Answer
Montevideo regularly ranks among the most expensive cities in the region in international rankings, but whether it is the most expensive depends on the year and methodology. Some studies consider the costs of a foreign employee in dollars, while others consider a local resident's consumer basket. Exchange-rate changes can quickly alter the ranking without changing day-to-day life to the same extent.
For a move, the cost structure matters more than the ranking. Rent in a popular coastal area, imported groceries, a car, and private services lead to one budget; housing farther from the center, bus travel, and local goods lead to another. Compare like-for-like family composition and housing quality.
Check current listings, rates, and your grocery basket, then add gastos comunes, healthcare, and a reserve. This way, you will understand Montevideo's affordability for your income, even if the city changes its position in the next ranking.