 "Who says that..."
Does, this website, totaluruguay say that the cost of living is very reasonable? I think in general, no.When I moved to Uruguay in 2005, I think, yes the cost of living was quite reasonable. For example, I rented a two-bedroom furnished apartment on the Rambla for US$450 + common fees. The lease was for 6 months and the deposit 3 months rent. I ended up staying there for about 20 months. Then it was time to find an unfurnished apartment... and I found one that was not nearly as a nice, though a bit larger, near the Spanish Embassy, ie: 7 or so blocks from the Rambla for US$500/month plus a 5 month security deposit (any smaller deposit is very unlikely for an annual rental, and some may ask for more in violation of the law). I wasn't particularly happy with that apartment, but a year later, there only options seemed to be smaller apartments for much more. So I renewed the lease for a second year at the same price. At the end of that second year, the owner wanted a 30% rent increase and I left. I found a larger, 2 bedroom place on Benito Blanco in a location where there was nothing on the Rambla. That gave me the waterfront view with a huge balcony. The rent was US$650 a month and an option for a second year with a $50 increase. Also with a 5 month security deposit. EXPENSIVE TO MOVE! -> You don't get your month 5 security deposit from your old apartment back until you are moved out, but have to make the 5 month security deposit on the new place before you get the keys! At the end of the first year, the owners asked for a $100 monthly rent increase. When I tried to negotiate something, like a new rental agreement for 2 years they decided they want to strictly follow the contract. Of course that meant at the end of the second year, it was no surprise they asked for a 35% increase. It seems you can get rental agreements for 1 year with an option for 1 year and the rent fixed for that term and after that it whatever the owners ask for. In 2005 a steak and side dish cost about $125 pesos. A bottled water or soda around $25. The dollar was trading just under $25 pesos the dollar. Or around US$6 for a great meal. Now that is about US$15, with few dining options much cheaper. I cannot compare any of that to what has happened in other parts of the world. However, having traveled to various places, I can't imagine how someone would realistically promote Uruguay as "cheap". However, "cheap" is really a meaningless, ambiguous word. What you consider cheap and what I consider cheap may be words apart. I think the key is not to compare with another place, be it prices, culture, but rather to explore and see if it is right for you. I never found it difficult to find furnished apartment. However, there is a lack of English resources and apartments offers in the short term for expats seem to carry a pretty stiff premium, but possibly more realistic deposit requirements. I suggest people look at Buscando Casa to get a general feel of the rental (or property sale) market. Expert Page: Quick Tips for Getting Settled in Uruguay | 
