Santa Marta can be affordable, but the heat changes the budget.

Expect to spend on:

AC/electricity
Short taxi/app rides
Laundry
Hydration
Beach plans
Weekend trips
Tayrona/Minca transport
Airport transfers
Better-located housing

Before choosing where to live, ask:

Can I tolerate the heat here?
Is the AC reliable?
Can I walk to basic errands?
Do I want beach, city, or mountain lifestyle?
How often will I go to Minca or Tayrona?
Do I need airport access?
Do I want nightlife or quiet?

Santa Marta works best for people who understand it as beach plus mountain access — not just a cheap Caribbean beach town.