How much does it really cost to live, work, or travel in ? Here's what to expect for daily expenses and expat living.
Currency Guide for Ethiopia (ISO Code: ET)
For a traveler planning a 1-week mid-range stay in Ethiopia, a budget of approximately $600 to $1,000 USD is advisable, depending on personal preferences and activity choices. This range accounts for daily expenses and occasional splurges. Here's a brief breakdown of typical daily costs in Ethiopian Birr (ETB) 💸:
- 🍽️ Meal at a local restaurant: 150-300 ETB
- 🚌 Public transport fare: 10-20 ETB
- 📱 Prepaid SIM card: 100-200 ETB
- 🏨 Budget hotel or Airbnb: 700-1,200 ETB
Overall, Ethiopia is considered an affordable destination compared to other major countries. In comparison, expenses in Ethiopia are roughly 50% lower than in the United States and about 30% cheaper compared to the UK, making it an enticing choice for budget-conscious travelers seeking unique and enriching experiences.
Expat Living in Ethiopia
For expats, understanding the financial landscape in Ethiopia is crucial. Typical monthly living costs for a single person can range between 15,000 to 25,000 ETB, which includes rent, utilities, groceries, and transportation. Here’s a breakdown of common expenses: rent for a decent one-bedroom apartment can range from 8,000 to 15,000 ETB, while groceries may cost around 3,000-5,000 ETB.
When it comes to banking and transactions, Ethiopian banks allow for local currency accounts, which can help avoid exchange rate losses. However, using international credit or debit cards is only feasible in urban areas and can incur significant fees. When sending or receiving money, using online services like Wise or OFX often provides better rates and lower fees than local exchanges, making them ideal for expats. It is generally more advantageous to avoid exchanging large amounts of money locally due to higher overhead costs and instead opt for more competitive online transfer services where possible.