Cost of Living in Tanzania
for Expats 2026

Housing in Tanzania's major expat hubs is remarkably affordable. In Dar es Salaam's premium neighborhoods — Oyster Bay and Msasani Peninsula — expats typically rent furnished apartments ranging from $400–$1,200 per month, with modern amenities and garden space. Zanzibar's Stone Town offers even cheaper options, with charming renovated mansions at $300–$800 monthly. Unfurnished rentals are 20–30% lower but require sourcing furniture locally. Many expats find short-term furnished rentals through Airbnb or local agents before committing to longer leases; 12-month contracts provide 15–20% discounts and often include utilities.

Street food and local markets offer extraordinary value: a plate of ugali with nyama choma (grilled meat) costs $1–$3 at casual eateries. Nakumatt and Shoprite supermarkets stock imported goods at 30–40% premium over local prices, though fresh produce at neighborhood markets (tomatoes, avocados, mangoes) is pennies per kilogram year-round. A comfortable monthly food budget for one person ranges $100–$250, depending on eating habits; shared housing compounds often organize bulk purchases that further reduce costs. Fresh seafood in Dar and Zanzibar is exceptionally cheap — lobster and prawns under $5/kg at fish markets.

Getting around Tanzania is cheap but requires patience. Daladala minibuses (shared vans) cost $0.10–$0.20 per journey within cities; longer intercity routes range $2–$8. Bajaji tuk-tuks navigate Dar's congested neighborhoods for $0.50–$2 per ride. Ride-sharing via Uber and Bolt operates in Dar es Salaam with per-kilometer rates of $0.30–$0.50, significantly cheaper than Western cities but more expensive than daladala. Traffic in Dar is chaotic, especially mornings; many expats opt for motorcycles ($40–$80/month rental) or, for serious stays, purchase a used sedan ($3,000–$8,000). Zanzibar is best explored by bicycle or foot; the island's compact layout and absence of serious hills make cycling ideal.

Tanzania's public healthcare is overtaxed; expats rely on private facilities. Aga Khan Hospital in Dar es Salaam is the gold-standard choice, staffed by internationally trained physicians and offering diagnostic equipment equivalent to Western hospitals. Consultation fees range $25–$60, and routine medications cost 40–50% less than US prices. Malaria prophylaxis (doxycycline or mefloquine) is essential in most regions below 2,000m elevation; Dar and coastal areas are high-risk year-round. Comprehensive expat health insurance ($40–$120/month) is strongly recommended and covers international evacuation if needed. Dental work is excellent value — $100–$200 for comprehensive cleaning and fillings versus $400+ in North America.