Cost of Living in Seychelles in 2026: Rent, Salaries and Monthly Expenses

The cost of living in Seychelles in 2026 is relatively high, particularly for people who need to rent accommodation at market rates. A single person renting independently may need approximately SCR 17,000 to SCR 30,000 per month, while a family of four may require SCR 45,000 to SCR 70,000 or more. These are estimated planning budgets that include rent, groceries, utilities, transportation and everyday expenses.

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Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian Ocean, known for its beaches, tropical climate and tourism industry. However, living there is different from visiting on holiday. Housing, imported groceries, internet services and travel between islands can make daily life expensive, particularly for expatriates without employer-provided accommodation.

The country uses the Seychelles rupee (SCR). According to the International Labour Organization, Seychelles imports more than 90% of its goods, exposing residents to international price fluctuations and supply costs.

This guide explains housing prices, groceries, restaurants, utilities, internet, public transportation, healthcare, education, salaries, taxes and residency requirements. It also compares living costs across Mahé, Praslin and La Digue and provides realistic sample monthly budgets for different households.

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Cost of Living in Seychelles at a Glance

A single renter should consider approximately SCR 17,000 to SCR 30,000 per month, including housing. Couples can use SCR 30,000 to SCR 45,000 as an initial planning range, while families of four may need SCR 45,000 to SCR 70,000 or more, especially when private schooling, childcare or additional transport is required.

Expense Category	Estimated Cost in SCR	Notes
Single person excluding rent	SCR 7,000 to 13,000/month	Groceries, utilities, connectivity, transport and personal expenses
Single person including rent	SCR 17,000 to 30,000/month	Independent accommodation and ordinary living expenses
Couple including rent	SCR 30,000 to 45,000/month	Shared accommodation and household expenses
Family of four including rent	SCR 45,000 to 70,000+/month	Housing, food, utilities, transport and family expenses
One-bedroom apartment	SCR 9,000 to 15,000+/month	Based on indicative rental-market observations
Three-bedroom apartment	SCR 18,000 to 36,000+/month	Location and property standard significantly affect rent
Groceries for one person	SCR 2,500 to 5,000/month	Mostly home-prepared meals
Inexpensive restaurant meal	SCR 90 to 330	Local eateries and restaurants vary considerably
Basic household utilities	SCR 950 to 2,750+/month	Electricity, water and related residential services
Home internet	SCR 1,500 to 2,000+/month	Indicative higher-speed unlimited broadband
Local public bus journey	Approximately SCR 10 to 12	Check current SPTC card and fare arrangements
National minimum wage	SCR 40.95/hour	Standard non-casual workers, effective 1 April 2025

These figures combine available 2026 consumer-price observations with practical budget assumptions. They are not official national household expenditure averages. Property availability, employment benefits and immigration status can significantly change an individual's actual costs.

How Much Does It Cost to Live in Seychelles Per Month?

A single person renting an apartment in Seychelles may spend approximately SCR 17,000 to SCR 30,000 per month. A lower budget may be possible with shared housing or employer-provided accommodation, but a person renting independently should not assume that advertised low-cost properties will always be available.

Typical monthly expenses include:

Rent or accommodation payments.
Electricity, water and household utilities.
Groceries and cleaning products.
Home internet and mobile communication.
Public transport, fuel or vehicle expenses.
Healthcare expenses and any required insurance.
Restaurant meals, entertainment and personal purchases.

Housing is generally the largest variable. For example, a single person spending SCR 12,000 on rent and SCR 10,000 on other monthly expenses would require SCR 22,000 in total.

Consumer-price data from Numbeo's Seychelles database, updated in May 2026, provides useful reference prices. However, the dataset reported only 99 entries from 12 contributors during the preceding 12 months. This relatively small sample means that published averages should be considered indicative rather than representative of every household or island.

Housing and Rent Prices in Seychelles

Renting a one-bedroom apartment in Seychelles commonly requires an indicative budget of SCR 9,000 to SCR 15,000 or more per month. Larger apartments may cost SCR 18,000 to SCR 36,000 or higher, particularly in desirable locations or properties marketed toward expatriates.

Average Apartment Rent in Seychelles

Property Type	Indicative Monthly Rent
One-bedroom apartment in central locations	SCR 12,000 to 15,000+
One-bedroom apartment outside central areas	SCR 9,000 to 15,000+
Three-bedroom apartment in central locations	SCR 25,000 to 36,000+
Three-bedroom apartment outside central areas	SCR 18,000 to 30,000+

Numbeo's May 2026 national observations placed the average one-bedroom central apartment at approximately SCR 13,058 and a three-bedroom central apartment at approximately SCR 29,902. However, these averages are based on limited contributor data, so they should not be treated as guaranteed available rental prices.

Why Rent Can Be Expensive

Seychelles has a relatively small land area, limited residential supply in desirable locations and a tourism-oriented property market. Some owners prefer short-term visitor accommodation, while expatriates may compete for furnished homes close to employment centres or popular coastal areas.

Foreign workers should check whether their employment package provides housing. Employer-provided accommodation can make a substantial difference to the affordability of a salary that would otherwise be insufficient for independent renting.

Buying Property in Seychelles

Foreign nationals considering property purchases need to investigate the applicable government approval process, property restrictions, fees, taxes and financing arrangements.

Property prices differ significantly by island, access, sea views, land characteristics and building condition. Crowdsourced price-per-square-metre estimates are particularly unreliable for a small market with few observations.

Buyers should obtain current property quotations and professional advice before making financial commitments. Purchasing property should not be assumed to provide automatic residence or employment rights.

Food and Grocery Prices in Seychelles

One person may spend approximately SCR 2,500 to SCR 5,000 per month on groceries, while a family of four may require SCR 8,000 to SCR 13,000 or more. The actual amount depends on household size, dietary requirements and the balance between local produce and imported products.

Seychelles depends heavily on imported goods. This can make packaged foods, dairy products, certain fruits and specialist groceries relatively costly.

Typical Grocery Prices

Grocery Item	Indicative Price in SCR
Milk, 1 litre	20 to 35
Bread, approximately 500 g	15 to 35
Rice, 1 kg	20 to 45
Eggs, 12	35 to 70
Chicken fillets, 1 kg	80 to 130
Beef, 1 kg	130 to 220
Apples, 1 kg	25 to 65
Bananas, 1 kg	25 to 55
Potatoes, 1 kg	15 to 40
Bottled water, 1.5 litres	12 to 30

These ranges are illustrative and reflect the general price levels seen in the 2026 consumer datasets. Prices differ between supermarkets, smaller local shops, markets and outer-island retailers.

How to Reduce Grocery Expenses

Residents can reduce grocery spending by preparing meals at home, purchasing locally available fish and seasonal produce, comparing supermarket promotions and limiting imported convenience foods.

Fresh fish, locally grown vegetables and certain tropical fruits may offer better value at particular times, although availability and prices fluctuate.

People planning to relocate should also consider storage capacity and access to supermarkets, especially when living outside Victoria or on smaller islands.

Restaurant and Eating-Out Costs

Eating out in Seychelles can cost approximately SCR 90 to SCR 330 for an inexpensive meal, while a mid-range restaurant meal for two may cost SCR 600 to SCR 3,000 depending on the venue and menu.

Food or Drink	Indicative Price in SCR
Inexpensive restaurant meal	90 to 330
Mid-range restaurant meal for two	600 to 3,000
Fast-food combination meal	95 to 190
Cappuccino	30 to 115
Soft drink at a restaurant	25 to 50
Cinema ticket	75 to 160

Tourist-oriented restaurants, beachfront dining venues and resort establishments are generally priced differently from local takeaway shops and casual food outlets.

The original Visaboards guide suggested SCR 80 to SCR 160 for an inexpensive meal. However, newer Numbeo observations show a broader range and a national average of approximately SCR 262, indicating that the lower estimate does not adequately represent all restaurant types.

Someone eating restaurant meals several times each week should keep a separate dining budget. Cooking at home can provide substantial savings, particularly for families.

Utilities: Electricity, Water and Household Bills

Basic utilities for an ordinary apartment may cost approximately SCR 950 to SCR 2,750 or more per month. Electricity consumption, air conditioning, property size and household habits can make bills substantially higher.

Numbeo's May 2026 observations indicated average basic utility expenses of approximately SCR 1,810 for an 85-square-metre apartment. This is a market estimate rather than an official household tariff.

Electricity and Air Conditioning

Seychelles has a tropical climate, so air conditioning and electric fans can be important household expenses. A property with several air-conditioning units may have noticeably higher electricity bills than a naturally ventilated home.

Water and Other Services

Water consumption, metering arrangements and property-related service charges also influence monthly utility costs.

The Public Utilities Corporation is the relevant authority for public electricity and water services. Residents should check current tariffs and whether a rental agreement includes any utility payments.

Before signing a lease, confirm whether utility deposits, connection charges and shared property service fees are payable separately.

Internet and Mobile Phone Costs

Internet access can be a significant expense in Seychelles. Numbeo's May 2026 data placed higher-speed unlimited broadband at approximately SCR 1,500 to SCR 2,000 per month and mobile plans with substantial data allowances around SCR 300 to SCR 600.

Service	Indicative Monthly Cost
Home broadband, higher-speed unlimited plan	SCR 1,500 to 2,000+
Mobile phone plan with data	SCR 300 to 600+
Combined household connectivity allowance	SCR 1,800 to 2,600+

Actual prices depend on the provider, location, network speed, data policy and promotional packages. Lower-cost or limited-data plans may also be available.

Remote workers should check connection reliability, upload speeds, electricity resilience and mobile coverage at their intended address before choosing accommodation.

Transportation Costs in Seychelles

Public buses are among the least expensive ways to travel around Mahé and Praslin. A typical SPTC journey has been advertised at approximately SCR 10 to SCR 12, although travelers should verify the current ticketing arrangements and whether cash is accepted before boarding.

Public Buses

The Seychelles Public Transport Corporation (SPTC) operates the main public bus system on Mahé and Praslin.

Official tourism information lists a SCR 10 Travel Card fare and SCR 12 cash fare, while newer visitor guidance indicates expanded cashless ticketing arrangements. Because these published sources differ, passengers should check the latest payment rules directly with SPTC.

Public buses are not uniformly available across every island, and services may be less convenient at night or in remote areas.

Taxis and Private Cars

Taxis cost considerably more than buses. May 2026 Numbeo observations suggest an indicative taxi starting fare of approximately SCR 150, with a reported rate around SCR 45 per kilometre. Actual prices may be negotiated or vary with route and operator.

Motorists should also account for petrol, vehicle maintenance, registration, insurance and parking.

The same dataset reported petrol around SCR 21.61 per litre, although fuel prices change over time.

Inter-Island Transport

Travel between Mahé, Praslin and La Digue can require ferry services or domestic flights. These costs should be included separately, especially for residents who commute regularly between islands.

Unlike a standard local bus fare, inter-island transport may represent a substantial recurring expense. Residents should check current ferry schedules, resident fare eligibility and any discounts.

Healthcare Costs in Seychelles

Seychelles has a public healthcare system, but foreign nationals should not assume that all medical treatment is free. Tourists generally need to pay for treatment, while overseas residents may face charges for certain healthcare services, medications or prescriptions.

This distinction is important because general cost-of-living articles sometimes reduce healthcare expenses to a simple consultation fee without explaining eligibility.

Public Healthcare

Public healthcare services operate through government facilities, including the main hospital in Victoria on Mahé and health centres in residential areas.

Eligibility, charges and access can differ according to citizenship, residence status and the type of medical service.

The UK government's Seychelles healthcare guidance specifically advises that tourists must pay for medical treatment and that overseas residents may need to pay for some services and prescriptions.

Private Healthcare and Insurance

Private medical services are available, particularly on Mahé, but treatment costs vary. Some specialist services and complex procedures may not be available locally.

Foreign residents should consider appropriate medical insurance and verify whether emergency medical evacuation is included. This is especially relevant for serious conditions requiring overseas treatment.

The original Visaboards guide provided generic individual health-insurance estimates of SCR 400 to SCR 1,080 per month. These amounts should not be treated as reliable premiums for every expatriate because actual coverage, exclusions and costs depend on age, medical circumstances and the insurer.

Before relocation, obtain a current insurance quotation and confirm any healthcare entitlement associated with employment or immigration status.

Education and Childcare Costs

Education costs depend on whether children attend public schools, private institutions or international schools. Public education is available in Seychelles, while international education may add substantial costs to an expatriate family's budget.

Public Education

Seychelles has a government-supported public education system. Schooling is generally provided without tuition charges to eligible pupils, but families may still need to budget for uniforms, supplies, meals, transport and activities.

Foreign families should confirm admission eligibility and any applicable conditions with the Ministry of Education rather than assuming that every non-citizen child receives identical access.

Private and International Schools

International schools can be much more expensive than public schooling.

Numbeo's 2026 Seychelles observations indicate international primary school tuition averaging approximately SCR 120,887 annually per child, with reported prices ranging from roughly SCR 69,660 to SCR 218,000.

This is equivalent to approximately SCR 5,800 to SCR 18,200 per month when annual tuition is spread over 12 months. Additional registration, uniform, transport and activity charges may apply.

Childcare and Preschool

Private preschool or childcare costs vary by provider, age group, operating hours and location. Numbeo reports an indicative monthly private preschool figure of approximately SCR 2,000, but this limited observation should not be treated as a universal childcare rate.

Families with young children should obtain quotations directly from providers and check whether employer benefits include childcare or education assistance.

Salaries and Minimum Wage in Seychelles

The salary needed for comfortable living in Seychelles depends heavily on accommodation and household size. A single person paying market rent may aim for approximately SCR 22,000 to SCR 30,000 in monthly take-home income, while households supporting children may need significantly more.

These are affordability targets rather than national salary averages.

What Is the Average Salary in Seychelles?

Numbeo's May 2026 country-level observations reported an average monthly net salary of approximately SCR 11,452. However, this figure comes from a small crowdsourced sample and should not be presented as the country's official average wage.

The Seychelles National Bureau of Statistics is a more appropriate source for official labour-market and earnings statistics.

Pay differs between industries such as tourism, hospitality, public administration, construction, professional services and finance. Expatriate employment contracts may also include housing, transport, meals or other benefits.

A household earning SCR 12,000 after tax would have difficulty independently renting a typical one-bedroom apartment at the reported market averages while also covering all other expenses. This illustrates the importance of employer-provided accommodation, shared housing and household income arrangements.

What Is the Minimum Wage in Seychelles in 2026?

The verified national minimum wage in Seychelles is SCR 40.95 per hour for standard non-casual workers and SCR 47.19 per hour for casual workers. These rates took effect on 1 April 2025 and remained the applicable rates in the 2026 sources reviewed.

Minimum Wage Category	Amount
Standard hourly minimum wage	SCR 40.95
Casual worker hourly minimum wage	SCR 47.19
Gross monthly equivalent for 35 hours per week	SCR 6,210.75
Effective date	1 April 2025

The minimum wage increase was formally enacted under the Employment (National Minimum Wage) (Amendment) Regulations, 2025, S.I. 16 of 2025.

The Seychelles State House announcement confirmed the 7% increase and the monthly equivalent for a 35-hour working week.

The International Labour Organization's 2026 report also confirms the SCR 40.95 hourly rate and highlights ongoing work on estimating a living wage.

Can You Live on Minimum Wage in Seychelles?

A person earning SCR 6,210.75 per month before deductions would generally struggle to rent independently at the market rates shown in this guide.

The minimum monthly wage is lower than the indicative rent of many one-bedroom apartments. This does not mean every minimum-wage worker pays those rental prices, since household sharing, existing housing arrangements and employer-provided accommodation can change the calculation.

The International Labour Organization has also noted affordability pressure on lower-income households and the need for improved living-wage evidence.

Income Tax and Everyday Affordability

Seychelles uses a progressive personal income tax system. The amount employees take home depends on their gross salary, citizenship status and applicable deductions.

The Seychelles Revenue Commission publishes separate income-tax calculations for citizen and non-citizen employees.

Personal Income Tax

For Seychelles citizens, the Revenue Commission's published schedule provides a tax-free threshold up to SCR 8,555.50 per month, followed by progressive tax brackets.

Non-citizen employees are subject to a different calculation, so expatriates should not assume they will receive the same net salary as citizens earning identical gross pay.

At higher income levels, progressive rates include 20% and 30% marginal bands, subject to the applicable calculation.

Employees should also check pension-related contributions and any contract-specific deductions.

VAT and Consumer Prices

Indirect taxes can affect the final prices of goods and services. Seychelles applies a value-added tax system, although treatment varies by transaction and any applicable exemption.

For practical budgeting, residents should compare actual retail prices and contractual charges rather than assume that every advertised figure includes the same tax treatment.

Official tax guidance is available from the Seychelles Revenue Commission.

Realistic Monthly Budgets for Seychelles in 2026

The following examples show how ordinary household expenses can add up. They are illustrative planning scenarios in Seychelles rupees, not official averages. All four totals include rent, and the amounts assume no major loan repayments or exceptional medical bills.

Monthly Expense	Budget Single	Moderate Single	Couple	Family of Four
Rent	8,500	13,000	18,000	27,000
Utilities	1,500	2,200	3,000	4,200
Groceries	2,500	3,500	6,000	10,000
Transport	600	1,000	1,700	2,500
Internet and mobile	2,000	2,600	3,200	4,100
Healthcare/insurance allowance	800	1,500	2,400	4,000
Dining, leisure and personal spending	1,300	3,000	4,500	6,000
Childcare allowance	0	0	0	3,000
Estimated Monthly Total (SCR)	17,200	26,800	38,800	60,800

Budget-Conscious Single Person: SCR 17,200 Per Month

This scenario assumes relatively inexpensive accommodation, mostly home-prepared meals, public transport and limited restaurant spending.

The rent assumption of SCR 8,500 is below the lower end of many observed one-bedroom market rents. This budget is therefore more achievable with shared accommodation, a favourable rental agreement or employer support.

Moderate Single Person: SCR 26,800 Per Month

This example allows approximately SCR 13,000 for rent, a moderate grocery budget, household utilities, internet, transportation and some leisure spending.

It is a more realistic starting point for an independently renting professional, although international travel, expensive hobbies and significant private medical treatment are excluded.

Couple: SCR 38,800 Per Month

The couple budget assumes two adults sharing accommodation and household services. Grocery expenses and discretionary spending are higher than for a single person, but shared bills help control the total.

Couples receiving housing allowances or subsidized accommodation from an employer may be able to reduce their own spending considerably.

Family of Four: SCR 60,800 Per Month

This example assumes two adults and two children in a larger rented home, with SCR 3,000 allocated to childcare and no full international-school tuition.

Families requiring private international schooling could spend substantially more. For example, tuition averaging approximately SCR 120,887 annually per child would represent around SCR 10,074 per month per child before additional school charges.

The family budget also excludes major relocation payments, international flights, vehicle purchases and unusually expensive medical insurance.

Cost of Living by Island and Area

Living expenses vary across Seychelles. The largest differences are generally related to housing availability, employment access, transport links and the cost of goods and services.

Mahé and Victoria

Mahé is the largest and most economically important island, with Victoria serving as the capital. It provides access to government offices, hospitals, major shopping facilities, schools and many employment opportunities.

Central or desirable coastal properties can be expensive, but Mahé also offers relatively broad choices of shops, public transport and residential neighbourhoods.

Praslin

Praslin offers a quieter setting than Mahé and has tourism-related employment and residential communities.

Housing availability can be limited, and some goods or services may be affected by transport and supply arrangements. Residents should investigate the actual availability of long-term rentals before relocating.

La Digue

La Digue is smaller and has a lifestyle strongly associated with cycling, tourism and a quieter environment.

However, a smaller population and limited property market can reduce housing choice. Regular inter-island travel may increase household expenses for people who need services or employment on other islands.

Which Island Is Cheapest to Live On?

There is insufficient reliable, consistently sampled rental and consumer-price data to identify one Seychelles island as universally the cheapest.

Mahé may offer more shopping and employment options, while Praslin and La Digue have different housing and transport conditions. A lower rental quotation on one island may be offset by commuting, travel or supply costs.

Is Seychelles More Expensive Than Mauritius?

Yes, available 2026 cost-of-living comparisons generally indicate that Seychelles is more expensive than Mauritius, especially for housing, restaurant meals, utilities and internet.

Numbeo's Seychelles and Mauritius comparison shows substantially higher observed rent and broadband prices in Seychelles.

Similarly, Livingcost's June 2026 comparison estimated average monthly costs of approximately USD 1,637 for one person in Seychelles and USD 787 in Mauritius.

These figures use different methodologies and samples, so they should not be interpreted as a precise price difference for every household.

Some items, including particular groceries and transport costs, may be comparable or cheaper in Seychelles. The most useful comparison is between actual homes, employment packages and services in the locations being considered.

Hidden Costs of Living in Seychelles

New residents can underestimate expenses when they focus only on rent and groceries. Several additional costs deserve attention.

Imported products: Specialist food, household equipment, electronics and other imports may cost more than expected.
Air conditioning: Frequent cooling can increase electricity bills.
Rental deposits: Initial deposits and advance payments can require considerable savings.
Healthcare: Non-citizens may need to pay for certain medical services and prescriptions.
Medical evacuation: Complex treatment may require overseas care and appropriate insurance.
Inter-island travel: Ferries and domestic flights may become recurring expenses.
Internet: Reliable higher-speed connectivity can be costly.
Schooling: Private or international education can substantially increase family budgets.
Vehicle expenses: Fuel, insurance, maintenance and car purchases add to household spending.
Work permits: Foreign workers need the proper immigration authorization before taking up employment.

Prospective residents should establish an emergency reserve and request written details of any employer-provided benefits before accepting a relocation offer.

Cost of Living Versus Residency Financial Requirements

Having enough money to cover daily living expenses does not automatically qualify a foreign national for residence or employment in Seychelles. Immigration permits have separate eligibility conditions and fees.

Residence Permit Requirements

According to the Seychelles Immigration and Civil Status Department, a residence permit may be granted in qualifying circumstances involving family or domestic connections or special contributions to Seychelles.

The published residence-permit charges include:

Requirement	Published Amount
Application processing fee	SCR 1,000
Main applicant residence-permit fee	SCR 150,000
Spouse applying at the same time	SCR 75,000
Child endorsement	SCR 25,000 per child
Required bank guarantee	At least SCR 20,000

These are published requirements for the relevant residence-permit category. They are not universal fees for every immigration route and should not be added to an ordinary monthly household budget.

Residence-permit holders under this category are not entitled to free medical services or social security benefits under the conditions published by immigration authorities.

Working in Seychelles

Foreign nationals generally require a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) before undertaking paid or unpaid work.

The Immigration Department's living and working guidance explains that non-Seychellois cannot lawfully undertake employment without the appropriate authorization.

Official guidance also identifies a GOP processing fee of SCR 1,000 and a permit fee of SCR 700 per month of the approved duration. Applicants should confirm current charges and the correct application procedure before relying on these figures.

A residence permit alone does not automatically authorize employment.

Is Seychelles Affordable for Expats?

Seychelles can be affordable for expatriates with strong salaries, subsidized accommodation and appropriate healthcare arrangements. It is more challenging for those relying on lower wages or paying full market rent without additional employment benefits.

For example, a single person earning SCR 25,000 after tax may be able to support a moderate lifestyle if housing costs are controlled. Someone earning close to the statutory minimum wage would usually face serious affordability difficulties when renting independently.

Employment benefits can make a substantial difference. Housing allowances, transport support, meals, insurance and school-fee assistance may be more valuable than a slightly higher cash salary without those benefits.

Remote workers should also verify immigration rules, because the ability to work remotely while physically present in Seychelles should not be assumed from visitor entry permission alone.

Conclusion: How Much Money Do You Need to Live in Seychelles?

The cost of living in Seychelles in 2026 is strongly influenced by housing, imported products and household circumstances. A single renter can use SCR 17,000 to SCR 30,000 per month as a planning range, while a couple may need SCR 30,000 to SCR 45,000. Families of four may require SCR 45,000 to SCR 70,000 or more, particularly when private schooling is involved.

Public transport offers an economical option on Mahé and Praslin, but connectivity, utilities and transport between islands can increase expenses.

There is also an important difference between the legal minimum wage and the income needed to rent independently. The verified standard minimum wage of SCR 40.95 per hour, equivalent to SCR 6,210.75 per month for a 35-hour working week, is well below many advertised independent rental costs.

For prospective residents, the best approach is to compare actual rental offers, calculate take-home income, confirm healthcare coverage and investigate the relevant immigration requirements before moving.

Sources and Methodology

This article was reviewed on 7 November 2026 using the original Visaboards guide, Seychelles government publications, immigration information, official wage regulations, international institutional research and consumer-price databases.

Government and institutional sources were prioritized for minimum wages, employment permission, residence permits and healthcare eligibility. Numbeo and other consumer databases provided indicative market-price observations.

Because Seychelles is a small island economy, publicly available price datasets have limited contributor samples. The May 2026 Numbeo country dataset contained 99 observations from 12 contributors during the preceding year. Its reported averages are therefore not representative national statistics.

Budget examples were constructed from indicative expenses and clearly identified assumptions. Rental availability, retail prices, exchange rates, employment terms and administrative charges may change. Multiple sources were compared where applicable, and official requirements should be confirmed before any financial commitment.

Sources Used

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to live in Seychelles per month?

A single person renting independently in Seychelles may need approximately SCR 17,000 to SCR 30,000 per month in 2026, including rent and everyday expenses. A couple may need SCR 30,000 to SCR 45,000, while a family of four may require SCR 45,000 to SCR 70,000 or more. Actual costs depend mainly on housing, location, transport, healthcare and household lifestyle.

Is Seychelles expensive to live in?

Yes. Seychelles can be expensive because it relies heavily on imported goods, has a limited housing market and faces transport costs associated with its island geography. Rent, internet and certain groceries can represent substantial household expenses. People with employer-provided accommodation may find the country considerably more affordable than those renting independently at market rates.

How much is rent in Seychelles in 2026?

A one-bedroom apartment may cost approximately SCR 9,000 to SCR 15,000 or more per month. A three-bedroom property may require SCR 18,000 to SCR 36,000 or higher, depending on location and quality. These are indicative ranges from limited market observations, not guaranteed available rents. Furnished coastal properties and expatriate-oriented accommodation can be more expensive.

What salary is needed to live comfortably in Seychelles?

A single person paying market rent may aim for approximately SCR 22,000 to SCR 30,000 in monthly take-home income for a moderate lifestyle. Couples and families generally require higher household income, especially when they pay for private childcare or international schooling. A salary package that includes housing, transport or health insurance may be considerably more affordable than an equivalent cash-only offer.

What is the minimum wage in Seychelles in 2026?

The standard national minimum wage is SCR 40.95 per hour, while the minimum rate for casual workers is SCR 47.19 per hour. These rates became effective on 1 April 2025 and remained applicable in the 2026 sources reviewed. The standard rate corresponds to SCR 6,210.75 gross per month for a 35-hour working week, according to official government information.

Is healthcare free in Seychelles for expatriates?

Not automatically. Seychelles has public healthcare services, but foreign nationals can face charges depending on their immigration status and the treatment involved. Tourists are generally required to pay for medical care, while overseas residents may need to pay for certain services and prescriptions. Expatriates should verify public healthcare eligibility and consider suitable insurance, including emergency evacuation coverage where appropriate.

How much does public transport cost in Seychelles?

Public buses are relatively affordable on Mahé and Praslin. Published SPTC information has listed fares of approximately SCR 10 with a Travel Card or SCR 12 for cash travel, although newer guidance indicates changes toward cashless payment. Passengers should check current SPTC ticketing arrangements. Taxis, car ownership and transport between islands can cost substantially more.

How much does a family of four need in Seychelles?

A family of four may require approximately SCR 45,000 to SCR 70,000 or more per month, including rent, groceries, utilities, transportation and routine spending. An illustrative monthly family budget is SCR 60,800 without full international-school tuition. Private schooling, larger rental properties, additional healthcare requirements and frequent inter-island travel can increase household costs significantly.

Is Seychelles cheaper than Mauritius?

Generally, no. Available 2026 comparisons indicate that Seychelles is more expensive than Mauritius for several major categories, particularly housing, restaurant meals and internet. However, not every product or service costs more, and published comparisons use different samples and methodologies. People considering relocation should compare actual rents, salaries and daily spending in specific locations rather than relying on a single percentage difference.

How much do groceries cost in Seychelles?

A single person may need approximately SCR 2,500 to SCR 5,000 per month for groceries, while a family of four may spend SCR 8,000 to SCR 13,000 or more. Seychelles imports a large proportion of its goods, making international food prices and shipping costs important. Home cooking, local fish, seasonal produce and careful supermarket shopping can help reduce expenses.

Can foreigners work in Seychelles without a work permit?

No. Foreign nationals generally require a Gainful Occupation Permit (GOP) before undertaking employment in Seychelles. Immigration authorities state that non-Seychellois cannot legally work full time or part time without appropriate authorization, including certain unpaid activities. A residence permit alone does not automatically authorize employment. Applicants should verify current application requirements and charges before starting work.

How much money is required for residency in Seychelles?

Financial requirements depend on the residence category. For the residence permit described by Seychelles Immigration, published charges include SCR 150,000 for the main applicant, SCR 75,000 for a spouse applying at the same time, SCR 25,000 per child endorsement and a bank guarantee of at least SCR 20,000. These are immigration requirements, not monthly living expenses, and other permit categories have different conditions.