Cost of Living in Egypt 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers
Egypt is a North African country known for its ancient history, vibrant culture, and affordable lifestyle. Cities like Cairo, Alexandria, Giza, Luxor, and Hurghada attract expats, students, digital nomads, and retirees thanks to Egypt’s low cost of living, excellent food, warm climate, and rich heritage. Understanding the cost of living in Egypt helps newcomers plan their expenses and settle smoothly.
Learn more about the country here: Egypt.
Cost of Living in Egypt: Summary Table
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Estimated Cost (EGP) |
|---|---|---|
| Average Monthly Cost (Single Person) | $350 – $650 | EGP (varies) |
| Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four) | $800 – $1,600 | EGP |
| Rent Range | $150 – $500 | EGP |
| Food Cost (Monthly) | $120 – $250 | EGP |
| Transport Cost | $10 – $30 | EGP |
| Utilities | $20 – $50 | EGP |
| Healthcare | $5 – $20 per visit | EGP |
| Education | $300 – $3,500 annually | EGP |
| Miscellaneous Expenses | $20 – $60 | EGP |
Housing & Rent Prices in Egypt
3.1 Apartment Rent (Monthly)
Rent in Egypt is very affordable, especially outside Cairo’s upscale districts like Zamalek, New Cairo, and Sheikh Zayed.
- 1-bedroom in city center: $200 – $350
- 1-bedroom outside center: $120 – $200
- 3-bedroom in city center: $350 – $550
- 3-bedroom outside center: $250 – $400
3.2 Buying Property
Property ownership is common among expats, with competitive prices in cities like Cairo, Alexandria, and coastal regions such as Hurghada.
Food & Grocery Costs
Egypt offers some of the lowest grocery prices in the region, especially for local produce and traditional foods.
- Milk (1 liter): $0.70 – $1.20
- Bread (loaf): $0.20 – $0.50
- Rice (1 kg): $0.70 – $1.20
- Eggs (12): $1.00 – $1.80
- Chicken (1 kg): $2.50 – $4.50
- Beef (1 kg): $4.00 – $8.00
- Bananas (1 kg): $0.50 – $1.00
- Tomatoes (1 kg): $0.40 – $1.00
- Bottled water (1.5 L): $0.20 – $0.50
- Soft drinks: $0.50 – $1.00
Monthly grocery estimate:
- Single person: $120 – $200
- Family of four: $200 – $300
Restaurant & Dining Costs
- Inexpensive meal: $2 – $4
- Mid-range restaurant (two people): $10 – $25
- Fast food combo: $3 – $5
- Coffee: $1 – $2
- Fresh juice: $0.70 – $1.50
Transportation Costs
Egypt has affordable public transport including buses, metro (in Cairo), and rideshare options like Uber and Careem.
- One-way metro/bus ticket: $0.10 – $0.30
- Monthly transport pass: $5 – $10
- Taxi (per km): $0.20 – $0.40
- Fuel (per liter): $0.30 – $0.60
Optional vehicle expenses:
- Car maintenance: $10 – $30
- Parking (monthly): $5 – $20
Utility Costs
Utilities are inexpensive, though air conditioning can increase electricity bills in summer.
- Electricity: $10 – $25
- Water: $2 – $5
- Internet: $10 – $20
- Mobile plans: $3 – $10
Healthcare Costs
Healthcare in Egypt is affordable, with a mix of public and private facilities available. Many expats prefer private hospitals.
- GP consultation: $5 – $10
- Specialist visit: $10 – $20
- Medicines: $2 – $10
Education Costs
- Public schools: low cost
- Private schools: $300 – $3,500 annually
- International schools: higher fees depending on curriculum
Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses
- Gym membership: $10 – $30
- Movie ticket: $3 – $5
- Museum entry: $2 – $10
- Nightlife: $5 – $15 per outing
Cost of Living for Different Groups
11.1 Cost of Living for Singles
Singles can live comfortably on $350 – $650 per month.
11.2 Cost of Living for Couples
Couples typically spend $600 – $1,000 monthly.
11.3 Cost of Living for Families
A family of four usually spends $800 – $1,600 including schooling and housing.
11.4 Cost of Living for Students
Students can live on $200 – $350 per month in shared accommodation.
11.5 Cost of Living for Expats
Expats generally spend $700 – $1,200 depending on lifestyle and location.
Comparison With Other Countries
- Egypt vs Morocco: Egypt is generally cheaper for food and transport.
- Egypt vs Turkey: Turkey is slightly more expensive overall.
- Egypt vs UAE: Egypt is significantly more affordable in every category.
Pros & Cons of Living in Egypt
Pros
- Extremely affordable living costs
- Warm climate and beautiful historical attractions
- Friendly culture
- Low grocery and transport prices
Cons
- Traffic congestion in big cities
- Infrastructure varies by region
- Higher cost of imported goods
Final Summary
Egypt offers one of the most affordable lifestyles in North Africa and the Middle East. With low housing, food, and transportation costs, it is ideal for students, retirees, expats, and families. Whether in Cairo or coastal areas like Hurghada, living in Egypt provides good value and a rich cultural experience.
Explore more Egypt resources:
- Best Cities in Egypt
- Best Places to Visit in Egypt
- Top Universities in Egypt
- Best Shopping Malls in Egypt
- Best National Parks in Egypt
- Best Hospitals in Egypt
- Best Hotels in Egypt
FAQs
Is Egypt expensive to live in?
No, Egypt is considered very affordable compared to many countries in the region.
How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Egypt?
A monthly income of $500 – $800 is usually enough for comfortable living.
What is the average rent in Egypt?
Rent ranges from $150 to $500 depending on the location and apartment size.
Is Egypt good for expats?
Yes, Egypt is popular among expats due to its affordability and cultural richness.
Is Egypt cheaper than Morocco?
Yes, Egypt is generally cheaper for food, transport, and everyday expenses.
