Expat Topics
Cost of Living in Dar es Salaam (2026)
Monthly budget breakdown for expats living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Last updated: March 2026
The cost of living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania for an expat in 2026 averages $600–$1,200 per month for rent (1-br, masaki/oyster bay area). Key costs include rent (1-br, masaki/oyster bay area) ($600–$1,200), groceries (shoppers plaza + local markets) ($200–$400), transport (bajaj/taxi/own car) ($100–$250).
Dar es Salaam is a popular destination for expats relocating to Tanzania. Dar es Salaam ('Haven of Peace' in Arabic) is Tanzania's largest city and economic engine, home to 6 million people along the Indian Ocean coast. While not the official capital (that's Dodoma), Dar is where the action is — the stock exchange, major companies, embassies, international schools, and the NGO community are all based here. Below is a detailed monthly budget breakdown based on real expat spending data.
Monthly Expenses Breakdown
| Expense | Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Rent (1-BR, Masaki/Oyster Bay area) | $600–$1,200 |
| Groceries (Shoppers Plaza + local markets) | $200–$400 |
| Transport (bajaj/taxi/own car) | $100–$250 |
| Utilities + internet (fiber 30 Mbps) | $80–$150 |
| Health insurance (private) | $100–$300 |
| Dining out (3×/week) | $80–$200 |
| Domestic help (full-time) | $100–$200 |
| Total (comfortable Dar lifestyle) | $1,500–$3,000 |
Dar es Salaam Quick Facts
Best For
Professionals, NGO workers, entrepreneurs, families
Monthly Budget
$1,500–$3,000
1-BR Rent
$400–$1,200/mo
Internet Speed
30–50 Mbps fiber (Vodacom, TTCL)
English Level
Good — widely spoken in business and educated circles
Airport
Julius Nyerere International (DAR) — 12 km from city center
Key Challenge
Traffic congestion — improving with BRT system
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to live in Dar es Salaam per month?
Monthly costs in Dar es Salaam depend on your lifestyle. Key expenses include rent (1-br, masaki/oyster bay area) ($600–$1,200), groceries (shoppers plaza + local markets) ($200–$400), transport (bajaj/taxi/own car) ($100–$250). See the full breakdown above for a complete picture.
Is Dar es Salaam affordable for expats?
Dar es Salaam 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 Dar es Salaam?
Rent (1-BR, Masaki/Oyster Bay area): $600–$1,200