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Pros and Cons of Living in San Salvador

William Russell
William Russell
William Russell
William Russell

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jun 05, 2023

Summary: The pros of living in San Salvador, El Salvador include its vibrant culture, beautiful scenery, and friendly people. Additionally, the cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive option for those on a budget. On the other hand, the city has a high crime rate and a lack of infrastructure, making it difficult to navigate and potentially dangerous. Additionally, the political situation in El Salvador is unstable, and the country is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes and hurricanes.

What are the pros and cons of living in San Salvador?

Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in San Salvador responded:

"Expats and digital nomads living in San Salvador, often like the low cost of living, which allows them to enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without breaking the bank. They also appreciate the warm and friendly nature of the local people, who are generally welcoming and helpful to foreigners. The city's vibrant culture, rich history, and delicious local cuisine are also major draws for expats and digital nomads. San Salvador's year-round warm weather and proximity to beautiful beaches and natural attractions are also appealing to those looking for outdoor activities and a relaxed lifestyle. Additionally, the growing community of expats and digital nomads in the city provides opportunities for networking and socializing with like-minded individuals. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the high crime rate and safety concerns in San Salvador, as the city has a reputation for gang-related violence and theft. This may require them to take extra precautions and be vigilant about their personal safety. Another common complaint is the city's traffic congestion and lack of reliable public transportation, which can make getting around difficult and time-consuming. The infrastructure in San Salvador may also be lacking in some areas, with frequent power outages and limited access to high-speed internet being potential challenges for digital nomads. Lastly, the language barrier can be a challenge for those who do not speak Spanish, as English is not widely spoken in San Salvador. This can make it difficult to navigate daily life and access services without the help of a local or a translator," said one member in San Salvador.

"San Salvador is a beautiful city with beautiful people. The violence and gang activity make it unsafe for most people. Housing is expensive, and food is very costly," remarked one expat in San Salvador.

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About the Author

Joshua Wood 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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William Russell
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