29 cities covered · Currency: SLE (Le) · Capital: Freetown
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | Le85.86 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | Le343 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | Le25.76 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | Le1,946 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | Le315 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | Le830 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | Le240 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | Le240 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | Le62.96 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | Le3,340 ($148) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | Le2,323 ($103) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | Le6,970 ($310) | per month |
Western Area · pop. 951,000
Southern · pop. 233,684
Eastern · pop. 188,463
Eastern · pop. 128,030
Northern · pop. 125,970
Eastern · pop. 87,539
North Western · pop. 44,900
Northern · pop. 40,313
Northern · pop. 40,000
Northern · pop. 40,000
Northern · pop. 36,108
Eastern · pop. 30,411
Western Area · pop. 30,268
Eastern · pop. 20,502
Southern · pop. 20,121
Northern · pop. 18,770
Western Area · pop. 18,678
Eastern · pop. 16,532
Southern · pop. 16,123
Southern · pop. 14,273
Northern · pop. 13,867
Eastern · pop. 13,358
Northern · pop. 12,744
Southern · pop. 12,288
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sierra Leone
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sierra Leone
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sierra Leone
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Sierra Leone
Living costs in Sierra Leone 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 Le8,047 ($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.