80 cities covered · Currency: SOS (Sh) · Capital: Mogadishu
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | Sh2,179 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | Sh8,716 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | Sh654 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | Sh49,389 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | Sh7,989 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | Sh21,063 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | Sh6,101 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | Sh6,101 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | Sh1,598 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | Sh84,752 ($148) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | Sh58,958 ($103) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | Sh176,873 ($310) | per month |
Banaadir · pop. 2,120,000
Woqooyi Galbeed · pop. 1,227,620
Bay · pop. 1,200,000
Bari · pop. 1,067,000
Gedo · pop. 755,500
Shabeellaha Dhexe · pop. 750,000
Mudug · pop. 745,000
Nugaal · pop. 485,000
Bari · pop. 365,000
Bay · pop. 360,795
Togdheer · pop. 350,211
Woqooyi Galbeed · pop. 263,000
Shabeellaha Hoose · pop. 230,100
Jubbada Hoose · pop. 166,667
Galguduud · pop. 130,023
Jubbada Hoose · pop. 129,149
Bakool · pop. 120,000
Shabeellaha Hoose · pop. 119,000
Shabeellaha Dhexe · pop. 91,600
Jubbada Hoose · pop. 90,000
Gedo · pop. 90,000
Shabeellaha Hoose · pop. 79,400
Bay · pop. 76,714
Mudug · pop. 65,523
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Somalia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Somalia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Somalia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Somalia
Living costs in Somalia 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 Sh204,220 ($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.