10 Cheapest Places to Live in Guatemala

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Whether you’re considering buying or renting, many questions may cross your mind, especially when moving to a new country like Guatemala.

While you may be extremely excited, the process may also feel daunting.

The overall cost of living in the country is $886.

This number is nearly 1.18 times cheaper than the world’s average.

So, if you’re wondering what the best places are to live in Guatemala, continue reading to learn all about them.

10 Cheapest Places to Live in Guatemala

1. Mixco

Making the list first for offering affordable living for all is Mixco.

Just about 518,000 people live in Mixco.

Mixco is located in the south-central region of Guatemala and is considered a western suburb of Guatemala City.

If you’re on the hunt for a bustling and vibrant town that’s rich in both diversity and history, Mixco is the place to be.

Residents can comfortably live on $630 per month in Mixco.

The town is part of the top 21% of the cheapest cities in the world.

A family of four living in Mixco can live on $1,703 per month.

Are you looking for things to do in Mixco? Check out Cerro de La Cruz, Parque Central de Antigua Guatemala, or the National Museum of Mayan Art.

2. Coban

Coban also made the list, but can you guess why?

Coban is in the top 32% of the cheapest towns in the entire world, so it’s worth a mention.

Coban is considered as a highland city, located in the central region of Guatemala.

A quick fact about Coban: The town is well known for its signature dish called kakik or kaq’ik.

The cost of living in Coban is $829 per month.

The average rent paid in Coban is around $435 per month but can be as high as $573 per month.

Visit the Parque Nacional Las Victorias, the Plaza Magdalena, or the Biotopo del Quetzal for some exciting fun.

3. Quetzaltenango

Quetzaltenango also made the list and for very good reason.

Quetzaltenango is a part of the top 32% of the cheapest places to live in the world.

Just about 204,000 people live here.

Quetzaltenango is also referred to as Xela and is the second-largest town in Guatemala.

It’s also known for being a tourism hub.

The cost of living is extremely exceptional in Quetzaltenango.

Residents living here pay an average of $806 per month.

Rent can range from $403 to $426 per month.

If you’re wondering about some of the top attractions in the area, consider visiting the House of Botran and Museum, Cerro El Baul, and the Municipal Theater if you’re into the performing arts scene.

4. Panajachel

Panajachel is a part of the top 31% of the cheapest cities in the world.

This is yet another town to consider living in if you’re moving to Guatemala.

Panajachel is located just west of Guatemala City.

It is also located along the shore of Lake Atitlan volcano.

A little over 16,000 people call Panajachel home.

Residents living here are comfortable paying around $805 per month for a great quality of life.

Rent and utilities can range anywhere from $376 to $498 per month on average.

There are many things to do in Panajachel, so you can rest assured you’ll be entertained.

For instance, you can check out the Casa Cakchiquel (a known culture center), or visit Museo Lacustre de Atitlan, a well-known history museum.

5. Flores

Living in Flores allows you to experience what affordable living is all about.

Flores is considered an island town, located along Lake Peten Itza in the northern region of the country.

Flores is known for its pastel-colored buildings and Latin American culture.

The cost of living in Flores is around $842 per month.

The good news is that Flores is a part of the top 33% of the cheapest towns in the entire world.

Rent is also inexpensive in Flores, with the average being $408 per month, and the highest being $590 per month.

If you’re contemplating making Flores your new home, make sure to check out the Petencito Zoo, Tikal National Park, and Jorge’s Rope Swing.

6. Jalapa

Jalapa is both a department and a town situated in the southeastern region of Guatemala.

It’s located in a valley and surrounded by the Jumay volcano.

It’s also well known for offering an affordable cost of living for those interested.

Jalapa is in the top 36% of the cheapest cities in the world, so this one is worth adding to your list.

Jalapa has an average cost of living of $900 per month.

Most of all, it’s considered the fifth-largest city in the country.

Renters pay an average of $418 per month, although it can be as high as $681 per month.

But what about entertainment?

Jalapa offers a host of things to do around the city.

For instance, residents can enjoy visiting the Pino Dulce Ecological Park, the Catarata de Urlanta, or the waterfall Tatasirire.

7. San Miguel Petapa

Located just south of Guatemala City is the infamous San Miguel Petapa.

San Miguel Petapa is both a municipality and a town located just to the south of Guatemala City.

About 129,124 people are living here and taking advantage of the affordable living the town has to offer.

San Miguel Petapa has an average cost of living of $902 per month and is also a part of the top 36% of the cheapest places in the world.

Renting in the city is also affordable.

Depending on where in the city you live, rent can be as low as $426 per month or as high as $713 per month.

There are several things to do in San Miguel Petapa, from zoos to parks.

Check out Tikal National Park or Zoologico La Aurora for some good entertainment.

8. Momostenango

Momostenango is a town located within the Totonicapan department of Guatemala.

It is located in the western highlands of the country.

Nearly 105,617 people call Momostenango home.

But can you blame them?

It’s one of the cheapest places to live not only in the country but in the world.

It is in the top 35% of the cheapest towns.

Momostenango’s cost of living is $882 per month.

Renters may pay anywhere between $419 to $474 per month, which is highly affordable.

There are many things to do in Momostenango, from sightseeing to memorable landmarks.

You’ll have a blast living here.

9. Guatemala City

Of course, we can’t forget to mention Guatemala City.

Guatemala City is the capital of Guatemala.

Guatemala City has a rich Mayan history and plenty of volcanoes, as it is located at high altitudes.

It is not only an affordable place to live, but extremely busy.

More than 995,000 people are living here.

Compared to other cities on this list, Guatemala City is a little bit more expensive to live in, but still rather cheap.

The cost of living in Guatemala City is $1,019 per month.

Rent is also affordable, and can range anywhere from $506 to $855 per month, depending on where you live.

We can’t forget about entertainment in the city.

You’ll never get bored, because Guatemala City has it all.

Be sure to visit the IRTRA Munda Petapa, a popular amusement park, and Oakland Place, one of the busiest shopping malls around.

10. Mazatenango

Last but not least, Mazatenango made the list for being one of the cheapest places to live in Guatemala.

Similar to other towns on this list, Mazatenango has an average cost of living of $880 per month.

Overall, it falls within the top 35% of the least expensive places to live in the entire world.

Mazatenango is located in the southwestern region of the country and has a population of a little more than 70,000 residents.

Moreover, it’s located 70 miles from Guatemala City.

Whether you’re looking for outdoor or indoor fun, Mazatenango offers it all.

Check out a popular recreation center called Xocomil, or feel free to explore Irtra Zejuyup.

Guatemala Safety Overview

READ THE FULL REPORT: Guatemala Safety Review

Safety Index:

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• OVERALL RISK: HIGH
• TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: LOW
• PICKPOCKETS RISK: HIGH
• NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM
• MUGGING RISK: HIGH
• TERRORISM RISK: LOW
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• WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: LOW