| 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 | $600 – $900 | |
| Transportation | One-way local transport ticket | $0.50 – $1.00 |
| Monthly local transport pass | $20 – $30 | |
| Gasoline (1 liter) | $1.00 – $1.20 | |
| Taxi (1 km) | $1.50 – $2.00 | |
| Groceries | Milk (1 liter) | $0.80 – $1.20 |
| Bread (500g) | $1.00 – $2.00 | |
| Rice (1 kg) | $1.00 – $1.50 | |
| Chicken breasts (1 kg) | $3.50 – $5.00 | |
| Restaurants | Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $3.00 – $5.00 |
| Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $20 – $30 | |
| 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 – $500 per month | |
| High School | $400 – $600 per month |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Santa Lucia
“The cost of living in Santa Lucia is considered to be relatively low compared to many Western countries. Housing is quite affordable, with options ranging from modest apartments to more upscale homes. Utilities such as electricity, water, and gas are also reasonably priced. Groceries in Santa Lucia are cheaper than in many other countries, with local markets offering fresh produce, meat, and other staples at low prices. Eating out is also inexpensive, with a wide variety of local and international cuisines available at affordable prices. Transportation costs are also low in Santa Lucia. Public transportation is widely available and is a cost-effective way to get around. Taxis and private cars are also affordable options. Healthcare in Santa Lucia is generally affordable, with both public and private healthcare options available. However, it’s worth noting that while the cost of healthcare is low, the quality of care may not be as high as in more developed countries. Overall, while salaries and wages in Santa Lucia are lower than in many Western countries, the low cost of living makes it a relatively affordable place to live,” said one expat living in Santa Lucia.
Can I live in Santa Lucia on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Santa Lucia for a while now, and I can tell you that it is 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 definitely find a decent place to live in more affordable areas.One of the more affordable neighborhoods I’d recommend is El Bosque. It’s a bit further from the city center, but it’s still safe and has a good community vibe. You can find a nice apartment there for around $400-$500 a month. On the other hand, I’d avoid neighborhoods like Los Laureles or Lomas del Guijarro, as they tend to be more expensive and might be out of your budget.As for other expenses, you’ll have to be mindful of your spending on things like dining out, entertainment, and transportation. Eating at local markets and cooking at home can save you a lot of money, as dining out at restaurants can be quite expensive. Also, consider using public transportation or walking instead of taking taxis or driving a car, as gas prices and car maintenance can add up quickly.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 find ways to stay connected and active without breaking the bank. For example, you can use internet cafes or find free Wi-Fi spots around the city, and you can exercise outdoors or find affordable local gyms.Overall, living in Santa Lucia on $1,500 a month is doable, but you’ll have to be smart about your spending and be willing to make some sacrifices. It’s a beautiful place with a lot to offer, so if you can adapt to a more modest lifestyle, you’ll be able to enjoy your time here,” commented an expat living in Santa Lucia.
Can I live in Santa Lucia on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Santa Lucia 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 will be some sacrifices you’ll have to make to ensure you stay within your budget.Firstly, you’ll need to choose a neighborhood that’s more affordable. I’d recommend looking into areas like El Bosque or Los Pinos, where you can find decent housing at a lower cost. These neighborhoods are still safe and have access to basic amenities, but they might not be as upscale as some of the more expensive areas like Villa Los Laureles or Lomas del Guijarro.One of the sacrifices you’ll have to make is in terms of dining out and entertainment. While there are plenty of restaurants and bars in Santa Lucia, you’ll need to be more selective about where you go and how often you eat out. Opt for local eateries and street food, which are not only more affordable but also offer a more authentic Honduran experience.Another area where you might need to cut back is on transportation. While it’s possible to get around using public transportation, it might not be as comfortable or reliable as you’re used to. You could consider getting a used car or a scooter to help you get around more easily, but keep in mind that this will add to your monthly expenses.In terms of shopping, you’ll find that local markets and smaller shops are more affordable than larger supermarkets or shopping malls. You might need to adjust your shopping habits and be more conscious of where you buy your groceries and other essentials.Lastly, you’ll need to be mindful of your utility usage, as electricity and water can be quite expensive in Honduras. Make sure to turn off lights and appliances when not in use, and try to conserve water as much as possible.Overall, living in Santa Lucia on $3,000 a month is doable, but it will require some adjustments and sacrifices. By being mindful of your spending and choosing more affordable options, you can still enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while staying within your budget,” said one expat living in Santa Lucia.
Can I live in Santa Lucia on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Santa Lucia 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. However, there are some sacrifices you might have to make to ensure you stay within your budget. For example, you might have to cut back on dining out at high-end restaurants or limit your shopping sprees. When it comes to finding a place to live, there are several affordable neighborhoods you can consider. One of my favorites is El Bosque, which is a quiet residential area with a mix of apartments and houses. The rent here is quite reasonable, and you can find a nice two-bedroom apartment for around $400 to $500 a month. Another option is Los Pinos, which is a bit more upscale but still affordable. Here, you can find a three-bedroom house for around $600 to $700 a month.On the other hand, there are some more expensive neighborhoods that you might want to avoid if you’re trying to stick to your $5,000 a month budget. For example, Lomas del Guijarro is a very exclusive area with luxury homes and apartments, but the rent can easily go over $1,000 a month for a two-bedroom apartment. Similarly, Palmira is another high-end neighborhood with beautiful homes, but the rent can be quite steep.In terms of transportation, you might have to rely on public buses or taxis instead of owning a car, as the cost of owning and maintaining a car can be quite high in Honduras. However, the public transportation system is quite reliable and affordable, so it shouldn’t be too much of an inconvenience.As for groceries and other daily expenses, you’ll find that the cost of living in Santa Lucia is generally lower than in many Western countries. You can shop at local markets and supermarkets for fresh produce and other essentials, and you’ll likely spend around $300 to $400 a month on groceries for a single person.Overall, living in Santa Lucia on a $5,000 a month budget is definitely doable, but you’ll have to be mindful of your spending and make some adjustments to your lifestyle. By choosing an affordable neighborhood and being conscious of your daily expenses, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this beautiful Honduran town,” commented an expat living in Santa Lucia.
