Key Cost of Living Data
| Category | Index | Est. USD | Tier |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 58.0 | 42% cheaper than NYC | Moderate |
| Rent (1-bed city) | 26.0 | —/mo est. | Cheap |
| Groceries | 58.0 | —/mo est. | Moderate |
| Restaurants | 46.0 | —/meal est. | Moderate |
| Local Purch. Power | 73.86 | ×1.72 expat stretch | |
| GNI per Capita | $32.2k | World Bank PPP | |
| Inflation Rate | 0.31% | Annual 2026 |
Housing & Rent
Housing is the largest expense in Seychelles, though still reasonable by global standards. A modest 1-bedroom apartment in Victoria (capital) rents for $400–$600/month unfurnished, with beachfront properties in Beau Vallon commanding $800–$1,200. Furnished expat homes run $600–$1,000/month. Outside the main islands, prices drop: Praslin and La Digue offer $300–$500/month rentals with island charm. Property purchase is restricted; long-term residence permits (5+ years) allow leasehold arrangements. Utilities (electricity, water) add $80–$120/month due to island infrastructure costs.
Food & Dining
Groceries are pricier due to island logistics and import reliance; a month of supermarket shopping costs $200–$280 for one person. Imported European staples carry 40–60% premiums. However, local seafood—tuna, grouper, marlin—is incredibly cheap; a daily catch meal at local restaurants costs $6–$12. Street food (curry puffs, grilled fish) runs $2–$5. Dining out at mid-range establishments averages $15–$25 per person. Growing local agriculture keeps produce reasonably priced seasonally.
Transport
Inter-island ferries and local buses provide affordable transport; monthly passes cost $30–$50. Taxis are metered; typical rides run $5–$15. Many residents rent scooters or cars ($200–$400/month). Gasoline averages $1.30/liter. The islands are compact enough that walking and biking are viable on Mahé and Praslin. International flights are the biggest transport cost for overseas travel.
Healthcare & Quality of Life
Healthcare is excellent and accessible. Public healthcare is free for residents; private clinics offer shorter wait times and international standard care. A GP consultation costs $30–$50, with specialist visits $60–$120. Prescription medications are affordable through local pharmacies. Private health insurance for expats ranges $150–$350/month. Seychelles attracts medical tourism; dental work and elective procedures are significantly cheaper than Western rates. The country maintains high vaccination standards and good maternal/pediatric care.
Key Insight
Seychelles is for those seeking tropical island living with first-world governance, healthcare, and safety at Middle Eastern or Eastern European costs. Unlike many developing nations, Seychelles maintains remarkably clean, secure communities, world-class schools, and excellent infrastructure. It's ideal for finance professionals, remote workers, and retirees willing to accept higher-than-mainland-Africa prices for island exclusivity and stability. Low inflation (1.8%) makes it a stable long-term base.
Our Verdict for Seychelles
Seychelles offers strong value for money at CoL 58.0 — significantly below NYC and most Western cities. Digital nomads and expats from high-cost countries benefit most from this gap.
Best for
- Digital nomads & remote workers on foreign income
- Budget-conscious expats maximising lifestyle quality
May not suit
- Remote workers on tight budgets — costs still add up
Free resource
Planning a move to Seychelles?
Get our Expat Budget Calculator — personalised monthly cost estimate for your lifestyle and city.
Monthly Budget Estimates
Monthly Budget Estimator
Cost of living in —
10-Year Economic Trend
Country vs Region Average
Regional cost comparison
Frequently Asked Questions
Comparisons