Cost of Living in El Salvador
Last updated on Mar 06, 2024
Summary: The cost of living in El Salvador is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in El Salvador can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month in US Dollars, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in El Salvador is usually around $10 to $15 per person in US Dollars.
Is the cost of living in El Salvador high?
We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in El Salvador, they wrote:
"The cost of living in El Salvador is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries in the region. Prices for consumer goods and services are also lower than in many other countries. However, the cost of living can vary significantly depending on the city or region. For example, living in the capital city of San Salvador is more expensive than living in smaller towns and rural areas," said one person in El Salvador.
"Without an inordinate amount of partying US $650 will keep up the house-pool, pay utilities, food, car expenses, maid & caretaker," remarked one expat in La Libertad.

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Will I save money living in El Salvador?
"Living in El Salvador can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in El Salvador is generally lower than in the United States, with basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation costing much less. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also much lower in El Salvador than in the United States. As a result, many people who move to El Salvador from the United States find that they are able to save a significant amount of money," wrote a person living in El Salvador.
What is the average cost of housing in El Salvador?
If you are thinking about moving to El Salvador, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:
"The cost of housing in El Salvador varies depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, the cost of renting an apartment in El Salvador is relatively affordable compared to other countries in the region. The average cost of renting a one-bedroom apartment in a city center is around $300 to $400 per month, while the cost of renting a three-bedroom apartment in a city center is around $500 to $600 per month. Outside of the city center, the cost of renting an apartment is usually lower," said one expat in El Salvador.
What are typical rental prices for expats in El Salvador?
"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in El Salvador can range from around $400 to $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can range from around $500 to $1,000 per month," commented one expat living in El Salvador.
What appliances are typically included in a rental?
We asked foreigners in El Salvador what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:
"In El Salvador, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Additionally, some properties may include air conditioning units, dishwashers, and other appliances," commented one expat living in El Salvador.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to El Salvador?
- Where should I setup a bank account in El Salvador?
- Will I be able to find a job in El Salvador?
- What is life like as an expat in your area?
- What do expats in El Salvador appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in El Salvador?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in El Salvador accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in El Salvador like?
- How are healthcare services in El Salvador?
- What are medical services in El Salvador like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in El Salvador?
- What are emergency services like in El Salvador?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in El Salvador?
- How are local medical facilities in El Salvador?
- As a foreigner living in El Salvador, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?