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Guatemala flagCost of Living Guide · Guatemala

Cost of Living Guide in Guatemala

Complete pricing for housing, food, transportation, and everyday expenses

Guatemala offers a very affordable cost of living, about 31.5% cheaper overall (including rent) than the North America average and significantly lower than most regional countries. It stands out as one of the cheapest in North America for consumer prices and rent, making it ideal for expats and digital nomads seeking value. Monthly expenses can range from $500 for a frugal local-style lifestyle to $2,500+ for premium expat living.

Estimated Monthly Budget

Frugal
$500–$800 USD (3,800–6,100 GTQ) — local food from markets, shared or basic housing outside centers, public buses
Comfortable
$1,200–$1,800 USD (9,200–13,700 GTQ) — decent 1BR rental, mix of home cooking and eating out, occasional taxis
Family of four
$2,500–$3,500 USD (19,000–26,700 GTQ) — 3BR expat housing, international groceries, private transport, schooling

Guatemala delivers excellent value for money, 31.5% cheaper overall than the North America average, allowing expats to live comfortably on budgets that would barely cover basics elsewhere in the region.

Economic & Living Costs in Guatemala
Food & Dining Costs

Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant

25-100 GTQ
Avg: 62.5 GTQ
+8.7% vs 3 months ago

Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant (3-course)

313.7-750 GTQ
Avg: 531.85 GTQ
+4.1% vs 3 months ago

McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)

48-68.86 GTQ
Avg: 58.43 GTQ
+6.2% vs 3 months ago

Domestic Beer (0.5L draught)

15-45 GTQ
Avg: 30 GTQ
+21.0% vs 3 months ago
Housing & Real Estate Costs

Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre

4000-7957.29 GTQ
Avg: 5978.65 GTQ
+17.0% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside Centre

3000-5000 GTQ
Avg: 4000 GTQ
+23.1% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre

8500-20000 GTQ
Avg: 14250 GTQ
+16.3% vs 3 months ago

Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside Centre

5000-13000 GTQ
Avg: 9000 GTQ
+32.6% vs 3 months ago
Transportation Costs

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

10-20 GTQ
Avg: 15 GTQ
+61.9% vs 3 months ago

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

25-127 GTQ
Avg: 76 GTQ
+16.7% vs 3 months ago

Monthly Transport Pass

40-220 GTQ
Avg: 130 GTQ
0.0% vs 3 months ago

Gasoline (1L)

7.77-9.25 GTQ
Avg: 8.51 GTQ
0.0% vs 3 months ago
Utilities & Communications Costs

Utilities for 85m² Apartment

382.5-765.12 GTQ
Avg: 573.81 GTQ
+7.1% vs 3 months ago

Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited)

300-644 GTQ
Avg: 472 GTQ
+7.9% vs 3 months ago

Mobile Plan (10GB+ Data)

150-400 GTQ
Avg: 275 GTQ
+10.0% vs 3 months ago
Grocery Costs

Milk (1L)

12-18 GTQ
Avg: 15 GTQ
+7.1% vs 3 months ago

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

15-61.21 GTQ
Avg: 38.1 GTQ
+56.7% vs 3 months ago

Eggs (12)

16-26 GTQ
Avg: 21 GTQ
-4.5% vs 3 months ago

Local Cheese (1kg)

35-110.23 GTQ
Avg: 72.62 GTQ
+39.9% vs 3 months ago
Entertainment & Sports Costs

Fitness Club, Monthly Fee

200-650 GTQ
Avg: 425 GTQ
-0.6% vs 3 months ago

Tennis Court (1 hour, weekend)

80-175 GTQ
Avg: 127.5 GTQ
-31.1% vs 3 months ago

Cinema Ticket

45-70 GTQ
Avg: 57.5 GTQ
-4.2% vs 3 months ago

Preschool / Kindergarten (monthly, private)

2000-5355.87 GTQ
Avg: 3677.93 GTQ
+105.8% vs 3 months ago
Last updated: 2026-04-03

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Comprehensive guides and data-driven analysis.

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Emergency numbers, hospital systems, response times, and what to do in a crisis abroad.

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Climate & Seasons

Understand the weather patterns, seasonal temperatures, and best travel times for expats and digital nomads.

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Healthcare

Navigate the healthcare system, insurance options, and medical access as an expat or digital nomad.

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View all Guatemala Guides & Categories14 in-depth guides for expats & digital nomads