If you're planning to move to Madagascar in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €285 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €580 | For families |
| Groceries | €95 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €18 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €45 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €4 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €475 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €128/month |
| Minimum Wage | €42/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €-157/month |
With an average salary of €128 and rent of €285, approximately 223% 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 | €6,000 | €8,500 | €12,000 |
| Retail | €2,000 | €3,000 | €4,000 |
| Finance | €5,000 | €7,000 | €10,000 |
| Education | €3,000 | €4,500 | €6,000 |
| Healthcare | €3,500 | €5,000 | €7,500 |
| Engineering | €5,000 | €7,000 | €9,500 |
| Hospitality | €2,000 | €3,000 | €4,500 |
| Construction | €3,500 | €5,000 | €6,500 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum wage in Madagascar?
The minimum wage in Madagascar is approximately €42/month. This compares to an average salary of €128. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
What does public transport cost in Madagascar?
A monthly public transport pass costs approximately €18. Annual passes often offer significant discounts. Most major cities have integrated ticketing systems for buses, trams, and metro.
What is the average salary in Madagascar?
The average monthly salary in Madagascar is approximately €128 gross. The minimum wage is €42/month.
How does inflation affect costs in Madagascar?
Prices in Madagascar 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.
How much does dining out cost in Madagascar?
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €4. Budget €120 per month if you eat out regularly.
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