Cost of Living in Paraguay 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers

Paraguay, a landlocked nation in the heart of South America, is known for its low cost of living, relaxed lifestyle, and welcoming culture. With affordable housing, inexpensive utilities, and low food costs, Paraguay is often considered one of the most budget-friendly countries in the region. It attracts expats, retirees, students, and digital nomads seeking a peaceful environment with reasonable expenses.

To learn more about the country, explore the Paraguay country page.

Cost of Living in Paraguay: Summary Table

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (PYG)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$600 – $1,000	PYG 4,500,000 – 8,000,000
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$1,600 – $2,800	PYG 12,000,000 – 21,000,000
Rent Range	$250 – $800	PYG 1,900,000 – 6,200,000
Food Cost (Monthly)	$150 – $300	PYG 1,150,000 – 2,300,000
Transport Cost	$20 – $60	PYG 150,000 – 450,000
Utilities	$40 – $120	PYG 300,000 – 900,000
Healthcare	$10 – $40 per visit	PYG 75,000 – 300,000
Education	$50 – $500	PYG 400,000 – 3,800,000
Miscellaneous Expenses	$80 – $200	PYG 600,000 – 1,500,000

Housing & Rent Prices in Paraguay

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

• 1-bedroom in city center: $350 – $600 (PYG 2,700,000 – 4,600,000)
• 1-bedroom outside center: $250 – $400 (PYG 1,900,000 – 3,000,000)
• 3-bedroom in city center: $600 – $1,000 (PYG 4,600,000 – 7,700,000)
• 3-bedroom outside center: $450 – $800 (PYG 3,400,000 – 6,200,000)

Buying Property

• Price per sq meter (city center): $1,000 – $1,800
• Price per sq meter (outside center): $600 – $1,000

Food & Grocery Costs

• Milk (1 liter): $0.90 – $1.30 (PYG 7,000 – 10,000)
• Bread (loaf): $1.20 – $2 (PYG 9,000 – 15,000)
• Rice (1 kg): $0.80 – $1.20 (PYG 6,000 – 9,000)
• Eggs (12): $1.30 – $2 (PYG 10,000 – 15,000)
• Chicken (1 kg): $2 – $3.50 (PYG 15,000 – 27,000)
• Beef (1 kg): $4 – $7 (PYG 30,000 – 55,000)
• Apples (1 kg): $2 – $3 (PYG 15,000 – 23,000)
• Bananas (1 kg): $0.70 – $1.20 (PYG 5,000 – 9,000)
• Water (1.5L): $0.80 – $1.50 (PYG 6,000 – 12,000)
• Soft drink (can): $0.70 – $1 (PYG 5,000 – 7,500)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

• Inexpensive meal: $4 – $7 (PYG 30,000 – 55,000)
• Mid-range meal for 2: $15 – $25 (PYG 115,000 – 190,000)
• Fast food combo: $6 – $8 (PYG 45,000 – 60,000)
• Coffee: $1.50 – $3 (PYG 11,000 – 23,000)
• Tea: $1 – $2 (PYG 7,500 – 15,000)

Transportation Costs

• One-way bus ticket: $0.30 – $0.50 (PYG 2,200 – 3,800)
• Taxi (per km): $0.70 – $1.20 (PYG 5,000 – 9,000)
• Fuel (per liter): $1 – $1.30 (PYG 7,500 – 10,000)

Utility Costs

• Electricity (monthly): $20 – $50 (PYG 150,000 – 380,000)
• Water (monthly): $5 – $15 (PYG 38,000 – 115,000)
• Internet (unlimited): $25 – $40 (PYG 190,000 – 300,000)
• Mobile plans: $5 – $10 (PYG 38,000 – 75,000)

Healthcare Costs

• Doctor consultation: $10 – $20 (PYG 75,000 – 150,000)
• Specialist visit: $20 – $40 (PYG 150,000 – 300,000)
• Health insurance (individual): $20 – $50 (PYG 150,000 – 380,000)
• Health insurance (family): $60 – $150 (PYG 450,000 – 1,150,000)

Education Costs

• Public schools: Low to moderate fees
• Private schools: $50 – $300 (PYG 380,000 – 2,300,000)
• International schools: $2,000 – $6,000 yearly

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

• Gym membership: $15 – $25 (PYG 115,000 – 190,000)
• Movie ticket: $4 – $7 (PYG 30,000 – 55,000)
• Sports & outdoor activities: $10 – $20 (PYG 75,000 – 150,000)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Singles can live comfortably on a budget due to low food, transport, and utility expenses.

For Couples

Couples benefit from shared housing costs and can enjoy a mid-range lifestyle affordably.

For Families

Families face higher expenses only if choosing private or international schools.

For Students

Paraguay offers one of the most affordable student lifestyles in South America.

For Expats

Expats appreciate the low cost of living and friendly residency policies.

Comparison With Other Countries

• Paraguay vs Brazil – Paraguay is significantly cheaper.
• Paraguay vs Argentina – Costs are similar but more stable in Paraguay.
• Paraguay vs USA – The USA is much more expensive.

Pros & Cons of Living in Paraguay

Pros

• One of the lowest costs of living in South America
• Affordable housing and utilities
• Relaxed, peaceful lifestyle
• Easy residency process

Cons

• Limited English proficiency in some regions
• Lower healthcare standards compared to Western countries
• Public transport can be inconsistent

Final Summary

Paraguay is an excellent choice for expats, retirees, digital nomads, and students seeking an affordable and peaceful lifestyle. With inexpensive housing, food, and daily expenses, it remains one of the most cost-effective places to live in South America.

FAQs

Is Paraguay expensive to live in?

No, Paraguay is among the most affordable countries in South America.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Paraguay?

A monthly income of PYG 4,500,000 – 8,000,000 is sufficient for singles, while families may need PYG 12,000,000 – 21,000,000.

What is the average rent in Paraguay?

Rent ranges from PYG 1,900,000 – 6,200,000 depending on the location and apartment size.

Is Paraguay good for expats?

Yes, Paraguay is very expat-friendly due to low costs and simple residency options.

Is Paraguay cheaper than Brazil?

Yes, Paraguay is significantly cheaper than Brazil in most categories.