Living in Guatemala
Last updated on Jan 10, 2024
Summary: People describe life in Guatemala as vibrant, colorful, and full of life. Expats love the friendly people, the beautiful scenery, the rich culture, and the low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month, depending on lifestyle. The population of Guatemala is approximately 17.2 million people, and the largest cities are Guatemala City, Mixco, Villa Nueva, Quetzaltenango, and San Miguel Petapa. The cons of living in Guatemala include the high crime rate, the lack of infrastructure, and the limited access to healthcare. Additionally, the country is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes.
What do I need to know about living in Guatemala?
When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Guatemala, they said:
"If you are thinking about living in Antigua remember the prices there are ridiculously expensive in everything. Cuidad Vieja is very close to Antigua (10-15 min.) and everything here is very inexpensive. Example I have big 5 Br. house 3Br. Garage and a killer view of the volcanoes all for $187.00 per month, not even possible in Antigua. Cuidad Vieja is a very quite city and very low crime. A Great Place to retire to," said one expat who made the move to Cuidad Vieja.
"Come visit, first! Then decide. Only you know what you are looking for, check out what is offered here," explained one expat living in Esquipulas, Guatemala.
"It is a great country to live in provided you have a certain income and are willing to accept the restrictions the insecurity imposes," mentioned one in Guatemala-City.
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About the Author
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.
Other Questions:
- How do I meet people in Guatemala?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- Is there a lot of crime in Guatemala?
- What do I need to know before retiring in Guatemala?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Guatemala accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Guatemala like?
- Is the cost of living in Guatemala high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Guatemala?
- What are healthcare services like in Guatemala?
- Is the cost of living in Guatemala high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Guatemala?
- What is the weather like in Guatemala?
- Are there good restaurants in Guatemala?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Guatemala?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Guatemala?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Guatemala?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Guatemala?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Guatemala?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?