Thinking About Wintering in Guatemala? Here’s a Detailed Budget Breakdown
Retiring abroad permanently might not be in your plans, but what about escaping the dreary winters for 3-6 months each year? This could be a perfect middle ground between living abroad and staying at home. Let’s dive into how much it would cost to spend a winter (or half a year) in Guatemala.
Budget for a 3-Month Stay
For a three-month stay, you don’t need a visa; you can enter Guatemala as a tourist. Flights from Miami on Spirit Airlines will cost you roughly $300 for a return trip. Flying from other parts of the U.S. with airlines like Delta or American will set you back around $750-$800.
Pack lightly; long-term rentals in Guatemala often come fully furnished with everything you need—towels, bedsheets, kitchen equipment, and more. If not, you can buy these items locally for about $100.
In the picturesque colonial town of Antigua, you can find basic rentals starting at $300 a month. For something more comfortable, expect to pay between $600 and $1,000. This price generally includes utilities like water, internet, maintenance, and gardening, but electricity might cost an additional $25-$50 a month. The rental price typically places you in the town center, where you can walk anywhere. If needed, a $2 tuk-tuk ride can get you home.
Your daily food costs can be as low as $5 if you eat at local markets. For a more varied diet including imported goods like cheese and wine, budget $200-$500 a month. Add another $50-$100 if you plan to dine out occasionally.
You won’t need a car; safe shuttle services across the country range from $20 to $50 depending on the distance. You can either spend the last few weeks of your stay traveling, or take one or two short trips each month. Mid-range hotels cost about $40-$80 per night, while budget options can be as low as $2. At the higher end, luxury hotels can exceed $400 per night. For $200 a day, two people can comfortably stay in a clean, centrally-located hotel, eat local meals, and cover transportation.
Estimated total for two people for three months:
– Flights: $1,500
– Rent: $2,400
– Food: $1,500
– Travel: $2,400
– Total: $6,800 ($1,150 per person per month)
This budget provides a comfortable lifestyle for two people who prefer good weather, a homely environment, imported foods, and safe travels. While some retirees manage on as little as $300 a month, this $1,150-per-month budget lets you live comfortably.
Budget for a 6-Month Stay
If you decide to stay for six months, you’ll need to renew your 90-day tourist visa. This is a simple process requiring a passport copy, a photo, and a $15 fee. Your credit card usually covers major health emergencies for the first 90 days, but you may need additional coverage if you stay longer.
For a six-month stay, the budget remains mostly the same, though you might get a discount on rent. I’ve budgeted $800 a month, which accounts for cleaning services and other extras. You might also become more adventurous with your food choices and travel arrangements, reducing your food expense to around $330 a month, enough to buy imported goods and enjoy local cuisine. Travel costs drop to $120 a day, as you’ll likely explore less luxurious towns after the initial tourist spots.
Estimated total for two people for six months:
– Flights: $1,500
– Visa renewal: $30
– Rent: $4,800
– Food: $2,000
– Travel: $2,900
– Total: $11,230 ($935 per person per month)
Six months in Guatemala costs slightly less per month than three months, offering a comfortable lifestyle. Many people spend a similar amount just by staying home. If you own a house, your domestic expenses should be minimal while you’re away. You might even consider renting your home on Airbnb if it’s in a desirable location.
