Colombia's 1–6 socio-economic scale
Estrato is Colombia's official 1–6 classification of residential areas. It's based on the physical characteristics of housing, not on your personal income. The government uses it to set utility rates: low estratos get subsidized water, gas, and electricity, while high estratos pay a premium that cross-subsidizes the lower ones.
For expats, estrato is the fastest shorthand for a neighborhood's income level, density, and general feel. Most foreigners end up living in estrato 5 or 6, that's where you'll find the doormen, gyms, modern apartments, and walkable cafés.
Lowest income
Subsidized utilities; informal housing common.
Low income
Working-class neighborhoods, lower utility rates.
Lower-middle
Mixed local areas, affordable rent.
Middle
Solid middle-class areas, full utility rates.
Upper-middle
Comfortable; popular with foreigners.
Highest
Premium areas; highest utility rates.
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