The Cost of Living in Cairo

Cairo, the capital of Egypt, offers a unique blend of rich culture, history, and breathtaking sights. It is home to some of the world’s most recognizable landmarks, including the Great Pyramid of Giza, the Sphinx, and the Nile River. But just how affordable is it to live in Cairo? In this post, we’ll explore the cost of living in Cairo and provide you with all the essential details you need to know before making a move.

Housing Costs in Cairo

The cost of renting or buying a home in Cairo can vary significantly depending on the location, type of property, and the amenities offered. However, compared to other capital cities, Cairo is considered relatively inexpensive when it comes to housing costs.For instance, the monthly rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around 3,500 EGP (about $220 USD) while a three-bedroom apartment costs an average of 8,000 EGP (approximately $500 USD). If you’re on a tight budget, you can opt to live outside the city center, where the prices are more affordable, with rent for a one-bedroom apartment averaging around 2,200 EGP (about $140 USD).

Utilities Costs in Cairo

Utilities can also impact the overall cost of living in Cairo. Electricity, water, and gas are readily available, but the cost of electricity can be quite high depending on the time of year. During the summer months, the demand for electricity surges, which can result in higher bills. The average cost of utilities in Cairo for a 85 square meter apartment (or around 915 square feet) is around 900 EGP (approximately $57 USD).

Transportation Costs in Cairo

Cairo has a well-developed transportation system consisting of buses, trains, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem. The cost of transportation can vary depending on your preferred method of travel. For instance, a single ticket on the metro costs around 5 EGP (about $0.35 USD), while a taxi ride within the city center can cost anywhere from 35 to 60 EGP (approximately $2.2 to $3.8 USD).If you’re planning to use ride-hailing services like Uber or Careem, you can expect to pay a little more. Nevertheless, ridesharing services are generally considered affordable by international standards. A 15-minute ride using Uber, for instance, averages around 50 EGP (about $3.1 USD).

Food Costs in Cairo

Egypt is known for its delicious cuisine, and Cairo is no exception. There’s an abundance of affordable street food stalls, cafes, and restaurants throughout the city. The cost of food primarily depends on the type of food and the location.If you’re on a tight budget, street food is the way to go. You can sample traditional Egyptian delicacies like Falafel and Koshary, which costs around 10-15 EGP (about $0.6 to $0.9 USD). Dining at a mid-range restaurant will cost you approximately 70-100 EGP (about $4.4 to $6.3 USD) per person.

Healthcare Costs in Cairo

Egypt has both public and private healthcare systems. The public healthcare system is government-subsidized and offers free healthcare services to citizens. However, public healthcare facilities can be overcrowded with long wait times. Private healthcare, on the other hand, is of higher quality but can be quite expensive.A consultation with a general physician can cost anywhere between 70-200 EGP (approximately $4.4 to $12.6 USD). The cost of medication is relatively affordable, with a month’s worth of generic medication for a mild illness costing roughly around 85 EGP (about $5.4USD).

Conclusion

Overall, Cairo is an affordable city to live in, with a relatively low cost of living compared to other capital cities around the world. However, the cost of living can vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences. A modest lifestyle in Cairo can cost an average of 8,000 EGP (about $500 USD) per month, including housing, utilities, transportation, and food.While Cairo has an affordable cost of living, it’s essential to do your due diligence before making a move. It’s always recommended to research and understand different nuances and expenses to ensure that you won’t end up in any unforeseen situations. Hopefully, this blog post has helped provide useful insights into the cost of living in Cairo for you to make an informed decision whether to move there.

An Insider’s Guide to Cairo – Uncovering the Hidden Gems

Are you planning a trip to Cairo and looking for unique experiences off the beaten path? Look no further! Here’s an insider’s guide to uncovering the hidden gems of Cairo.

Local Attractions

While the Pyramids of Giza and the Egyptian Museum are top tourist draws, Cairo has so much more to offer. Get off the tourist track and explore the beauty of El-Moez Street at night, the city’s oldest street filled with charming lamp-lit mosques, caravanserais, and historical buildings. For a taste of modern Cairo, visit Zamalek Island, home to trendy cafes and art galleries.

Dining Spots

One of the most incredible things about Cairo is its food culture. Sample Koshary, Egypt’s national dish, a hearty meal of rice, lentils, and pasta topped with a spicy tomato sauce and crispy fried onions. Head to Felfela, a popular local spot, for a traditional Egyptian breakfast spread of fava beans, eggs, and pita bread. For a unique dining experience, try Kebdet El Prince, a restaurant specializing in unique liver dishes.

Cultural Experiences

Cairo is a city rich in cultural heritage, and it’s easy to find traditional music and dance performances throughout the city. Visit the iconic Cairo Opera House to take in a classical concert, or catch a traditional Sufi dance performance at the magnificent Al-Ghouri Complex in Islamic Cairo. No trip to Cairo is complete without a visit to a Hammam, a traditional Turkish bathhouse, for a refreshing and relaxing experience.

Local History

Cairo is home to a wealth of fascinating history beyond the ancient Pyramids and Sphinx. Visit the historic Citadel of Saladin for stunning views over the city and a glimpse into the history of Islamic Cairo. Stroll through the City of the Dead, home to a vast necropolis of ancient tombs and mausoleums, and learn about the fascinating funerary culture of the city.

Off-the-beaten-path suggestions

To truly experience the hidden beauty of Cairo, take a hot air balloon ride over the city at sunrise for breathtaking views of the Pyramids and the Nile River. For a unique cultural experience, take a felucca ride along the Nile River and enjoy the tranquil beauty of the city as it was meant to be seen. Lastly, visit Cairo’s Cave Church of St. Simon the Tanner, a monastery complex carved into a mountain, for a truly unforgettable spiritual experience.

With this insider’s guide to Cairo, you’ll discover the hidden gems of this incredible city and experience an entirely new side of the city. Happy exploring!