Quick answer: As of 2026, living in Zanzibar costs approximately $889 per month for one person including rent. That is 45% 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, Zanzibar is on the more expensive side for Africa. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $151 per month, or $101 outside the centre. Day to day, an inexpensive restaurant meal runs about $4.85. For anyone weighing a longer stay, median internet speed is 21 Mbps and Zanzibar scores 62/100 on safety (moderately safe). 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 →
Zanzibar is a city in Tanzania, where a single person can expect to spend about $889 per month including rent, food, and local transport. A one-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $151 per month, or $101 outside the centre. Internet is slow at around 21 Mbps median download speed. On safety, Zanzibar scores 62/100 — moderately safe for residents and visitors. Expect summer highs near 90°F and winter highs around 82°F, with roughly 351 sunny days a year.
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A single person should budget around $889 per month in Zanzibar, covering rent, groceries, transport, and basic lifestyle costs.
How much is rent in Zanzibar?
A one-bedroom apartment in central Zanzibar averages $151 per month, dropping to about $101 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre runs about $202.
Is Zanzibar safe?
Zanzibar scores 62/100 on safety, which is moderately safe. Tourist safety is rated 55/100.
How fast is the internet in Zanzibar?
Median download speeds in Zanzibar are around 21 Mbps — slow for remote work and video calls. There are roughly 5 coworking spaces in the city.
Does Tanzania offer a digital nomad visa?
Tanzania 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 Zanzibar?
Zanzibar sees summer highs around 90°F and winter highs near 82°F, with about 351 sunny days and 217 rainy days per year.
