Is the cost of living in Nicaragua high?
We asked people about the cost of living in Nicaragua, they wrote...
"The cost of living in Nicaragua varies greatly depending on the location. Generally, the coastal cities and towns tend to have a much higher cost of living compared to the rest of the country. Most cities in Nicaragua offer inexpensive rentals compared to those in the United States. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in most cities of Nicaragua can be rented for approximately $250-400 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment usually costs around $400-600 per month. Eating dinner in a moderately priced restaurant in Nicaragua can cost around $10 per person," said another expat in Nicaragua.
"As in most foreign countries when it comes to the cost of living, you can pretty much find what you're looking for. Nicaragua is no exception. You can find moderate to expensive pricing options on most things from food to lodging, but the LOW cost items are more easily found in abundance here than in most places. Food is obviously less expensive here. It is not difficult to find $2.00 USD lunches. There are many hostels and hotels that seem to cater to the budget-minded traveler as well. Even retiring in Nicaragua is very low cost and stress-free: In order to qualify for Nicaragua's "Pensionado Visa" you must prove a monthly income from retirement or a pension or from any investment of only $600 USD and you're good to go! That's the LOWEST retirement income requirement of any country in the world," wrote a member who made the move to Granada, Nicaragua.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Nicaragua?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Nicaragua?
- Will I be able to find a job in Nicaragua?
- What is life like in Nicaragua?
- What do expats in Nicaragua appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Nicaragua?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Nicaragua accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Nicaragua like?
- What are healthcare services like in Nicaragua?
- What are medical services in Nicaragua like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Nicaragua?
- What are emergency services like in Nicaragua?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Nicaragua?
- How are local medical facilities in Nicaragua?
- As a foreigner living in Nicaragua, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
Is the cost of living in Nicaragua high?
If you live in Nicaragua, newcomers to Nicaragua would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.