What living in Egypt actually costs

Why there is no single answer

People want one number: what does it cost to live in Egypt? There isn't one. The gap between a modest life in an established district and a compound life with international schooling is enormous — larger than the gap between countries.

Prices in Egypt have also moved significantly in recent years, and exchange rates matter a great deal if you earn abroad. Any fixed figure published on a website goes out of date quickly, so we are not going to give you one.

Build your own estimate instead

The reliable method is to list your categories and get current quotes for your specific situation, rather than trusting an average.

• Rent, and whether it is quoted in Egyptian pounds or a foreign currency
• Compound or building service fees — these are often forgotten and are not small
• Utilities: electricity, water, gas, internet
• Transport: a car and its running costs, or daily ride-hailing
• Schooling, if you have children — usually the largest single item after housing
• Health insurance and medical costs
• Household help, if you will use it
• Visa, residency and administrative costs

The currency question

If you earn outside Egypt and spend inside it, the exchange rate is part of your cost of living. It can work in your favour and it can move against you.

Where a landlord or developer quotes in a foreign currency, be clear about which rate applies, on which date, and who absorbs the movement.

The costs people forget

• Compound and maintenance fees
• The gap between an unfurnished flat and a liveable one
• Deposits tied up for the length of the tenancy
• Getting to and from the airport regularly
• Setting up utilities and internet in your own name