Egypt, renowned for its monumental pyramids, bustling bazaars, and the iconic Nile River, has long drawn tourists from around the world. The richness of its culture is sure to inspire every visitor.
Understanding the current living expenses is not just a matter of curiosity—it's a vital step in planning your stay in Egypt, especially for an extended visit. Egypt remains one of the more affordable destinations, offering a cost-effective living experience. To make your trip hassle-free, travelers are encouraged to apply for Egypt eVisa in advance, ensuring smooth entry and more time to enjoy the country's wonders.
Cost of Living Overview
Numbeo (Sept 2025)
- Monthly living costs (excluding rent) for a single person: $354.80 → approximately 17,224 EGP
Expatistan (2025)
- Monthly living costs (excluding rent):
- Single person: 33,527 EGP
- Family of four: 79,680 EGP
Total monthly cost (with rent):
- One person: $384
- Family of four: $947
Breakdown (one person):
- Without rent: $253
- Rent & Utilities: $131
- Food: $165
- Transport: $30.6
- Average monthly income after tax: $141
Rent Estimates (Cairo, 2025)
- Single-bedroom apartment (city centre): 6,000–18,000 EGP/month
- Single-bedroom (outside centre): 6,000–12,000 EGP/month
- Three-bedroom (city centre): 20,000–40,000 EGP/month
- Three-bedroom (outside centre): 12,000–25,000 EGP/month
Utilities & Internet
Monthly bills for Electricity, water, and gas:
- Per person: $30–50
- Per family: $70–120
- Internet & mobile communications: $10–20/month
- Internet (unlimited, cable/ADSL): about $11.39/month.
Daily Expenses & Leisure (2025)
- Fitness club: ~$17.10/month
- Cinema ticket (international film): ~$3.35
- Levis jeans: ~$24.82
- Summer dress from chain stores such as Zara: ~$28.89
- Adidas walking shoes, which are in the mid-range: ~$72.69
- 1-bedroom rent close to the city centre: ~$125.96/month
- 1-bedroom rent (outside centre): ~$77.68/month
Expat Comparisons (Cairo)
- Groceries: $120–180 (vs. $400–600 in NYC)
- 1BR housing (city centre): $250–450 (vs. $2,400–3,500 in NYC)
- Transport (monthly public pass): $10–15 (vs. $127 in NYC)
Economic Context (2025)
Inflation & Subsidies
- Urban inflation has eased to 16.2% in June 2025, and is slightly down from 16.8% in May 2025.
- Fuel price has shot up to 14.8% in April 2025, with the complete elimination of petroleum subsidies planned by the end of the year.
Rent Law Reform (July 2025)
Egypt approved a significant overhaul of rent protections, phasing out decades-old rent caps over 7 years, allowing increases up to 20x in prime areas:
- Minimum rents:
- Prime districts: 1,000 EGP
- Mid-tier: 400 EGP
Economic zones: 250 EGP
Key Takeaways
- Egypt remains relatively affordable by global standards.
- Monthly cost for a single person (including rent, utilities, food, transport): generally $350–450
- Families may expect costs near $900–1,000+, depending on housing and lifestyle.
- Housing costs are rising, especially amid the new rent law.
- Inflation and subsidy reforms are increasing costs for essentials like fuel and electricity.
