33 cities covered · Currency: MWK (MK) · Capital: Lilongwe
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | MK5,501 ($3.18) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | MK22,006 ($12.72) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | MK1,650 ($0.95) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | MK124,698 ($72.08) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | MK20,172 ($11.66) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | MK53,180 ($30.74) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | MK15,404 ($8.90) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | MK15,404 ($8.90) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | MK4,034 ($2.33) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | MK213,982 ($124) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | MK148,857 ($86.04) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | MK446,570 ($258) | per month |
Lilongwe · pop. 989,318
Blantyre · pop. 800,264
Mzimba · pop. 150,100
Zomba · pop. 101,140
Kasungu · pop. 58,653
Mangochi · pop. 51,429
Karonga · pop. 42,555
Salima · pop. 36,789
Balaka · pop. 36,421
Dedza · pop. 30,928
Nkhotakota · pop. 28,350
Mchinji · pop. 28,011
Nsanje · pop. 26,844
Mzimba · pop. 26,096
Nsanje · pop. 25,235
Dowa · pop. 24,543
Rumphi · pop. 22,358
Mulanje · pop. 20,870
Mwanza · pop. 18,039
Chitipa · pop. 17,743
Ntcheu · pop. 14,642
Mangochi · pop. 14,591
Nkhata Bay · pop. 14,274
Thyolo · pop. 12,600
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malawi
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malawi
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malawi
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Malawi
Living costs in Malawi 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 MK515,617 ($298) 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.