The short answerColombia rates every neighborhood from estrato 1 to 6. Andrea explains that 1 and 2 are low-income areas, 3 and 4 are middle class, and 5 and 6 are upper class. She and Andre live in estrato 5 in north Cali, close to malls, banks and the airport road, where everyday errands are within walking distance.
What each level means
- Estratos 1 and 2: low-income areas.
- Estratos 3 and 4: middle class. Andrea says her parents live in estrato 3.
- Estratos 5 and 6: upper class. Andre and Andrea live in estrato 5 in north Cali.
The system is run by Colombia's national statistics agency, DANE, and each property's estrato is used to set its utility rates. Higher estratos generally pay more for the same services.
Watch: Colombia tourist traps: avoid these scamsAndrea explains the estrato system while answering viewer questions. Opens on YouTube.
How to choose an area
- Walkability: Andre says some estrato 6 areas in Cali sit on hillsides where you need a car. Their estrato 5 area lets them walk to malls, banks and stores.
- Prices near tourist zones: in Medellín, Andre says prices are highest within about ten blocks of El Poblado and drop for the same apartment once you leave.
- Safety: a higher estrato is not a guarantee. Andrea's rule applies everywhere: don't give papaya.
Tip: ask the landlord for a recent utility bill. It shows the estrato and what the last tenant paid.
Quick questions
Does the estrato change what I pay for utilities?
Yes. The estrato of a property is used to set utility rates, so homes in higher estratos generally pay more for the same water, power and gas. Check the estrato on the utility bill before you sign a lease.
Is a higher estrato always safer?
Not always. Andrea says people are robbed for their phones even in the best areas of Cali late at night. Street sense matters everywhere.
Sources
- Andrea Wales TV: Colombia tourist traps, avoid these scams
- Love Crossing Borders: Colombia living, how far does money really go
- DANE: Estratificación socioeconómica (official)
Shared from personal experience. Not legal, tax, immigration or medical advice.
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