Cost of Living in Angola
for Expats 2026

Housing in Luanda, the capital and primary expat hub, ranges from $800–$2,000/month for a modest one-bedroom apartment in safe expat neighborhoods like Morro Bento or Alvalade, to $2,500–$4,500 for modern furnished apartments in premium areas. Secondary cities like Benguela and Lubango offer significantly cheaper accommodation at $300–$800/month for comparable space. Furnished versus unfurnished properties show minimal price difference, though furnished units typically include basic utilities. The rental market remains tight; most expats work through local agents or corporate relocation services to secure housing quickly.

Local market prices in Angola are extremely competitive—fresh produce from street vendors costs 40–60% less than supermarket equivalents. A monthly grocery budget for one person ranges from $150–$250 depending on diet preferences and shopping location. Imported goods (Western cereals, European cheeses, specialty items) carry a significant premium due to import duties and logistics costs; locals shop primarily at Portuguese and Brazilian sections for familiar imported foods. Eating out at local establishments costs $3–$8 per meal, while mid-range restaurants frequented by expats charge $12–$25 per entree.

Luanda's public transport (minibuses/candongueiros) costs roughly $0.50 per ride; monthly pass systems are uncommon. Rideshare apps like Uber operate in Luanda with fares ranging $2–$8 for short trips. Taxis are negotiation-based and typically cost $5–$15 per journey depending on distance. Car ownership is viable for expats with reliable incomes—used vehicles (Japanese imports dominating) cost $8,000–$20,000 and fuel is relatively cheap at ~$0.90/liter despite global volatility.

Angola's public healthcare system exists but expats typically rely on private clinics and hospitals in Luanda such as Clínica Girassol or Hospital Américo Boavida, where a general practitioner consultation costs $40–$60. Private health insurance for expats ranges $100–$300/month depending on coverage level and provider (ENSA, Fidelidade, Angolan subsidiaries of international insurers). Emergency medical evacuation to South Africa or Portugal is standard practice for serious conditions and must be covered by comprehensive expat insurance policies.