Paraguay vs Colombia
Compare Paraguay and Colombia for expats. Taxes, cost of living, safety, residency. Medellín vs Asunción for digital nomads.
Colombia, especially Medellín, has become one of the top destinations for digital nomads. But Colombia taxes worldwide income and costs are rising. Paraguay offers 0% tax on foreign income and lower costs, though it lacks Colombia's perfect weather and vibrant scene. This comparison helps nomads choose between these South American options.
At a Glance
Paraguay Advantages
- 0% tax on foreign income (Colombia taxes worldwide)
- Lower cost of living
- Easier residency process
- No income requirements for visa
- Safer overall (lower crime rates)
- Less overcrowded by nomads
- Stable currency situation
Colombia Advantages
- Perfect weather (Medellín "eternal spring")
- Large, vibrant digital nomad community
- Better international flights
- More developed startup/tech scene
- World-class nightlife and culture
- Beautiful natural diversity
- More cosmopolitan cities
Detailed Comparison
Taxes
Paraguay winsThis is the key differentiator. Paraguay has territorial taxation (0% on foreign income). Colombia taxes worldwide income at rates up to 39%. For high earners, this is $30-50K+ annual difference.
Cost of Living
Paraguay winsParaguay is about 25-30% cheaper than Medellín. Rent especially is lower. Colombia has risen due to nomad demand.
Residency
Paraguay winsParaguay has much easier requirements—no income proof needed. Colombia requires proof of significant income for most visa categories.
Citizenship
TieSimilar timelines. Colombia's passport is slightly stronger but Paraguay's process is easier.
Safety
Paraguay winsAsunción is generally safer than Colombian cities. Medellín has improved dramatically but still has higher crime rates and areas to avoid.
Infrastructure
Colombia winsMedellín has excellent infrastructure—metro system, modern buildings, reliable services. Paraguay is less developed but improving.
Climate
Colombia winsMedellín's "eternal spring" (70-80°F year-round) is hard to beat. Paraguay has hot humid summers. Clear win for Colombia.
Lifestyle
Colombia winsMedellín offers vibrant nightlife, large expat community, beautiful surroundings, and modern amenities. Paraguay is quieter and less polished.
The Verdict
Choose Paraguay for tax savings. Choose Colombia for weather and lifestyle.
Choose Paraguay If...
- Tax optimization is your priority
- You have limited income for visa requirements
- Safety concerns outweigh lifestyle
- You prefer quieter environment
- You're tired of saturated nomad scenes
Choose Colombia If...
- Weather is crucial to you
- You want large expat/nomad community
- Nightlife and culture matter
- You can meet income requirements
- You prefer cosmopolitan lifestyle
Frequently Asked Questions
Which has better taxes?
Paraguay wins decisively. Paraguay has 0% tax on foreign income. Colombia taxes worldwide income at rates up to 39%. For a $100K earner, this could be $30K+ annual difference.
Is Medellín still worth it for nomads?
For lifestyle, yes—great weather, scene, culture. For finances, Paraguay is much better. Many high earners are reconsidering due to Colombia's worldwide taxation.
Which is safer?
Asunción is generally safer. Medellín has improved but still has higher crime rates. Certain areas require more caution in Colombia.
Which has better weather?
Medellín has objectively better weather—70-80°F year-round with low humidity. Paraguay has hot, humid summers (95°F+). Colombia wins for climate-sensitive people.
Which is easier for residency?
Paraguay is much easier—no income requirements. Colombia's Digital Nomad Visa requires $3K+/month income proof. Paraguay accepts anyone regardless of income.
Ready to Explore Paraguay?
Get the complete guide to living in Paraguay