Guatemala has a way of making your money go further than almost anywhere else in Central America. It’s somewhere you can eat well, sleep somewhere lovely, and still have plenty left over, which is exactly why it keeps drawing in backpackers, digital nomads, and expats looking to make their budget work harder.
But it’s easy to find conflicting information online, and “cheap” means something different to everyone. So, what does the cost of living in Guatemala actually look like in 2026?
In this guide, I’ll break down the real monthly costs (including rent, food, transport, and daily expenses) so you can plan your trip or move with a clearer picture of what to expect.
So, what is the cost of living in Guatemala?
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💸 Quick Answer: Monthly Cost of Living in Guatemala
For a single person, the average monthly costs are:
- Budget traveller: $500–$900
- Mid-range lifestyle: $1,200–$2,000
- Digital nomad / comfortable living: $2,000+
Compared to the United States or Europe, Guatemala has a significantly lower cost of living, while still offering an incredible quality of life.
What is the Currency in Guatemala?
The Guatemalan Quetzal is the official currency of Guatemala. The exchange rate changes frequently, but it is currently around 7.7 Quetzales to 1 US Dollar.
💰 Check the latest exchange rate with Wise
🇬🇹 Read more about money, currency and ATMs in Guatemala
Why Choose Guatemala for Affordable Living?
Guatemala is one of the most budget-friendly countries in Central America, offering an exceptional quality of life for much less than you’d pay in the United States or Europe. Whether you prefer to stay in a big city like Guatemala City, somewhere more artsy like Antigua, or the peaceful villages surrounding Lake Atitlán, there’s a lifestyle here to suit every preference.
Cost of Living in Guatemala Breakdown (Monthly)
Here’s a realistic overview of monthly costs in Guatemala:
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Comfortable |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $250–$500 | $600–$1,000 | $1,200+ |
| Food & Groceries | $150–$250 | $300–$500 | $600+ |
| Eating Out | $80–$150 | $200–$400 | $500+ |
| Transport | $20–$80 | $100–$200 | $300+ |
| Utilities + Internet | $50–$120 | $120–$200 | $250+ |
| Leisure | $50–$150 | $200–$400 | $500+ |
| Total | $500–$900 | $1,200–$2,000 | $2,000+ |
Of course, your overall costs will depend heavily on whether you live in Guatemala City, Antigua, or around Lake Atitlán.
Accommodation Costs in Guatemala
Accommodation is usually your biggest expense whether you’re moving to Guatemala or just stopping by, but generally it is still very affordable compared to most of Latin America. Accommodation costs in Guatemala can also vary depending on whether you’re renting short-term or committing to a longer lease.
Monthly Rent (Average)
- 1-bedroom apartment (city centre): ~$800
- 1-bedroom outside city center: ~$500
- 3-bedroom apartment (city centre): $1,500+
Note, in popular expat areas like Antigua or Lake Atitlán, expect slightly higher prices.
Buying Property
- City centre: ~$2,200 per square meter
- Outside centre: ~$1,100 per square meter
Real estate prices in Guatemala are still relatively low, but mortgage interest rates are usually on the higher side (~11–12%).
Short-term rentals are widely available on platforms like Airbnb, where prices range from $20 to $100 per night depending on the location and type of property. For longer stays, negotiating directly with landlords or using local agents can often yield better rates.
Food and Grocery Prices
Guatemalan cuisine is delicious, hearty, and affordable, whether you like to dine out or you buy groceries and prepare meals at home. The best trick here is to stop by local markets rather than buying everything from chain stores; that can make a huge difference to what your budget looks like.
Grocery Prices (Average)
- Milk (1L): ~$2
- Eggs (12): ~$2.50
- Chicken (1kg): ~$9
- Loaf of bread: ~$3
- Rice (1kg): ~$2
Eating Out in Guatemala
The costs of eating out in Guatemala range wildly. From cheap street food and restaurants inside local markets, to mid-range restaurants.
Eating Out Prices (Average)
- Meal at a market restaurant: ~$5
- Inexpensive restaurant meal: ~$10
- Mid-range restaurant (3 courses): ~$50 for two
- Fast food combo meal: ~$8
- Domestic beer: ~$3
- Cappuccino: ~$3.50
Transport Prices in Guatemala
Getting around Guatemala is straightforward and inexpensive, although that depends on your comfort level and how you like to travel! Chicken buses (local buses) are very cheap, but they can also be crowded, chaotic, and you’d better hold onto your wallet. Tuk-tuks are popular for short distances, while taxis and rideshares provide a more comfortable option in urban areas.
Transport Prices
- Chicken buses: $0.25–$2
- Private transfer: ~$25 for a 2 hour journey (e.g. Antigua to Lake Atlitlan)
- Uber: starting from ~$5 for a short journey
Uber only operates in cities like Guatemala City and Antigua, which is a safer and more convenient alternative to traditional taxis (I don’t recommend taking traditional taxis at all in Guatemala, always use Uber or an official taxi called by your accommodation or a booth at the airport).
🇬🇹 Read more: How to get from Guatemala Airport to Antigua
Utilities and Internet
Utilities in Guatemala are affordable, though costs can vary depending on the region, the size of your home, and your energy usage. Internet speeds are generally reliable in urban areas, with fibre-optic connections available in larger cities.
- Basic utilities (85m² apartment): ~$70
- Internet (unlimited data): ~$50
- Mobile plan (monthly): ~$30
💻 Internet is reliable in major cities and digital nomad hubs, but it can be less reliable in more rural areas.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Guatemala is accessible and affordable; as a tourist or expat, I recommend always opting for private clinics, which provide high-quality care at reasonable prices. In fact, Guatemala is becoming a destination for medical tourism due to the low cost.
- GP visit: $20–$50
- Specialist: $50–$100
- Medication (e.g. antibiotics): $5–$20
Leisure & Lifestyle Costs
- Cinema ticket (international release): ~$6
- Gym membership: ~$40/month
- National parks entry: $5–$25
Guatemala is full of natural beauty means many activities, like hiking, are free or low-cost.
📍 Book Your Acatenango Volcano Hike here
🧾 Example Monthly Budgets for Guatemala
Budget Traveler ($600–$900)
- Shared accommodation
- Street food + cooking
- Public transportation
Mid-Range Lifestyle ($1,200–$2,000)
- Private apartment
- Mix of eating out + cooking
- Occasional tours
Digital Nomad ($2,000+)
- Modern apartment
- Coworking + fast internet
- Regular dining out + travel
💡 Tips to Save Money in Guatemala
- Shop at local markets instead of supermarkets
- Use chicken buses or shared transport
- Avoid imported goods
- Negotiate rent for long stays
- Stay outside tourist hotspots for lower monthly rent
FAQs on the Cost of Living in Guatemala
How much money do you need to live in Guatemala?
The amount you need to live in Guatemala depends on your lifestyle and location. A basic budget for a single person can vary, but generally, living expenses are very affordable. Higher-end lifestyles will require more, but overall, you can enjoy a good standard of living at a fraction of what you’d pay in the U.S. or Europe.
Is 100 dollars a lot in Guatemala?
Yes, $100 can stretch quite far in Guatemala. It’s enough to cover a week’s worth of groceries, several meals at local restaurants, and a few leisure activities, making it a substantial amount in the local economy.
How much does a Coke cost in Guatemala?
A standard 500ml bottle of Coca-Cola typically costs around $1 at most local stores or supermarkets in Guatemala.
Is Guatemala a good place to live?
Yes, Guatemala is an attractive place to live, particularly for those who enjoy its rich culture, natural beauty, and affordable living. The country’s low cost of living, combined with a pleasant climate and welcoming communities, makes it a popular choice for expats and travelers alike.
How much is a pizza in Guatemala?
A pizza in Guatemala can vary in price depending on where you go, but typically a medium pizza at a local pizzeria costs between $10 to $20. Prices are higher at international chains or upscale restaurants.
How much does street food cost in Guatemala?
Street food in Guatemala is very affordable. Snacks like tostadas or chuchitos cost just a few dollars, and a full meal from a street vendor typically ranges from $4 to $10, making it a great option for both locals and visitors.
How much is rent in Guatemala per month?
Rent in Guatemala varies by location and the type of accommodation. In Guatemala City, a shared room or small apartment can start at a low cost, while a one-bedroom apartment may be priced higher. Rent is typically more expensive in tourist-heavy areas like Antigua or Lake Atitlán.
🌎 Final Thoughts on the Cost of Living in Guatemala
Between the affordable rent, incredibly cheap street food, and the ease of travelling around Guatemala, it’s very possible to live well here without burning through your savings. We’re talking about a lifestyle that would cost a fraction of what you’d pay in the US or Europe, with a lot more colour and character thrown in for free.
Whether you’re passing through for a few weeks or seriously considering a longer stint, Guatemala offers something that’s increasingly rare: a place where your money stretches, the culture is rich, and the landscapes are nothing short of extraordinary.
No it’s not when i went this year the Airbnb cost was $35 a night going cheap for a one bedroom studio apartments. The car rental with no insurance was $35 with insurance was $60 plus a day. Is spent about $100 a day eating out. $100 only goes far if your not in the city
Hey! Which cities or areas did you visit? When I was there, we spent as little as $2-3 on a meal in the market. Possibly up to $10 in a restaurant, but I can’t imagine how you managed to spend $100 per day!!