Skip to content
Egypt

Cost of Living in Cairo

Find out if you can afford to live in Cairo. Calculate your expenses for rent, food, transport & more. Get a personalized affordability report.

$350
Rent
$150
Food
$25
Transport
$50
Utilities

Cost Breakdown in Cairo

Rent Analysis

The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Cairo is approximately $350 per month.

$350
average monthly rent

Salary Comparison

See how your salary stacks up against the cost of living in Cairo.

Recommended salary
$1,600
monthly before tax

Total Monthly Cost

Average lifestyle, single person

$575/mo

Try Our Calculator

Enter your salary to see if you can afford to live in Cairo.

Cost of Living Calculator

Currency
$
$500$5,000$30,000
Adults
1
Children
0

Tips to Save Money in Cairo

Consider living slightly outside the city center to save 20-40% on rent.

Cook at home and use local markets for fresh, affordable produce.

Use public transportation instead of ride-sharing services.

Look for shared housing or co-living spaces to reduce costs.

Take advantage of free cultural events and outdoor activities.

🏥 Healthcare in Cairo

Cairo offers both public and private healthcare options for residents and expats. Private health insurance typically costs between $50–$150/month and provides comprehensive coverage including doctor visits, specialist consultations, and emergency care. Many international workers opt for private insurance to ensure faster access to English-speaking doctors.

🌐 Internet & Coworking in Cairo

Cairo has reliable high-speed internet with average speeds of 50–200 Mbps. Home broadband typically costs $30–$60/month. For digital nomads and remote workers, coworking spaces range from $100–$300/month for a hot desk. Many cafés also offer strong WiFi, making Cairo a productive base for remote work.

🛂 Visa & Immigration for Cairo

Visa requirements for Cairo depend on your nationality and purpose of stay. Many countries now offer digital nomad visas for remote workers with minimum income requirements. Always check the latest immigration rules for Egypt before planning your move. Consider consulting an immigration specialist for personalized advice.

🔒 Safety in Cairo

Cairo is generally considered safe for expats and tourists. As with any major city, exercise standard precautions: be aware of your surroundings, avoid poorly lit areas at night, and keep valuables secure. Petty theft (pickpocketing) can occur in tourist areas, so stay vigilant in crowded spaces.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the average cost of living in Cairo?
The average monthly cost of living in Cairo for a single person is approximately $575, including rent, food, transport, and utilities.
Is Cairo expensive to live in?
With a cost index of 0.25, Cairo is more affordable than average compared to other major cities worldwide.
What salary do I need to live comfortably in Cairo?
To live comfortably in Cairo, you would need a monthly salary of at least $1,600 before tax.
How much is rent in Cairo?
The average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in Cairo's city center is approximately $350 per month.
What do software engineers earn in Cairo?
Software engineers in Cairo earn an estimated $6,650 gross per month (approximately $5,187 after tax). This is based on a US median of $9,500/mo scaled by Cairo's cost-of-living index (0.25x).
What are the highest-paying jobs in Cairo?
The highest-paying jobs in Cairo include Doctor/Physician (~$11,200/mo), Surgeon (~$15,400/mo), Investment Banker (~$8,400/mo), Software Engineer (~$6,650/mo), and Dentist (~$9,100/mo). All figures are gross monthly estimates adjusted for local cost of living.
Is Cairo a good place for digital nomads?
Cairo is a popular digital nomad destination thanks to its affordable cost of living and growing remote-work infrastructure. With monthly living costs around $575, it offers excellent value for remote workers earning in USD or EUR.
How much does food cost per month in Cairo?
A single person spending an average on food in Cairo can expect to pay around $150 per month. This includes groceries for home cooking and occasional restaurant meals. Eating out frequently at mid-range restaurants can push this figure higher.
What are the transport costs in Cairo?
Monthly transport costs in Cairo average around $25 per person. This typically covers a monthly transit pass or equivalent commuting expenses. Owning a car will significantly increase this figure due to insurance, fuel, and parking.
How much are utilities in Cairo?
Monthly utility bills (electricity, heating/cooling, water, and garbage) in Cairo average $50 for a standard apartment. Costs vary seasonally — expect higher bills in winter or summer depending on the climate.
What is the tax rate in Cairo?
The effective income tax rate for a mid-income earner in Egypt is approximately 22%. This is a simplified estimate — actual rates depend on your specific income level, filing status, and any applicable deductions or credits. Consult a local tax advisor for personalized guidance.
How does Cairo compare to other cities for cost of living?
Cairo has a cost-of-living index of 0.25x the US average. It's one of the more affordable major cities globally, making it attractive for budget-conscious expats and digital nomads.

Job Salaries in Cairo

Estimated gross monthly salaries for popular professions in Cairo, adjusted for local cost of living (index: 0.25x US average).

Software Engineer
$6,650
gross/mo
Data Scientist
$6,300
gross/mo
Doctor / Physician
$11,200
gross/mo
Nurse
$4,550
gross/mo
Financial Analyst
$4,900
gross/mo
Teacher
$3,360
gross/mo
Marketing Manager
$4,550
gross/mo
Civil Engineer
$4,900
gross/mo

* Estimates are based on US median salaries adjusted for Cairo's cost index. Actual salaries vary by employer, experience, and industry. Use the search below to find real open positions.

Share this cost of living guide

Help others planning to move to Cairo

Data Methodology: Cost of living data is based on crowdsourced statistics and government sources including Numbeo, OECD, and national statistics offices as of 2026. Actual costs may vary based on lifestyle, neighborhood, and personal circumstances. Salary estimates are derived from US median salaries adjusted by local cost-of-living indices. This tool is for informational purposes and should not be used as the sole basis for financial decisions. Learn more about our methodology →

Last updated: May 2026

Cairo · $575/mo

Can you afford it?

Check Now