Neuquén
Patagonia's oil capital — a modern, prosperous city on the Limay River with gateway access to wine, dinosaurs, and the Andes.
About Living in Neuquén
Neuquén is the economic powerhouse of northern Patagonia, driven by the massive Vaca Muerta oil and gas formation that has turned this once-sleepy city into a boomtown. The city sits at the confluence of the Limay and Neuquén rivers, creating a surprisingly green oasis in the Patagonian steppe. For expats, Neuquén offers higher-than-average salaries (oil economy), excellent infrastructure, a compact walkable center, and proximity to both the wine country of San Patricio del Chañar and the ski resorts of the Andes. The city has a young, professional population, good restaurants, and a cultural scene that punches above its weight. Summer temperatures soar, but the dry climate and reliable sunshine make it pleasant most of the year. It's an ideal base for exploring northern Patagonia without the tourist-town prices of Bariloche.
Monthly Budget
Typical monthly costs: $800–$1,800/month
| Expense | Monthly Range |
|---|---|
| Rent (1BR) | $350–$700 |
| Groceries | $150–$280 |
| Dining Out | $80–$180 |
| Transport | $20–$50 |
| Health Insurance | $50–$120 |
| Utilities | $40–$80 |
| Total Range | $800–$1,800/month |
Neighborhoods
Commercial heart — banks, shops, restaurants
Upscale residential — quiet, family-oriented
River area — green spaces, newer development
Arid — hot dry summers (38°C+), cold winters with occasional snow
15°C annual average
30-80 Mbps
Moderate to Good — safe in most residential areas
Direct flights from Buenos Aires (2 hours). Bus from Bariloche (5 hours). Highway connections to Mendoza.
Expat Appeal
Professionals seeking Patagonian lifestyle with big-city amenities and strong employment opportunities in the energy sector.
Ready to Move to Neuquén?
Get started with our visa guides and cost of living breakdowns to plan your move to Neuquén, Argentina.