As companies expand their talent strategies across Latin America, understanding housing trends is critical to supporting a successful mobility program. In my role at AIRINC, I have the privilege of partnering with organizations throughout the region—from Texas to São Paulo—and I’ve seen firsthand how local dynamics can dramatically impact mobility decisions. Two cities currently standing out for their dynamic rental markets are Medellín, Colombia and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Medellín, Colombia: A New Era of Luxury Rentals
Medellín is undergoing a transformation. Known for its temperate climate and vibrant culture, it has long been a favorite among digital nomads and regional transferees. But today, we’re seeing a new tier of ultra luxury rentals emerge, particularly in neighborhoods like El Poblado.
This shift is fueled by growing demand from foreign nationals and affluent locals seeking premium living spaces with modern amenities. As a result, rental prices are rising, and the definition of a typical expatriate-quality unit is evolving. For global mobility programs, this means reassessing housing policies to ensure that allowances reflect the changing market landscape.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: Supply Crunch in a High-Demand City
In Rio de Janeiro, the housing market is being shaped by a different set of dynamics. While the city continues to attract newcomers, the supply of quality rental units is tightening. Concerns around safety and rising property taxes have prompted many landlords to sell rather than rent, reducing the inventory of desirable properties.
This limited supply—especially in the most secure and sought-after areas—has intensified competition and placed upward pressure on rents. For mobility managers, this calls for agility in the housing search process and a realistic understanding of what’s available at different price points.
AIRINC’s Housing Data: Designed for Accuracy and Flexibility
At AIRINC, our housing data is based on real, available rental units, rather than abstract averages. We focus on what employees are most likely to encounter in the market, using representative neighborhoods and property types tailored to each location.
Our data supports a wide variety of housing benefit approaches—from lump sums and capped allowances to company-paid housing. Whether a company is relocating senior leaders or early-career professionals, we help ensure housing support is fair, consistent, and reflective of real market conditions.
Explore more about our housing allowance methodology here.
Local Knowledge, Regional Strategy
Latin America is incredibly diverse, with each city and country requiring a localized lens. That’s why AIRINC combines on-the-ground data collection with regional expertise to help clients make informed and strategic mobility decisions.
As a native Spanish speaker and longtime partner to companies across the Americas, I understand the importance of balancing market data with cultural nuance. From high-growth urban hubs to resource-driven economies, AIRINC equips clients with the insights they need to support talent mobility across the region.
Let’s Connect at the LATAM Mobility Conference
I’m honored to be speaking at the upcoming LATAM Mobility event—you can find more details in this LinkedIn post. I’ll be sharing how mobility programs can adapt to the region’s changing rental dynamics and leverage data to support globally mobile employees.
If you’ll be there, I’d love to connect and exchange ideas on how to navigate this exciting and complex region together.
