Best Neighborhoods to Live in Asunción

Introduction

Asunción, Paraguay’s capital city, is a hidden gem in South America that often surprises visitors and new residents alike with its blend of history, culture, and modernity. Unlike some of its larger and more internationally renowned neighbors, Asunción offers an off-the-beaten-path experience that appeals to expats, digital nomads, and locals alike.

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly residents, and affordable cost of living, Asunción is quickly becoming a hotspot for those looking to embrace a quieter, more authentic lifestyle while staying connected to urban conveniences.

For those planning to move to Asunción, choosing the right neighborhood is one of the most critical steps in creating a positive and enjoyable experience. Each area of the city offers a distinct vibe, catering to different preferences, whether you’re a family, a solo traveler, or someone looking to immerse themselves in Paraguayan culture.

At WorkWealthandTravel.com, we specialize in helping people navigate the complexities of relocating and travelling in Latin America and Paraguay, providing resources and tips for expats to make informed decisions about their move.

I have personally been travelling LatAm for the past four years, and living in Paraguay for the past year. I have travelled throughout the country, and find Asuncion, the capital city, to be the nicest and most relaxing city (if you’re in the right areas!) to spend time in in Paraguay.

What Makes a Neighborhood “The Best” in Asunción?

When choosing a neighborhood in Asunción, it’s important to consider your personal needs and preferences. Factors like safety, accessibility, lifestyle, and cost of living all play a significant role in determining where to live.

Safety: A Key Concern for Expats and Locals Alike

Safety is often the first thing people consider when moving to a new city, and Asunción is no different. While the city is generally safe, crime rates can vary significantly depending on the neighborhood.

Areas like Villa Morra and Recoleta are known for their security, attracting expats and affluent locals. On the other hand, neighborhoods like the old city center, near the cathedral, might be rich in history but are less secure after dark.

For peace of mind, it’s best to choose a neighborhood where you can comfortably enjoy your surroundings both day and night, and in this article we will look at what some of those areas are (and my personal favourite areas).

Accessibility: Proximity to City Center, Amenities, and Transportation

Accessibility can make or break your experience in Asunción. If you prefer to be in the heart of the action, neighborhoods like Villa Morra offer excellent proximity to shops, cafes, and businesses, making it ideal for those who want everything at their fingertips.

For those who prioritize tranquility but still want reasonable access to the city center, areas like Los Lomas and Mburucuyá strike a great balance. Public transportation and major roads also play a role—neighborhoods with easy access to buses or taxis make daily life much smoother, especially if you don’t have a car.

I personally prefer, as do most other expats living in Asuncion, to use car services like Uber and Bolt when getting throughout the city. You will notice upon arrival that Asuncion is not a walking friendly city – things are spaced out quite far, and it can easily take an hour to walk from one location to the next.

I typically opt to use ride platforms to get the destinations easily and quickly – but keep in mind that rush hour traffic here, while a small city, can take an hour or longer to get through. Rush hour in Asuncion is still quite hefty!

Lifestyle Preferences: Family-Friendly vs. Young Professional Vibes

Your ideal neighborhood will depend largely on your lifestyle. Families may lean toward quieter areas like Los Lomas, which offer spacious homes, parks, and proximity to international schools.

On the other hand, young professionals and digital nomads might find Villa Morra more appealing, thanks to its lively social scene and coworking spaces. Recoleta is another great choice for a mix of family-friendly vibes and urban convenience, making it a versatile option for different lifestyles.

Both Villa Morra and Recoleta are close to Shopping Mariscal, one of the main malls in Asunción. The area surrounding this mall is a main tourist area, with great food and street shopping destinations.

However, this is not the only main area or mall in Asuncion. You can find the two other main malls explained in our blog post, and you will want to use an app like Uber to take you between the two mall areas.

Cost of Living Across Neighborhoods

Asunción is known for being one of the more affordable capitals in South America, but costs still vary depending on the neighborhood. Upscale areas like Villa Morra and Los Lomas come with higher rental prices but offer better amenities and security.

You will find many buildings have dedicated security guards, and most buildings have a BBQ area, social area, workplace, and of course, a rooftop pool, as Paraguay gets extremely hot and humid in the summer.

Meanwhile, neighborhoods like Mburucuyá and Recoleta provide a more budget-friendly alternative without compromising much on quality of life. For those looking to save even more, nearby cities like Fernando de la Mora, San Lorenzo, and Luque offer affordable options while still being close enough to commute to the city.

I will note most foreigners prefer to live in Asunción, while locals find more affordable options in San Lorenzo or Luque, and commute into the city daily.

The Best Neighborhoods To Live in Asunción

When exploring the best neighborhoods to live in Asunción, it’s important to understand what makes each area unique. From bustling commercial hubs to peaceful, family-friendly enclaves, Asunción offers a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and preferences. Here’s a closer look at the top neighborhoods to consider.

Recoleta

Recoleta is one of Asunción’s most desirable neighborhoods, offering a central location and a safe, welcoming environment. Its proximity to key landmarks like Shopping del Sol and Paseo La Galería makes it an excellent choice for those who value convenience.

This area has a perfect balance between urban amenities and residential tranquility, making it ideal for both families and professionals.

Highlights:

• Easy access to shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment.
• A reputation for safety and family-friendly living.
• A mix of modern apartments and traditional homes catering to various budgets.

Villa Morra

Known as Asunción’s business and commercial hub, Villa Morra is a vibrant neighborhood brimming with upscale living options. This area is home to some of the city’s best malls, cafes, and fine dining establishments, making it a magnet for young professionals and entrepreneurs. If you’re seeking a dynamic lifestyle with everything at your doorstep, Villa Morra is a prime choice.

Highlights:

• Centralized location with high-end amenities.
• Perfect for networking and professional growth.
• An active nightlife scene paired with a polished urban environment.

Los Lomas

For those who prioritize luxury and exclusivity, Los Lomas is one of Asunción’s most prestigious neighborhoods. Known for its spacious homes and lush green surroundings, this area is particularly popular among families and those seeking a quieter lifestyle. Its proximity to international schools and parks makes it a favorite among expats with children.

Highlights:

• Large, upscale homes with plenty of space.
• Quiet streets perfect for families.
• Close to top-tier schools and recreational areas.

Las Laureles

Las Laureles is gaining traction as a popular neighborhood for expats and locals alike. Combining modern conveniences with a charming residential vibe, it offers a mix of affordability and accessibility.

With local markets, shopping centers, and a growing number of expat-friendly amenities, this neighborhood is an excellent choice for those who value community and convenience.

Highlights:

• A residential area with modern touches.
• Close to local markets and shopping hubs.
• Increasing popularity among the expat community.

Mburucuyá

If you’re looking for a quiet, residential neighborhood with ample green spaces, Mburucuyá might be the perfect fit. Known for its slower pace of life, it’s a favorite among families who want a peaceful environment without being too far from the city’s action. This neighborhood is more affordable than some of Asunción’s upscale areas, offering great value for those on a budget.

Highlights:

• Affordable living with spacious properties.
• Quiet streets surrounded by greenery.
• A strong sense of community, making it ideal for families.

Neighboring Cities as Alternative Living Options

While Asunción is home to many of the best neighborhoods to live, some people prefer the charm and affordability of nearby cities. These areas offer convenient access to the capital while delivering a quieter, more cost-effective lifestyle.

Many locals prefer to buy more affordable property in these areas, and choose to commute into Asuncion for work.

I will note that while on a map the distance between these cities may look far from Asuncion, you can easily take a 15-minute Uber ride from an area like Villa Morra into Luque. The distance between these “cities” is quite near.

Fernando de la Mora

Located just outside Asunción, Fernando de la Mora is a practical and affordable option for those seeking a blend of urban and suburban living. Its proximity to the capital allows residents to enjoy the perks of the city while taking advantage of lower housing costs. With a variety of amenities and good public services, this city appeals to professionals and families alike.

Highlights:

• Affordable housing with spacious homes and apartments.
• Easy commute to Asunción’s city center.
• A range of local shops, schools, and parks.

San Lorenzo

San Lorenzo is a bustling, affordable city located near Asunción. Known for its vibrant markets and local charm, it attracts families looking for budget-friendly living options. Public transportation links make commuting into Asunción straightforward, and the city offers a mix of modern conveniences and cultural attractions.

Highlights:

• Lower cost of living compared to Asunción’s central neighborhoods.
• Access to excellent local markets and traditional Paraguayan culture.
• Well-connected to Asunción via public transportation.

Luque

Luque is renowned for its tranquility and tight-knit community feel, making it an excellent choice for families and retirees. Situated close to Asunción’s airport, Luque is especially convenient for frequent travelers.

The area boasts affordable housing options, spacious green areas, and a slower pace of life while remaining within easy reach of the capital.

Highlights:

• Peaceful living with a community-focused atmosphere.
• Proximity to Silvio Pettirossi International Airport.
• Affordable and spacious housing options.

Areas to Avoid or Visit with Caution

While Asunción has many vibrant neighborhoods, certain areas require consideration before booking to stay, particularly for newcomers or expats unfamiliar with the city’s dynamics.

Old City Center (Near the Cathedral)

The Old City Center is a fascinating area steeped in history and culture, featuring landmarks like Asunción’s Cathedral and the National Pantheon of the Heroes. However, while it’s worth exploring during the day, safety concerns make this neighborhood less desirable for living or nighttime visits.

Key Points:

• Daytime Appeal: Ideal for sightseeing and exploring historical landmarks.
• Safety Concerns: Known for higher crime rates after dark, making it unsuitable for long-term residence.
• Tourist Tips: Stick to daylight hours for visits and avoid carrying valuables.

When I first visited Asunción in 2022, I made the mistake some foreigners make and booked an AirBnB in the “old” city center of Asunción, the Catedral area. While this area is beautiful in the daytime, and much of the cities history is in this part of the city, I do not recommend staying in this area longer-term or booking accommodation here.

The Chacarita

While Google may list Chacarita as the “oldest neighborhood in Asunción” and it is certainly correct… you do not want to visit this area! This is the favela or “slums” of Asunción, and no locals will go near Chacarita.

The city’s homeless and poor population has built homes of wood and brick scraps throughout this area, and it is extremely dangerous. This is not an area you want to explore or visit.

The reason downtown Asunción in the Catedral area is not safe at night is due to the close proximity to this area, and many of those living in the Chacarita area come into the downtown center at night and sift through garbage. Ubers and Bolts will not enter this area, and you will see a red line around this area on the Uber maps, indicating the drivers cannot pick up passengers in this area.

My Final Thoughts on Best Neighborhoods to Live in Asunción

While Asunción offers a wide range of neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and appeal, different neighbourhoods will appeal to different individuals. While I personally like a mix of the calm areas, but those that have many offerings – such as nearby food parks, restaurants, padel courts, and more.

Personally, some of my favourite areas in Asunción include Villa Morra, Villa Aurelia, and the green city oasis of Mburucuyá.

From upscale areas like Villa Morra and Los Lomas to calm, affordable cities like Luque and Fernando de la Mora, there’s a place for everyone in Paraguay’s capital region.

When moving to a new city, research is your best ally. Explore the neighborhoods, define your priorities, and seek guidance from trusted resources like WorkWealthandTravel.com.

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