The Pacific Daily News has an interesting article on a proposed increase on island residents water utility bill that if approved could increase bill up to 56%. The increase would be spread over 5 years. To put into perspective:

But more families have historically used over 7,000 gallons a month, according to PDN files.

At 7,000 gallons a month, a residence’s bill of $111.74 would go up to $129.51 starting Oct. 1, and jump to about $174.92 by fiscal 2029, representing about a 56% increase.

Commercial customers will see their bills nearly double, with those that use 30,000 gallons monthly—a business the size of a grocery store—going from $844.91 to $1,621.51 a month by fiscal 2029.

Pacific Daily News

Is Guam getting too expensive for the average person? As of February 2024, the average cost of of a

• Gallon of milk is $13.89
• Gas is 4.89 a gallon
• Guam electric is double that of the mainland. Although, one of the lowest in the Pacific (lower than Hawaii)

Living on Guam may seem expensive compared to some parts of the United States, but there are ways to make it more affordable. Here are some tips:

**Housing** Renting an apartment or a house can be costly, especially in the city center. However, you can find cheaper options in the suburbs or in less popular areas. You can also look for furnished or shared accommodations to save on furniture and utility bills. Alternatively, you can buy a property with a mortgage, which may have lower interest rates than in the mainland.

**Food** Food prices are higher on Guam due to the transportation and import costs. However, you can save money by buying local produce, which is fresher and healthier. You can also shop at farmers’ markets, discount stores, or military commissaries (if you have access). Cooking at home is cheaper than eating out, and you can enjoy the diverse cuisines of Guam’s multicultural population.

**Transportation** Public transportation on Guam is limited and unreliable, so most people rely on cars. Gas prices are higher than in the mainland, but you can save money by driving a fuel-efficient vehicle, carpooling, or using ride-sharing services. You can also bike or walk for short distances, which is good for your health and the environment.

**Entertainment** Guam offers many free or low-cost activities for entertainment, such as hiking, snorkeling, surfing, kayaking, fishing, or visiting historical and cultural sites. You can also enjoy the festivals, concerts, and events that are held throughout the year. If you want to watch a movie, go to the gym, or have a drink, you can look for discounts, coupons, or happy hours.

Living on Guam can be a rewarding experience, as you can enjoy the tropical climate, the beautiful scenery, the friendly people, and the rich culture. With some planning and budgeting, you can make it more affordable and enjoyable. 😊.

Living on Guam has and will always be expensive as compared to living on the mainland. It is a small price to pay to live in paradise BUT our leaders can certainly do a better job to make life just a little bit easier. Haha Adai!!!