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Everything you need to know before buying real estate is included in our Guatemala Property Pack
Guatemala's rental market offers competitive prices compared to neighboring Central American countries, with average monthly rents ranging from $200 to $2,000 depending on location and property type.
The strongest rental demand concentrates in Guatemala City's upscale zones (10, 14, 15), the historic city of Antigua, and the scenic Lake Atitlán area, where expats and young professionals drive market activity. As of September 2025, rental yields in Guatemala range from 5.7% to 10%, making it one of the most attractive investment markets in the region.
If you want to go deeper, you can check our pack of documents related to the real estate market in Guatemala, based on reliable facts and data, not opinions or rumors.
Average rents in Guatemala City range from $400-$1,200 for apartments, while Antigua commands $600-$1,800 for similar properties due to its tourist appeal.
Total monthly costs including utilities and fees add approximately $125-$220 to base rent, with rental yields averaging 6-8% across prime locations.
| Property Type | Guatemala City | Antigua | Lake Atitlán |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1-Bedroom Apartment | $400-$700 | $600-$900 | $400-$700 |
| 2-Bedroom Apartment | $700-$1,000 | $900-$1,200 | $700-$1,200 |
| 3-Bedroom House | $1,200-$2,000 | $1,200-$2,500 | $1,200-$1,800 |
| Rent per m² | $6-$15 | $8-$10 | $4-$8 |
| Rental Yield | 5.7-8.4% | 6-10% | 6-10% |
What are the current average monthly rents in Guatemala for apartments, houses, and condos?
Apartment rents in Guatemala vary significantly by location, with Guatemala City's premium zones commanding the highest prices.
In Guatemala City's upscale areas (Zona 10, 14, and 15), one to two-bedroom apartments rent for $400 to $1,200 monthly. Outside the city center and in secondary cities, similar apartments cost $200 to $600 per month. These central zones attract expats and young professionals due to their modern amenities and safety features.
Houses in Guatemala City range from $800 to over $2,000 monthly for mid-sized to large homes in upscale neighborhoods. In Antigua, three-bedroom historical homes typically rent for $1,000 to $1,800, while luxury or larger residences command $2,000 or more. The colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage status of Antigua drive premium pricing.
Condos are typically priced similarly to modern apartments, ranging between $700 and $1,300 monthly. These properties often include security features and maintenance services that justify the higher costs compared to standalone apartments.
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How does average rent vary by neighborhood, city, and region across Guatemala?
Guatemala City shows the most dramatic rent variations between neighborhoods, with premium zones commanding triple the prices of older areas.
Within Guatemala City, Zona 10, 14, and 15 represent the most expensive rental markets due to their concentration of businesses, restaurants, and expat-friendly amenities. Zona 1 and 11 offer significantly cheaper options, typically featuring older housing stock and catering primarily to local residents. Suburban areas surrounding the capital provide the most affordable options, with rents ranging from $300 to $700 monthly.
Antigua stands as a tourist and expat hub, driving higher demand and prices compared to other secondary cities. The city's colonial charm and international restaurant scene justify premium rents, especially for properties within walking distance of the central plaza.
Lake Atitlán maintains relatively affordable pricing but shows rising costs due to increasing expat interest. The scenic lakeside location attracts both short-term visitors and long-term residents, creating diverse rental demand patterns throughout the year.
What is the typical rent per square meter for different property types across Guatemala?
Rent per square meter varies dramatically across Guatemala's regions, with Guatemala City's premium zones leading at $6 to $15 per square meter monthly.
| Location | Apartments ($/m²/month) | Houses ($/m²/month) | Premium Properties ($/m²/month) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guatemala City (Zona 10-15) | $10-$15 | $8-$12 | $12-$18 |
| Guatemala City (Other Zones) | $6-$10 | $5-$8 | $8-$12 |
| Antigua | $8-$10 | $7-$9 | $10-$14 |
| Lake Atitlán | $4-$8 | $4-$7 | $6-$10 |
| Coastal/Rural Areas | $3-$5 | $2-$4 | $4-$7 |
Antigua commands $8 to $10 per square meter monthly for renovated apartments or houses, with simpler properties renting for less. The premium reflects the city's tourism appeal and strict architectural preservation requirements.
Coastal and rural areas offer the most affordable rates at $3 to $5 per square meter monthly, though these locations typically lack the infrastructure and amenities that urban areas provide.
What is the total monthly cost for rentals including fees, utilities, and taxes?
Total monthly rental costs in Guatemala extend well beyond base rent, typically adding $125 to $220 monthly for a standard apartment.
Utilities for an 85-square-meter apartment average $60 to $90 monthly, covering water, electricity, gas, and garbage collection. High-speed internet adds another $45 to $50 monthly, essential for the growing remote work population. These costs remain relatively stable across different neighborhoods but can spike during dry season when water becomes scarce.
Condominium or homeowners association fees range from $30 to $80 monthly, with gated communities commanding higher fees for security and maintenance services. Some luxury developments charge significantly more for premium amenities like pools, gyms, and 24-hour security.
Guatemala's 12% VAT is typically included in advertised rental prices, while property taxes remain the owner's responsibility. First-time renters should budget for agency or administrative fees equivalent to one month's rent, though this represents a one-time cost rather than recurring expense.
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What are typical mortgage costs if you buy instead of rent the same property?
Buying property in Guatemala requires substantial upfront capital, with foreigners needing 35% to 40% down payments and locals requiring 10% to 20%.
Current mortgage interest rates range from 6% to 10% for 20-year terms as of September 2025. Banks typically require extensive documentation and proof of income, with foreign buyers facing additional scrutiny and higher down payment requirements.
Additional purchase costs include 1% for legal fees, 0.15% for registration, 3% stamp duty, and 12% VAT on new properties only. For a $180,000 condominium with a 6% interest rate over 20 years, monthly payments would approximate $1,300, excluding insurance and taxes.
Property insurance adds roughly $50 to $100 monthly, while annual property taxes remain minimal compared to other countries. The total monthly ownership cost often exceeds rental prices when including maintenance, insurance, and opportunity cost of the down payment.
How do short-term rental rates compare to long-term rentals for similar properties?
Short-term rentals command significantly higher daily rates but face occupancy challenges that affect overall profitability.
One-bedroom apartments in Guatemala City's center rent for $30 to $100 nightly on platforms like Airbnb, translating to $900 to $2,400 monthly if fully booked. However, actual occupancy rates, platform fees, and turnover costs typically reduce net income to levels comparable to or slightly above long-term rentals.
Long-term monthly rates typically run 30% to 50% below equivalent short-term calculations due to reduced turnover costs and guaranteed occupancy. Property owners save on cleaning fees, utility setup costs, and platform commissions while gaining rental stability.
Tourist areas like Antigua and Lake Atitlán show stronger short-term rental performance due to consistent visitor demand. However, Guatemala City's business traveler market provides more stable year-round occupancy for short-term rentals compared to seasonal tourist destinations.
Can you provide example monthly rents for small, medium, and large properties in popular locations?
Property size significantly impacts rental costs, with luxury options commanding premium prices across all locations.
1. **Small Properties (1-bedroom):** - Guatemala City: $400-$700 for modern apartments in safe neighborhoods - Antigua: $600-$900 for colonial-style units near the center - Lake Atitlán: $400-$700 for lakeside or village properties - Luxury options: $1,000+ for premium amenities and locations2. **Medium Properties (2-bedroom):** - Guatemala City: $700-$1,000 for family-friendly apartments - Antigua: $900-$1,200 for renovated colonial properties - Lake Atitlán: $700-$1,200 for houses with lake access - Luxury options: $1,500+ for gated communities and premium areas3. **Large Properties (3+ bedrooms):** - Guatemala City: $1,200-$2,000 for spacious homes in upscale zones - Antigua: $1,200-$2,500 for historical houses with courtyards - Lake Atitlán: $1,200-$1,800 for waterfront properties - Luxury options: $2,000-$4,000 for premium locations and amenities4. **Ultra-luxury Properties:** - All locations: $2,500-$5,000+ for exceptional properties with premium features - Gated communities with security, pools, and concierge servicesWho are the main renter profiles and what property types do they typically choose?
Guatemala's rental market serves diverse tenant profiles, each with distinct preferences and budget ranges.
Young professionals and expats primarily seek modern or serviced one to two-bedroom apartments in Guatemala City's central zones. These renters prioritize safety, internet connectivity, and proximity to international businesses and restaurants. They typically budget $600 to $1,200 monthly and value amenities like security, parking, and modern appliances.
Middle-class local families prefer two to three-bedroom homes or condos in suburban or central areas with good transportation links. These tenants focus on value, school proximity, and family-friendly neighborhoods, typically spending $400 to $800 monthly on housing.
Retirees and long-term expats gravitate toward townhouses, historic homes in Antigua, or lakeside properties around Lake Atitlán. This demographic often rents annually, values cultural authenticity, and budgets $800 to $1,500 monthly for comfortable long-term living.
International visitors and digital nomads choose short-term furnished rentals via Airbnb, prioritizing location, WiFi quality, and move-in-ready conditions. Growing demand from remote workers drives increased interest in efficient, technology-supported smaller properties.
What are the current vacancy rates by property type and area?
Vacancy rates in Guatemala vary dramatically between developed urban areas and oversupplied suburban developments.
Urban and prime areas maintain low vacancy rates below 5% to 8%, particularly in trendy Guatemala City neighborhoods and Antigua during tourist season. Strong demand from expats, young professionals, and tourists keeps these markets tight, especially for well-maintained properties with modern amenities.
Less developed suburban areas experience high vacancy rates due to oversupply following recent construction booms. Many new developments outside Guatemala City struggle to attract tenants, leading to extended marketing periods and price pressure on landlords.
The luxury segment in Zona 10 shows signs of oversupply with rising vacancy rates as developers built more high-end units than the market demands. Properties priced above $1,500 monthly face increased competition and longer rental periods.
Seasonal variations affect tourist areas significantly, with Antigua and Lake Atitlán seeing vacancy rates drop during peak season (December through April) but rise during rainy season when tourist demand decreases.
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 are the average rental yields for different property types and areas?
Guatemala offers some of Central America's most attractive rental yields, ranging from 5.7% to 10% depending on location and property type.
Guatemala City delivers gross yields between 5.7% and 8.4%, with luxury properties typically achieving the lower end around 5% to 6%. Mid-range apartments in popular zones like Zona 14 and 15 often achieve 7% to 8% yields due to strong rental demand and moderate purchase prices.
Antigua and Lake Atitlán command higher yields ranging from 6% to 10% for vacation and expat-targeted properties. The tourist appeal and limited supply of quality rental properties drive these superior returns, particularly for well-located and well-maintained properties.
Short-term rental properties can achieve gross yields up to 12% to 15% in peak tourist areas, though operating costs and vacancy periods typically reduce net yields to 8% to 10%. Property owners must factor in higher management costs, cleaning fees, and platform commissions when calculating actual returns.
It's something we develop in our Guatemala property pack.
How have rents and yields changed over the past one and five years, and what's the forecast?
Guatemala's rental market has shown consistent growth over recent years, with accelerating trends in urban centers and tourist areas.
Over the past year, rents and property prices increased 3% to 7% overall, with Antigua leading growth due to increased expat migration and tourism recovery. Guatemala City's premium zones saw 4% to 6% rent increases, driven by limited quality housing supply and growing demand from young professionals.
The five-year trend shows consistent appreciation of 4% to 8% annually in prime locations, with yields remaining stable to slightly increasing. This steady growth reflects Guatemala's economic stability, urbanization trends, and increasing international interest in the country as a retirement and investment destination.
Forecasts for the next one to five years predict continued annual rent increases of 3% to 7% in city and tourist areas. Guatemala City's ongoing urban development, Antigua's UNESCO status, and Lake Atitlán's natural beauty will likely sustain demand growth. The 10-year outlook remains positive for steady appreciation as urbanization and expat migration continue expanding.
Economic factors supporting growth include Guatemala's stable currency, growing middle class, and increasing foreign investment in tourism and technology sectors. However, oversupply in some luxury segments may moderate growth in specific submarkets.
How do Guatemala's rents and yields compare with other large cities in similar economies?
Guatemala offers significantly more attractive investment opportunities compared to neighboring Central American countries, with lower entry costs and higher yields.
Rental costs in Guatemala remain substantially lower than Costa Rica or Panama, particularly for city apartments. While a comparable apartment in San José or Panama City might rent for $800 to $1,500, Guatemala City offers similar quality for $500 to $1,000, making it accessible to a broader range of tenants and investors.
Guatemala's rental yields of 5.7% to 10% significantly exceed most other Central American capitals, where yields typically range from 4% to 7%. This superior performance reflects Guatemala's combination of affordable property prices and strong rental demand from both locals and internationals.
Property prices per square meter in Guatemala City ($1,000 to $2,000) fall below Latin American averages for similar-sized cities. This creates opportunities for investors to enter the market with lower capital requirements while achieving competitive returns.
The country's political stability, dollarization in some sectors, and growing expat community provide additional advantages over regional competitors. However, infrastructure limitations and lower average incomes compared to Costa Rica and Panama affect the ceiling for premium property values.
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.
Guatemala's rental market presents compelling opportunities for both investors and residents, with competitive yields and affordable entry points compared to regional alternatives.
The combination of stable economic conditions, growing expat interest, and urbanization trends supports continued market growth, particularly in Guatemala City, Antigua, and Lake Atitlán areas.
Sources
- Wise - Cost of Living Guatemala
- Food Travel Explore - Guatemala Cost Guide
- Numbeo - Guatemala Property Investment
- International Living - Antigua Rentals
- Rentberry - Guatemala City Apartments
- Home Rentals Guatemala
- The LatinVestor - Average House Prices
- Exiap - Living Costs Guatemala
- Antigua Fine Homes - Monthly Bills
- Biz Latin Hub - Buying Property