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

Zambia is a landlocked country in Southern Africa known for its wildlife, natural beauty, copper production, and peaceful environment. Home to the magnificent Victoria Falls and vibrant cities like Lusaka and Livingstone, Zambia attracts expats, students, NGO professionals, and business investors. Understanding the cost of living in Zambia is essential for anyone planning to relocate, work, or study in the country.

To learn more about the country, visit the Zambia country page.

Cost of Living in Zambia: Summary Table

Category	Cost (USD)	Cost (ZMW)
Average Monthly Cost (Single Person)	$500 – $900	ZMW 13,000 – 23,500
Average Monthly Cost (Family of Four)	$1,500 – $2,800	ZMW 39,000 – 73,000
Rent Range	$250 – $1,200	ZMW 6,500 – 31,500
Food Cost (Monthly)	$150 – $300	ZMW 3,900 – 7,800
Transport Cost	$20 – $50	ZMW 520 – 1,300
Utilities	$40 – $80	ZMW 1,000 – 2,100
Healthcare	$20 – $70	ZMW 520 – 1,800
Education	$80 – $600	ZMW 2,000 – 15,700

Housing & Rent Prices in Zambia

Apartment Rent (Monthly)

1-bedroom in city center: $400 – $800 (ZMW 10,500 – 21,000)
1-bedroom outside center: $250 – $500 (ZMW 6,500 – 13,000)
3-bedroom city center: $900 – $1,500 (ZMW 23,500 – 39,000)
3-bedroom outside center: $600 – $1,000 (ZMW 15,700 – 26,000)

Buying Property

City center: $1,000 – $2,000 per sq meter
Outside center: $600 – $1,200 per sq meter

Food & Grocery Costs

Milk (1 liter): $1.20 – $2 (ZMW 31 – 52)
Bread (loaf): $0.80 – $1.20 (ZMW 21 – 31)
Rice (1 kg): $1.50 – $2.50 (ZMW 39 – 65)
Eggs (12): $1.50 – $3 (ZMW 39 – 78)
Chicken (1 kg): $3 – $5 (ZMW 78 – 130)
Beef (1 kg): $5 – $8 (ZMW 130 – 210)
Apples (1 kg): $2 – $3.50 (ZMW 52 – 91)
Bananas (1 kg): $1 – $1.50 (ZMW 26 – 39)
Tomatoes (1 kg): $1 – $1.50 (ZMW 26 – 39)
Soft drink (can): $0.50 – $1 (ZMW 13 – 26)

Restaurant & Dining Costs

Local inexpensive meal: $3 – $5 (ZMW 78 – 130)
Mid-range restaurant for two: $20 – $40 (ZMW 520 – 1,050)
Fast food combo: $4 – $6 (ZMW 105 – 157)
Coffee: $1.50 – $3 (ZMW 39 – 78)

Transportation Costs

One-way public transport: $0.50 – $1 (ZMW 13 – 26)
Monthly transport pass: $20 – $30 (ZMW 520 – 780)
Taxi (per km): $0.40 – $0.70 (ZMW 10 – 18)
Fuel per liter: $1.10 – $1.40 (ZMW 28 – 36)

Utility Costs

Electricity, water, garbage: $30 – $60 (ZMW 780 – 1,570)
Internet (home): $20 – $40 (ZMW 520 – 1,050)
Mobile plan: $5 – $10 (ZMW 130 – 260)

Healthcare Costs

Doctor consultation: $10 – $25 (ZMW 260 – 650)
Specialist visit: $20 – $50 (ZMW 520 – 1,300)
Private insurance: $20 – $70 per month
Basic medicine: $2 – $8 (ZMW 52 – 210)

Education Costs

Public school: Low cost
Private school: $50 – $200 per month (ZMW 1,300 – 5,200)
International school: $300 – $1,000 per month

Entertainment & Lifestyle Expenses

Gym membership: $20 – $40 (ZMW 520 – 1,050)
Movie ticket: $4 – $6 (ZMW 105 – 157)
Local tours: $20 – $50 (ZMW 520 – 1,300)
Nightlife outing: $10 – $25 (ZMW 260 – 650)

Cost of Living for Different Groups

For Singles

Zambia is moderately affordable for single individuals, particularly in suburban or non-central areas of Lusaka and Ndola.

For Couples

Couples benefit from shared housing and transport costs, making Zambia manageable for dual-income households.

For Families

Families can enjoy a decent quality of life, though international school fees can significantly increase expenses.

For Students

Students find Zambia budget-friendly due to low transportation and food costs.

For Expats

Expats working in mining, NGOs, or business sectors often enjoy a comfortable lifestyle while benefiting from moderate living costs.

Comparison With Other Countries

Zambia vs South Africa – South Africa is more developed but generally more expensive.
Zambia vs Zimbabwe – Zimbabwe can be more costly due to currency instability.
Zambia vs Kenya – Kenya has higher rent prices, especially in Nairobi.

Pros & Cons of Living in Zambia

Pros

Affordable housing and food
Peaceful and friendly environment
Strong expat community
Rich wildlife and nature attractions

Cons

International schools can be expensive
Power outages in some regions
Limited public transport options

Final Summary

Zambia offers a balanced lifestyle with moderate living costs, making it suitable for expats, families, students, and long-term residents. While certain services like education and electricity can be costly, everyday expenses such as food, transport, and local housing remain affordable. With its natural beauty and welcoming culture, Zambia is a strong choice for those seeking an affordable African destination.

FAQs

Is Zambia expensive to live in?

No, Zambia has a moderate cost of living compared to other African nations, with affordable housing and food.

How much salary is enough to live comfortably in Zambia?

A single person can live comfortably on $500–$900 per month, while families need $1,500–$2,800.

What is the average rent in Zambia?

Rent ranges from $250 to $1,200 depending on the location and apartment size.

Is Zambia good for expats?

Yes, Zambia is popular among NGO workers, mining professionals, and business expats due to its peaceful environment and moderate living costs.

Is Zambia cheaper than South Africa?

Yes, Zambia is generally cheaper, especially for rent and groceries.