57 cities covered · Currency: ZMW (ZK) · Capital: Lusaka
| Expense | Estimated cost | Basis |
|---|---|---|
| Meal at an inexpensive restaurant | ZK99.22 ($3.82) | per meal |
| Three-course meal for two, mid-range | ZK397 ($15.26) | per meal |
| Cappuccino | ZK29.76 ($1.14) | each |
| Monthly groceries (single person) | ZK2,249 ($86.50) | per month |
| Monthly public transport pass | ZK364 ($13.99) | per month |
| Basic utilities for an 85m² apartment | ZK959 ($36.89) | per month |
| Internet (60 Mbps, unlimited) | ZK278 ($10.68) | per month |
| Fitness club membership | ZK278 ($10.68) | per month |
| Cinema ticket | ZK72.76 ($2.80) | each |
| One-bedroom apartment in city centre | ZK3,859 ($148) | per month |
| One-bedroom apartment outside centre | ZK2,685 ($103) | per month |
| Three-bedroom apartment in city centre | ZK8,054 ($310) | per month |
Lusaka · pop. 2,467,563
Copperbelt · pop. 625,000
Copperbelt · pop. 528,330
Central · pop. 299,206
Copperbelt · pop. 255,000
Copperbelt · pop. 182,400
Southern · pop. 177,393
Northern · pop. 158,051
Western · pop. 148,972
Copperbelt · pop. 147,400
Copperbelt · pop. 141,899
Eastern · pop. 141,800
Copperbelt · pop. 118,464
Southern · pop. 116,503
North-Western · pop. 90,856
Lusaka · pop. 71,573
Central · pop. 65,182
Copperbelt · pop. 51,863
Southern · pop. 51,842
Southern · pop. 46,876
Luapula · pop. 45,450
Muchinga · pop. 41,836
Muchinga · pop. 39,724
Luapula · pop. 36,894
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Zambia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Zambia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Zambia
Side-by-side cost of living comparison in Zambia
Living costs in Zambia 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 ZK9,299 ($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.