Guatemala
Cost of living in Guatemala City
Guatemala City is Guatemala's capital and the largest city in Central America, at about 1,500 m. The city is divided into numbered zones, which most people use as their main reference when looking for housing.
What it costs to live in Guatemala City
On an average lifestyle in a 1-bed apartment, Guatemala City comes to an estimated $1,031 a month: the 9th lowest of 19 cities and 4% below the median of this dataset ($1,073). Rent makes up 52% of the total. You would spend less on transport.
| Lifestyle | Room | 1-bed apartment | Family apartment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frugal | $445 | $684 | $1,006 |
| Average | $759 | $1,031 | $1,469 |
| Comfortable | $1,137 | $1,482 | $2,049 |
Every figure is a modeled estimate in US dollars, not an individually observed price. Q1–Q2 2026 data, not re-verified since. Methodology
Your budget in Guatemala City
Adjust the household, lifestyle and any category.
Monthly breakdown by category
One person, 1-bed apartment, average lifestyle. Median = the middle city of all 19.
| Category | Guatemala City | % of total | Median |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent | $540 | 52% | $540 |
| Groceries | $195 | 19% | $200 |
| Transport | $35 | 3% | $40 |
| Utilities | $55 | 5% | $58 |
| Internet | $26 | 3% | $28 |
| Coworking | $90 | 9% | $100 |
| Entertainment | $90 | 9% | $100 |
| Total per month | $1,031 | 100% | $1,073 |
Housing in Guatemala City
Before signing, always ask about the deposit, any rent paid in advance, whether a guarantor is required and who pays utilities and building fees. These terms vary between landlords and are not fixed legal requirements.
Moving to Guatemala City
Visa and residency rules in Guatemala depend on your nationality and circumstances. Always check the official website of Guatemala's migration authority or its nearest consulate. Nothing on this page is legal advice.