Can You Live for Less Than $1000 in the City of Ella?

Ella, a small town located in the Badulla district of Sri Lanka, is a popular tourist destination due to its scenic beauty and mild climate. Many people are increasingly interested in the possibility of living in Ella for an extended period or even permanently. But the question is, can you live for less than $1000 in the town of Ella? In this article, we will explore this question in detail.

The Average Cost of Living in Ella

Before we analyze the possibility of living in Ella for less than $1000, we need to understand the average cost of living in the town. The cost of living varies based on the individual’s lifestyle, the type of accommodation, and the duration of stay. According to Numbeo, a website that compares the cost of living across the world, the average cost of living in Ella is as follows:

• Accommodation: $120 to $250 a month
• Food: $10 to $15 per day
• Transportation: $40 to $50 per month (local bus)
• Utilities (electricity, gas, water, internet): $70 to $80 per month

It is essential to note that these numbers are an average representation and can vary significantly based on individual preferences and choices.

Accommodation Costs

Accommodation is the primary expense for anyone living in Ella. A significant portion of your budget will go towards renting a house or room. The average cost of renting a room in Ella is around $120 to $250 per month, which includes basic amenities such as electricity, water, and internet. However, the cost can vary based on the type and location of the accommodation. For example, a hilltop villa with a breathtaking view of the town will cost you more than a modest room in the city center.If you are looking for a long-term stay, it is advisable to rent a house instead of a room. The average cost of renting a two-bedroom house in Ella is around $350 to $500 per month.

Food Costs

The cost of food in Ella is relatively affordable, and you can easily get a decent meal for around $10 to $15 per day. Most restaurants and cafes in Ella serve local Sri Lankan cuisine, which is both affordable and delicious. However, if you prefer western food, be prepared to spend more.There are various supermarkets in Ella, where you can buy groceries and prepare meals at home. You can easily get enough food for a week for around $30 to $35.

Transportation Costs

The town of Ella is relatively small, and most of the tourist attractions are located within a few kilometers of the town center. Therefore, transportation costs are minimal, and you can easily get around on foot. However, if you need to travel outside the town, the cost of public transportation (local bus) is around $40 to $50 per month.Alternatively, you can rent a scooter or a bicycle, which will give you more flexibility and freedom to explore the town and its surroundings. The cost of renting a scooter or a bicycle is around $30 to $40 per week.

Utilities Costs

The cost of utilities in Ella is relatively low compared to other towns in Sri Lanka. The average cost of electricity, water, gas, and internet is around $70 to $80 per month. However, some landlords might charge extra for electricity usage, so make sure to clarify this before renting an accommodation.

Is It Possible to Live in Ella for Less Than $1000?

Now that we have analyzed the average cost of living in Ella, we can answer the question, can you live in Ella for less than $1000? The answer is yes, it is possible to live in Ella for less than $1000 if you are willing to maintain a modest lifestyle and avoid unnecessary expenses. Here are some tips that can help you save money while living in Ella:

• Choose affordable accommodation: Look for a modest house or room with basic amenities instead of expensive villas or hotels.
• Eat local food: Sri Lankan cuisine is both affordable and delicious, so try to avoid expensive western food.
• Use public transportation or rent a bicycle/scooter for transportation.
• Limit your spending on entertainment and nightlife.

By following these tips, you can easily live in Ella for less than $1000 per month.

Conclusion

Ella, with its scenic beauty and mild climate, is an excellent place to live for those who love nature and want to avoid the hustle and bustle of city life. As we have seen, it is possible to live in Ella for less than $1000 per month, provided you are willing to maintain a modest lifestyle and avoid unnecessary expenses. By carefully managing your expenses, you can enjoy all that Ella has to offer without breaking the bank.