Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Cairo (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Cairo, Egypt
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Cairo, Egypt for an expat in 2026 averages $300–$600 per month for 1-br apt (zamalek / maadi). Key costs include 1-br apt (zamalek / maadi) ($300–$600), groceries (supermarket + local) ($100–$180), dining out (3–4x/week) ($80–$160).
Cairo is a popular destination for expats relocating to Egypt. Cairo is one of the world's great cities — a 21-million-person megapolis where 5,000 years of history collide with a booming 21st-century startup scene. For expats, it's a city of extraordinary contrasts: traffic that defies physics, bureaucracy that defies sanity, and a warmth and energy that defies easy description. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| 1-BR apt (Zamalek / Maadi) | $300–$600 |
| Groceries (supermarket + local) | $100–$180 |
| Dining out (3–4x/week) | $80–$160 |
| Utilities (electric, water, AC) | $40–$90 |
| Mobile (20 GB data plan) | $8–$15 |
| Transport (Uber/Careem + metro) | $50–$100 |
| Private health insurance | $50–$150 |
| Gym / fitness | $20–$50 |
| Entertainment & social | $80–$150 |
| Total (comfortable) | $700–$1,200 |
Cairo Quick Facts
Best For
Professionals, families, digital nomads, entrepreneurs
Monthly Budget
$700–$1,200
1-BR Rent (Zamalek/Maadi)
$300–$600/mo
Internet Speed
30–50 Mbps (fiber available in expat areas)
English Proficiency
High in expat areas, international schools & hospitals
Summer Heat
35–40°C Jul–Aug; mild Nov–Mar (15–22°C)
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Cairo per month?
Monthly costs in Cairo depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include 1-br apt (zamalek / maadi) ($300–$600), groceries (supermarket + local) ($100–$180), dining out (3–4x/week) ($80–$160). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Cairo affordable for expats?
Cairo is a popular expat destination with costs that vary by neighborhood and lifestyle. Many expats find they can live comfortably on a mid-range budget.
What is the average rent in Cairo?
Rental prices vary by neighborhood and apartment type. Check the table above for current rates.