Bolivia · Cities

Where to live in Bolivia: cities compared

Source-checked79 sources, 68 officialHow we check

Last checked: 12 Nov 2026Some rules are still being checked

In brief

Choosing a city in Bolivia means choosing an altitude, from Santa Cruz at 1,360 ft to El Alto at 13,600 ft. It sets the weather, the pace and how you'll feel.

Largest citySanta Cruz

Highest cityEl Alto, 13,600 ft

Seat of governmentLa Paz

CapitalSucre

Cities: from 1,360 ft to 13,600 ft above sea level

Central La Paz with Illimani mountain behind it

Other Bolivia guides

Each topic in plain English, with its status.

ResidencyFrom tourist stays to permanent residency Entry and visasVisa-free days, extensions and overstays CitizenshipPassports and dual nationality TaxesIncome, sales and inheritance tax Money and bankingBank accounts, cash and currency Property and rentingBuying, renting and anticrético Business and hiringCompanies, staff and payroll Cars, licenses and petsImporting a car, driving, pets

Free shortlist

Your top 3 countries, picked for you

Tell us who's moving and we'll show the three Latin American countries that fit people like you best, ranked on what matters most to you, with the trade-off to know about each.