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Cost of Living in Mauritius
Mauritius economy is highly diversified, providing an opportunity for each and every investor eying this international financial hub. For many years now, the Mauritian government has been formulating schemes that allow foreigners to invest in the real estate industry with minimal bureaucracies and at affordable prices.
Comparatively, the cost of living in Mauritius is significantly lower than in the United States. On average, it is 45.1% lower, providing a more affordable lifestyle. Specifically, rental expenses in Mauritius are remarkably lower, averaging at a staggering 76.1% reduction compared to the United States. With these favorable cost differentials, Mauritius presents an enticing destination for those seeking a more budget-friendly living environment.
Estimated monthly costs in Mauritius 2023
The cost of living in Mauritius can vary depending on the abovementioned factors. In summary, this is what you can expect:
| LOW | High | |
| Rent for a one-bedroom apartment at the more beautiful places | 20,000 MUR | 30,000 MUR |
| Rent for a one-bedroom apartment lower areas | 10,000 MUR | 20,000 MUR |
| Utilities (electricity, water, gas, etc.) | 2,500 MUR | 8,000 MUR |
| Internet | 500 MUR | 4,700 MUR |
| Mobile phone | Prepaid | 2000 MUR |
| Groceries | 10,000 MUR | 50,000 MUR |
| Dining out (lunch or dinner for two) | 1,500 MUR | 4,500 MUR |
| Total living cost in Mauritius, from very low to the high | 24,500 MUR | 99,200 MUR |
| $490 | $2000 |
Please note that these are just approximate figures, and your actual costs may be higher or lower depending on your circumstances and tax amount.
The minimum salary in Mauritius is 12000RS (240 USD) and the average salary of 32000RS (640 USD) says little about the cost of living in Mauritius. That this is not enough for an expatriate is demonstrated by the following information.
Accommodation rental
Accommodation costs in Mauritius depend on various factors such as location, size, and accommodation type. The most expensive areas in Mauritius are the coastal areas, such as Grand Baie, Tamarin, and Flic en Flac, but also Quatre Bormes, Moka, and Floreal. A one-bedroom apartment in these areas can cost between $300 to $600 per month.
In contrast, the price of rent for a similar apartment in the other regions of the island, in cities such as Port Louis, Beau Bassin, Rose Hill, can cost around $150 to $400 per month. For those on a tight budget, shared accommodation or a studio apartment can be a cost-effective option, with prices ranging from $75 to $150 per month, But these are no longer European standards.
How much is a Car
If you plan to rent or buy a car in Mauritius, you should be prepared to pay more than in other countries. The average cost of a new car in Mauritius is around $30,000. The price of an equivalent new car or a used car can be slightly lower than an equivalent new car, but it still ranges from $10,000 to $20,000. The tip here is to get second-hand cars from Japan, where you can get very good deals.
Food
The cost of food in Mauritius is relatively low compared to other countries. The average meal price at a mid-range restaurant is around $10-15. You can find cheaper meals at local street food vendors for around $2.50 if you’re on a budget.
The cost of groceries in Mauritius is low on local products, but everything that is imported is more expensive. A liter of milk costs about $1.25 and a common French baguette $0.24, whereas a loaf of bread can go up to around $3. Note that, like in most countries, food costs go up when you eat out. Most foreigners thus prefer sourcing the island’s ingredients and making home-cooked meals.
Supermarket Prices
The latest update is April 23
- 6 Big eggs 45RS (0.9USD)
- Cafe 200g Lavazza Ross 213RS (4.26USD)
- Nescafe Alta 349RS (6.98USD)
- Phoenix Beer Can x6 500ml 462RS (9.26USD)
- Weetabix standard box 133RS (2.66USD)
- Peel Tomato Can 36RS (0.72USD)
- Panzani Lasange 114RS (2.28USD)
- 1 Liter Milk 3.5% 70RS (1.4USD)
Internet cost
The cost of internet in Mauritius is relatively low compared to other countries. The price with a basic internet plan 10 Mbps is around $10. However, if you need unlimited data or a faster internet connection, you may need to pay more. For example, a high-speed internet plan 1Gbps can cost around $50. The biggest internet provider is Telecom Mauritius with its Fiber optic offers. Followed by Emtel with Broadband over the Air.
Living expenses
Aside from accommodation, food, and transportation, there are various other expenses to consider when living in Mauritius. These include healthcare costs, living expenses, education expenses, and entertainment costs.
A Private Doctor Charges
Healthcare costs can be relatively high, with private health service providers charging between $20 and $ 30 for a consultation.
Schools fees
Education expenses vary depending on the type good quality of education and the student’s age. Public schools in Mauritius are free, but private schools can cost between $3300 to $10000 per year.
Cinema ticket
For those residents who enjoy entertainment, plenty of options are available, including cinemas, bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. A movie ticket costs around $6, while a night out at a bar, restaurant, or lounge can cost around $40.
Alcohol Prices
The cost of alcohol in Mauritius is relatively high compared to other countries. A beer bottle at a local bar can cost around $3. A bottle of wine can cost around $20, and a bottle of whiskey can cost around $80. In the Supermarket, the Local Beer starts at $1.25, and a bottle of wine is around $9.
Cigarettes
A packet of 20 Cigarettes is around $5. Please note that E-Liquide or E-Cigarettes are not allowed in Mauritius, which means you are not able to buy them on the Island.
Public transport fare
There have been some changes in Mauritius due to the newly opened metro. The costs are about the same as those of the public buses. For example, a trip from Quatre Bornes to Port Louis costs 45 RS by metro.
Petrol Price
| Gasoline | 74RS per Liter $1.63 |
| Diesel | 55RS per Liter $1.20 |
Water, Electricity and Gas tariff
Mauritius’s water, Gas, and Electricity cost is relatively low compared to other countries. The average cost of utilities for a small apartment is approximately $50 (2500RS). in monthly rent However, if you have a larger apartment or a house, the cost of utilities can increase to around 7,000 MUR per month, equivalent to about $140. Heating is not needed in general, in the highlands Curepipe area, some people use a chimney. But keep in mind that an Aircon could be needed in summertime.
 |  |  |
| Central Electric Board (CEB) Government | Central Water Authority (CWA) Government | Gas (Private) |
| Tarife 120 | Domestic Tariff | Cooking gas cylinder price in Mauritius |
| Tarife 120 applicable to consumers with a connected load to max 5,000 watts. | 0-6m³ free | Gas Price for 18.9KG Bottle |
| First 25 KW Rs. 3.16 per kWh ($0.0632) | 7-10m³ (Minimum Charges) 45RS ($0.9) | 275RS ($7.5) |
| the next 25 KW Rs. 4.38 per kWh ($0.0876) | First 10m³ 6RS ($0.12) per m³ | |
| Max Rs. 8.77 per kWh ($.175) | Over 60m³ Every Other Additional m³ 32RS ($0.64) per m³ | |
| More info on CEB Tariff | More Info on CWA Tariff |
Cost of Staying in Mauritius v. South Africa
It isn’t easy to compare the cost of living in Mauritius and South Africa, as the two countries have different economic structures and living standards. However, some factors can be considered to most people determine which one is cheaper to live comfortably stay in.
Firstly, the accommodation cost in Mauritius tends to be more expensive than South Africa. This is mainly due to the high demand for housing in Mauritius city, a popular tourist destination country, and also because of the island country’s small size.
Secondly, the cost of food and groceries tends to be higher in Mauritius compared to South Africa. This is because most of the food in Mauritius is imported, which results in higher food prices here. South Africa, on the other hand, has a more developed agricultural industry, which leads to less prices and a lower cost of living.
Thirdly, the cost of transportation is generally higher in Mauritius than in South Africa. The island is relatively small, and public transport and taxi options are limited, which leads to higher prices for taxis and private transportation. In South Africa, more transportation and taxi options are available, including buses, trains, and taxis, which are more affordable.
Finally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is generally higher in Mauritius than in South Africa. Mauritius is known for its luxury resorts and high-end activities, which are more expensive than South Africa’s diverse range of family activities catering to different family budgets.
Like in Mauritius, the overall monthly cost of living in South Africa can vary greatly depending on factors such as the city or region you live in, your lifestyle, and your accommodation choices. However, according to Numbeo, the average monthly cost of living for a single person in South Africa is around $615.70 (as of April 2023). This includes basic expenses such as accommodation (rent), food, utilities, transportation, and entertainment.
Cost of Living in the UK v Mauritius
Like in the case of South Africa, comparing data on the cost of living index in Mauritius v the UK isn’t straightforward based on several factors such as location. We, however, took the liberty of comparing data between the two:
Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for travelers, and the price of it can vary widely depending on the location and type of accommodation. The average salary and accommodation cost in Mauritius is generally lower than in the UK. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Port Louis, Mauritius, may cost around $650 per month, whereas a similar apartment in London, UK, may cost around $2000 per month.
Transportation is another significant factor that can impact the cost of living. In Mauritius, public transportation is relatively affordable compare to the United Kindom, with a one-way ticket for local public transport often costing around $125. In contrast, transportation costs in the UK can be quite high, with a one-way ticket for local transport costing around $4. However, if you plan to rent a car in Mauritius, it may cost more than in the UK due to the high cost of petrol $1.50 (Super Unleaded) in Mauritius.
Food service and entertainment costs can also vary widely between the two countries. Generally, Mauritius’s food and drink prices are lower than in the UK. For example, a three-course meal for two people at a mid-range restaurant in Mauritius may cost around $35, whereas a similar meal of equivalent amount in the UK may cost around $65. However, the costs can be higher if you plan to eat at high-end restaurants or purchase imported food items in Mauritius.
More on Mauritius Prices you will find at Numbeo for Mauritius.
The Big Mac Index Mauritius
Big Mac Index: Compares Big Mac prices to assess currency value. [wikipedia]
Price of a Big Mac April 2023
| Country | Mauritian Rupee (MUR) | United States Dollar (USD) |
| Australia | 340RS | 7.5USD |
| Germany | 297RS | 6.55USD |
| USA | 251RS | 5.53USD |
| UAE | 208RS | 4.57USD |
| Mauritius | 134RS | 2.68USD |
| South Africa | 120RS | 2.34USD |
Question as FAQ
What is the cost of living in Mauritius?
The cost of living in Mauritius varies depending on an individual’s region, lifestyle, and personal preferences. As a general guide, Mauritius’s living cost is moderate compared to many other countries. Housing, food, and transportation costs are generally affordable, and many options exist for both budget and luxury living. Depending on your circumstances, expect to pay somewhere between $900 to $2500 estimated monthly costs.
