Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Addis Ababa costs approximately $580 per month for one person including rent. That is 64% below the $1,620 global median across the 340 cities in the Voyica Cost of Living Index 2026. Against its own region, where the median is $861, Addis Ababa is cheaper than typical for Africa. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $795 per month, or $555 outside the centre. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $4.00 and a monthly transit pass $10. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 9 Mbps and Addis Ababa scores 42/100 on safety (below average on safety). Actual costs vary with lifestyle, neighbourhood, and exchange rates; figures come from crowd-sourced price data last refreshed June 2026. See the full Cost of Living Index →
Addis Ababa is a city in Ethiopia, where a single person can expect to spend about $580 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $795 per month, or $555 outside the centre. Internet is slow at around 9 Mbps median download speed. On safety, Addis Ababa scores 42/100 — below average on safety for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 72°F and winter highs around 75°F, with roughly 280 sunny days a year.
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A single person should budget around $580 per month in Addis Ababa, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs.
How much is rent in Addis Ababa?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Addis Ababa averages $795 per month, dropping to about $555 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $2,104.
Is Addis Ababa safe?
Addis Ababa scores 42/100 on safety, which is below average on safety. Tourist safety is rated 45/100.
How fast is the internet in Addis Ababa?
Median download speeds in Addis Ababa are around 9 Mbps — slow for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 15 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Ethiopia offer a digital nomad visa?
Ethiopia does not currently offer a dedicated digital nomad visa. US passport holders can usually stay 30 days visa-free.
What is the weather like in Addis Ababa?
Addis Ababa sees summer highs around 72°F and winter highs near 75°F, with about 280 sunny days and 100 rainy days per year.
