| Category | Cost |
|---|---|
| Apartment Rentals | Depending on the location and size, apartment rentals in Utila can range from $200 to $800 per month. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $300 per month, while the same outside the city center may cost around $200 per month. A three-bedroom apartment in the city center may cost around $800 per month, while the same outside the city center may cost around $600 per month. |
| Apartment Purchases | The cost of buying an apartment in Utila can vary greatly depending on the location, size, and amenities. On average, you can expect to pay around $1,500 to $2,000 per square meter in the city center, and around $1,000 to $1,500 per square meter outside the city center. |
| Transportation | Public transportation in Utila is relatively inexpensive. A one-way ticket on local transport can cost around $1. Monthly passes can cost around $30. Taxis start at around $2, with an additional $1 per kilometer. Gasoline costs around $1 per liter. |
| Groceries | The cost of groceries in Utila is relatively low. A liter of milk costs around $1, a loaf of bread costs around $1.50, a dozen eggs cost around $2, and a kilogram of local cheese costs around $5. Fruits and vegetables are also quite affordable, with a kilogram of apples costing around $2 and a kilogram of bananas costing around $1. |
| Restaurants | A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Utila can cost around $5. A three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant can cost around $30. A regular cappuccino costs around $2.50. A 0.5 liter domestic beer in a restaurant can cost around $2, while a 0.33 liter imported beer can cost around $2.50. |
| Utilities | Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, can cost around $100 per month. Internet (60 Mbps or more, unlimited data, cable/ADSL) can cost around $50 per month. |
| Private School Tuition | Private school tuition can vary greatly depending on the school and the age of the student. On average, you can expect to pay around $200 to $400 per month for preschool (or kindergarten), and around $300 to $600 per month for elementary school. Middle school and high school tuition can range from $400 to $800 per month. |
Monthly Budget for Retirees in Utila
“The cost of living in Utila is considered to be relatively low compared to many other countries. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can be quite affordable, while outside the city center, it can be even cheaper. The cost of utilities such as electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage is also quite low.Groceries in Utila are reasonably priced. Local markets offer fresh produce, meat, and fish at lower prices, while imported goods and specialty items can be more expensive. Eating out at restaurants can be inexpensive, especially local eateries, while dining at high-end restaurants can be more costly.Public transportation in Utila is also affordable, with cheap fares for local buses and taxis. However, owning and maintaining a car can be more expensive due to the cost of gasoline and car maintenance.Healthcare in Utila is also relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to countries like the United States. However, it’s important to note that while the cost is low, the standard of healthcare may not be as high as in more developed countries.Overall, the cost of living in Utila, Honduras is quite low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to live abroad on a budget. However, it’s important to consider other factors such as income opportunities, safety, and quality of life when deciding to move to Utila,” said one expat living in Utila.
Can I live in Utila on $1,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Utila for a few years now and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $1,500 a month, but it does require some adjustments. The cost of living here is relatively low compared to many places in the world, but it’s not without its challenges. For instance, you might have to give up some of the luxuries you’re used to, like high-speed internet or a wide variety of food options. The internet here can be spotty and slow, and while there are plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, the selection of imported goods is limited and can be expensive. As for housing, there are affordable options available, especially if you’re willing to live a bit outside of the main town. I live in a small house in the Colonia neighborhood, which is a bit more residential and less touristy than the town center. I pay about $400 a month for rent, which includes utilities. It’s a simple place, but it’s comfortable and has everything I need. On the other hand, if you’re looking for something more upscale, you might want to check out the neighborhoods near the beach, like Chepes Beach or South Shore Marina. These areas are more expensive, with rents often going for over $1,000 a month, but they offer more modern amenities and are closer to the beach. Eating out can also add up, but there are plenty of affordable local restaurants where you can get a meal for under $5. I usually cook at home to save money, but I do treat myself to a meal out once a week. Transportation is another area where you can save. Most people get around on foot or by bicycle here, which is free and also a great way to stay fit. If you need to go further, there are tuk-tuks (small motorized rickshaws) that are pretty cheap. Overall, living in Utila on $1,500 a month is doable, but it requires a bit of budgeting and a willingness to live a simpler lifestyle. But in return, you get to live in a beautiful tropical paradise, which to me, is more than worth it,” commented an expat living in Utila.
Can I live in Utila on $3,500 a month?
“I’ve been living in Utila for a few years 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, you’ll have to make some adjustments and sacrifices. For instance, you might not have access to high-speed internet all the time, and power outages can be a common occurrence. But if you can adjust to these minor inconveniences, life here can be quite comfortable. In terms of housing, you can find a decent place to live for around $500 to $800 a month. The neighborhoods around Chepes Beach and Sandy Bay are quite affordable and have a good mix of locals and expats. They’re also close to the main town, so you’ll have easy access to shops, restaurants, and other amenities. On the other hand, neighborhoods like Blue Bayou and Pumpkin Hill are more upscale and expensive, so you might want to avoid those if you’re on a budget. Food and groceries can cost you around $200 to $300 a month, depending on your eating habits. Eating out at local restaurants is quite affordable, but if you prefer dining at high-end restaurants or buying imported goods, it can get expensive. Transportation is another area where you can save money. Utila is a small island and most places are within walking or biking distance. You can rent a bike for around $20 a month or a golf cart for around $300 a month. However, if you prefer to drive, keep in mind that gas prices are quite high. Health care is relatively affordable in Utila. There’s a public hospital where treatment is free, but the facilities are basic. There are also private clinics where you can get better care, but at a higher cost. Overall, if you’re willing to adjust your lifestyle a bit, you can live quite comfortably in Utila on $3,000 a month,” said one expat living in Utila.
Can I live in Utila on $5,000 a month?
“I’ve been living in Utila for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is not only possible, but you can live quite comfortably. The cost of living here is significantly lower than in many Western countries. For instance, you can rent a nice two-bedroom house for around $500 to $800 a month. If you want to live in a more upscale neighborhood like Blue Bayou, you might have to pay a bit more, maybe around $1,000 to $1,500 a month. But I would recommend looking at places in the Chepes Beach or Sandy Bay areas. They’re more affordable and still very nice. Groceries will probably cost you around $200 to $300 a month, depending on your eating habits. Eating out is also quite affordable. A meal at a mid-range restaurant will cost you around $10 to $15. If you’re a fan of seafood, you’re in luck because it’s plentiful and cheap here. As for utilities, expect to pay around $50 for electricity, $20 for water, and $30 for internet each month. If you want to have a cleaner, it will cost you around $10 to $15 per day. Transportation is also quite cheap. You can rent a scooter for around $20 a day or a bicycle for around $5 a day. Taxis are also affordable, costing around $1 to $2 per ride. Healthcare is another area where you can save a lot. A visit to a doctor will cost you around $10 to $20. If you need to see a specialist or have a procedure done, it might cost you a bit more, but it’s still significantly cheaper than in the U.S. The one area where you might have to make a sacrifice is in terms of shopping. There aren’t many big shopping malls or stores here. Most of the shopping is done at local markets or small shops. But you can find most of the things you need. If you’re a big fan of certain brands or products, you might have to order them online and have them shipped, which can be a bit expensive. But overall, I think you’ll find that living in Utila on $5,000 a month is quite doable and comfortable. You’ll have to adjust to a slower pace of life and maybe make a few sacrifices in terms of shopping, but in return, you’ll get to live in a beautiful tropical paradise with friendly people and a relaxed lifestyle,” commented an expat living in Utila.
