Cost of Living in Ethiopia: What to Expect and How to Budget
Trying to figure out how much life in Ethiopia really costs? Whether you're thinking about moving, planning to invest, or just curious about daily expenses, getting the numbers straight will save you a lot of headaches.
Rent is one of the biggest factors. In Addis Ababa, expect to pay anywhere from 6,000 to 35,000 ETB per month, depending on your neighborhood and whether you're eyeing a modern apartment or something simpler. Smaller towns tend to be much cheaper, with rents sometimes half the price of the capital. Landlords usually ask for several months’ rent upfront, so budget for that.
Salaries can feel low if you're used to Western standards. The average monthly income sits around 5,000-8,000 ETB for basic office jobs, while skilled professionals like pharmacists or engineers earn more. It's common for people to supplement income with small businesses or freelance gigs. If you're moving for work, always compare your salary with monthly essentials!
Food costs can swing a lot. Shopping local markets is wallet-friendly—a bunch of vegetables, eggs, and bread won't break the bank. Local meals (think injera and tibs) from smaller cafes can cost less than 100 ETB, while fancier international dishes in the city will set you back 300 ETB or more per plate. Imported groceries are expensive, so most families stick with Ethiopian staples.
Getting around is affordable if you use minibuses or shared taxis, usually 5-20 ETB per ride. Owning or renting a car means spending a lot more on fuel, parking, and maintenance. If you’re working centrally, living near your job cuts down on costs and stress.
Utilities depend on your location and lifestyle. Electricity is cheap if you don’t run a ton of appliances, but beware of water shortages and sporadic internet speeds or outages—especially outside major cities. Internet packages range from 700-1,400 ETB monthly.
Healthcare is a mixed bag. Public hospitals are cheap but crowded. Private clinics cost more but often have shorter waits. Make sure to have some emergency cash for unexpected medical bills, as insurance coverage is still pretty basic for most people.
Entertainment is mostly affordable. A cinema ticket in Addis Ababa runs about 120 ETB, while gym memberships range from 800 to 2,500 ETB monthly. Social life tends to revolve around cafes and local music bars, most with no cover charge.
So, living in Ethiopia can be doable on a modest salary if you’re willing to adapt and choose local options. Expats and returnees often find their biggest expenses come from wanting familiar brands and luxuries. For the most part, planning ahead and embracing local ways helps you stretch your birr further—and get the most out of life in this diverse, vibrant country.
