| Category | Details | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Apartment Rentals | 1-bedroom apartment in city center | $300 – $400 per month |
| 1-bedroom apartment outside city center | $200 – $300 per month | |
| Apartment Purchases | Price per square meter in city center | $800 – $1,200 |
| Price per square meter outside city center | $500 – $800 | |
| Transportation | One-way local transport ticket | $0.25 – $0.50 |
| Monthly local transport pass | $20 – $30 | |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | $0.90 – $1.10 | |
| Taxi (1 km) | $1.50 – $2.00 | |
| Groceries | Milk (1 liter) | $0.80 – $1.20 |
| Bread (500g) | $1.00 – $2.00 | |
| Rice (1 kg) | $0.80 – $1.20 | |
| Chicken breasts (1 kg) | $3.50 – $5.00 | |
| Restaurants | Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $3.00 – $6.00 |
| Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20 – $40 | |
| Domestic beer (0.5-liter draught) | $1.50 – $2.50 | |
| 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 | |
| Mobile call (1 minute, no discounts or plans) | $0.10 – $0.20 | |
| Private School Tuition | Preschool (or Kindergarten) | $150 – $300 per month |
| Elementary School | $200 – $400 per month | |
| Middle School | $300 – $600 per month | |
| High School | $400 – $800 per month |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in El Sunzal
“The cost of living in El Sunzal 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, water, and garbage 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 and relatively cheap gasoline prices. Healthcare is also reasonably priced, with both public and private healthcare options available. However, it’s important to note that wages in El Salvador are also lower than in many Western countries, so while the cost of living may seem low to foreigners, it may not be as affordable for locals. Overall, El Sunzal, El Salvador offers a low cost of living, making it an attractive option for expats or retirees on a budget,” said one expat living in El Sunzal.
Can I live in El Sunzal on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in El Sunzal for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but you’ll have to make some sacrifices. For example, you might not be able to afford a luxurious apartment in the most upscale neighborhoods, but you can still find a decent place to live in a more affordable area.One of the more affordable neighborhoods I’d recommend is La Libertad, which is not too far from El Sunzal. It’s a nice area with a mix of locals and expats, and you can find a decent apartment for around $400 to $600 a month. Another option is to look for a place in El Tunco, which is a popular surf town with a laid-back vibe. Rent prices there can be a bit higher, but you might be able to find a small apartment or a room in a shared house for around $500 to $700 a month.On the other hand, I’d avoid looking for a place in San Salvador, which is the capital city and tends to be more expensive. The neighborhoods of Escalon and Santa Elena are particularly pricey, with rents often going for over $1,000 a month.As for other expenses, you’ll need to be mindful of your spending on things like groceries, eating out, and entertainment. Local markets and smaller grocery stores tend to be more affordable than larger supermarkets, so I’d recommend shopping there for your daily needs. Eating out can be quite cheap if you stick to local eateries and street food, but you’ll need to be prepared to spend more if you want to dine at fancier restaurants or enjoy a night out at a bar or club.Transportation costs can also add up, especially if you rely on taxis or private car services. I’d recommend using public transportation, like buses or colectivos, which are shared vans that run along specific routes. They’re much more affordable and can get you around the area without breaking the bank.In terms of sacrifices, you might have to give up some of the modern amenities you’re used to, like high-speed internet or a gym membership. However, you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle by taking advantage of the natural beauty and outdoor activities that El Sunzal and the surrounding areas have to offer, like surfing, hiking, and exploring the local beaches.Overall, living on $1,500 a month in El Sunzal is doable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices in terms of housing and amenities. By choosing an affordable neighborhood and being conscious of your daily expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable and fulfilling life in this beautiful part of El Salvador,” commented an expat living in El Sunzal.
Can I live in El Sunzal on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in El Sunzal for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $3,000 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll need to be mindful of where you choose to live. Some neighborhoods can be quite expensive, like San Benito and Escalon, so I’d recommend avoiding those areas if you’re trying to save money. Instead, consider more affordable neighborhoods like Santa Elena or Antiguo Cuscatlan. These areas still offer modern amenities and are safe, but the cost of living is more reasonable.When it comes to transportation, owning a car can be quite expensive due to import taxes and high gas prices. I’d recommend using public transportation or ride-sharing services like Uber to get around. It’s not only more affordable, but it also allows you to avoid dealing with traffic and parking.Eating out can also add up quickly, especially if you’re dining at high-end restaurants. To save money, try to cook at home more often and explore local markets for fresh produce. When you do eat out, opt for more affordable local eateries instead of fancy restaurants.Another sacrifice you might have to make is cutting back on some of the luxuries you might be used to. For example, you might need to downgrade your gym membership or limit the number of times you go out for entertainment. However, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities to enjoy in El Sunzal, like hiking, surfing, or exploring the beautiful beaches.Overall, living comfortably on $3,000 a month in El Sunzal is achievable, but it requires some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and choosing more affordable options, you can enjoy a great quality of life in this beautiful country,” said one expat living in El Sunzal.
Can I live in El Sunzal on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in El Sunzal for a while now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, especially if you’re used to modern amenities. In fact, you might even find that you can enjoy a higher standard of living here than in some other countries, as the cost of living is generally lower.One of the first things you’ll want to consider is where you’ll be living. There are some more expensive neighborhoods, like San Benito and Escalon, which are known for their upscale homes and amenities. However, these areas might not be the best fit for your budget. Instead, I’d recommend looking into more affordable neighborhoods like Santa Elena, Colonia San Francisco, or even Antiguo Cuscatlan. These areas still offer modern amenities and are safe, but they’re more budget-friendly.As for sacrifices, you might find that you’ll need to adjust your expectations when it comes to certain things. For example, while you can find modern, well-equipped homes and apartments, they might not be as large or luxurious as what you’re used to. Additionally, while there are plenty of restaurants and cafes that offer international cuisine, you might find that the selection is more limited than in a larger city.That being said, there are also plenty of benefits to living in El Sunzal. The natural beauty of the area, with its stunning beaches and lush green landscapes, is a major draw for many expats. Plus, the local culture is warm and welcoming, making it easy to make friends and feel at home.In terms of transportation, you might find that owning a car is more of a necessity here than in other places, as public transportation can be limited and unreliable. However, the cost of owning and maintaining a car in El Salvador is generally lower than in many other countries, so this shouldn’t be too much of a strain on your budget.Overall, I think you’ll find that living in El Sunzal on $5,000 a month is not only possible but can also be quite enjoyable. With some careful planning and budgeting, you’ll be able to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while still having access to modern amenities and a vibrant local culture,” commented an expat living in El Sunzal.
