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

Q: Is Seychelles expensive to live in?

Yes, Seychelles is consistently ranked as one of the most expensive countries in Africa and the Indian Ocean. High costs are driven by a heavy reliance on imported goods, expensive utility rates, and a high-demand rental market for expats.

Q: How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Seychelles?

For a comfortable expat lifestyle in 2026, a single person typically needs $1,800–$2,600 per month (approx. 24,000–35,000 SCR). Families of four generally require between $4,800–$6,500 (approx. 65,000–88,000 SCR) to cover secure housing, private schooling, and imported groceries.

Q: What is the average rent in Seychelles?

As of early 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in city centers like Victoria or popular areas like Beau Vallon ranges from $900–$1,500. Luxury apartments in areas like Eden Island can exceed $2,500, while more modest rentals in south Mahé or Praslin range from $600–$900.

Q: Is Seychelles good for expats?

Yes, it is highly favored for its high safety index, peaceful pace of life, and pristine environment. While the healthcare system is basic for complex needs, the high quality of life and tax-friendly environment for certain high-earning professionals make it an attractive relocation hub.

Q: Is Seychelles cheaper than Mauritius?

No, Seychelles is roughly 30–40% more expensive than Mauritius. Mauritius has a larger domestic manufacturing and agricultural base, which keeps food and services cheaper, whereas the 'tourist premium' in Seychelles impacts everything from rent to leisure activities.

Seychelles, an island nation in the Indian Ocean, is famous for its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and luxury tourism. While it offers excellent quality of life, stunning nature, and a peaceful environment, the cost of living is relatively high due to its remote location and dependence on imports. Seychelles attracts expats, retirees, remote workers, and professionals in tourism and hospitality.

Learn more about the country on the Seychelles country page.

Cost of Living in Seychelles: Summary Table

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (SCR)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$1,200 – $2,000	16,000 – 26,000 SCR
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$2,800 – $5,000	38,000 – 67,000 SCR
Rent Range	$500 – $2,500	7,000 – 34,000 SCR
Food Cost (Monthly)	$250 – $500	3,400 – 6,700 SCR
Transport Cost	$40 – $80	540 – 1,100 SCR
Utilities	$120 – $250	1,600 – 3,400 SCR
Healthcare	$10 – $40 per visit	135 – 540 SCR
Education	$50 – $400	670 – 5,400 SCR
Miscellaneous Expenses	$100 – $300	1,350 – 4,000 SCR

Housing & Rent Prices in Seychelles

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

1-bedroom in city center: $900 – $1,500 (12,000 – 20,000 SCR)
1-bedroom outside center: $500 – $900 (7,000 – 12,000 SCR)
3-bedroom in city center: $1,800 – $2,500 (24,000 – 34,000 SCR)
3-bedroom outside center: $1,000 – $1,800 (13,000 – 24,000 SCR)

Buying Property

Price per sq meter (city center): $3,000 – $6,000 (40,000 – 80,000 SCR)
Price per sq meter (outside center): $2,000 – $4,000 (27,000 – 54,000 SCR)

Food & Grocery Costs

Milk (1 liter): $1.60 – $2.20 (22 – 30 SCR)
Bread (loaf): $1 – $1.50 (14 – 20 SCR)
Rice (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.20 (20 – 30 SCR)
Eggs (12): $2.50 – $4 (34 – 54 SCR)
Chicken (1 kg): $6 – $8 (80 – 108 SCR)
Beef (1 kg): $10 – $15 (135 – 200 SCR)
Apples (1 kg): $4 – $6 (54 – 80 SCR)
Bananas (1 kg): $1.50 – $2 (20 – 27 SCR)
Water (1.5L): $1 – $1.50 (14 – 20 SCR)
Soft drink (can): $1 – $1.50 (14 – 20 SCR)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

Inexpensive restaurant meal: $6 – $12 (80 – 160 SCR)
Mid-range meal for two: $35 – $70 (470 – 940 SCR)
Fast-food combo: $7 – $10 (95 – 135 SCR)
Coffee: $3 – $5 (40 – 67 SCR)
Tea: $1 – $2 (14 – 27 SCR)

Transportation Costs

Public transport ticket: $0.50 – $0.70 (7 – 10 SCR)
Monthly pass: $30 – $40 (400 – 540 SCR)
Taxi (per km): $1 – $1.50 (14 – 20 SCR)
Gasoline (per liter): $1.20 – $1.50 (16 – 20 SCR)

Utility Costs

Electricity (monthly): $60 – $120 (800 – 1,600 SCR)
Water: $20 – $40 (270 – 540 SCR)
Internet (unlimited): $45 – $70 (600 – 950 SCR)
Mobile plan: $10 – $20 (135 – 270 SCR)

Healthcare Costs

General doctor visit: $10 – $20 (135 – 270 SCR)
Specialist visit: $20 – $40 (270 – 540 SCR)
Health insurance (individual): $30 – $80 (400 – 1,080 SCR)
Health insurance (family): $100 – $250 (1,350 – 3,400 SCR)

Education Costs

Public schools: Free
Private schools: $50 – $300 (670 – 4,000 SCR)
International schools: $3,000 – $10,000 yearly

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: $30 – $70 (400 – 950 SCR)
Movie ticket: $6 – $9 (80 – 120 SCR)
Water sports & activities: $20 – $80 (270 – 1,080 SCR)
Cruise or island tour: $50 – $150 (670 – 2,000 SCR)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Singles may find Seychelles moderately expensive, especially for rent and imported food.

For Couples

Couples can manage costs better by sharing housing and transportation.

For Families

Families face higher expenses in schooling, groceries, and larger accommodations.

For Students

Students will find cost of living manageable only with scholarships or shared housing.

For Expats

Expats enjoy high quality of life but must account for premium prices for imports and services.

Comparison With Other Countries

Seychelles vs Mauritius – Seychelles is slightly more expensive.
Seychelles vs Maldives – Both are expensive, but Maldives has cheaper food.
Seychelles vs South Africa – Seychelles is significantly more expensive.

Pros & Cons of Living in Seychelles

Pros

Stunning natural beauty
Peaceful and safe environment
Clean beaches and water
Good healthcare quality

Cons

High cost of living
Heavy reliance on imports
Limited nightlife and entertainment options
Small job market outside tourism

Final Summary

Seychelles offers a peaceful, scenic lifestyle with premium quality of life but comes with high living costs. It is an ideal location for expats, remote workers, and professionals in hospitality or tourism seeking a tropical lifestyle with modern amenities.

FAQs

Is Seychelles expensive to live in?

Yes, Seychelles is one of the more expensive island nations due to import-dependent goods and premium housing costs.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Seychelles?

Singles need $1,200–$2,000 monthly, while families need $2,800–$5,000 depending on lifestyle.

What is the average rent in Seychelles?

Rent ranges from $500 to $2,500 depending on size and location.

Is Seychelles good for expats?

Yes, Seychelles offers a peaceful, safe, and beautiful environment ideal for expat living.

Is Seychelles cheaper than Mauritius?

No, Seychelles is slightly more expensive, especially in housing and food.