The Cost of Living in Honduras | An Expert Guide

Honduras, a country in Central America known for its rich natural resources and diverse landscapes, offers a relatively affordable lifestyle with varying costs across its regions. With a population of approximately 10 million people, Honduras combines Caribbean coastal areas, colonial cities, and modern urban centers, creating diverse living options for expatriates.

Honduras's economy is primarily based on agriculture, manufacturing, and services, with growing tourism and technology sectors. While the country faces economic challenges, it maintains relatively low living costs compared to many other countries in the Americas. Recent years have seen infrastructure improvements in major cities, particularly in areas popular with expatriates.

The expatriate community in Honduras is concentrated in several areas, including Tegucigalpa, San Pedro Sula, and the Bay Islands (particularly Roatán). Many are drawn by business opportunities, retirement benefits, or positions in international organizations and NGOs. The coastal areas attract those seeking a Caribbean lifestyle at lower costs than many other island destinations.

‍

Regional Comparison

‍

Housing Costs in Honduras

Housing costs in Honduras vary significantly between major cities and tourist areas. In Tegucigalpa's upscale neighborhoods, a one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 8,000-12,000 HNL monthly, while similar accommodations in middle-class areas range from 5,000-8,000 HNL. San Pedro Sula offers comparable prices, while Roatán and other tourist areas can be more expensive, with rentals often priced in US dollars ranging from $500-1,000 monthly.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (upscale areas): 8,000-12,000 HNL/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (middle-class areas): 5,000-8,000 HNL/month
• Rent, tourist areas (Roatán): $500-1,000/month

‍

Food Costs in Honduras

Food expenses in Honduras are generally affordable, particularly when choosing local products. A meal at a local restaurant costs 100-200 HNL, while dinner at an international restaurant might run 300-500 HNL per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets like La Colonia or Walmart typically costs 3,000-5,000 HNL for one person, though shopping at local markets can reduce costs significantly.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 100-200 HNL
• International restaurant dinner: 300-500 HNL
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 3,000-5,000 HNL

‍

Transportation Costs in Honduras

Transportation in Honduran cities primarily relies on buses, taxis, and private vehicles. Local bus fares cost 8-15 HNL, while taxi rides typically range from 50-150 HNL depending on distance. Many expatriates choose to own vehicles due to limited public transportation options, though this comes with additional costs for maintenance and security.

Summary:

• Local bus fare: 8-15 HNL
• Taxi ride (short distance): 50-150 HNL
• Monthly car expenses: 2,000-3,000 HNL

‍

Healthcare Costs in Honduras

Healthcare in Honduras varies significantly between public and private facilities. Private health insurance typically costs 1,500-3,000 HNL monthly per person, depending on coverage. A consultation at a private clinic costs 500-1,000 HNL, while specialist visits range from 800-1,500 HNL. Most expatriates use private facilities in major cities or maintain international insurance coverage.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 1,500-3,000 HNL/month
• Doctor's consultation: 500-1,000 HNL
• Specialist visit: 800-1,500 HNL

‍

Utility Costs in Honduras

Utility costs in Honduras can be substantial, particularly due to air conditioning use in warmer regions. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection typically range from 1,500-3,000 HNL for an apartment. Internet service costs 800-1,200 HNL monthly for reliable connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 400-800 HNL monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 1,500-3,000 HNL/month
• Internet: 800-1,200 HNL/month
• Mobile phone plan: 400-800 HNL/month

‍

Example Monthly Expenses in Honduras

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in Tegucigalpa:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 10,000 HNL
• Utilities: 2,000 HNL
• Food: 4,000 HNL
• Transportation: 1,500 HNL
• Healthcare (insurance): 2,000 HNL
• Internet/Phone: 1,000 HNL
• Entertainment: 2,000 HNL
• Total: 22,500 HNL

‍

Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

‍

If you want to know more about Honduras and the cost of living there you can also check out the Honduras page.