As one of the fastest-growing cities in Central America, San Salvador is a bustling metropolis that combines tradition and modernity. It is the cultural, economic, and political hub of El Salvador, home to numerous museums, art galleries, markets, and dining establishments. With a population of over 1 million people, expats feel welcomed in this hospitable city.
Tips for expats in San Salvador
Visa requirements
El Salvador offers a range of visa options for foreigners intending to stay for varying periods. For short-term stays, a tourist visa is required and can be obtained at the airport. For longer stays, working expats need to apply for a work visa or resident visa through their employers or the immigration department.
Language resources
Spanish is the official language of El Salvador, and it's essential for expats to learn the local dialect to communicate effectively in their daily lives. There are numerous language schools and courses available in San Salvador, including Trilingüe, Instituto Cervantes, and Curtin University El Salvador.
Cost of living for expats in San Salvador
Housing
Housing costs in San Salvador vary widely depending on the area and type of accommodation. A room in a shared house can cost around $150-$250 USD per month, while a one-bed apartment typically ranges from $300-$550 USD per month, and a two-bed apartment from $600-$850 USD per month. Rental rates for a three-bedroom house or more start from $950 USD per month.
Groceries
San Salvador has a diverse range of supermarkets, ranging from local shops to international chains like Walmart and PriceSmart. Basic groceries such as rice, beans, vegetables, and fruits are reasonably priced, while imported goods are more expensive. An average monthly grocery bill for a family of four can range from $200-$350 USD.
Transportation
The cost of transportation in San Salvador is relatively inexpensive, with a single bus ride costing around $0.25 USD, while a taxi ride usually ranges from $8-$10 USD for short distances. Uber rates in the city are lower than that of taxis.
Climate in San Salvador
San Salvador lies in the tropical zone, featuring a predominantly hot and wet climate throughout the year. The annual temperature ranges from 22°C to 26°C, with high humidity that provides relief during the hot season. The rainy season lasts from May to October, and the dry season from November to April. The wettest months are September and October.
Job market in San Salvador
The economy in San Salvador is growing at a steady pace, presenting many employment opportunities for expats, particularly in the finance, technology, and manufacturing sectors. The city is home to multinational companies such as McDonald's, Mars Inc., and Nestlé, while several financial institutions, such as Scotiabank and HSBC, have established their Latin American headquarters in San Salvador. Additionally, the city has a thriving startup scene, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship.
Healthcare in San Salvador
San Salvador offers a comprehensive healthcare system, with both private and public hospitals and clinics. The Hospital Nacional Gerardo Barrios, the largest tertiary hospital in El Salvador, provides specialized care in areas such as cardiology, neurology, and oncology. Expats are advised to have comprehensive health insurance, and those without it will need to pay out of pocket for medical services.
Transport in San Salvador
San Salvador has an efficient and affordable public transportation system that includes buses, cabs, and minibuses, also known as 'champusas'. Most of the buses are air-conditioned, and fares are relatively cheap, with a single ride costing roughly $0.25 USD. Taxis are also widely available, ranging from normal taxis to Ubers.
Safety in San Salvador
San Salvador, once considered one of the most dangerous cities in the world, has made significant progress in reducing its crime rate in recent years. However, safety remains a crucial concern, with petty theft and violent crime still present in certain areas. Expats are advised to avoid carrying large amounts of cash, jewelry, or other valuables, particularly in public places or at night.
Neighborhoods in San Salvador
Antiguo Cuscatlán
Antiguo Cuscatlán, the ancient capital of El Salvador, is a vibrant community with numerous historical landmarks, small markets, and restaurants serving traditional Salvadoran cuisine. The neighborhood has a mild climate, and its streets feature colorful colonial-era buildings filled with local crafts and souvenirs.
Colonia San José
Colonia San José, situated east of the city center, features exclusive shopping centers, fashionable cafes, and elegant apartment buildings. It is a peaceful area with a burgeoning creative community, where aspiring artists and designers exhibit their works in the local galleries.
La Sabana
La Sabana, located west of the city center, is a bustling commercial district renowned for its influential companies and financial institutions. It offers a myriad of office spaces, business centers, and luxurious apartments for professionals seeking proximity to their workplaces.
Apopoco
Apopoco, situated around 25 km north from San Salvador, is a thriving suburb known for its modern infrastructure, lush parks, and verdant landscapes. It features numerous residential complexes and recreational facilities, making it a preferred residential area for expat families.
Attractions in San Salvador
Parque Nacional Ilopango
Parque Nacional Ilopango, situated 24 km west of the city, is a nature reserve that features stunning volcanoes, jungles, and lakes. It comprises diverse fauna and flora, including monkeys, sloths, tucans, and macaws.
Palacio Nacional
Palacio Nacional, located in the heart of the city center, is a landmark structure housing the president's office, the supreme court, and the national congress. It is a splendid neoclassical building, a symbol of Salvadoran history and heritage.
Parque Europa
Parque Europa, situated in the middle of the city, is a public park that features vibrant sceneries and recreational activities for all ages. It comprises numerous themed zones, playgrounds, and fountains, illuminated every evening with cheerful festive decorations.
Museum of Anthropology Dr. David J. Guzmán
The Museum of Anthropology Dr. David J. Guzmán, established in 1976, is a colossal academic research center and cultural heritage institution dedicated to preserving Salvadoran civilization and history through archeological and anthropological studies.
International Schools in San Salvador
Near East American School
San Salvador
The Near East American School is a coeducational, private institution that adheres to the standards of the Council of International Schools and accredited by AdvancED. It offers academic programs from preschool to high school, and students have the potential to enroll in IB Diploma and IB Middle Years Programme.
Colegio Menonita Bíblico ESG
San Salvador
Colegio Menonita Bíblico ESG, formed in 1969, is a non-profit, interdenominational educational institution that caters to students from pre-kindergarten to college. It adheres to US history and curriculum standards, and all their teachers are certified by the Salvadoran Ministry of Education and Founada Menonita Escolar (F.M.E).
Instituto San Francisco El Damas
Apopoco
Instituto San Francisco El Damas, established in 1971, is an educational facility catering to children from preschool to high school. It adheres to US curriculum standards, and its courses are accredited by both the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the Commission on International and Trans-Regional Accreditation (CITA).
Instituto Domingo Savio
Antiguo Cuscatlán
Instituto Domingo Savio, founded in 1958, is a private educational institution offering elementary, middle, and high school programmes for students between 5-18 years of age. The school follows a North American curriculum, and students are eligible to earn a North American High School Diploma.
