Cost of Living in Cabo Verde (2026) – Prices, Rent, Salary & Expenses

Cabo Verde, also known as Cape Verde, is an island nation located off the coast of West Africa. Famous for its year-round sunshine, beaches, volcanic landscapes, music, and relaxed island lifestyle, Cabo Verde attracts expats, digital nomads, retirees, and students. Understanding the cost of living in Cabo Verde helps newcomers plan better, especially since prices vary between islands like Santiago, São Vicente, Sal, and Boa Vista.

Learn more about the country here: Cabo Verde.

Cost of Living in Cabo Verde: Summary Table

Category	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Cost (CVE)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$650 – $1,100	CVE (varies)
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$1,400 – $2,600	CVE
Rent Range	$300 – $800	CVE
Food Cost (Monthly)	$180 – $300	CVE
Transport Cost	$25 – $50	CVE
Utilities	$40 – $80	CVE
Healthcare	$10 – $40 per visit	CVE
Education	$200 – $1,500 annually	CVE
Miscellaneous Expenses	$25 – $70	CVE

Housing & Rent Prices in Cabo Verde

3.1 Apartment Rent (Monthly)

1-bedroom in city center: $350 – $550
1-bedroom outside center: $250 – $400
3-bedroom in city center: $600 – $900
3-bedroom outside center: $450 – $700

3.2 Buying Property

Property in Cabo Verde is popular among retirees and international buyers. Prices vary by island, with Sal and Boa Vista being the most expensive due to tourism demand.

Food & Grocery Costs

Cabo Verde relies heavily on imports, so grocery prices may be higher compared to mainland African countries. However, local produce and fish are affordable.

Milk (1 liter): $1.20 – $1.80
Bread (loaf): $0.80 – $1.50
Rice (1 kg): $1.20 – $2.00
Eggs (12): $2.00 – $3.00
Chicken (1 kg): $4.00 – $6.00
Beef (1 kg): $6.00 – $10.00
Bananas (1 kg): $1.00 – $1.80
Tomatoes (1 kg): $1.20 – $2.40
Bottled water (1.5 L): $1.00 – $1.50
Soft drinks: $1.00 – $1.50

Monthly grocery estimate:

Single person: $180 – $250
Family of four: $300 – $450

Restaurant & Dining Costs

Inexpensive meal: $4 – $7
Mid-range restaurant (two people): $20 – $40
Fast food combo: $6 – $8
Coffee: $1.20 – $2.50
Fresh juice: $1.50 – $3.00

Transportation Costs

Public transportation includes minibuses (“yasi”), taxis, and ferries between islands.

One-way local transport ticket: $0.80 – $1.20
Monthly public transport pass: $25 – $35
Taxi (per km): $0.70 – $1.20
Fuel (per liter): $1.30 – $1.70

Optional travel costs:

Inter-island ferry: $15 – $40
Domestic flights: $60 – $120

Utility Costs

Electricity: $20 – $50
Water: $10 – $20
Gas: $8 – $12
Internet: $25 – $45
Mobile plans: $5 – $10

Healthcare Costs

Cabo Verde has a decent public healthcare system and several private clinics in major islands.

Doctor visit: $10 – $20
Specialist visit: $20 – $40
Medicines: $2 – $8

Education Costs

Public schools: low-cost or free
Private schools: $200 – $1,500 annually
Higher education: varies by institution

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: $20 – $40
Movie ticket: $5 – $8
Water sports: $20 – $50 per session
Nightlife: $8 – $20 per outing

Cost of Living for Different Groups

11.1 Cost of Living for Singles

Singles typically spend $650 – $1,100 per month.

11.2 Cost of Living for Couples

Couples usually need $1,000 – $1,800 monthly.

11.3 Cost of Living for Families

A family of four generally spends $1,400 – $2,600 depending on schooling and rent.

11.4 Cost of Living for Students

Students can live on $400 – $700 per month by choosing local accommodation and dining options.

11.5 Cost of Living for Expats

Expats usually spend $1,000 – $2,000 depending on lifestyle and preferred island.

Comparison With Other Countries

Cabo Verde vs Senegal: Cabo Verde is slightly cheaper for rent.
Cabo Verde vs Portugal: Portugal is significantly more expensive overall.
Cabo Verde vs Canary Islands: Canary Islands have higher food and rent costs.

Pros & Cons of Living in Cabo Verde

Pros

Mild climate year-round
Relaxed island lifestyle
Affordable compared to European islands
Safe and welcoming communities

Cons

Many goods are imported and pricey
Healthcare limited on smaller islands
Inter-island travel can add costs

Final Summary

Cabo Verde offers a balanced combination of affordability, safety, and natural beauty. With reasonable living costs compared to other island destinations, it is ideal for expats, retirees, digital nomads, and long-term travelers seeking tranquility and sunshine. While imported goods may cost more, daily life remains budget-friendly.

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FAQs

Is Cabo Verde expensive to live in?

Cabo Verde is moderately priced, more affordable than European islands but pricier than mainland Africa.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Cabo Verde?

A monthly income of $900 – $1,500 is sufficient for most individuals.

What is the average rent in Cabo Verde?

Rent ranges from $300 to $800 depending on the island and housing type.

Is Cabo Verde good for expats?

Yes, Cabo Verde is popular with expats, retirees, and digital nomads due to its climate and lifestyle.

Is Cabo Verde cheaper than Portugal?

Yes, Cabo Verde is generally more affordable than Portugal for rent and daily expenses.