Malawi vs Malawi · 170 km apart
Malawi
single / month
Cheaper overallMalawi
single / month
| Expense | Balaka | Lilongwe | Cheaper |
|---|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | $2.79 | $3.90 | Balaka |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | $11.16 | $15.60 | Balaka |
| Cappuccino | $0.84 | $1.17 | Balaka |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | $63.24 | $88.40 | Balaka |
| Monthly public transport pass | $10.23 | $14.30 | Balaka |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | $26.97 | $37.70 | Balaka |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | $7.81 | $10.92 | Balaka |
| Fitness club membership | $7.81 | $10.92 | Balaka |
| Cinema ticket | $2.05 | $2.86 | Balaka |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | $105 | $160 | Balaka |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | $73.06 | $111 | Balaka |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | $219 | $333 | Balaka |
| Total single-person budget | $259 | $371 | Balaka |
| Average net salary | $140 | $195 |
Balaka is cheaper overall. A single-person monthly budget in Balaka runs about $259 versus $371 in Lilongwe — a difference of roughly 43%.
Salary-adjusted, Balaka leaves more disposable income after basic expenses. Both figures are model estimates — see each city page for local-currency detail.
Full cost of living in Balaka · Full cost of living in Lilongwe