Cost of Living in Ataco

Joshua Wood

If you're moving to Ataco, understanding the the cost of living in Ataco helps you know what to expect when it comes to apartment or house hunting, grocery shopping, transportation, dining out, utilities and more.

Category	Cost
Apartment Rentals	1-bedroom apartment in city center: $200 – $300 per month 1-bedroom apartment outside city center: $150 – $250 per month 3-bedroom apartment in city center: $400 – $600 per month 3-bedroom apartment outside city center: $300 – $500 per month
Apartment Purchases	Price per square meter in city center: $800 – $1,200 Price per square meter outside city center: $600 – $1,000
Transportation	One-way local transport ticket: $0.25 – $0.50 Monthly local transport pass: $20 – $30 Taxi starting tariff: $1.50 – $2.50 Taxi fare per kilometer: $1.00 – $1.50 Gasoline (1 liter): $0.90 – $1.10
Groceries	Milk (1 liter): $0.80 – $1.20 Bread (500g): $1.00 – $1.50 Rice (1kg): $0.80 – $1.20 Eggs (12): $1.50 – $2.50 Chicken breasts (1kg): $3.50 – $5.00 Beef round (1kg): $4.00 – $6.00 Apples (1kg): $1.50 – $2.50 Oranges (1kg): $1.00 – $1.50 Tomatoes (1kg): $1.00 – $1.50 Potatoes (1kg): $1.00 – $1.50 Water (1.5-liter bottle): $0.50 – $1.00 Bottle of wine (mid-range): $5.00 – $10.00 Domestic beer (0.5-liter bottle): $1.00 – $1.50 Imported beer (0.33-liter bottle): $1.50 – $2.50
Restaurants	Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: $3.00 – $5.00 Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: $20.00 – $35.00 Combo meal at a fast-food restaurant: $4.00 – $6.00 Cappuccino: $1.50 – $2.50 Soft drink (0.33-liter bottle): $0.50 – $1.00 Water (0.33-liter bottle): $0.25 – $0.50
Utilities	Basic utilities (electricity, heating, cooling, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment: $50 – $100 per month Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL): $30 – $50 per month
Private School Tuition	Preschool: $150 – $300 per month Elementary School: $200 – $400 per month Middle School: $250 – $500 per month High School: $300 – $600 per month

Please note that these costs are approximate and can vary depending on the specific area within Ataco. It is always recommended to research and compare prices before making any decisions.

Monthly Budget for Retirees in Ataco

“The cost of living in Ataco is relatively low compared to many Western countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is affordable, while outside the city center, it is even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, and water is also quite low. Groceries are inexpensive, with local markets offering fresh produce at very reasonable prices. Eating out at restaurants is also quite affordable, with a meal at an inexpensive restaurant costing very little. Transportation costs are also low, with affordable public transportation options and low-cost gasoline for those who drive. Healthcare is also relatively inexpensive, although the quality of care can vary. Overall, the cost of living in Ataco, El Salvador is quite affordable, particularly for those earning a Western salary. However, for locals earning the average Salvadoran wage, these costs can still represent a significant portion of their income,” said one expat living in Ataco.

Can I live in Ataco on $1,500 a month?

“I’ve been living in Ataco for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. However, there will be some sacrifices you’ll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll need to find affordable housing. I recommend looking for a place in neighborhoods like Barrio El Centro or Barrio El Calvario, where you can find decent apartments or houses for rent at reasonable prices. Avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Barrio Las Delicias or Barrio San Jose, as they tend to have higher rental rates.When it comes to utilities, you’ll need to be mindful of your usage. Electricity can be quite expensive, so try to use energy-efficient appliances and be conscious of turning off lights and electronics when not in use. Water is relatively cheap, but it’s still a good idea to conserve where you can.Transportation is fairly affordable in Ataco, with local buses and taxis being the most common modes of transport. However, if you plan on traveling outside of the town frequently, you may want to consider purchasing a used car to save on transportation costs.Groceries and eating out can be quite affordable if you stick to local markets and eateries. Avoid shopping at large supermarkets or dining at high-end restaurants, as these can quickly eat into your budget. Instead, try to cook at home as much as possible and explore the local street food scene for affordable and delicious meals.Entertainment and leisure activities can also be budget-friendly if you’re willing to explore local options. There are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy, such as hiking in the nearby mountains, visiting local art galleries, or attending community events. Just be mindful of your spending on nights out or weekend trips, as these can add up quickly.In terms of healthcare, public hospitals and clinics are available, but the quality of care may not be up to the standards you’re used to. I recommend setting aside some of your budget for private healthcare or insurance, just in case you need it.Overall, living in Ataco on $1,500 a month is doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and embracing the local lifestyle, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this charming Salvadoran town,” commented an expat living in Ataco.

Can I live in Ataco on $3,500 a month?

“I’ve been living in Ataco for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you’ll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget. For starters, you might have to give up on some luxury items or services that you’re used to, like high-end restaurants or expensive gym memberships. But overall, the cost of living in Ataco is quite affordable, especially when compared to more developed countries.When it comes to housing, there are several neighborhoods that offer affordable options. I’d recommend looking into areas like Los Naranjos, San Jose, and Santa Rita. These neighborhoods are not only budget-friendly but also offer a decent quality of life, with access to basic amenities like grocery stores, pharmacies, and public transportation. On the other hand, you might want to avoid more expensive neighborhoods like Las Colinas or Los Alpes, as the cost of living there can be significantly higher.In terms of transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. I’d suggest using public transportation or even considering a motorcycle or scooter as a more affordable alternative. This will not only save you money but also help you navigate the sometimes congested streets of Ataco more easily.Eating out can also be quite affordable if you stick to local eateries and avoid high-end restaurants. You’ll find that the local cuisine is not only delicious but also easy on the wallet. Additionally, shopping at local markets for fresh produce and cooking at home can help you save even more money.One thing to keep in mind is that while healthcare in El Salvador is generally affordable, the quality of care can vary. It’s important to have a good health insurance plan in place to ensure you have access to the best possible care in case of an emergency.Overall, living in Ataco on a $3,000 a month budget is definitely doable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and choosing affordable neighborhoods and lifestyle options, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this charming Salvadoran town,” said one expat living in Ataco.

Can I live in Ataco on $5,000 a month?

“I’ve been living in Ataco for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might find that you can enjoy a higher standard of living here than you would in a more expensive city. There are some sacrifices you’ll have to make, but overall, I think you’ll find it to be a great experience.First, let’s talk about housing. There are some really nice neighborhoods in Ataco where you can find modern, well-built homes with all the amenities you’re used to. Some of the more affordable neighborhoods to consider are Barrio El Centro and Barrio El Calvario. These areas have a good mix of local and expat residents, and you can find a nice house or apartment for around $500 to $1,000 a month. If you’re looking for something more upscale, you might want to check out the neighborhoods around the Ruta de las Flores, but keep in mind that these areas can be more expensive, with rents going up to $2,000 a month or more.As for other expenses, you’ll find that food, transportation, and entertainment are all quite affordable in Ataco. You can eat out at local restaurants for just a few dollars, and even high-end dining options won’t set you back more than $20 to $30 per person. Public transportation is also very cheap, with bus fares costing less than a dollar. If you prefer to drive, you can rent a car for around $300 to $400 a month, or buy a used one for a few thousand dollars.One sacrifice you might have to make is in terms of shopping and access to certain products. While you can find most basic necessities in Ataco, you might have to travel to nearby cities like Santa Ana or San Salvador for more specialized items or high-end shopping. This can be a bit of an inconvenience, but it’s not too difficult to make the trip every once in a while.Another thing to consider is healthcare. While there are local clinics and hospitals in Ataco, you might find that the quality of care isn’t quite up to the standards you’re used to. Many expats choose to purchase private health insurance and seek treatment at private hospitals in larger cities, which can be more expensive but offer a higher level of care.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in Ataco on $5,000 a month is not only possible but quite comfortable. You’ll be able to enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, beautiful surroundings, and a lower cost of living than you might be used to. Just be prepared to make a few adjustments and embrace the local culture, and I think you’ll have a great experience,” commented an expat living in Ataco.

Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

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