Cost of Living in Guyana (2025): What to Expect if You’re Moving or Investing
Guyana is quickly gaining global attention—not only for its booming oil economy, but also for its affordable cost of living compared to other South American and Caribbean countries. Whether you're relocating, investing, retiring, or returning home, understanding the current living costs in 2025 will help you make smart financial decisions.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost of living in Guyana, covering housing, food, transportation, healthcare, and more.
Housing Costs in Guyana (2025)
Housing remains one of the most affordable aspects of life in Guyana, particularly outside of Georgetown.
Rental Prices (Monthly)
- 1-bedroom apartment in Georgetown: GYD $130,000 – $250,000 (USD $625 – $1,200)
- 3-bedroom apartment/house in Georgetown: GYD $250,000 – $450,000 (USD $1,200 – $2,150)
- 1-bedroom in smaller towns (e.g., Bartica, Linden): GYD $60,000 – $120,000 (USD $290 – $575)
Buying Property
- Urban land (per square foot): GYD $3,000 – $8,000 (USD $15 – $40)
- Suburban land: GYD $1,000 – $2,500 (USD $5 – $12)
- Mid-range home in Georgetown: USD $100,000 – $300,000
Food and Grocery Costs
Guyana’s fertile land and local markets help keep fresh food affordable, especially if you cook at home.
Grocery Prices (Average)
- 1 liter of milk: GYD $500 (USD $2.40)
- 1 dozen eggs: GYD $900 (USD $4.30)
- 1kg rice: GYD $300 (USD $1.45)
- 1kg chicken: GYD $1,000 (USD $4.80)
- Loaf of bread: GYD $400 (USD $1.90)
Dining Out
- Local meal at a casual restaurant: GYD $1,500 – $3,000 (USD $7 – $14)
- Mid-range restaurant (3-course): GYD $8,000 – $15,000 (USD $38 – $70)
- Fast food combo (e.g., Royal Castle): GYD $1,500 (USD $7)
Transportation Costs
Public transport is widely used and inexpensive, though private vehicles are becoming more popular.
Public Transport
- Minibus ride within Georgetown: GYD $120 – $200 (USD $0.60 – $1)
- Water taxi (e.g., Parika to Bartica): GYD $2,500 – $3,500 (USD $12 – $17)
Private Vehicles
- Petrol (1 liter): GYD $300 – $350 (USD $1.45 – $1.70)
- Toyota Premio (used): USD $8,000 – $15,000
- Annual insurance and registration: USD $300 – $600
Healthcare Costs
Guyana offers free public healthcare, but many residents prefer private clinics for faster and more reliable service.
Medical Services (Private)
- Doctor consultation: GYD $5,000 – $12,000 (USD $24 – $58)
- Dental cleaning: GYD $6,000 – $10,000 (USD $30 – $48)
- Emergency visit (private hospital): GYD $15,000+ (USD $72+)
Utilities & Internet
Modern amenities are widely available in urban areas, with improving infrastructure across the country.
Monthly Costs (for 2-3 person household)
- Electricity: GYD $10,000 – $25,000 (USD $48 – $120)
- Water & garbage: GYD $3,000 – $6,000 (USD $14 – $28)
- Internet (unlimited, 20 Mbps): GYD $10,000 – $15,000 (USD $48 – $72)
- Mobile phone plan: GYD $2,000 – $5,000 (USD $10 – $25)
Education (Private Schooling)
Public schools are free, but many expats and middle-class families choose private institutions.
Monthly Tuition (Private Schools)
- Nursery & Primary: GYD $15,000 – $40,000 (USD $72 – $190)
- Secondary School: GYD $30,000 – $80,000 (USD $145 – $385)
- International schools (e.g., School of the Nations): Higher-end tuition rates apply
Entertainment & Lifestyle
Guyana’s natural beauty provides plenty of free or low-cost entertainment: beaches, waterfalls, hiking, and cultural events.
- Gym membership: GYD $5,000 – $10,000 (USD $24 – $48)
- Movie ticket: GYD $1,500 (USD $7)
- Weekend getaway to Lethem or Bartica: USD $100 – $300 total (transport, lodging, food)
While prices have risen slightly due to growth in the oil sector and global inflation, Guyana remains one of the most affordable countries in the region for quality of life, property ownership, and business opportunity.
Whether you’re relocating, investing, or just exploring, understanding the true cost of living in Guyana helps you plan better—and live better.