If you're planning to move to Zimbabwe in 2026, here's what things cost
Monthly Cost Breakdown
| Category | Monthly Cost | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Rent (1BR, City Centre) | €280 | Largest expense |
| Rent (3BR, City Centre) | €420 | For families |
| Groceries | €85 | One person, home cooking |
| Public Transport | €20 | Monthly pass |
| Utilities (85m2) | €65 | Electricity, water, heating |
| Dining Out (per meal) | €18 | Inexpensive restaurant |
| Total (Single Person) | €594 | Comfortable lifestyle |
Income vs Expenses
| Income Metric | Amount |
|---|---|
| Average Salary (Gross) | €320/month |
| Minimum Wage | €45/month |
| Salary After Rent (1BR) | €40/month |
With an average salary of €320 and rent of €280, approximately 88% 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 | €1,500 | €2,000 | €3,000 |
| Finance | €4,000 | €5,500 | €7,500 |
| Education | €2,500 | €3,500 | €5,000 |
| Healthcare | €3,000 | €4,000 | €6,000 |
| Engineering | €4,000 | €6,000 | €8,500 |
| Hospitality | €1,500 | €2,500 | €3,500 |
| Construction | €2,500 | €3,500 | €5,000 |
Figures are annual gross salaries in EUR.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the minimum wage in Zimbabwe?
The minimum wage in Zimbabwe is approximately €45/month. This compares to an average salary of €320. Note that minimum wage may not apply to all sectors or expat workers.
What are grocery costs in Zimbabwe?
Monthly grocery costs for one person average approximately €85. Shopping at local markets and discount supermarkets can reduce costs significantly.
How much does rent cost in Zimbabwe?
A 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre costs approximately €280/month. A 3-bedroom costs approximately €420/month.
How much are utilities in Zimbabwe?
Monthly utilities (electricity, heating, water, garbage) for an 85m2 apartment cost approximately €65. Internet typically adds another €20-50/month. In colder climates, heating can significantly increase winter bills.
Can I live comfortably on a remote worker salary in Zimbabwe?
With a monthly budget of approximately €594, a remote salary of €2,000-3,000/month would provide a very comfortable lifestyle. Research specific cities for the most accurate picture.
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