Mauritius cost of living: what expats actually spend
This article breaks down every major expense category in Mauritius for 2026. Scroll to the data table for exact numbers, or jump to the FAQ for quick answers.
Understanding the true cost of living before you move is essential for financial planning. This detailed breakdown covers every major expense category in Mauritius for 2026, using real data from official sources and cost surveys.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €650 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €1,100 | For families |
| Groceries | €280 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €45 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €110 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €8 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €1,149 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €768/month |
| Minimum Wage | €850/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €118/month |
With an average salary of €768 and rent of €650, approximately 85% of income goes to housing.
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Cost Indices (vs New York City = 100)
| Index | Score | Interpretation |
|---|---|---|
| Cost of Living | 38.3 | Significantly cheaper NYC |
| Rent | 10.9 | Much cheaper NYC |
| Groceries | 41.1 | Cheaper NYC |
| Restaurant Prices | 32.5 | Cheaper NYC |
| Local Purchasing Power | 55.1 | Lower than NYC |
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 | €24,000 | €34,000 | €47,500 |
| Retail | €10,000 | €14,000 | €19,500 |
| Finance | €22,500 | €32,000 | €45,000 |
| Education | €13,500 | €19,000 | €26,500 |
| Healthcare | €17,000 | €24,000 | €33,500 |
| Engineering | €19,500 | €28,000 | €39,000 |
| Hospitality | €10,500 | €15,000 | €21,000 |
| Construction | €14,000 | €20,000 | €28,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Additional Practical Information
The following information is compiled from expat community sources and recent reports to complement the official data above.
Key Institutions and Services
Based on current expat reports, the following organisations and services are relevant for newcomers to Mauritius:
- Central Water Authority
- Central Electricity Board
- Triolet Bus Service
- The Economic Development Board
Additional Data Points
Recent reports and expat sources provide these additional figures for Mauritius:
- If you go through a real estate agency when renting, note that the commission, shared between the owner and the tenant, generally represents one month's rent plus VAT (15%).
- If you are looking for a beachfront villa, prices can reach Rs 150,000 and may even go up to Rs 190,000 per month for the most high-end properties. For housing located inland or in less sought-after areas, rents remain more affordable, between Rs 15,000 and Rs 35,000 per month.
- Any investment of more than USD 375,000 entitles the purchaser and his or her dependents to a residence permit, valid for the duration of the property's ownership. As the owner of a PDS property, he does not need to obtain an occupation or work permit to invest or work in Mauritius .
- The purchaser and his dependents can obtain a residence permit against an investment of at least USD 375,000. The individual buyer is free to rent out the property and is not subject to any tax restrictions. As a holder of a residence permit under the IRS, they do not need a work or occupation permit to work in Mauritius.
- Non-citizens who purchase an apartment located in a building with at least 2 upper floors for a minimum amount of USD 375,000 or its equivalent in other currencies are granted a residence permit. The permit remains valid as long as they own the property.
- The payment of 1 or 2 months' deposit is often required. Remember to have an inventory of fixtures drawn up before signing the lease. Do not hesitate to take pictures during your visit.
- If you go through a real estate agency when renting, note that the commission, shared between the owner and the tenant, generally represents one month's rent plus VAT (15%).
- These price ranges reflect the rising cost of living, strong expatriate demand, and the growing attractiveness of the North and West, all of which have contributed to pushing prices upward. It's important to note that these prices serve as a reference and may vary based on the property owner and specific features of each residence.
- They may also purchase an apartment in a subdivision outside the approved residential programs. However, the apartment must be in a condominium with at least 2 floors above ground, and the minimum purchase price must be Rs 6 million or its equivalent in other currencies.
- Note that most furniture stores offer free delivery and assemble the furniture for you. To take advantage of this, just ask when you visit the store.
Additional data sourced from expat community reports. All information should be verified with official sources.
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Get Your Free VerdictFrequently Asked Questions
Is Mauritius expensive compared to other countries?
With a cost of living index of 38.3/100 (where NYC = 100), Mauritius is significantly cheaper than NYC. Use our assessment tool to compare with your current location.
What is the cheapest city to live in Mauritius?
Cost of living varies significantly within Mauritius. Smaller cities and rural areas are generally 20-40% cheaper than the capital. The national average rent for a 1BR is €650, but you can find significantly lower prices outside major urban areas. Research specific cities before deciding.
How does inflation affect costs in Mauritius?
Prices in Mauritius 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 Mauritius?
A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €8. The restaurant price index is 32.5/100 compared to New York City. Budget €240 per month if you eat out regularly.
What is the cost of living in Mauritius in 2026?
A single person in Mauritius needs approximately €1,149/month for a comfortable lifestyle, including rent (€650), groceries (€280), transport (€45), and utilities (€110). The cost of living index is 38.3/100 compared to New York City.