Money in Nebaj, Guatemala

I was expecting my life in Guatemala to be cheap, and it is. I put myself on a loose budget of 30 Quetzales ($3.60) per day. At this level one can sustain themself pretty well. I can have a piece of pie or cake at one of the cafes from time to time, check my email every other day, and eat out a couple times a week. This budget is for my daily expeditures. Things like propane for the stove, credit for my phone, and my share of the electric bill are paid as needed. These expenses come out to about 300 Quetzales ($36.00) per month. I do not pay rent. For me to live comfortably in Nebaj, it costs about $175 per month.

The organization I work for employs five masons to complete the construction of our projects. These are Guatemalan men with families. They earn 3500 Quetzales ($430) per month which is considered a good salary here. Teachers and Police make about same amount. Most of their wives work as well earning some additional income. With this, they can provide for their families in the city and have money to save up for a motorcycle, a television, and some land.

Peace Corps members in this area are paid 2800 Quetzales ($350) per month. They have to rent an apartment which costs around $100 a month and usually includes some meals. They are are able to live well in a city and save up for trips.