314 cities covered · Currency: XOF (CFA) · Capital: Bamako
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | CFA2,309 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | CFA9,235 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | CFA693 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | CFA52,330 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | CFA8,465 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | CFA22,317 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | CFA6,464 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | CFA6,464 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | CFA1,693 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | CFA89,798 ($148) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | CFA62,468 ($103) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | CFA187,405 ($310) | per month |
Bamako · pop. 4,227,569
Sikasso · pop. 230,360
Sikasso · pop. 214,271
Sikasso · pop. 213,977
Ségou · pop. 133,501
Kayes · pop. 127,368
Mopti · pop. 120,786
Kayes · pop. 109,565
Ségou · pop. 91,554
Ségou · pop. 69,561
Koulikoro · pop. 66,895
Mopti · pop. 62,681
Sikasso · pop. 59,679
Koulikoro · pop. 58,661
Sikasso · pop. 57,898
Koulikoro · pop. 57,307
Ségou · pop. 56,259
Sikasso · pop. 54,435
Tombouctou · pop. 53,438
Sikasso · pop. 52,932
Sikasso · pop. 51,348
Koulikoro · pop. 50,056
Gao · pop. 49,483
Kayes · pop. 46,435
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Mali
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Mali
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Mali
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Mali
Living costs in Mali 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 CFA216,380 ($358) 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.