Cost of living in Guatemala – 2015

We moved to Panajachel on Lake Atitlan in August, and here's what we've learned about prices so far. Keep in mind that Pana has a large ex-pat population, so prices here are closer to U.S. level than is typical around the lake or elsewhere.

> accommodation prices
  A large one bedroom apartment in the center of town will run you between US$200-400. It depends strongly on how close you are to the center of town, what amenities you have (hot water?) and whether you use a realtor (who gets a commission each month). 

> public transportation fares (tube, bus etc.)
  We take tuk-tuks around when we need to get somewhere in a hurry or are tired. Otherwise we walk everywhere. A tuk-tuk ride anywhere within town costs Q5 (about $0.65) per person. If you are going out of town to Antigua or Guate City, you can usually get a shared shuttle (15-16 people crammed in, but okay) one way for US$25-35. A private shuttle round trip to the City and back will go for about US$100.

> food prices (your monthly budget)
  We live very well for two people on a food budget of about US$100-120/month. Best prices for meat and vegs are going to be in the market at the top of town. The Dispensa Familia (owned by Walmart) has decent prices on many goods. Chalo's has many familiar goods but is pricier. Saundra's also has many imported products but is generally most expensive. They have two stores so sometimes you pay for the convenience.

> energy prices (oil, electricity)
  We pay roughly US$12-15 dollars a month for electricty, US$6-8 a month for bottled water (delivered).

> common bills (Internet, television, telephone, mobile phone)
  We pay roughly US$30-35 a month for high speed Internet (I use Skype daily) and US$12-15 for cable television.

> price for a good menu in a traditional restaurant
  In many restaurants, the prices are risen in recent years to almost match U.S. prices. You'll easily pay US$3-5 dollars for a hamburger and fries, a few dollars more for a good meal. That said, luxury meals are still lower since most of the population are passing through and looking for cheaps eats. You can get a really good meal in a quality restaurant for US$8-9 dollars.

> price for a coffee or a drink
  Most coffee places in Pana will run you about US$2.50-$3 for a latte, machiotto or such.