very pleasant to live in, with its tree-filled streets. Buildings are smaller than in the city center of Santiago (8-10 floors max). Therefore, there is more space, and streets are less crowded. When the last "quality of life in Chile" study was published, Providencia ranked 3 out of the 93 cities with more than 50,000 inhabitants. There is very little insecurity and you can go back home quietly, even late during the night.
Below a small map so that you get an idea:
You can find a lot of bars, restaurants all along the metro line 1 between stations Baquedano and Pedro de Valdivia, and along metro line 4 between stations Tobalaba and Cristobal Colon. As soon as you move 3-4 blocks away from the metro, the area becomes really really residential. There is nothing apart from a few small retail shops and pharmacies. Therefore, finding a flat 2-3 blocks away from the metro is a good compromise between having a quiet flat and being close from the metro, shopping centers, and restaurants.
Between the Mapocho river and the Cerro San Cristobal, the Bellavista neighborhood can be interesting if you like to party. It is a little bit farther from the metro (you need to cross the river). Therefore prices are a little bit lower than along line 1. Students tend to like this area. If you consider this area, be sure to visit the apartments during the evening around 8-9pm (the later the better) because some streets that appear quiet during the day while all bars are closed can become really noisy at night, especially during the weekend. The east part of the neighborhood is usually calm. The west part, located in the city of Recoleta, can be cheaper, but it is less safe during the night.
Another interesting neighborhood is the barrio Italia, between the cities of Providencia and Ñuñoa (more information on the page about Ñuñoa).
What type of accommodation can you find in Providencia
- Close from the metro lines, you can find a lot of apartments, generally larger than in Santiago Centro, but older (built between the 60' and 80')
- A few blocks aways from the metro, you can find individuals houses or more recent buildings. A lot of buildings have been built in the last 3-5 years near the location of the metro stations that opened in 2018.
Average cost of accommodation in Providencia
- 1-bedroom apartment: $380,000 to $550,000
- 2-bedroom apartment: $450,000 to $700,000
- 3-bedroom apartment: $580,000 to $850,000
- House: $850,000 to $2,200,000
We recommend Providencia for
- Couples or families willing to live in a central location with easy access to a metro
- Colocation between students or young professionals
Examples of apartments for rent in Providencia
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 Providencia, 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.
Providencia Neighborhoods: Where to Live
Providencia offers sophisticated urban living with distinct neighborhoods, each providing different advantages for expats seeking centrally located accommodation with excellent transport connections.
Pedro de Valdivia Norte
The crown jewel of Providencia, featuring elegant tree-lined streets and premium residential living.
Property Types:
- High-end apartment buildings with premium amenities
- Luxury apartments with 2-4 bedrooms
- Some exclusive houses with gardens
- Apartments: $600,000 - $1,200,000 CLP monthly
- Houses: $1,200,000 - $2,800,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Walking distance to Metro Pedro de Valdivia (Line 1)
- Tree-lined streets with mature landscaping
- High-end shopping and restaurants nearby
- Excellent security and low crime rates
- Premium construction and building amenities
Lifestyle:
- Sophisticated urban living with neighborhood character
- Easy walking to restaurants, cafes, and shopping
- Professional and affluent resident community
- Quiet residential atmosphere despite central location
- Access to cultural activities and entertainment
Best For: Professionals and couples seeking upscale urban living with walking access to metro and premium amenities.
Manuel Montt Area
The heart of Providencia's commercial and social scene, perfect for those wanting urban vibrancy.
Property Types:
- Modern apartment buildings with commercial ground floors
- Furnished and unfurnished options available
- Older buildings from 1970s-1980s with character
- Apartments: $450,000 - $800,000 CLP monthly
- Limited house options
Key Features:
- Metro Manuel Montt station (Line 1) at your doorstep
- Bustling commercial corridor with shops and services
- Vibrant nightlife and dining scene
- Easy access to public transportation
- Walking distance to multiple entertainment venues
Shopping and Services:
- Major banks and financial services
- Supermarkets and specialty food stores
- Pharmacies and healthcare services
- International restaurants and fast food options
- Shopping centers and retail stores
Best For: Young professionals and those who prefer apartment living with immediate access to urban amenities and nightlife.
Bellavista Neighborhood
Bohemian arts district located between Providencia proper and the Mapocho River.
Property Types:
- Converted historic buildings with character apartments
- Loft-style accommodations and artist studios
- Mix of older and renovated properties
- Apartments: $400,000 - $700,000 CLP monthly
- Some unique house rentals available
Key Features:
- Arts and culture district with galleries and theaters
- Vibrant nightlife with bars, clubs, and live music venues
- Street art and bohemian atmosphere
- Easy access to Cerro San Cristóbal park
- Cross-river access to downtown Santiago
Lifestyle:
- Creative and artistic community
- Active nightlife scene, especially weekends
- Cultural events and festivals throughout the year
- More affordable dining and entertainment options
- Diverse international community
Considerations:
- Can be noisy, especially on weekends
- Variable safety levels by specific street
- Some areas better avoided late at night
- Parking can be challenging
Best For: Artists, students, young professionals seeking vibrant cultural life and nightlife, and those on moderate budgets.
Los Leones / Salvador Area
Upscale residential area offering family-friendly living with excellent connectivity.
Property Types:
- Family-sized apartments in quality buildings
- Some luxury high-rise developments
- Traditional houses in quiet residential streets
- Apartments: $550,000 - $950,000 CLP monthly
- Houses: $900,000 - $2,000,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Metro Salvador station (Line 1) nearby
- Family-oriented neighborhood with parks and playgrounds
- Premium supermarkets and services
- Good schools and educational facilities
- Quiet residential atmosphere
Amenities:
- Parque Balmaceda: Large park with recreational facilities
- Quality healthcare facilities nearby
- International and Chilean schools
- Shopping centers and family services
- Sports clubs and recreational facilities
Best For: Families with children, professionals seeking residential atmosphere while maintaining central access, and those prioritizing quality of life amenities.
Tobalaba Corridor (Line 1 & 4 Intersection)
Strategic location offering exceptional public transportation connectivity.
Property Types:
- Modern apartment complexes near metro stations
- High-rise developments with city views
- Mixed-use buildings with retail and residential
- Apartments: $500,000 - $850,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Intersection of Metro Lines 1 and 4 (Tobalaba station)
- Excellent connectivity to all Santiago areas
- Major commercial and business district nearby
- Modern amenities and services
- High-density urban living
Transportation Advantages:
- Direct metro access to Las Condes business districts
- Quick connections to Santiago airport
- Easy access to Santiago Centro and other areas
- Multiple bus routes and taxi availability
Best For: Commuters working in different Santiago areas, those prioritizing public transportation access, and urban lifestyle enthusiasts.
Santa Isabel Border Area
The emerging area between Providencia and Ñuñoa, offering value and cultural attractions.
Property Types:
- Mix of apartments and small houses
- Growing number of renovated properties
- Traditional Chilean residential architecture
- Apartments: $380,000 - $650,000 CLP monthly
- Houses: $650,000 - $1,200,000 CLP monthly
Key Features:
- Walking distance to Barrio Italia's cultural scene
- Metro Santa Isabel (Line 2) access
- More affordable than central Providencia
- Growing arts and culture district
- Good dining and cafe options
Cultural Attractions:
- Access to Barrio Italia's galleries and cafes
- Traditional markets and artisan shops
- Growing international restaurant scene
- Cultural events and festivals
- Historic architectural character
Best For: Culture enthusiasts seeking affordable living with access to Providencia amenities and emerging arts scene.
Transportation and Connectivity
Metro Access:
- Line 1: Pedro de Valdivia, Manuel Montt, Salvador, Tobalaba stations
- Line 4: Tobalaba, Francisco Bilbao stations
- Line 2: Santa Isabel (border area)
- Comprehensive coverage throughout Providencia
Bus Services:
- Extensive bus network complementing metro system
- Cross-town routes connecting to other Santiago areas
- Night bus services for late-night transportation
- Tourist bus connections to major attractions
Walking and Cycling:
- Pedestrian-friendly streets with sidewalks and crossings
- Bike lanes along major avenues
- Bike-sharing programs available
- Flat terrain ideal for walking and cycling
Car Access:
- Good highway access for those with cars
- Parking challenges in high-density areas
- Street parking available with resident permits
- Underground parking in newer buildings
Shopping and Services
Major Shopping Centers:
- Mall Costanera Center: Major shopping and entertainment complex
- Multiple smaller shopping centers along metro line
- Boutique shops and specialty stores throughout
Supermarkets and Daily Needs:
- Major chains: Jumbo, Líder, Santa Isabel
- Gourmet and international food stores
- Fresh markets and specialty food shops
- 24-hour convenience stores and pharmacies
Healthcare:
- Clínica Santa María: Premier private hospital
- Clínica Las Lilas: Quality private medical center
- Clínica Indisa: Modern healthcare facility
- Multiple private medical practices and specialists
Banking and Professional Services:
- All major Chilean and international banks
- Foreign exchange services
- Professional services and business centers
- Government offices and municipal services
Education and International Schools
International Schools Access:
- Good transportation connections to Las Condes and Lo Barnechea international schools
- School bus services available from many locations
- Several bilingual Chilean schools in the area
Higher Education:
- Universidad Católica nearby
- Multiple language schools and institutes
- Professional development and training centers
Lifestyle and Recreation
Parks and Green Spaces:
- Parque Balmaceda: Large park with sports facilities
- Tree-lined streets throughout the area
- Easy access to Cerro San Cristóbal
- Multiple small plazas and neighborhood parks
Dining Scene:
- International cuisine representing many countries
- Traditional Chilean restaurants and bars
- Trendy cafes and brunch spots
- Fine dining establishments and casual eateries
Cultural and Entertainment:
- Theaters and live performance venues
- Art galleries and cultural centers
- Cinema complexes showing international films
- Active nightlife with bars and clubs
Sports and Recreation:
- Gyms and fitness centers throughout
- Sports clubs and recreational facilities
- Easy access to outdoor activities in nearby hills
- Running and cycling routes along river and parks
Safety and Security
General Safety:
- One of Santiago's safest residential areas
- Regular police presence and private security
- Well-lit streets and good visibility
- Strong community watch programs
Safety Considerations:
- Standard urban precautions in crowded areas
- Some variation in safety levels between neighborhoods
- Late-night caution recommended in entertainment districts
- Secure building access in most apartment complexes
Cost of Living in Providencia (2025 Update)
Housing Costs:
- 1-bedroom apartment: $420,000 - $600,000 CLP monthly
- 2-bedroom apartment: $500,000 - $750,000 CLP monthly
- 3-bedroom apartment: $650,000 - $950,000 CLP monthly
- Houses: $950,000 - $2,400,000 CLP monthly
- Premium areas: Pedro de Valdivia Norte commands 15-25% premium
Additional Costs:
- Utilities (electricity, water, gas): $60,000 - $120,000 CLP monthly
- Internet and cable: $30,000 - $50,000 CLP monthly
- Building maintenance: $40,000 - $120,000 CLP monthly
- Parking (if not included): $50,000 - $100,000 CLP monthly
Living Expenses:
- Groceries: Similar to Santiago averages
- Dining out: Wide range from budget to premium options
- Transportation: Excellent value with metro access
- Entertainment: Higher costs due to central location and quality venues
Value Proposition:
- Premium location with comprehensive urban amenities
- Excellent public transportation reducing car dependency
- Walking access to work, shopping, and entertainment
- Strong investment potential and property values
Providencia offers sophisticated urban living with the perfect balance of residential calm and metropolitan amenities. Its excellent metro connectivity, mature neighborhood character, and comprehensive services make it ideal for expats seeking central Santiago living without the intensity of the downtown core.
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