San Salvador El Salvador.
El Salvador is becoming popular for expats, digital nomads, and retirees due to improved safety, a growing economy, and improving amenities. With this appeal, many wonder—how expensive it is to live in El Salvador?—well, let’s find out!
In El Salvador, the monthly cost of living for a family or a single individual varies based on geographic location, personal lifestyle choices, and spending habits.
Urban areas like San Salvador have higher costs than smaller towns such as Sensuntepeque or rural regions. Additionally, dietary preferences, transportation needs, and healthcare requirements can influence overall expenditures.
Cost per Family or Individual
The cost of living in El Salvador for a family of four without rent ranges from $1,000 to $3,000. However, these ranges can go as low as $500 or higher than $3,000. Living location and individual needs significantly impact the total living cost per family.
El Salvador’s cost of living for a single person without rent ranges from $500 to $1,500. But, these ranges can go as low as $250 and higher than $1,500. The person’s lifestyle and residency location will influence the overall cost of living.
Food & Grocery Expenses
The cost of food and groceries in El Salvador varies depending on individual choices and location.
For example, buying local products will be cheaper than opting for imported items; eating out at a small food stand in the local market is less expensive than fast food places or restaurants, and buying at the local markets is cheaper than supermarkets.
Here are a few samples of prices at a local market compared to a supermarket.
| Item | Local Market | Supermarket |
|---|---|---|
| 30 jumbo eggs | $5.25 | $6.75 |
| Sugar White (5.5 lb) | $2.45 | $3.50 |
| Red beans (1 lb) | $1.35 | $1.95 |
| Corn Flower (5 lb) | $3.20 | $3.95 |
SEE ALSO: El Salvador’s Challenges and Concerns: What Concerns Salvadorans the Most?
The above table only has a few items because the prices fluctuate regularly. But, the prices are about 10% to 30% cheaper in the local markets.
If you want to view how much things cost today at the supermarket, visit the SuperSlectos or La Despensa de Don Juan website.
The following table will give you an idea of the cost of food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at a local market, fast food places, and a restaurant. These are lower-end prices; however, these costs can fluctuate depending on the location.
| local market | Fast Food | Restaurant | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Salvadoran Breakfast with drink |
$2.75 | $5.75 | $9.50 |
| Lunch combo with drink |
$3.75 | $7.50 | $13.00 |
| Dinner combo with drink |
$6.00 | $8.00 | $16.00 |
Overall, food and grocery expenses in El Salvador are lower when choosing local over imported goods, eating at small markets instead of restaurants, and shopping at local markets rather than supermarkets.
Making these choices helps reduce costs while enjoying fresh, affordable, authentic Salvadoran food.
SEE ALSO: Exploring El Salvador Culture: Embracing Vibrant Customs and Traditions with Warm-hearted People
Transportation Costs
The cost of transportation in El Salvador is relatively affordable compared to other Central American countries.
The most affordable way to get around in El Salvador within a city is by taking public buses, called “micros,” with fares between $0.20 and $0.35 for city trips.
Long-distance buses are available for those traveling between cities; tickets typically cost between $2 and $5 for a one-way trip.
Public buses, either micro or long-distance, are inexpensive; however, they can be crowded and lack strict safety regulations.
Taxis and ride-hailing services like Uber are available in urban areas. Taxi fares can vary, typically starting at $5, while Uber trips in San Salvador usually cost between $3 and $10, depending on distance and time of day.
Driving is the best mode of transportation in El Salvador—but it is not cheap. Gasoline prices fluctuate, but since mid-2024, their prices generally range between $3.50 and $4.50 per gallon.
Car insurance costs will also vary depending on the type of car and coverage you want.
I highly recommend having full coverage that protects you if someone hits you and is uninsured. In El Salvador, car insurance is optional; therefore, most Salvadoran drivers do not carry car insurance.
Overall, transportation in El Salvador is budget-friendly, though convenience and safety vary by mode of travel.
Housing Costs in El Salvador
Housing costs in El Salvador vary widely depending on location and lifestyle. Like any other country, the location and type of property play a significant role in the expense of renting or buying.
The following information is for anyone looking to move to El Salvador. I will only list the costs of areas popular with foreigners. I will divide them into large or popular cities and small towns.
| Low Cost |
High Cost |
|
|---|---|---|
| ***Popular cities San Salvador Santa Tecla Antiguo Cuscatlan |
Buying $175,000 Renting $400 |
Buying $900,000 + Renting $1,500 + |
| ***Smaller towns Suchitoto Juayua Sensuntepeque |
Buying $55,000 Renting $200 |
Buying $200,000 + Renting $450 + |
In major cities like San Salvador, Santa Tecla, and Antiguo Cuscatlán, rent for a modern apartment in a desirable neighborhood can range from $400 to $1,500 per month, with luxury homes and high-end condominiums costing significantly more.
In contrast, smaller towns like Suchitoto, Juayua, and Sensuntepeque offer much lower prices, where comfortable homes can be rented for $200 to $500 per month, and purchasing property is more affordable.
For those seeking luxury living, gated communities with security, modern amenities, and oceanfront properties in places like El Tunco, La Libertad, and Costa del Sol can cost upwards of $2,000 monthly for rent or hundreds of thousands of dollars to purchase.
Meanwhile, local neighborhoods offer budget-friendly housing, with basic homes for under $100,000 in many areas.
Over the past few years, El Salvador’s housing cost has increased; the country’s improved safety and growing tourism industry have driven up housing demand, particularly in coastal areas and expat-friendly zones.
Many foreigners, investors, and the Salvadoran diaspora are purchasing properties, increasing prices in key locations. Despite this, El Salvador remains more affordable than many other countries, offering diverse budget options.
Utilities & Internet
A typical Salvadoran household’s monthly utility expenses, including electricity, water, and gas, average around $59.00 for an individual and $110.00 for a family—these monthly figures are on the lower end.
Home internet services typically cost between $30 and $75 monthly, depending on speed and provider.
The major internet providers in 2025 include Claro, Tigo, and Digicel; they offerr a mixture of packages to meet different needs.
Mobile phone plans are generally affordable, with monthly charges averaging around $12, though costs can range from $7 to $28, depending on usage and data packages.
Claro, Tigo, and Digicel are the principal mobile data providers in the country; they offer competitive plans, ensuring widespread coverage and reliable service nationwide.
Remember that the cost of utilities and internet will fluctuate depending on your location and the amount of data you use.
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare costs in El Salvador vary significantly between the public and private sectors. Also, El Salvador is a developing country; some doctors or clinics will not take insurance.
Public healthcare is free or low-cost, but services can be overcrowded, with long wait times and limited resources.
Private healthcare offers higher-quality services, shorter wait times, and modern facilities, but at a higher price.
A consultation with a private doctor typically costs $10 to $50, while specialist visits can range from $50 to $100.
Hospital stays in private clinics can cost several hundred dollars per night, and major surgeries may cost thousands.
Health insurance helps manage these costs. Local insurance plans start at $50 per month, covering private clinics and hospitals.
International insurance, often preferred by expats, offers broader coverage, including medical evacuation and treatment abroad, but premiums are higher, usually exceeding $150 per month.
While public healthcare is a budget-friendly option, those seeking faster and higher-quality care often opt for private services or insurance.
SEE ALSO: Living in El Salvador: Top Reasons for Moving to El Salvador
Entertainment & Leisure
The cost of entertainment will vary depending on location, type of establishment, and activity—El Salvador offers an extensive range of entertainment and leisure activities for individuals and families.
Movie tickets at major theaters like Cinépolis or Multicinema cost around $5.50 and up, with discounts on certain days.
Dining out at local restaurants can be as low as $5 per meal, while upscale dining in areas like San Benito or La Gran Vía may cost $20 to $50 per person.
For outdoor enthusiasts, beach trips to El Tunco or El Zonte are budget-friendly, with surfboard rentals starting at $10 per hour. National park entry fees, like El Boquerón or Cerro Verde, are typically $1 to $5 per person.
Nightlife in San Salvador varies, with drinks at bars costing $3 to $6, while club entry fees range from $5 to $15. Overall, entertainment in El Salvador is affordable, catering to all budgets.
Cost of Living in El Salvador: Future Outlook
The cost of living in El Salvador is ideal for anyone looking to live in Central America; it’s not the lowest in the region but is not the highest either.
El Salvador is affordable for everyone, but you may have to adapt to local living. While prices have risen in some areas, essential costs like food, transportation, and utilities remain budget-friendly.
For expats and retirees, housing costs vary, but smaller towns and local neighborhoods offer excellent value. Luxury living is available at higher prices, particularly in coastal and urban areas experiencing tourism growth.
Those who embrace local markets, public transport, and affordable healthcare can maintain a comfortable lifestyle at lower costs.
People in El Salvador who focus on saving money shop at local markets instead of supermarkets, use public transportation instead of private cars, and choose local health insurance plans.
Overall, El Salvador offers a balanced cost of living, with options for budget-conscious individuals and those seeking luxury. Planning and adapting to local prices can ensure an affordable and enjoyable experience.
