If you're planning to move to Cabo Verde in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €380 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €650 | For families |
| Groceries | €180 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €35 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €95 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €8 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €754 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €428/month |
| Minimum Wage | €230/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €48/month |
With an average salary of €428 and rent of €380, approximately 89% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|
Money-Saving Tips
- Shop at local markets: Fresh produce is typically 20-40% cheaper than supermarkets
- Cook at home: Eating in saves 60-70% compared to dining out
- Use public transport: Monthly passes are much cheaper than car ownership
- Live outside the centre: Suburbs offer 20-40% lower rent with reasonable commutes
- Compare utilities: Switch providers for electricity and internet to get better deals
- Student discounts: Available for under-26s on transport, museums, and cultural events
Salary by Sector
| Sector | Entry Level | Median | Senior |
|---|---|---|---|
| It | €11,500 | €16,500 | €23,000 |
| Retail | €4,000 | €5,500 | €7,500 |
| Finance | €9,000 | €12,500 | €17,500 |
| Education | €6,500 | €9,500 | €13,000 |
| Healthcare | €7,000 | €10,000 | €14,500 |
| Engineering | €9,500 | €14,000 | €19,500 |
| Hospitality | €5,000 | €7,000 | €9,500 |
| Construction | €6,000 | €8,500 | €12,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much are utilities in Cabo Verde?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €95. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
How does purchasing power compare in Cabo Verde?
Purchasing power data is not available. This factors in both incomes and costs.
How does inflation affect costs in Cabo Verde?
Prices in Cabo Verde are subject to inflation like anywhere else. The data shown reflects 2026 estimates. Food and energy costs can be particularly volatile. Budget a 5-10% buffer above estimated costs to account for price increases during your stay.
Are there hidden costs of living in Cabo Verde?
Beyond the basics, budget for: health insurance (if not employer-provided), visa fees and renewals, tax adviser fees, initial deposits (rent + utilities), furnishing costs if renting unfurnished, and language courses. These can add €500-2,000 to your first months.
What is the minimum wage in Cabo Verde?
The minimum wage in Cabo Verde is approximately €230/month. This compares to an average salary of €428. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
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