Family Life and Education in El Salvador
For families seeking safety, affordability, and community, El Salvador offers a growing network of schools, healthcare providers, and expat-friendly neighborhoods.
Family Life & Education
El Salvador is emerging as a family-friendly destination with improved safety, affordable living, and quality education options. Families are discovering a healthier lifestyle and greater sovereignty while raising children in a growing expat community.
Is El Salvador Safe for Families?
- Safety in El Salvador has greatly improved, with violent crime down more than 70% since 2019.
- Families now feel secure living in San Salvador, coastal towns, and mountain villages.
- Popular family-friendly areas include Escalón, Santa Elena, El Zonte, and Ataco.
- These communities are known for their strong community ties and welcoming atmosphere.
Education in El Salvador
Parents relocating to El Salvador have several schooling options:
- International Schools: English and bilingual schools in San Salvador, including American, British, and French curricula. Tuition typically ranges from $3,000 to $8,000 per year.
- Local Private Schools: Affordable bilingual programs for $1,000 to $3,000 per year.
- Homeschooling: Legal and increasingly popular among expat families who want flexibility.
- Higher Education: Universities such as Universidad Centroamericana (UCA) and Universidad de El Salvador provide tertiary options.
Healthcare and Wellness
El Salvador offers affordable and accessible healthcare for families:
- Private clinics and hospitals in San Salvador with English-speaking doctors.
- Pediatric care available in major cities.
- Health insurance options from $100 to $300 per month per family member.
- Affordable out-of-pocket costs (doctor visits $25–$50, dental cleanings $40–$60).
- Wellness is supported by access to fresh, local food, outdoor activities, and a slower pace of life.
Family Living in El Salvador
Families relocating to El Salvador enjoy:
- Spacious homes with gardens and outdoor space.
- Fresh food markets, organic farms, and year-round local produce.
- Outdoor activities: surfing, hiking, mountain retreats, and community festivals.
- A slower, healthier pace of life compared to urban centers in the West.
- Expat families report that children adapt quickly, forming new friendships and thriving in an environment that feels both safe and adventurous.
What Families Should Prepare For
- International schools can be limited outside San Salvador.
- English is not widely spoken outside major expat areas.
- Public healthcare is improving but private care is recommended.
- Adaptation requires patience with local systems and bureaucracy.
- Preparation and guidance make all the difference in turning relocation into a smooth transition.
Education and Healthcare Costs Compared
| Country | International School (per year) | Private Insurance (per month) |
|---|---|---|
|
El Salvador |
$3,000–$8,000 |
$100–$300 |
|
Costa Rica |
$6,000–$12,000 |
$200–$500 |
|
USA |
$15,000–$30,000 |
$800+ |
Compared to Costa Rica or the United States, families relocating to El Salvador can expect significantly lower costs for quality education and healthcare.
Free Family Relocation Guide 2024
Get step-by-step free Family Relocation Guide 2024 with school profiles, healthcare providers, and family-friendly neighborhood maps.
A Better Life for Your Family Awaits
El Salvador offers families safety, affordability, and opportunity in a nation committed to sovereignty and growth. With the right preparation, you can give your family a secure and adventurous life in the heart of Central America.