🇬🇹 Cost of Living: Guatemala vs Honduras — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Guatemala
CapitalGuatemala City
Population18.1 million
Area108,889 km² (42,042 sq mi)
LanguagesSpanish
CurrencyGuatemalan quetzal (Q)
TimezoneUTC-06:00
RegionAmericas / Central America
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$14,369 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.9% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$392 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend57.2% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)3.1% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Guatemala is generally cheaper than Honduras, with an overall cost of living that is around 10-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Guatemala GDP per Capita (PPP)8,100
Honduras GDP per Capita (PPP)5,600
Guatemala Inflation Rate3.5%
Honduras Inflation Rate4.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Guatemala
Overview: Guatemala vs Honduras
Guatemala and Honduras are two neighboring countries in Central America, sharing similar cultural and historical backgrounds, but with distinct economic profiles. Guatemala has a more diverse economy, with a stronger focus on agriculture, manufacturing, and tourism, which contributes to its relatively higher GDP per capita. Honduras, on the other hand, has a more limited economy, with a greater reliance on agriculture and remittances from abroad. As a result, Guatemala tends to have a higher cost of living, particularly in urban areas, but overall, it is still cheaper than Honduras. The difference in cost of living between the two countries is around 10-20%, with Guatemala being the more affordable option.
The economic context of both countries also plays a significant role in determining their cost of living. Guatemala has a more stable economy, with a lower inflation rate and a more diversified industrial base. Honduras, however, has faced more economic challenges, including higher inflation and a greater dependence on foreign aid. These factors contribute to the difference in cost of living between the two countries, with Guatemala being the more affordable option for expats, students, and retirees. Additionally, the cost of living in both countries can vary significantly depending on the location, with urban areas tend to be more expensive than rural areas.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Guatemala (USD)
Honduras (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
250
300
16.7% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
180
220
18.2% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
450
550
18.2% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Guatemala (USD)
Honduras (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
6
16.7% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
300
350
14.3% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
2.5
20% cheaper
Coffee
1.5
2
25% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Guatemala (USD)
Honduras (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
25
20% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
1
1.2
16.7% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.8
0.9
11.1% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Guatemala (USD)
Honduras (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
80
100
20% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
35
14.3% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
12
16.7% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Guatemala (USD)
Honduras (USD)
Savings
Budget
600
700
14.3%
Mid-Range
1,000
1,200
16.7%
Comfortable
1,500
1,800
16.7%
Where Each Country Wins
Guatemala is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices around 15-20% lower than in Honduras
Food and dining, with meals and groceries costing around 15-25% less
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices around 10-20% lower
Utilities and internet, with bills around 15-20% cheaper
Honduras is cheaper for:
Some tourist activities, such as visiting national parks and museums
Local handicrafts and souvenirs, which can be found at lower prices in Honduras
Certain types of accommodation, such as hostels and guesthouses, which can be cheaper in Honduras
Some types of food, such as seafood and traditional dishes, which can be found at lower prices in Honduras
Bottom Line
Guatemala offers better value for expats, students, and retirees, with a lower cost of living and a more diverse range of amenities and services. The country's stronger economy and more stable political environment also make it a more attractive option for those looking to invest or start a business. However, Honduras can be a more affordable option for budget travelers and backpackers, with cheaper accommodation and food options available. Ultimately, the choice between Guatemala and Honduras will depend on individual priorities and lifestyles, but overall, Guatemala is the more affordable and attractive option for most people. Additionally, both countries offer a unique cultural and natural experience, with rich history, stunning landscapes, and friendly people, making them both great destinations for travelers and expats alike.