Mexico
Cost of Living in Guanajuato
Guanajuato delivers roughly half the cost of San Miguel de Allende with equal or greater cultural offerings. The university town economy keeps prices local rather than tourist-inflated.
Monthly Total
$1,120
$19,600
Housing (1BR Mid-range)
$483
Daily Spend (ex. rent)
$21
Based on a typical expat lifestyle: 1BR furnished apartment, mix of cooking/eating out, rideshare transportation, moderate entertainment. Last updated: 1/19/2026.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
Housing (Rent)
1BR furnished apartment in mid-range neighborhood
$483
$8,453
Utilities
Electric, water, gas, and internet
$88
$1,540
Groceries
Groceries from supermarkets
$133
$2,328
Dining Out
Mix of casual restaurants, ~12 meals/month
$48
$840
Transportation
Rideshare (Uber/Didi), ~30 rides/month
$90
$1,575
Lifestyle & Entertainment
Entertainment, occasional cleaning service
$180
$3,150
Healthcare
Basic private health insurance
$60
$1,050
Phone & Subscriptions
Phone plan and streaming subscriptions
$38
$665
Monthly Total
$1,120
$19,600
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Living in Guanajuato
Guanajuato is exceptionally affordable—$1,200-1,600/month comfortable. Student population keeps food and entertainment cheap. No AC needed due to highland climate. Steep terrain means walkable but no mobility issues accommodated.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Guanajuato compare to San Miguel de Allende for cost of living?▼
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