Cost of Living in Ethiopia

Ancient cultural powerhouse; offers a very low cost of living and a unique experience for diplomats and NGO workers.

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£1,039

Average cost per month

1

Distribution of Expenses

Property
54%
Groceries
17%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
2%
Utilities
14%
Leisure
6%
Property
54%
Groceries
17%
Eating Out
7%
Transportation
2%
Utilities
14%
Leisure
6%

Coffee origins & ancient churches

High highlands & rift valley

Diplomatic capital of Africa; growing

Cost of living breakdown for Ethiopia

You can expect to spend around £1,039 per month for 1 person as of 2026, on common living costs such as housing, food, and transport.

Housing

£522Average rent per month
£1,338Price per m² (city centre)
£750Price per m² (outside centre)
Housing

Standard of Living

Cost of living index28
Quality of life index28
Safety index56
Standard of Living

Food & Drink

Ethiopia average costs for food and drink.

£165Monthly groceries/person
£63Dining out average cost/person
£1Regular coffee
Food & Drink

Salary & Services

Ethiopia average salaries and services.

£147Average Monthly Net Salary
£13Transport
Healthcare52
Salary & Services

Average living costs in Ethiopia

ItemAverage pricePrice range
1 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£476.66£221.51 - £1,845.91
1 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£255.98£149.10 - £516.85
3 Bedroom Apartment in City CentreRent Per Month£1,374.00£738.36 - £2,584.27
3 Bedroom Apartment Outside of CentreRent Per Month£529.39£300.68 - £738.36

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Cities in Ethiopia

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Frequently asked questions

The cost of living in Ethiopia depends on your lifestyle and location. On average, a single person needs £517 per month without rent, while a family of four requires £1,733. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs an additional £477 on average.

Public transport prices vary, but generally, a one-way ticket for local transport in Ethiopia costs £0.21. If you are commuting regularly, a monthly pass is typically priced at £13.

The average monthly net salary (after tax) in Ethiopia is currently £147.

Dining costs depend on your choices. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant in Ethiopia costs approximately £3, while a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant costs around £30.

The estimated monthly cost of living in Ethiopia for a single person is £517, excluding rent.

For a family of four living in Ethiopia, the estimated monthly costs are £1,733, not including rent.

Rent prices in Ethiopia depend on location. The average monthly rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in a city centre is £477, compared to £256 outside the centre. For a 3-bedroom apartment, the average is £1,374 in city centres and £529 in suburban areas.

Basic utilities in Ethiopia (including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage for an 85m² apartment) cost an average of £65 per month. Internet access typically adds another £116.