Cost of Living in Gambia: Detailed Breakdown (2026)
Understanding the true cost of living before you move is essential for financial planning. This detailed breakdown covers every major expense category in Gambia for 2026, using real data from official sources and cost surveys.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €250 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €450 | For families |
| Groceries | €85 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €15 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €45 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €4 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €427 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €233/month |
| Minimum Wage | €17/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €-17/month |
With an average salary of €233 and rent of €250, approximately 107% 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 | €3,000 | €4,000 | €6,000 |
| Retail | €1,000 | €1,500 | €2,000 |
| Finance | €2,500 | €3,500 | €5,000 |
| Education | €1,500 | €2,500 | €3,500 |
| Healthcare | €2,000 | €3,000 | €4,500 |
| Engineering | €2,500 | €4,000 | €5,500 |
| Hospitality | €1,500 | €2,000 | €2,500 |
| Construction | €1,500 | €2,500 | €3,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there hidden costs of living in Gambia?
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 Gambia?
The minimum wage in Gambia is approximately €17/month. This compares to an average salary of €233. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
How does inflation affect costs in Gambia?
Prices in Gambia 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.
What is the average salary in Gambia?
The average monthly salary in Gambia is approximately €233 gross. The minimum wage is €17/month.
What is the cost of living in Gambia in 2026?
A single person in Gambia needs approximately €427/month for a comfortable lifestyle, including rent (€250), groceries (€85), transport (€15), and utilities (€45).
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