How are Americans living in Guatemala?

Authored by the expert who managed and guided the team behind the Guatemala Property Pack

Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Guatemala Property Pack

Who is the author of this content?

THE LATINVESTOR

A team specialized in real estate investing in LATAM countries

We are a team of financial experts, legal professionals, developers, and local real estate specialists dedicated to helping people like you avoid mistakes when investing in real estate in a foreign place, particularly in Guatemala. If you'd like to learn more about us, you can check our presentation page.

How this content was created 🔎📝

At The LatinVestor, we explore the Guatemala real estate market every day. Our team doesn't just analyze data from a distance—we're actively engaging with local realtors, investors, and property managers in cities like Guatemala City, Antigua, and Quetzaltenango. This hands-on approach allows us to gain a deep understanding of the market from the inside out.

These observations are originally based on what we've learned through these conversations and our observations. But it was not enough. To back them up, we also needed to rely on trusted resources

We prioritize accuracy and authority. Trends lacking solid data or expert validation were excluded.

Trustworthiness is central to our work. Every source and citation is clearly listed, ensuring transparency. A writing AI-powered tool was used solely to refine readability and engagement.

To make the information accessible, our team designed custom infographics that clarify key points. We hope you will like them! All illustrations and media were created in-house and added manually.

How many Americans are currently living in Guatemala?

As of September 2025, approximately 9,000 Americans have established permanent residence in Guatemala.

The majority of these American expatriates concentrate in three main areas: Guatemala City (the capital), Antigua (the colonial heritage city), and communities around Lake Atitlán in the western highlands.

Guatemala City hosts the largest American community due to business opportunities and modern amenities, while Antigua attracts retirees and those seeking a historic, walkable environment with established expat services. The Lake Atitlán region draws Americans interested in natural beauty, spiritual retreats, and a more relaxed lifestyle.

This number represents only permanent residents and doesn't include the thousands of Americans who spend extended periods in Guatemala as digital nomads, seasonal residents, or long-term tourists on renewable visas.

The American expat population has grown steadily over the past decade, driven primarily by cost-of-living advantages and Guatemala's proximity to the United States.

Why do Americans choose to move to Guatemala?

Cost of living represents the primary motivator, with Americans saving 41-63% compared to US expenses.

Guatemala's year-round temperate climate, particularly in highland areas like Antigua, offers what locals call "eternal spring" weather with temperatures consistently between 60-80°F (15-27°C). This eliminates seasonal heating and cooling costs while providing comfortable outdoor living year-round.

Proximity to the United States allows for relatively easy travel back home, with direct flights from Guatemala City to major US cities taking 3-5 hours. Cultural richness appeals to Americans seeking immersion in Mayan heritage, Spanish colonial architecture, and vibrant local traditions.

Retirees find their Social Security and retirement savings stretch significantly further, while digital nomads appreciate reliable internet in major cities and tourist areas. The adventure factor attracts those wanting to experience active volcanoes, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems from cloud forests to tropical beaches.

It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.

Do most people in Guatemala speak English, or will I need to learn Spanish?

Spanish is the official language spoken by 93% of Guatemala's population, and English proficiency is limited outside tourist-oriented areas.

In expat-heavy locations like Antigua, central Lake Atitlán towns (Panajachel), and upscale areas of Guatemala City, you'll find English-speaking restaurant staff, tour guides, and business owners. Many Spanish language schools in these areas also employ bilingual staff.

However, venture beyond these tourist zones and English becomes rare. Government offices, banks, utility companies, medical facilities, and local markets operate exclusively in Spanish. Rural areas and indigenous communities often use Mayan languages as primary communication, with Spanish as a second language.

Americans planning long-term residence should invest in Spanish learning before arrival. Basic conversational Spanish becomes essential for practical matters like opening bank accounts, dealing with legal processes, or handling property maintenance issues.

Many successful American expats recommend at least 6 months of Spanish study before relocating, followed by continued learning through local classes or conversation groups.

What is daily life like for Americans living there?

Daily life varies dramatically depending on your chosen location and lifestyle preferences.

Location	Lifestyle	Daily Characteristics
Antigua	Historic Colonial	Cobblestone streets, café culture, Spanish schools, weekend markets, expat social events
Lake Atitlán	Nature-Focused	Yoga retreats, hiking, kayaking, spiritual communities, organic farming, slower pace
Guatemala City	Urban Modern	Shopping malls, international restaurants, business districts, traffic, security concerns
Quetzaltenango	Authentic Local	University town, local markets, indigenous culture, cooler weather, fewer tourists
Rural Areas	Traditional	Agricultural communities, basic infrastructure, nature immersion, local customs

Most Americans report comfortable living on $700-$1,200 monthly budgets, accessing fresh produce at local markets, enjoying outdoor activities like hiking active volcanoes, and participating in cultural events. However, infrastructure challenges include occasional power outages, water interruptions, and slower internet speeds in remote areas.

How does the cost of living in Guatemala compare to the United States?

Americans living in Guatemala typically save 41-63% on overall living expenses compared to the United States.

Housing costs show the most dramatic savings, with one-bedroom apartments in city centers renting for $400-$650 monthly versus $1,600+ in comparable US cities. Outside urban centers, housing costs drop even further, with many Americans finding quality accommodations for $200-$400 monthly.

Healthcare expenses run 60-80% lower than US costs, with routine doctor visits costing $15-$30 and prescription medications available at fraction of US prices. Dental care and optical services offer particularly attractive savings for American expats.

Food costs vary significantly based on shopping habits. Local markets provide fresh produce, meats, and staples at very low prices, while imported American brands and specialty items carry premium pricing. Dining out costs substantially less, with quality local meals available for $3-$8.

Utilities including electricity, water, and internet typically total $80-$150 monthly, though rural areas may experience higher costs due to infrastructure limitations.

What are some things in Guatemala that are better than in the United States?

Guatemala offers several lifestyle advantages that many Americans find superior to their home country experience.

1. **Climate consistency**: Highland areas maintain comfortable temperatures year-round without expensive heating or cooling systems2. **Fresh, affordable produce**: Daily markets offer seasonal fruits and vegetables at prices often 70-80% below US supermarket costs3. **Natural beauty access**: Active volcanoes, pristine lakes, ancient ruins, and diverse ecosystems within short travel distances4. **Community connection**: Smaller expat communities foster closer relationships and mutual support networks5. **Cultural richness**: Daily exposure to Mayan traditions, colonial architecture, and vibrant local festivals6. **Healthcare affordability**: Quality medical and dental care at accessible prices for routine and specialized treatments7. **Slower pace**: Reduced stress from traffic, work pressure, and consumer culture compared to typical American urban life

Many American residents report improved work-life balance, stronger community connections, and greater appreciation for simple pleasures like daily market visits and extended conversations with neighbors.

What are some things in Guatemala that might be worse or more difficult than in the United States?

Guatemala presents several challenges that Americans must navigate compared to their home country standards.

1. **Safety concerns**: Higher crime rates, particularly in Guatemala City and border areas, requiring increased security awareness2. **Infrastructure reliability**: Frequent power outages, water interruptions, and slower internet speeds, especially in rural areas3. **Healthcare limitations**: While affordable, specialized medical care may require travel to Guatemala City or medical tourism to other countries4. **Language barriers**: Limited English outside tourist areas creates communication challenges for daily tasks and emergencies5. **Bureaucratic complexity**: Government processes often involve multiple offices, extensive paperwork, and potential corruption issues6. **Transportation challenges**: Public transportation quality varies widely, and road conditions can be poor in rural areas7. **Natural disaster risks**: Earthquake activity, volcanic eruptions, and severe weather events pose periodic threats

It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.

Can Americans buy property in Guatemala, and if so, how does the process work?

Americans enjoy full property ownership rights in Guatemala with almost no restrictions, unlike many other Central American countries.

The property purchase process requires hiring a qualified local attorney who conducts title searches, verifies property boundaries, and ensures clear ownership. Due diligence becomes critical as land disputes and unclear titles represent common issues in Guatemala's property market.

Essential steps include making a formal offer, signing a purchase contract, conducting professional inspections, and registering the property with Guatemala's Property Registry (Registro de la Propiedad). The entire process typically takes 30-60 days for completed transactions.

Americans can obtain financing through some local banks, though most purchases involve cash transactions or seller financing arrangements. Property taxes remain relatively low, typically 0.2-0.9% of assessed value annually.

Legal fees, registration costs, and transfer taxes usually total 3-5% of the purchase price, significantly lower than many US markets.

What is the lifestyle like for expats in different parts of Guatemala?

Guatemala offers distinctly different expat lifestyle experiences depending on your chosen location.

Antigua provides a sophisticated colonial experience with cobblestone streets, restored buildings, numerous restaurants, and active social scenes. The city hosts regular cultural events, art galleries, and established expat organizations. However, tourist-oriented pricing makes Antigua the most expensive expat destination in Guatemala.

Lake Atitlán attracts Americans seeking spiritual communities, wellness retreats, and outdoor activities. The lake's surrounding villages each offer unique characteristics: Panajachel provides modern amenities, San Pedro appeals to younger travelers and digital nomads, while San Marcos focuses on yoga and meditation communities.

Guatemala City offers urban amenities including shopping malls, international restaurants, modern medical facilities, and business opportunities. However, security concerns require careful neighborhood selection and consistent safety precautions.

Quetzaltenango (Xela) appeals to Americans wanting authentic Guatemalan experiences without heavy tourist influence. The city offers university atmosphere, affordable living costs, and cooler highland climate, though with fewer English-speaking services.

What are the biggest challenges Americans face when living there?

Language barriers create the most persistent challenge for Americans living in Guatemala outside established expat communities.

Navigating bureaucratic processes for residency, property purchases, or business registration often involves multiple government offices, extensive documentation, and potential delays or corruption issues. Americans report frustration with inconsistent information and changing requirements.

Safety concerns require constant vigilance, particularly in urban areas and during travel between cities. Americans must adapt to security measures like avoiding certain neighborhoods, using secure transportation, and limiting displays of wealth.

Infrastructure limitations affect daily life through power outages, water supply interruptions, and unreliable internet connectivity. Rural areas experience more frequent and longer-duration service interruptions.

Healthcare access varies dramatically by location, with Americans in remote areas potentially facing long travel times for specialized medical care or emergency services.

We did some research and made this infographic to help you quickly compare rental yields of the major cities in Guatemala versus those in neighboring countries. It provides a clear view of how this country positions itself as a real estate investment destination, which might interest you if you're planning to invest there.

What legal or immigration requirements should Americans know about before moving?

Americans can enter Guatemala with valid passports and remain visa-free for 90 days, renewable once for a maximum 180-day stay per year.

For longer residence, Americans must apply for temporary or permanent residency through Guatemala's immigration office (DIGIM). Temporary residency requires proof of monthly income ($1,000+ from external sources), while permanent residency demands higher income thresholds or significant local investment.

All visitors must carry passports or certified copies at all times, as police frequently conduct document checks. Proof of onward or return travel may be required at entry points.

Property ownership requires no special visas or permits, allowing Americans to purchase real estate while maintaining tourist status. However, establishing businesses or working for wages requires proper work permits and business registration.

Legal processes benefit significantly from qualified local attorneys familiar with American client needs and current immigration regulations.

Are there any cultural differences or customs that Americans should be aware of?

Guatemala's indigenous Mayan culture remains prominent, particularly in highland communities where traditional dress, languages, and customs continue daily practice.

Guatemalans typically emphasize formal greetings and polite conversation before conducting business or personal matters. Americans should expect longer social interactions and avoid rushing directly to practical topics.

Time perception differs significantly from American standards, with "mañana" culture meaning scheduled meetings, appointments, and services often experience delays. Flexibility and patience become essential for successful adaptation.

Religious traditions, particularly Catholic and evangelical practices, influence community life and business schedules. Major holidays like Semana Santa (Holy Week) and local patron saint festivals create extended celebration periods affecting business operations.

Market bargaining represents expected practice in local markets, while fixed pricing applies in modern stores and restaurants. Americans should learn appropriate negotiation customs to avoid overpaying or causing offense.

It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.

Conclusion

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Readers are advised to consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. We do not assume any liability for actions taken based on the information provided.

Sources

1. The LatinVestor - Americans Living in Guatemala
2. Wikipedia - Languages of Guatemala
3. Central America - English Speaking Countries
4. Robe Trotting - Living in Guatemala Antigua
5. Expat Exchange - Best Places to Live in Guatemala
6. Living Cost - Guatemala vs United States
7. Numbeo - Cost of Living Comparison
8. Lonely Planet - Best Places to Visit in Guatemala
9. Budget Your Trip - Guatemala vs USA
10. Human Rights Watch - Guatemala Report 2025