How Guatemala compares across key indices
Cost of Living
44 vs NYC
100 = NYC
Safety Index
43/100
Healthcare
67/100
Quality of Life
104/200
Climate
100/100
How far your money goes in Guatemala
Cost of Living
44
100 = NYC baseline
Rent Index
17
100 = NYC rent
Groceries
52
100 = NYC groceries
Restaurant Prices
40
100 = NYC dining
How safe residents feel in Guatemala — based on surveys of people living there
Safety Index
43/100
Crime Index
57/100
Lower is better
Crime Trend
62/100
Crime perceived as increasing
26 point drop from day to night
0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem
Based on 120 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.
We're gathering city-level data for Guatemala.
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Healthcare system overview for Guatemala
Healthcare Index
67/100
How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality
Based on 50 survey responses
Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Air quality, water, and environmental conditions in Guatemala
Pollution Index
73/100
Lower is better
0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern
Based on 57 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.
How people get around in Guatemala
Average One-Way Commute
49minutes
Long
Traffic Index
255
Heavy congestion
Inefficiency
275
Time wasted in traffic
CO2 Emissions
12.4kg/trip
Based on 36 survey responses.
Common questions about living in Guatemala, answered with data
Guatemala has a cost of living index of 44 relative to New York City (100). It is moderately affordable compared to the US.
Guatemala has a safety index of 43/100, making it moderately safe for expats and travellers.
Guatemala scores 67/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it good by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.
Yes. Guatemala's cost of living is roughly 56% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 83% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.
Guatemala has a pollution index of 73/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.
Your pre-departure checklist for Guatemala
Escape Plan Quiz
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Salary Calculator
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Side-by-side breakdown of cost of living, safety, healthcare, and more.
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