According to a study by the Colombian city network Red de Ciudades Como Vamos (Network of Cities How Are We Doing), five cities stand out for their high quality of life in Colombia. The ranking considers factors such as the economy, health care, safety, culture, education, and housing.
Colombia’s top cities for quality of life
Barranquilla
Barranquilla, the capital of the Atlantico department, tops the list of places with the best quality of life in Colombia. The city has seen a notable decrease in the perception of insecurity, dropping from 26% to 9%. Known for being one of the happiest cities in the country, it is internationally recognized for its Carnival, the largest cultural festival in the Atlantic region. In recent years, the city has become one of the most acclaimed tourist destinations. For the third consecutive time, Barranquilla was recognized as the “Leading Destination for Festivals and Events in South America,” a recognition that boosts both the local economy and tourism.
Pereira
The capital of the Risaralda department, Pereira, ranks second in the list of cities with the best quality of life in Colombia. This city stands out for its high level of healthcare and its privileged location in the heart of the Coffee Axis (Eje Cafetero), a region known for its beautiful mountainous landscapes and coffee tradition. Pereira has evolved into a modern urban center with advanced infrastructure while maintaining its rural town essence. It is one of the calmest cities in the country, offering a good quality of life to its residents.
Giron
Giron, in Santander, located near Bucaramanga, is known for its cobbled streets and historic atmosphere. Giron stands out for the quality of its education and health care, earning it the third spot on the list of the best places to live in Colombia. With its well-preserved colonial architecture and rich history, it has become one of the country’s flagship towns, attracting tourists and residents looking for a blend of tradition and modernity.
Zipaquira
The municipality of Zipaquira, located in the department of Cundinamarca, is just an hour away from Bogota. It is one of the cities with the best quality of life in Colombia, thanks to its strategic location that offers a break from the hustle and bustle of the capital. Zipaquira is famous for the Salt Cathedral, an underground church located in a vast salt mine, with the Stations of the Cross carved into the rock salt. This monument is visited annually by thousands of national and international tourists, making it a significant tourist attraction.
Puerto Colombia
Just 30 minutes from Barranquilla lies the municipality of Puerto Colombia, which stands out for its optimal levels in areas such as education, health care, and air quality. Additionally, it is one of the most emblematic tourist destinations in the department of Atlantico, thanks to its beaches bathed by the Caribbean Sea. Puerto Colombia combines a beautiful natural environment with infrastructure that promotes the well-being of its residents and visitors.