As a US territory in the Western Pacific, Guam allows American citizens to relocate without a visa or passport. However, living costs can differ from those on the mainland. The cost of living in Guam is generally higher in several categories, particularly groceries and utilities, because so many items are imported. In this guide, we compare housing, food, transportation, and utilities to help you plan your budget before the move.
Looking to help family or friends on the island? Learn about ways to send money to Guam.
Average cost of living in Guam vs. the US
The cost of living in Guam vs. the USA is generally higher due to its isolated location and reliance on imported goods. According to Numbeo, rent prices average 16.1% higher than the US, and groceries average 27.9% higher.
Because Guam uses the US dollar, there is no need to account for currency exchange, which can simplify financial planning if you’re relocating.
How the cost of living varies throughout Guam
Although Guam is relatively small, location can still influence your rent costs. Tumon is a central tourism and commercial district, with higher rental prices to match. Tamuning and Dededo offer more residential settings, where rents are generally lower than in Tumon. Santa Rita, located in the southern part of the island, typically has lower housing costs compared to the other areas listed. and Dededo offer more residential settings, where rents are
| Rent (1BR, City Center) | Mid-Range Meal for Two | |
| Tumon | 2,450 USD | 52 USD |
| Tamuning | 1,650 USD | 60 USD |
| Dededo | 1,625 USD | 50 USD |
| Santa Rita | 900 USD | 76.78 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Cost of housing in Guam vs. the US
Housing is one of the main contributors to the overall cost of living in Guam. Rental prices are generally higher than US averages. Limited land availability, along with demand from military personnel, government employees, and expats, can drive up pricing.
Costs can vary across the island. Choosing a location outside major commercial areas may help reduce your monthly housing expenses.
| Costs in Guam | Costs in US | |
| 1-Bedroom (City Center) | 2,101.25 USD | 1,666.97 USD |
| 1-Bedroom (Outside City Center) | 1,722.86 USD | 1,352.94 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Cost of food in Guam vs. the US
Grocery costs in Guam are influenced by the need to import many products Based on available pricing data, staple items such as bread, milk, eggs, and chicken are typically more expensive than on the US mainland. These differences can affect overall grocery spending. Staple items such as bread, milk, eggs, and chicken are typically more expensive than in the US. If you’re relocating, you’ll want to adjust your budget or your shopping list accordingly.
| Item | Costs in Guam | Costs in US |
| Bread (1 lb loaf) | 6.55 USD | 3.30 USD |
| Milk (1 L) | 3.48 USD | 1.06 USD |
| Eggs (12) | 7.04 USD | 4.39 USD |
| Chicken (1 lb) | 10.39 USD | 5.56 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Dining costs in Guam are more comparable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant is typically similar to US prices, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant averages slightly lower.
| Costs in Guam | Costs in US | |
| Inexpensive restaurant | 20 USD | 20 USD |
| Mid-range restaurant (3-course) | 67.50 USD | 76 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Cost of transportation in Guam vs. the US
Due to the island’s layout, many residents in Guam rely on personal vehicles. Average fuel prices are higher than mainland US levels. Taxi rates are generally lower per kilometer, which can be useful for short trips. Where public transit is available, monthly passes are slightly lower cost than in the US.
| Costs in Guam | Costs in US | |
| Public transport fare | 3 USD | 2.50 USD |
| Monthly local transport pass | 55 USD | 65 USD |
| Taxi (per km) | 1.99 USD | 2.91 USD |
| Gasoline (per liter) | 1.41 USD | 0.89 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Cost of key utilities in Guam vs. the US
Utilities are a significant contributor to the higher cost of living in Guam. Monthly expenses for electricity and water are higher than US mainland averages. Mobile plans and internet services also tend to cost more. These differences are influenced in part by the island’s reliance on imported energy and infrastructure.
| Costs in Guam | Costs in US | |
| Utilities | 406.26 USD | 212.04 USD |
| Mobile phone plan (per month) | 80 USD | 61.35 USD |
| Internet (60+ Mbps) | 108.57 USD | 72.90 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Median annual income in Guam vs. the US
Income is an important factor when comparing the cost of living in Guam vs. the US. According to Numbeo, the average monthly net salary in Guam is slightly higher than the US mainland average, although actual earnings vary by role and industry.
Employment opportunities are commonly found in sectors such as tourism, government, healthcare, and military-related services.
| Guam | US | |
| Average monthly net salary | 4,576 USD | 4,320.26 USD |
Source: Numbeo
Is moving to Guam worth it?
Because Guam is within US territory, American citizens seeking island life or a change in pace can relocate with little fuss. The island uses the US dollar, so your financial planning ahead of a move is also more straightforward.
Whatever is driving your move, it’s important to keep in mind that the cost of living in Guam is much higher than the US mainland. It’s important to plan with a clear and realistic budget. Consider your employment opportunities, housing availability across different areas on the island, and how higher utility and grocery costs will impact your monthly spending.
Guam cost of living FAQs
Your monthly living expenses will vary depending on your lifestyle. The Guam Chamber of Commerce recommends around $3,500 for a two-person household to cover monthly rent, utilities, internet, and average expenses. You’ll want to increase that budget to accommodate transportation costs, dining out, and other personal expenses.
Yes. As a US territory, Guam does not require a visa or passport for American citizens. The US dollar is used locally, and individuals can live and work there without international immigration procedures.
Costs in Guam are generally higher than the US mainland because the island relies on imported goods. Housing, utilities, and groceries all tend to be more expensive.
