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

Tanzania, located in East Africa, is known for its incredible wildlife, Mount Kilimanjaro, Zanzibar beaches, and vibrant cultural diversity. Cities like Dar es Salaam, Arusha, Mwanza, and Dodoma attract expats, students, retirees, and digital nomads due to the country’s affordability and relaxed lifestyle. The cost of living in Tanzania is relatively low, although imported goods and high-end services can be more expensive.

Learn more about the country on the Tanzania country page.

Cost of Living in Tanzania: Summary Table

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (TZS)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$350 – $600	900,000 – 1,500,000 TZS
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$900 – $1,800	2,250,000 – 4,500,000 TZS
Rent Range	$150 – $600	375,000 – 1,500,000 TZS
Food Cost (Monthly)	$120 – $250	300,000 – 625,000 TZS
Transport Cost	$20 – $50	50,000 – 125,000 TZS
Utilities	$30 – $80	75,000 – 200,000 TZS
Healthcare	$10 – $40	25,000 – 100,000 TZS
Education	$50 – $300	125,000 – 750,000 TZS
Miscellaneous Expenses	$40 – $100	100,000 – 250,000 TZS

Housing & Rent Prices in Tanzania

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

1-bedroom in city center: $300 – $500 (750,000 – 1,250,000 TZS)
1-bedroom outside center: $150 – $300 (375,000 – 750,000 TZS)
3-bedroom in city center: $500 – $900 (1,250,000 – 2,250,000 TZS)
3-bedroom outside center: $300 – $600 (750,000 – 1,500,000 TZS)

Buying Property

Price per sq meter (city center): $700 – $1,500 (1,750,000 – 3,750,000 TZS)
Price per sq meter (outside center): $300 – $700 (750,000 – 1,750,000 TZS)

Food & Grocery Costs

Milk (1 liter): $0.70 – $1.20 (1,750 – 3,000 TZS)
Bread (loaf): $0.40 – $0.80 (1,000 – 2,000 TZS)
Rice (1 kg): $0.80 – $1.40 (2,000 – 3,500 TZS)
Eggs (12): $1.20 – $2 (3,000 – 5,000 TZS)
Chicken (1 kg): $2.50 – $4 (6,250 – 10,000 TZS)
Beef (1 kg): $3 – $5 (7,500 – 12,500 TZS)
Bananas (1 kg): $0.40 – $0.80 (1,000 – 2,000 TZS)
Apples (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50 (3,750 – 6,250 TZS)
Water (1.5L): $0.40 – $0.80 (1,000 – 2,000 TZS)
Soft drink (can): $0.50 – $1 (1,250 – 2,500 TZS)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

Inexpensive restaurant meal: $2 – $5 (5,000 – 12,500 TZS)
Mid-range meal for two: $15 – $30 (37,500 – 75,000 TZS)
Fast-food combo: $3 – $6 (7,500 – 15,000 TZS)
Coffee: $1 – $2 (2,500 – 5,000 TZS)
Tea: $0.40 – $0.80 (1,000 – 2,000 TZS)

Transportation Costs

One-way bus ticket: $0.15 – $0.30 (375 – 750 TZS)
Monthly public transport pass: $10 – $20 (25,000 – 50,000 TZS)
Taxi (per km): $1 – $2 (2,500 – 5,000 TZS)
Gasoline (per liter): $1 – $1.40 (2,500 – 3,500 TZS)

Utility Costs

Electricity (monthly): $10 – $30 (25,000 – 75,000 TZS)
Water: $3 – $10 (7,500 – 25,000 TZS)
Heating & cooling: $10 – $20 (25,000 – 50,000 TZS)
Internet (unlimited): $20 – $40 (50,000 – 100,000 TZS)
Mobile plan: $3 – $7 (7,500 – 17,500 TZS)

Healthcare Costs

General doctor visit: $5 – $15 (12,500 – 37,500 TZS)
Specialist visit: $15 – $30 (37,500 – 75,000 TZS)
Common medicine: $2 – $10 (5,000 – 25,000 TZS)
Private clinic: $20 – $50 (50,000 – 125,000 TZS)

Education Costs

Public schools: Low or minimal fees
Private schools: $30 – $150 (75,000 – 375,000 TZS) monthly
International schools: $1,000 – $5,000 yearly

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: $10 – $30 (25,000 – 75,000 TZS)
Movie ticket: $3 – $7 (7,500 – 17,500 TZS)
Nightlife outing: $5 – $20 (12,500 – 50,000 TZS)
Safari tour (local rate): $20 – $50 (50,000 – 125,000 TZS)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Singles find Tanzania affordable, especially in smaller cities. Imported products cost more.

For Couples

Couples benefit from low housing and shared transport costs.

For Families

Families enjoy low daily expenses, though international schools and private healthcare cost more.

For Students

Students appreciate low transport and food costs, making Tanzania budget-friendly.

For Expats

Expats find Tanzania affordable, but may spend more on housing, healthcare, and imported goods.

Comparison With Other Countries

Tanzania vs Kenya – Kenya is slightly more expensive.
Tanzania vs Uganda – Similar costs, though Tanzania has higher rent in major cities.
Tanzania vs South Africa – South Africa has higher living standards but is costlier.

Pros & Cons of Living in Tanzania

Pros

Affordable cost of living
Beautiful natural attractions
Warm and friendly culture
Fresh food and local markets

Cons

Imported goods can be expensive
Infrastructure varies by region
Private healthcare can be costly
Traffic congestion in Dar es Salaam

Final Summary

Tanzania offers an affordable lifestyle with rich culture, natural wonders, and friendly communities. It suits budget travelers, expats, retirees, and families who prefer a relaxed lifestyle. While daily expenses are low, imported items, healthcare, and international schools can increase costs for some households.

FAQs

Is Tanzania expensive to live in?

No, Tanzania is generally affordable, with low costs for housing, food, and transportation.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Tanzania?

A single person can live comfortably on $350–$600 monthly, while families need $900–$1,800.

What is the average rent in Tanzania?

Rent ranges from $150 to $600 depending on the location and house size.

Is Tanzania good for expats?

Yes, Tanzania is popular among expats due to its low costs, friendly culture, and beautiful environment.

Is Tanzania cheaper than Kenya?

Yes, Tanzania is slightly cheaper overall, especially in food and transportation.