Can You Live for Less Than 1000 USD a Month in the Beautiful City of Arusha?

If you’re planning to move to Tanzania, you must be wondering how much it would cost to live there. Arusha, a city in northeastern Tanzania, is known for its incredible wildlife and beautiful landscape, and it’s a popular destination for both tourists and expats.

Living in Arusha can be quite affordable, but the cost of living depends on your lifestyle and preferences. Here, we’ll take a closer look at ARusha’s cost of living and see if it’s possible to live for less than 1000 USD per month.

Accommodation in Arusha

Accommodation is one of the essential factors to consider when moving to a new city. Arusha has a wide range of options that suit different budgets and preferences. Housing prices will depend on location, size, and amenities available.

If you’re on a shoestring budget, you can find small apartments or shared houses for around 150-300 USD a month. These houses usually have basic facilities like running water, electricity, and a bathroom. If you’re okay with living in a shared house or apartment, you can save some money on rent.

If you prefer more luxurious accommodation, then be prepared to pay higher rent. You can find some modern and upscale apartments that can go for $500 or more per month.

Food and Drink in Arusha

If you’re looking for cheap food options in Arusha, then there are plenty of street stalls and small restaurants that provide affordable meals. Local food like Ugali, rice, stew, and vegetables are quite cheap, with a typical meal costing less than 1 USD. You can also find international food options but be ready to pay a slightly higher price.

If you plan to cook at home, you can get groceries and other food items at supermarkets like Shoprite, Nakumatt, or Sable square. The cost of groceries depends on your eating habits and the size of your family. For a single person, you can manage to spend less than 100 USD a month on groceries.

For drinks, bottled water is relatively cheap, costing around 0.5 USD per liter. Alcohol and soft drinks can be slightly expensive, but you can find affordable options if you’re willing to buy local drinks.

Transportation in Arusha

Arusha has a public transportation system that consists of buses and motorcycles. A bus ride can cost between 0.1 and 0.5USD, depending on the distance, while the ‘boda-boda’ motorcycles will charge you around $1.5-2 for short distances.

However, if you’re looking for a safer and more convenient way to move around, you can consider hiring a taxi. Taxis are a bit more expensive, but they’re more comfortable and can take you to any destination you want.

Utilities and Other Expenses

The cost of utilities like water, electricity, and gas all depends on your usage, but they tend to be quite affordable. For instance, a bill for water and electricity for a small apartment won’t cost you more than 30 USD per month.

Other basic expenses like phone bills and the internet are also relatively cheap, and you can manage to spend around 20 USD per month on both. Medical care is also affordable, and there are many health facilities in Arusha. However, if you need specialized care or treatment, then be prepared to spend more.

Final Thoughts

It’s possible to live in Arusha for less than 1000 USD per month, but it depends on your lifestyle and preferences. If you’re okay with a smaller apartment or shared housing, then it’s possible to save money on rent. Buying groceries instead of eating out is also an excellent way to cut back on expenses.

Overall, Arusha is an affordable city to live in, and you can manage to live a comfortable life without breaking the bank. With proper budgeting and planning, you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy living in this beautiful city.

An Insider’s Guide to the Beautiful City of Arusha

If you’re a traveler who enjoys discovering hidden gems and experiencing local culture, Arusha is the perfect destination for you. This stunning city, which is located in Tanzania, offers more than just a gateway to the Serengeti National Park. In this insider’s guide, we will take you on a journey through the most exciting, and lesser-known spots in Arusha, providing you with an unforgettable experience.

Local Attractions

While Arusha boasts a great many popular tourist spots, the lesser-known sites are equally fascinating. Our favorite hidden gem is the Meserani Snake Park, where you can get up close and personal with Africa’s most venomous snakes. For a more relaxed experience, visit the Natural History Museum, which provides insight into the region’s rich history. Finally, don’t miss the opportunity to hike the beautiful Mt. Meru for clear views of the city.

Dining Spots

Arusha’s dining scene is a diverse mix of international cuisine and local favorites. One particularly popular favorite is Nyama Choma, which is barbecued meat typically served with a side of hot sauce. We recommend visiting Kwa Marks for an authentic experience. For a taste of Indian cuisine, we suggest visiting the Indian Cuisine restaurant for fantastic flavors. Don’t forget to try the local “chai” tea, which is a must-have for any visit to Tanzania.

Cultural Experiences

One of Arusha’s most vibrant festivals is the Kilimanjaro Marathon, held every year in February. The race attracts runners from all over the world, and the atmosphere is electric. If you’re looking for a more traditional experience, don’t miss out on the Maasai Markets, which is a fantastic opportunity to purchase local handicrafts and to experience the Maasai tribe’s culture, dance, and music. For a more serene experience, check out the beautiful paintings at the Banana Hill Art Gallery.

Local History

Arusha has a rich history that is worth exploring, and one of the most significant events that took place here was the establishment of the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, which brought justice to the Rwandan genocide. You can visit the Arusha Declaration Museum which was opened by the former President Julius Nyerere, chronicling the history of Tanzania, or the Old Boma Museum which was home to the German colonial government during the 19th century.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For a truly unique experience, visit the Ng’iresi Cultural Tourism Program, which offers travelers the chance to experience traditional Maasai life firsthand. Learn how to milk a cow, make fire from sticks, and join in the dance and music. Alternatively, you could take a hot air balloon ride over the Serengeti, which offers breathtaking views of the landscapes.

In conclusion, Arusha is a captivating city that has a lot to offer, much more than you’d expect, when you have an insider’s guide. It’s an experience-rich destination, with exciting attractions, unique dining spots, cultural experiences, rich history combined with some fantastic and off-the-beaten-path suggestions that make it a place of wonder. As you plan your trip to the city, keep in mind that much of the charm of Arusha comes from the people and the culture, so be sure to take the time to get to know them.