Quick, can you mentally place Uruguay on a map without help?
No worries if not. This isn’t a quiz. But you’re going to hear more and more about this small, stable South American gem.
That’s because Uruguay is an increasingly popular destination not just for retirees, but for entrepreneurs and professionals seeking a balanced, sustainable lifestyle.
And even though I’m scouting locations in Baja Sur, Mexico and Costa Rica, I have a strange feeling that one day we’ll end up in Uruguay. Here’s why.
A Strategic Location for the Digital Age
While many digital entrepreneurs flock to the new crop of usual suspects — Bali, Chiang Mai, or Medellín — Uruguay offers something different. Located between Brazil and Argentina, with the same latitude as the U.S. Carolinas and Georgia, it provides a familiar climate without the extremes.
When I’m considering a new home base country, predictable seasons and reliable infrastructure make a huge difference in the ability to maintain consistent productivity. So Uruguay scores highly here.
Speaking of infrastructure, Uruguay delivers where it matters most.
The country boasts extensive modern highways, reliable internet connectivity, and a robust banking system. As International Living‘s David Hammond points out:
“While hundreds of banks in the US failed [during the 2008 financial crisis], banks in Uruguay stayed strong. In fact, at the peak of the world recession in 2009, the total rate of non-performing loans in Uruguay was just 1%.”
Plus, in a region known for instability, Uruguay is a stable rock. It’s often called the “Switzerland of South America,” but it’s now being referred to as the “new Portugal” as the new under-considered expat haven.
Multiple Lifestyle Options Under One Flag
Uruguay’s versatility is perhaps its greatest strength.
The capital, Montevideo, offers the amenities of a world-class city without the chaos. Imagine taking client calls in the morning, then walking to one of the city’s many beaches for lunch. Or closing a deal before heading to Teatro Solís, a magnificently restored neoclassical building from 1856, for an evening performance.
For those who prefer a more resort-style setting, there’s Punta del Este, where a growing international community blends beach living with modern amenities. The city hosts six universities and has become a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
But here’s what really sets Uruguay apart: stability.
“If Uruguay had a slogan, it might be ‘make food not war,'” Hammond writes. “Today, Uruguay produces enough food to feed 28 million people (eight times its population).”
This kind of self-sufficiency, combined with a strong financial system and stable government, creates an ideal environment for building a location-independent business without worrying about infrastructure failures or political upheaval.
A Culture That Makes Sense
One of the most overlooked aspects of choosing a base for your digital business is cultural compatibility.
Uruguay’s population is predominantly of European descent, creating what Hammond describes as “an ethnic melting pot, much like the US.” This cultural familiarity means less time spent navigating cultural misunderstandings and more time focused on growing your business.
The laid-back yet professional atmosphere strikes the perfect balance for entrepreneurs who want to maintain their productivity while enjoying a higher quality of life.
The local population is known for being calm and patient. This creates an environment where you can think clearly and work effectively without the constant pressure often found in major business hubs.
Making the Move
The beauty of Uruguay is that it doesn’t force you to compromise.
You can maintain your existing client base while building a life in a country that offers both stability and opportunity. Whether you choose metropolitan Montevideo, the beach resort atmosphere of Punta del Este, or the historic charm of Colonia del Sacramento, you’ll find the infrastructure and community you need to thrive.
The time to consider Uruguay is now. Years from now the residency requirements may be stricter, as happened in Portugal.
With a growing international community, strong banking system, and multiple lifestyle options, it offers everything needed to build a sustainable, location-independent business. I can totally see my wife and I ending up there, perhaps even having our adult children join us if the situation in the U.S. continues to deteriorate.
Are you ready to transform your work life into something that actually supports the lifestyle you’ve always wanted? Then you should seriously consider visiting Uruguay on a scouting trip to see what you think.
