Cost of Living in Mauritania 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers

Mauritania, located in Northwest Africa, is known for its vast deserts, traditional Moorish culture, and growing urban centers such as Nouakchott and Nouadhibou. The country offers a generally low cost of living, making it appealing for expats, NGO workers, remote professionals, and students who value affordability and a slower pace of life. Understanding the cost of living in Mauritania helps newcomers plan housing, food, transportation, and lifestyle expenses effectively.

For a broader understanding of the country, you may explore the Mauritania country guide.

Cost of Living in Mauritania: Summary Table

Housing & Rent Prices in Mauritania

3.1 Apartment Rent (Monthly)

• 1-bedroom in city center (Nouakchott): $300 – $600 (MRU 10,500 – MRU 21,000)
• 1-bedroom outside center: $150 – $350 (MRU 5,000 – MRU 12,000)
• 3-bedroom in city center: $500 – $900 (MRU 17,500 – MRU 31,500)
• 3-bedroom outside center: $300 – $700 (MRU 10,500 – MRU 24,500)

3.2 Buying Property

• City Center (per sq meter): $800 – $1,500 (MRU 28,000 – MRU 52,500)
• Outside City: $400 – $900 (MRU 14,000 – MRU 31,500)

Food & Grocery Costs

• Milk (1 liter): $0.80 – $1.20 (MRU 28 – MRU 42)
• Bread (loaf): $0.40 – $0.80 (MRU 14 – MRU 28)
• Rice (1 kg): $0.80 – $1.50 (MRU 28 – MRU 52)
• Eggs (12): $1.50 – $2.50 (MRU 52 – MRU 90)
• Chicken (1 kg): $3 – $5 (MRU 105 – MRU 175)
• Beef (1 kg): $5 – $8 (MRU 175 – MRU 280)
• Oranges (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50 (MRU 52 – MRU 90)
• Tomatoes (1 kg): $0.60 – $1.20 (MRU 21 – MRU 42)
• Water (1.5L): $0.40 – $1 (MRU 14 – MRU 35)
• Soft drink (can): $0.50 – $1 (MRU 17 – MRU 35)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: $2 – $5 (MRU 70 – MRU 175)
• Mid-range meal for 2: $12 – $25 (MRU 420 – MRU 875)
• Fast food combo: $3 – $5 (MRU 105 – MRU 175)
• Coffee: $1 – $2 (MRU 35 – MRU 70)
• Tea: $0.20 – $0.50 (MRU 7 – MRU 17)

Transportation Costs

• Local bus/taxi (shared): $0.20 – $0.40 (MRU 7 – MRU 14)
• Taxi (private, per km): $0.40 – $1 (MRU 14 – MRU 35)
• Monthly transport spending: $20 – $40 (MRU 700 – MRU 1,400)
• Fuel (per liter): $1.00 – $1.40 (MRU 35 – MRU 50)

Utility Costs

• Electricity (monthly): $20 – $50 (MRU 700 – MRU 1,750)
• Water (monthly): $5 – $15 (MRU 170 – MRU 520)
• Cooling/Heating: Included in electricity
• Garbage: Often minimal
• Internet (unlimited): $30 – $60 (MRU 1,050 – MRU 2,100)
• Mobile phone plans: $3 – $10 (MRU 105 – MRU 350)

Healthcare Costs

• General practitioner visit: $10 – $20 (MRU 350 – MRU 700)
• Specialist visit: $20 – $40 (MRU 700 – MRU 1,400)
• Insurance (individual): $20 – $50 (MRU 700 – MRU 1,750)
• Insurance (family): $50 – $150 (MRU 1,750 – MRU 5,250)

Education Costs

• Public schools: Very low cost
• Private schools: $50 – $200 (MRU 1,750 – MRU 7,000)
• International schools: $500 – $1,500 (MRU 17,500 – MRU 52,500)

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

• Gym membership: $10 – $25 (MRU 350 – MRU 875)
• Movie ticket: $3 – $5 (MRU 105 – MRU 175)
• Sports/activities: $5 – $15 (MRU 175 – MRU 520)
• Nightlife/events: $5 – $20 (MRU 175 – MRU 700)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

11.1 Cost of Living for Singles

Singles enjoy a low cost of living, especially when renting smaller homes or living outside major city centers.

11.2 Cost of Living for Couples

Couples can live comfortably on a moderate budget, with shared expenses reducing monthly costs.

11.3 Cost of Living for Families

Families face additional expenses for schooling, healthcare, and larger accommodation, but overall costs remain reasonable.

11.4 Cost of Living for Students

Students find Mauritania affordable, particularly when choosing shared housing and local food options.

11.5 Cost of Living for Expats

Expats often relocate for NGO or development work and enjoy the low cost of living. Imported goods, however, can be more expensive.

Comparison With Other Countries

• Mauritania vs Morocco – Morocco is more expensive, especially for rent and entertainment.
• Mauritania vs Senegal – Senegal has higher prices for food and services.
• Mauritania vs Algeria – Algeria is similar, but utilities and fuel are cheaper.

Pros & Cons of Living in Mauritania

Pros

• Very affordable cost of living
• Warm, community-oriented lifestyle
• Simple and peaceful environment
• Low transportation expenses

Cons

• Hot desert climate
• Limited entertainment and nightlife
• Healthcare infrastructure is basic
• Imported goods can be expensive

Final Summary

Mauritania offers a calm, affordable, and culturally rich living environment. It is ideal for expats, NGO workers, and students who appreciate quiet surroundings and modest living costs. While services and infrastructure can be limited, the overall cost of living remains low, making Mauritania an accessible destination for long-term stays.

FAQs

Is Mauritania expensive to live in?

No, Mauritania is one of the more affordable countries in Northwest Africa, with low housing and food costs.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Mauritania?

Singles need MRU 16,000 – MRU 28,000 monthly, while families require MRU 42,000 – MRU 70,000.

What is the average rent in Mauritania?

Rent ranges from MRU 5,000 to MRU 25,000 depending on the city and apartment type.

Is Mauritania good for expats?

Yes, it is suitable for expats in NGOs, teaching, and development sectors who prefer quiet, budget-friendly living.

Is Mauritania cheaper than Morocco or Senegal?

Yes, Mauritania is typically cheaper than both Morocco and Senegal in terms of rent, food, and transportation.