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Guide to The Cost of Living in Zimbabwe in 2023

31 Aug 2023

Guide to The Cost of Living in Zimbabwe in 2023
While you may not have considered a move to this African nation before, Zimbabwe’s beautiful countryside might just make you fall in love.

The welcoming population and stunning green spaces, alongside a relatively low crime rate compared to neighbouring countries, could make it the ideal new home for you. 

What’s more, you can expect to be paying, on average, much less for day-to-day living in Zimbabwe. It’s important to note that the local currency is still experiencing issues, so the US dollar is the most commonly used currency. Find out more about moving to Zimbabwe.

Housing

Renting accomodation in Zimbabwe, which is likely to be an apartment over a house, can prove more expensive than you might think. Naturally, the more space you need, the higher the cost will be. 

Renting in Zimbabwe

Accommodation type

Cost (USD)*

Cost (GBP)*

1 Bedroom Flat in the City Center

293.75 $

£231.50

3 Bedroom Flat in the City Center

850.00 $

£669.87

1 Bedroom  Flat Outside of the City Centre

273.64 $

£215.65

3 Bedroom Flat Outside of the City Centre

642.31 $

£506.19

Buying in Zimbabwe

Accommodation type

Cost (USD)*

Cost (GBP)*

Per Square Foot in the City Centre

1,296.07 $

£1021.41

Per Square Foot Outside of the City Centre

1,200.00 $

£945.70

A colourful sunset over the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

Daily Expenses in Zimbabwe

If you’re used to the range of things to do that London offers, you might find the bright lights of cities in Zimbabwe a little sparse. However, Harare and other cities around the country still offer plenty of restaurants, malls and cafes to spend your spare time, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how affordable everyday costs can be. 

Food and Dining

 

Cost (USD)*

Cost (GBP)*

Milk, (1 litre)

1.57 $

£1.24

Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)

1.02 $

£0.80

Rice (white), (1kg)

1.43 $

£1.13

Eggs (12)

1.94 $

£1.53

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

4.89 $

£3.85

Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)

5.02 $

£3.96

Onions (1kg)

1.75 $

£1.38

 

Transportation

 

Cost (USD)*

Cost (GBP)*

One-way Ticket (Local Transport)

0.62 $

£0.49

Monthly Pass (Regular Price)

30.00 $

£23.64

Taxi Start (Normal Tariff)

5.00 $

£3.94

Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)

2.00 $

£1.58

Gasoline (1 litre)

1.59 $

£1.25

Green countryside on either side of the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

Education & Healthcare

If you’re moving to a brand new location, particularly with family, quality education and healthcare services are of utmost importance. Those moving to Zimbabwe often opt for private services, both educational and medical, to get the best possible care.

Education

Zimbabwe has the highest local literacy rate among all African nations, with hundreds of schools and private schools like Harare International School offering a premium level of education. 

Type

Yearly average (USD)*

Yearly average (GPB)*

International School

8266 $

£6514.27

Public School

50-100 $

£39.40 - 78.81

Healthcare 

The public healthcare system in Zimbabwe has been underfunded and lacking in federal support for a while. The best way to ensure that you and your family will be covered by quality healthcare services is to invest in private health insurance. The cost for this can vary massively depending on your pre-existing medical conditions, the size of your family unit, and the amount of excess you’re willing to cover should the worst happen.

For any advice about the practicalities of your removal to Zimbabwe, Bishop’s Move can help. With over 150 years of moving experience under our belts, both across the country and the world, we are experts in our field. Get in touch with any queries or get a quote today.


*All prices are approx as of August 2023.