If you're planning to move to Mali in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €180 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €350 | For families |
| Groceries | €85 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €25 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €45 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €4 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €367 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €160/month |
| Minimum Wage | €180/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €-20/month |
With an average salary of €160 and rent of €180, approximately 112% 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 | €2,500 | €3,500 |
| Finance | €4,500 | €6,500 | €9,000 |
| Education | €2,500 | €3,500 | €5,000 |
| Healthcare | €3,000 | €4,000 | €6,000 |
| Engineering | €4,000 | €6,000 | €8,000 |
| Hospitality | €2,000 | €3,000 | €4,000 |
| Construction | €2,500 | €4,000 | €5,500 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does inflation affect costs in Mali?
Prices in Mali 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 are grocery costs in Mali?
Monthly grocery costs for one person average approximately €85. Shopping at local markets and discount supermarkets can reduce costs significantly.
How does purchasing power compare in Mali?
Purchasing power data is not available. This factors in both incomes and costs.
What does public transport cost in Mali?
A monthly public transport pass costs approximately €25. Annual passes often offer significant discounts. Most major cities have integrated ticketing systems for buses, trams, and metro.
What is the cheapest city to live in Mali?
Cost of living varies significantly within Mali. Smaller cities and rural areas are generally 20-40% cheaper than the capital. The national average rent for a 1BR is €180, but you can find significantly lower prices outside major urban areas. Research specific cities before deciding.
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