Tunisia is a North African gem known for its Mediterranean coastline, rich history, and affordable living. Whether you’re an expat, retiree, or digital nomad, understanding the cost of living is crucial for budgeting.
This in-depth guide breaks down expenses—from housing and groceries to transportation and healthcare—using the latest data from Numbeo (2024).
1. Introduction: Is Tunisia Affordable?
Tunisia offers a low to moderate cost of living, making it attractive for foreigners. The local currency, the Tunisian Dinar (TND), has a controlled exchange rate, keeping prices stable.
✅ Key Takeaways:
- Cheaper than Europe & North America (50-70% lower costs).
- Affordable rent & dining compared to neighboring Mediterranean countries.
- Healthcare & utilities are budget-friendly.
2. Housing Costs in Tunisia
A. Renting an Apartment
Housing is one of the biggest expenses. Prices vary by city:
| City | 1-Bedroom Apartment (City Center) | 1-Bedroom Apartment (Outside Center) | 3-Bedroom Apartment (City Center) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tunis | 600 – 1,000 TND ($190 – $320) | 400 – 700 TND ($130 – $225) | 1,200 – 2,000 TND ($380 – $640) |
| Sousse | 400 – 700 TND ($130 – $225) | 300 – 500 TND ($95 – $160) | 800 – 1,500 TND ($255 – $480) |
| Hammamet | 500 – 900 TND ($160 – $290) | 350 – 600 TND ($110 – $190) | 1,000 – 1,800 TND ($320 – $575) |
🔹 Best for Budget Expats: Sfax, Monastir, and smaller towns offer lower rents.
B. Buying Property
- Average price per m² (city center): 2,500 – 4,500 TND ($800 – $1,450).
- Outside city center: 1,500 – 3,000 TND ($480 – $960).
- Foreigners can buy property but need approval from the Central Bank.
3. Food & Grocery Costs
A. Eating Out
| Item | Price (TND) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Meal (Inexpensive Restaurant) | 8 – 15 TND | $2.50 – $4.80 |
| Meal (Mid-Range Restaurant) | 20 – 40 TND | $6.40 – $12.80 |
| McDonald’s Combo Meal | 12 – 18 TND | $3.80 – $5.75 |
B. Groceries (Monthly for 1 Person)
| Item | Price (TND) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Milk (1L) | 1.5 – 2.5 TND | $0.48 – $0.80 |
| Bread (500g) | 0.5 – 1 TND | $0.16 – $0.32 |
| Eggs (12) | 3 – 5 TND | $0.96 – $1.60 |
| Chicken (1kg) | 10 – 15 TND | $3.20 – $4.80 |
🔹 Local markets (souks) are cheaper than supermarkets.
4. Transportation Costs
A. Public Transport
| Service | Cost (TND) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bus (One Way) | 0.5 – 1 TND | $0.16 – $0.32 |
| Metro (Tunis) | 0.6 – 1.2 TND | $0.19 – $0.38 |
| Taxi (Start Fare) | 1.5 – 2.5 TND | $0.48 – $0.80 |
B. Car Ownership
- Gasoline (1L): 2.2 TND ($0.70).
- Used Car (Toyota Corolla): 25,000 – 40,000 TND ($8,000 – $12,800).
5. Utilities & Internet
| Service | Monthly Cost (TND) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Electricity, Water, Gas (85m² Apartment) | 100 – 200 TND | $32 – $64 |
| Internet (60 Mbps, Unlimited) | 50 – 80 TND | $16 – $25.60 |
| Mobile Plan (Unlimited Calls + 10GB Data) | 20 – 40 TND | $6.40 – $12.80 |
6. Healthcare & Insurance
- Public healthcare is cheap but crowded.
- Private doctor visit: 50 – 100 TND ($16 – $32).
- International health insurance: 1,500 – 3,000 TND/year ($480 – $960).
7. Leisure & Entertainment
| Activity | Cost (TND) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Cinema Ticket | 10 – 15 TND | $3.20 – $4.80 |
| Gym Membership | 80 – 150 TND | $25.60 – $48 |
| Beach Club Entry | 20 – 50 TND | $6.40 – $16 |
8. Average Monthly Budget for Expats
| Lifestyle | Single Person | Couple | Family of 4 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Budget (Basic) | 1,500 – 2,500 TND ($480 – $800) | 2,500 – 4,000 TND ($800 – $1,280) | 4,000 – 6,500 TND ($1,280 – $2,080) |
| Comfortable | 2,500 – 4,000 TND ($800 – $1,280) | 4,000 – 6,000 TND ($1,280 – $1,920) | 6,500 – 10,000 TND ($2,080 – $3,200) |
9. Conclusion: Is Tunisia Worth It?
✅ Pros:
- Very affordable compared to Europe/North America.
- Great weather & Mediterranean lifestyle.
- Low-cost healthcare & fresh food.
❌ Cons:
- Salaries are low for locals.
- Bureaucracy can be slow.
Final Verdict:
Tunisia is ideal for retirees, digital nomads, and expats seeking a low-cost, sunny lifestyle. With smart budgeting, you can live comfortably for under $1,500/month.
🔹 Want to relocate? Check visa requirements and property laws before moving!
