The Cost of Living in Dar Es Salaam, Tanzania

Dar Es Salaam is one of the largest and fastest-growing cities in Tanzania. It is a bustling metropolis that is home to a diverse range of cultures and economic activities. However, like in any other city, the cost of living in Dar Es Salaam is a major concern for its residents and visitors. In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the cost of living in Dar Es Salaam and provide you with the necessary information to make informed decisions about your expenses.

Housing Costs

Housing is usually the biggest expense for anyone, and this is true in Dar Es Salaam. Rent prices in Dar Es Salaam can vary widely depending on the location and type of property. For example, a one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost anywhere from 700,000 TZS to 2.5 million TZS per month. Meanwhile, a three-bedroom apartment outside the city center can cost anything from 1.5 million TZS to 4 million TZS per month.If you’re looking to buy a property, you can expect to pay around 260,000 TZS per square meter in the city center and around 150,000 TZS per square meter outside the city center.

Food Costs

Food is another significant expense in Dar Es Salaam. The cost of food can be affected by various factors, such as the type of cuisine, location of the restaurant or grocery store, and the quality of the food. On average, a meal at a mid-range restaurant in Dar Es Salaam can cost between 10,000 TZS to 30,000 TZS, while fast food options such as KFC, McDonald’s, and Pizza Hut range between 10,000 TZS to 20,000 TZS for a meal.For groceries, the cost of food can vary depending on what you buy and the quality of the products. If you’re on a tight budget, you can buy groceries from local markets where prices are generally cheaper than in supermarkets. On average, a liter of milk can cost around 2,000 TZS, a loaf of bread around 2,000 TZS, and a kilogram of rice around 2,500 TZS.

Transportation Costs

Transportation costs in Dar Es Salaam can also add up, especially if you rely on public transportation. A one-way ticket on a local bus costs around 500 TZS, while a monthly pass costs around 50,000 TZS. Taxis are more expensive, with typical fares ranging from 7,000 TZS to 20,000 TZS depending on the distance.If you plan to drive or use ride-sharing services like Uber or Bolt, you should factor in the cost of fuel, which is around 2,000 TZS per liter. The cost of renting a car varies, with a small car costing around 80,000 TZS per day and a larger car costing around 150,000 TZS per day.

Utility Costs

Utility costs include expenses such as electricity, water, and gas. Electricity in Dar Es Salaam is prepaid, with a minimum purchase of 10,000 TZS. Depending on your usage, you can expect to pay between 30,000 TZS to 50,000 TZS per month for electricity.Water is usually paid for on a monthly basis and is relatively cheap, with an average cost of around 10,000 TZS per month. Gas is used mainly for cooking, and a 6kg cylinder costs around 40,000 TZS, while a 15kg cylinder costs around 100,000 TZS.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the cost of living in Dar Es Salaam is relatively affordable compared to other African cities such as Lagos or Johannesburg. However, the cost of living can still be high depending on your lifestyle and location preferences. It’s essential to budget wisely to ensure that you can cover all of your expenses comfortably. With the information in this blog post, you now have a better idea of what to expect in terms of costs when living in Dar Es Salaam.

An Insider’s Guide to Dar Es Salaam: Beyond the Cost of Living

Dar Es Salaam, the largest city in Tanzania, is an enchanting blend of culture and history. Although it is often overlooked by tourists in favor of the more well-known coastal destinations, this sparkling city offers a host of unique experiences that reflect the heart and soul of Tanzania. Here’s our insider’s guide to the best that Dar Es Salaam has to offer.

Local Attractions: Discover the Hidden Gems

While many tourists flock to some of the city’s well-known attractions, there are hidden gems that even locals cherish. One of the best-kept secrets in Dar Es Salaam is the Tingatinga Arts Cooperative Society, an artist’s collective that produces colorful, whimsical paintings. You can chat to the local artists and purchase your own piece of Tingatinga art.

Another must-see is the National Museum of Tanzania, which not only features traditional Tanzanian art and artifacts but also fascinating exhibits on the country’s history and natural heritage.

Dining Spots: Satiate Your Taste Buds

Dar Es Salaam’s food culture is a feast for the senses, with a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary dishes. One of the most popular local foods is Swahili BBQ (mshikaki), an assortment of grilled meats and vegetables served on skewers. You’ll find street vendors selling mshikaki all over the city, but some of the best can be found at the Mwenge Carvers Market.

For a more refined dining experience, head to the Alcove Restaurant, one of the most acclaimed restaurants in Dar Es Salaam. Here, you can indulge in contemporary European-style cuisine and enjoy beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.

Cultural Experiences: Immerse Yourself in Vibrant Traditions

Dar Es Salaam is a fascinating cultural destination, with a rich tapestry of traditions, festivals, and customs. One of the most significant festivals is the Mwaka Kogwa Festival, held in Zanzibar, where locals gather to celebrate the beginning of a new year according to the Shirazi calendar. You can expect to see fireworks, traditional dances, and unique customs like the pumpkin beating ceremony.

Music is also an essential part of Tanzanian culture. Make sure to check out the performances at the Dar Live Music Club, where you’ll hear everything from bongo flava, a Tanzanian hip-hop, to traditional Swahili rhythms.

Local History: Uncover the Fascinating Stories

As a former German and British colony, Dar Es Salaam’s history is dynamic and layered. One of the most fascinating stories is that of the Askari Monument, which was built to honor the African soldiers who fought for the Germans in World War I. While some argue that they were forced to fight, others see them as heroes. The statue’s inscription reflects this debate: “To Askari, the African soldiers who fought and died for East Africa’s freedom in the Great War, 1914-1918, but whose valour and whose loyalty were not recognized by their colonial masters.”

Other intriguing sites include the Kariakoo Market, a sprawling marketplace that dates back to colonial times, and the old Boma Government House, one of the oldest buildings in Dar Es Salaam.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions: Get Adventurous

If you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore something truly unique, then consider taking a tour of the Dar Es Salaam zoo at night. Run by a local conservation group, this tour offers an entirely different experience, where you can see nocturnal animals up close under the stars.

Alternatively, you can head out to the nearby Maziwe Island Marine Reserve, a stunning coral garden that is home to a host of marine life, including dolphins and turtles. You can take a boat tour or go snorkeling to explore the vibrant ecosystem.

In conclusion, Dar Es Salaam is a city that offers a combination of budget-friendliness and unexpected surprise that seasoned travelers will appreciate. It offers a unique and intriguing blend of traditional and modernity, which means that in this city, you’ll be sure to find something that appeals to your interests. Don’t forget to immerse yourself in the culture, sample the food, and explore the hidden gems that Dar Es Salaam has to offer.