28 cities covered · Currency: LSL (L) · Capital: Maseru
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | L63.66 ($3.50) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | L255 ($13.99) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | L19.10 ($1.05) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | L1,443 ($79.29) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | L233 ($12.83) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | L615 ($33.81) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | L178 ($9.79) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | L178 ($9.79) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | L46.69 ($2.57) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | L2,476 ($136) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | L1,723 ($94.65) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | L5,168 ($284) | per month |
Maseru · pop. 343,541
Berea · pop. 75,115
Mafeteng · pop. 57,059
Leribe · pop. 38,558
Leribe · pop. 32,117
Maseru · pop. 27,553
Maseru · pop. 26,582
Mohale’s Hoek · pop. 24,992
Maseru · pop. 24,093
Berea · pop. 23,926
Berea · pop. 22,262
Berea · pop. 21,887
Mohale’s Hoek · pop. 21,869
Leribe · pop. 18,948
Mohale’s Hoek · pop. 18,261
Leribe · pop. 17,161
Quthing · pop. 15,000
Maseru · pop. 13,146
Maseru · pop. 12,234
Maseru · pop. 11,612
Maseru · pop. 10,893
Mafeteng · pop. 10,519
Butha-Buthe · pop. 10,000
Thaba-Tseka · pop. 9,882
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Lesotho
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Lesotho
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Lesotho
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Lesotho
Living costs in Lesotho vary significantly depending on city size. Large metropolitan areas with populations over one million typically see housing costs 15–30% above the national average, while smaller towns can be 10–20% below it. The national baseline of L5,967 ($328) per month represents a mid-sized city estimate.
Capital cities and major economic hubs command the highest rents and overall expenses. For budget-conscious residents, mid-sized cities offer a balance of amenities and affordability. Rural and small-town living remains the most economical option, though transport and service access may be limited.