Cost of living in Quetzaltenango
Quetzaltenango, often referred to as Xela, is the second-largest city in Guatemala and a cultural hub in the western highlands. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering relocation or planning an extended stay.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Quetzaltenango, covering everything from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you make informed financial decisions.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $4 on average, with a range between $3.9 and $9.75.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $34, with prices ranging from $34 to $97.5.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6, with a range between $5.2 and $6.5.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $1.35 to $4.55, imported beer $2 to $6.5, cappuccino $2.5 to $5.85, and Coke/Pepsi $0.5 to $2.6.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $1 and $2.6 per liter, averaging $1.8.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $1.09 and $9.75, with an average price of $1.85.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.44 to $5.2, averaging $2.02.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $1.92 to $4.3 per kg, while oranges range from $1.04 to $11.46 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.65 and $2.87 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.5 to $1.3 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs approximately $0.26.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $0.74 and $1.26 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $3.57, with a cost of $0.62 per km and $6.5 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $120.05 to $390, averaging $212.98.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $390 to $425.37, averaging $407.68.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre ranges from $360.16 to $390, averaging $379.49.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $240.11 to $260, averaging $253.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (City Centre) - The price per square meter to buy an apartment in the city centre averages $1015.23.
- Buying Price per Square Meter (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, the price per square meter averages $307.22.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $58.5 and $104, averaging $79.7.
- Internet - Internet services range from $31.2 to $104, with an average cost of $43.59.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for Guatemala are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Guatemala, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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Salaries And Financing
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"Key Takeaways"
Quetzaltenango offers a relatively low cost of living compared to many other cities, making it an attractive option for expatriates and locals alike.
Housing is particularly affordable, with rental prices significantly lower than in major urban centers.
Dining out is economical, especially at local restaurants, though imported goods and certain groceries can be more expensive.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Quetzaltenango provides a cost-effective living environment with affordable housing and dining options.
While some imported goods and specific groceries may be pricier, the overall expenses remain manageable for most residents.
This makes Quetzaltenango an appealing choice for those seeking a balance between cost and quality of life.