Average Cost of Living in Egypt
Egypt offers a diverse living experience, with costs varying significantly between urban centers like Cairo and more rural areas. Understanding the average cost of living in Egypt is essential for expatriates, students, and professionals considering relocation or extended stays. This article provides a thorough analysis of expenses across housing, food, transportation, and other essential categories, giving a clear picture of daily life costs in Egypt.
| Expense Category | Average Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | $200 – $350 | Cairo more expensive than smaller cities |
| Groceries | $100 – $150 | Locally produced items are cheaper |
| Utilities | $40 – $70 | Electricity, water, gas, internet |
| Transportation | $15 – $40 | Public transport cheaper than taxis |
| Dining Out | $50 – $100 | Varies by restaurant quality |
| Healthcare | $20 – $50 | Private clinics cost more |
| Education | $100 – $500+ | International schools much higher |
Housing Costs in Egypt
The cost of housing is one of the largest components of the total cost of living. In major cities such as Cairo, Alexandria, and Giza, the prices for rental properties vary widely based on location, quality, and amenities. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city center generally ranges from $200 to $350 per month, while in suburban or rural areas, monthly rent can drop as low as $100.
For larger families or those requiring more space, a three-bedroom apartment or house could cost between $400 and $700 monthly in urban areas. Newer, fully furnished apartments with modern facilities close to business districts command higher prices.
Utilities including electricity, water, heating, cooling, and internet usually add an additional $40 to $70 per month to housing expenses. Egypt’s electricity tariffs can fluctuate seasonally, especially during summer months when air conditioning use rises.
Food and Grocery Expenses
Groceries form a significant part of monthly expenses, but Egypt’s locally available produce helps keep costs affordable. A typical monthly grocery bill for one person ranges from $100 to $150. Staple items such as bread, rice, legumes, and fresh vegetables are very inexpensive compared to imported goods.
Popular Egyptian foods like koshari, falafel, and fresh fruits are widely available at low prices. Imported food items, international brands, and organic products will increase the grocery bill.
Dining out costs vary widely. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant typically costs between $3 and $7, while mid-range restaurants for a three-course meal may range from $15 to $30. Fine dining establishments and international cuisine venues will be significantly pricier.
Transportation Costs
Transportation in Egypt offers affordable options. Public transportation, including buses, microbuses, and the Metro in Cairo, offers low fares, usually below $0.50 per ride. Monthly public transportation expenses typically range from $15 to $30.
Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber and Careem are commonly used, especially by expatriates. Taxi rides start at around $0.70, with longer journeys costing more. Private car ownership adds expenses such as fuel, insurance, and maintenance.
Healthcare and Medical Expenses
Healthcare in Egypt is accessible through public and private systems. Public healthcare is highly affordable but can lack the quality and amenities found in private clinics. Private healthcare costs vary but generally range from $20 to $50 per month for basic services.
Many expatriates and higher-income residents prefer private hospitals that offer international standards. Health insurance can reduce out-of-pocket expenses, but insurance premiums should be considered in the overall budget.
Education Costs
For families relocating to Egypt, education fees vary significantly by school type. Public education is free but may not meet international language and curriculum standards.
International schools charge between $100 to $500 or more per month, depending on the institution and grade level. Higher tuition fees reflect international curricula like the IB or British system and better facilities.
Other Living Expenses
Additional expenses such as clothing, entertainment, mobile phone plans, and personal care products vary by lifestyle. Monthly mobile plans range from $5 to $20, while entertainment and leisure costs depend on preferences.
Egypt offers affordable cultural experiences, cinema tickets around $3 to $5, and popular leisure activities without significant financial burden, making it attractive for residents with varied budgets.
Comparison of Cost of Living: Egypt vs. Other Countries
| Expense Category | Egypt Average Monthly Cost (USD) | USA Average Monthly Cost (USD) | UK Average Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rent (1-bedroom apartment, city center) | $200 – $350 | $1,200 – $2,000 | $1,000 – $1,800 |
| Groceries | $100 – $150 | $300 – $400 | $250 – $350 |
| Utilities | $40 – $70 | $150 – $200 | $100 – $150 |
| Transportation | $15 – $40 | $100 – $150 | $80 – $120 |
| Dining Out | $50 – $100 | $250 – $400 | $200 – $350 |
Clearly, living in Egypt is substantially more affordable than in the USA or UK, especially regarding housing and transportation. This affordability makes Egypt an attractive destination for expatriates, retirees, and remote workers looking to reduce living expenses without sacrificing lifestyle quality.