Cost of Living in Solomon Islands 2026 Guide for Expats and Travelers

The Solomon Islands is a beautiful island nation in the South Pacific, known for its pristine beaches, tropical climate, and rich cultural heritage. While the country offers a peaceful and relaxed lifestyle, the cost of living can be relatively high due to its reliance on imports. Most expats, NGOs, students, and digital professionals reside in Honiara, where prices are higher compared to the outer islands.

You can learn more about the country on the Solomon Islands country page.

Cost of Living in Solomon Islands: Summary Table

Housing & Rent Prices in Solomon Islands

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

• 1-bedroom in city center (Honiara): $800 – $1,200 (6,400 – 9,600 SBD)
• 1-bedroom outside center: $500 – $800 (4,000 – 6,400 SBD)
• 3-bedroom in city center: $1,200 – $2,000 (9,600 – 16,000 SBD)
• 3-bedroom outside center: $700 – $1,300 (5,600 – 10,400 SBD)

Food & Grocery Costs

• Milk (1 liter): $1.50 – $3 (12 – 24 SBD)
• Bread (loaf): $1.20 – $2 (10 – 16 SBD)
• Rice (1 kg): $1.80 – $3.50 (14 – 28 SBD)
• Eggs (12): $2 – $4 (16 – 32 SBD)
• Chicken (1 kg): $4 – $7 (32 – 56 SBD)
• Beef (1 kg): $7 – $12 (56 – 96 SBD)
• Bananas (1 kg): $1 – $2 (8 – 16 SBD)
• Apples (1 kg): $2 – $3.50 (16 – 28 SBD)
• Water (1.5L): $0.90 – $1.50 (7 – 12 SBD)
• Soft drink (can): $1 – $1.50 (8 – 12 SBD)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

• Inexpensive restaurant meal: $8 – $12 (64 – 96 SBD)
• Mid-range meal for two: $35 – $60 (280 – 480 SBD)
• Fast-food combo: $6 – $8 (48 – 64 SBD)
• Coffee: $2 – $4 (16 – 32 SBD)
• Tea: $1 – $2 (8 – 16 SBD)

Transportation Costs

• Bus fare (one way): $0.50 – $1 (4 – 8 SBD)
• Monthly pass: $25 – $40 (200 – 320 SBD)
• Taxi (per km): $1 – $1.50 (8 – 12 SBD)
• Gasoline (per liter): $1.50 – $2 (12 – 16 SBD)

Utility Costs

• Electricity (monthly): $70 – $120 (560 – 960 SBD)
• Water: $20 – $40 (160 – 320 SBD)
• Internet (unlimited): $50 – $90 (400 – 720 SBD)
• Mobile plan: $10 – $20 (80 – 160 SBD)

Healthcare Costs

• General doctor visit: $15 – $25 (120 – 200 SBD)
• Specialist visit: $20 – $40 (160 – 320 SBD)
• Health insurance (individual): $40 – $100 (320 – 800 SBD)
• Health insurance (family): $120 – $250 (960 – 2,000 SBD)

Education Costs

• Public schools: Low or free
• Private schools: $50 – $150 (400 – 1,200 SBD) per month
• International schools: $5,000 – $14,000 yearly

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

• Gym membership: $25 – $40 (200 – 320 SBD)
• Movie ticket: $6 – $10 (48 – 80 SBD)
• Nightlife outing: $10 – $25 (80 – 200 SBD)
• Snorkeling/diving: $40 – $120 (320 – 960 SBD)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Singles can live comfortably with moderate accommodation and food costs, though imported goods raise expenses.

For Couples

Couples save significantly through shared housing and transportation.

For Families

Families may find schooling and rent in Honiara expensive but benefit from affordable local produce and low transport costs.

For Students

Students enjoy a relaxed lifestyle, but limited educational institutions make budgeting important.

For Expats

Expats often work in NGOs or government programs and enjoy a peaceful island lifestyle, though costs are higher due to imports.

Comparison With Other Countries

• Solomon Islands vs Fiji – Fiji is generally cheaper for rent and dining.
• Solomon Islands vs Vanuatu – Costs are similar, though Vanuatu may have higher utilities.
• Solomon Islands vs Papua New Guinea – Solomon Islands is safer and slightly less expensive.

Pros & Cons of Living in Solomon Islands

Pros

• Beautiful natural environment
• Relaxed island lifestyle
• Friendly local community
• Low traffic and pollution

Cons

• High cost of imported goods
• Limited healthcare services
• Unstable electricity in some regions
• Limited job opportunities

Final Summary

The Solomon Islands offers a peaceful tropical lifestyle with beautiful landscapes and a warm island community. While costs are higher than many countries in the region due to heavy reliance on imports, it remains an attractive destination for expats, NGO workers, families, and individuals seeking a serene and slow-paced life.

FAQs

Is it expensive to live in Solomon Islands?

Yes, the cost of living is relatively high due to import reliance, especially in Honiara.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Solomon Islands?

Singles need around $1,200–$1,800 monthly, while families require $2,800–$4,800.

What is the average rent in Solomon Islands?

Rent ranges from $500 to $1,500 depending on location and apartment size.

Is Solomon Islands good for expats?

Yes, it offers a peaceful island lifestyle, though infrastructure and costs may be challenging.

Is Solomon Islands cheaper than Fiji?

No, Fiji is generally more affordable, especially for food and accommodation.