The Cost of Living in Oran: A Complete Guide

Oran, a city located in northern Algeria, is known for its rich history, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture. It is also one of the most affordable cities to live in Algeria. In this blog post, we will provide a comprehensive guide to the cost of living in Oran, including housing, transportation, food, entertainment, and more.

Housing

Finding a place to live in Oran is relatively easy and affordable. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 25,000 DZD ($200 USD) per month, while a three-bedroom apartment can cost around 60,000 DZD ($480 USD) per month. If you’re looking to save money, it’s possible to find a studio or one-bedroom apartment outside the city center for around 15,000 DZD ($120 USD) per month. It’s worth noting that some apartments may not come with basic amenities like hot water or air conditioning, so make sure to ask about these before signing a lease.

Transportation

Public transportation in Oran is relatively inexpensive, with a one-way ticket on the bus or tram costing around 50 DZD ($0.40 USD). Taxis are also widely available and affordable, with an average fare of around 300 DZD ($2.40 USD) for a 10-kilometer ride. If you plan on driving, be aware that gasoline prices in Algeria are regulated by the government and are currently around 32 DZD ($0.25 USD) per liter.

Food

Eating out in Oran can be quite affordable, with a meal at a local restaurant costing around 1,500 DZD ($12 USD) per person. Fast food options like McDonald’s or KFC are also available and cost around the same. If you prefer to cook at home, groceries are relatively affordable, with a kilogram of chicken costing around 400 DZD ($3.20 USD) and a liter of milk costing around 100 DZD ($0.80 USD).

Entertainment

There are plenty of entertainment options in Oran, including museums, theaters, and cinemas. The average ticket price for a movie is around 500 DZD ($4 USD), while admission to a museum or theater can cost between 500-1,000 DZD ($4-8 USD) per person. If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are also plenty of options in Oran. A day trip to one of the nearby beaches can cost around 500 DZD ($4 USD) for transportation, while admission to a local park or garden is typically free.

Healthcare

Healthcare in Oran is provided by both public and private hospitals, clinics, and pharmacies. While some services may be provided free of charge by the public healthcare system, most residents opt for private healthcare due to its higher quality and better availability of medications. The cost of private healthcare can vary widely depending on the service needed, but expect to pay around 5,000-10,000 DZD ($40-80 USD) for a routine doctor’s visit.

Conclusion

Overall, Oran is a relatively affordable city to live in, with low housing costs, inexpensive transportation, and affordable food options. While healthcare can be expensive if you opt for private services, the public healthcare system is available to provide basic services free of charge. If you’re considering moving to Oran, this guide should give you a good idea of what to expect in terms of cost of living.

The Insider’s Guide to Oran: A Complete Guide

Located in northwestern Algeria, Oran is a city that has something for every type of traveler. The city is renowned for its historical significance, beautiful beaches, and colorful culture. In this insider’s guide, we will highlight the best attractions, culinary spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path recommendations for tourists visiting Oran.

Attractions in Oran

Oran abounds with attractions that will keep visitors busy during their stay. Some of the must-visits include the following:

• Le Theatre – The 100-year-old theater ranks among the top attractions in Oran. It is a beautiful Neo-Mauritanian structure that hosts concerts, plays, and other performances.
• Santa Cruz Fort – The Santa Cruz Fort, built during the Spanish rule, provides panoramic views of the city. Visitors can climb to the top of the fort to enjoy breathtaking views of the Mediterranean and Oran’s skyline.
• Place du 1er novembre – Old men playing chess or cards, dense traffic, and an array of street vendors characterize Oran’s central square. Built-in the 18th century, Place du 1er novembre is an ideal place to grasp the city’s vibe while immersing yourself in the local atmosphere.
• Botanic Garden – If you’re looking for a peaceful place to relax and unwind, the Botanic Garden is the place to go. The garden features a vast collection of plant species from Europe, Africa, and Asia.

Dining Spots in Oran

Oran’s dining scene reflects the city’s cultural heritage. Visitors will find a wide variety of local cuisine, Mediterranean, Western, and Asian food. Below are some popular dining spots in Oran.

• Restaurant El Bahia – Located in the city center, El Bahia restaurant is well-known for its delicious traditional Algerian cuisine. On the menu, visitors will find delicacies like couscous, tagines, and mechoui (roasted lamb).
• Bait Al Andalouss – This restaurant is located on the beach and boasts a beautiful terrace with stunning views of the Mediterranean. Savor southern Spanish dishes, including tapas and Andalusian-style seafood.
• Le Marabout – Seafood enthusiasts will love Le Marabout restaurant. For starters, try their famous Seafood Paella and garlic shrimp dish.
• Sumac – Sumac restaurant ranks among the top vegetarian restaurants in Oran. Visitors can enjoy a fresh juice menu, along with a variety of exotic dishes like smoked eggplant and vegan pizzas.

Cultural Experiences in Oran

Oran is a city that is steeped in history and culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s cultural experiences by exploring the city’s cultural landmarks, attending cultural festivals, and enjoying art performances.

• Museum of Ahmed Zabana – The museum, which bears the name of a martyr from the Algerian War of Independence, exhibits cultural and historical artifacts of Oran’s history.
• Tindouf Music Festival – Held annually since 2002, this music festival is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in Oran’s music and culture. Every year, the festival brings together local and international musicians to perform on stages in the center of the city.
• Opéra d’Oran – Built-in 1895 by the French, the Opera d’Oran remains one of the top cultural venues in the city. The Opera frequently hosts operas, concerts, plays, and other musical genres.

Local History of Oran

Oran has a long and fascinating history that is reflected in the city itself. Some of the historical sites to visit in Oran include:

• Bey’s Palace – This palace was built-in 1792 during the Ottoman Empire. Its architecture is a perfect example of the city’s notable historical buildings with Turkish touches.
• Sidi El Houari Mosque – The Sidi El Houari mosque is one of the oldest mosques in Algeria. Its origin dates back to the 11th century, and the mosque has been rebuilt over the centuries in different styles and architectures.
• Le Murdjadjo – This battlefield, which bears the scars of the Algerian War of Independence, serves as a reminder of the city’s historical significance.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in Oran

For visitors who want to explore other hidden gems in the city, we recommend trying the following:

• Villa Abd-el-Tif – A former colonial villa, Villa Abd-el-Tif is now a cultural center that provides a platform for local artists to showcase their artwork.
• Parc Dattraction – Parc Dattraction is a public park located in Oran’s eastern suburbs. It is an ideal place to spend a day with family and friends, with recreational activities like go-karting, amusement rides, and a mini-zoo on offer.
• Ain Franine – Ain Franine is a beautiful town located in the Mers El Kebir district of Oran. Visitors can enjoy incredible views while strolling through olive orchards and vineyards.

In conclusion, Oran is a fascinating destination with an abundance of experiences to offer visitors. From its historic sites and cultural landmarks to its beautiful beaches and delicious cuisine, the city has something for everyone. We hope this insider’s guide will inspire your next adventure to this beautiful Algerian city.