Mauritius, a beautiful island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for its stunning beaches, diverse culture, and friendly locals. While it is a popular tourist destination, many people also choose this place for higher studies. But, before relocating here, a student should be aware of the average cost of living in Mauritius to ensure they can budget appropriately and live comfortably there.
Understanding the cost of living in the country is essential for students planning to move there, whether for work, or study. For students planning to live in Mauritius, budgeting effectively is essential for a comfortable stay. Curious about the average expenses in this beautiful city? Further, keep reading the blog for detailed information on the cost of living in Mauritius.
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Cost of Living in Mauritius
The average cost of living in Mauritius for international students is MUR 26,779 per month without rent, according to Numbeo data. Although the cost of living in Mauritius is 1.35 lower and less expensive than the world average. Due to this, you enjoy a high quality of life, excellent amenities, and access to various cultural and recreational opportunities.
Mauritius is ranked 118th out of 197 countries for cost of living and 62nd for overall quality of life. The typical cost of living here for international expats covers various categories, including housing rent, utility bills, travel passes, personal expenses, and food and grocery costs. Below is an overview of the average cost of living in Mauritius for various essential categories. Please have a look:
Cost of Housing in Mauritius
The cost of housing rent in Mauritius for a single person is around MUR 19,535 per month. There are various accommodation options available for expats according to their budget and lifestyle. Before relocating to Mauritius, it is crucial to conduct thorough research and comparison of apartment rental prices across different areas to ensure they align with your requirements and financial plan.
For your convenience, we have gathered average housing cost information for various apartments located both within and outside the city centre. Please review this data to determine the most suitable option for your needs.
Apartment Location | Monthly Rent |
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre | MUR 19,535 |
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside of Centre | MUR 14,039 |
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre | MUR 33,668 |
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside of Centre | MUR 29,013 |
Cost of Grocery in Mauritius
Grocery expenses are a daily necessity for students who choose to cook at home, and their food choices will determine these expenses in Mauritius. These expenses play a significant role in the overall cost of living in Mauritius City.
It is advisable to compare prices among various stores or vendors to ensure optimal value when purchasing groceries in Mauritius. Below is a list of grocery items along with their respective costs.
Grocery Item | Approx. Cost |
Milk (regular), (1 litre) | MUR 57.82 |
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g) | MUR 30.80 |
Rice (white), (1kg) | MUR 97.64 |
Eggs (regular) (12) | MUR 94.95 |
Local Cheese (1kg) | MUR 434.89 |
Apples (1kg) | MUR 97.44 |
Banana (1kg) | MUR 81.75 |
Oranges (1kg) | MUR 94.68 |
Tomato (1kg) | MUR 137.57 |
Potato (1kg) | MUR 49.62 |
Onion (1kg) | MUR 51.00 |
Water (1 liter bottle) | MUR 26.50 |
Cost of Utilities in Mauritius
For a single person in Mauritius, the basic utility costs are around MUR 2,404 per month. This is a relatively modest expense, especially considering the overall cost of living in Mauritius city. These utility bills typically cover heating, electricity, gas, a mobile phone plan, and internet service. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the typical utility costs for international students living in Mauritius:
Utility Type | Approx. Monthly Cost |
Basic Utility for 85m2 Apartment (Electricity, Heating, Cooling, Water, Garbage) | MUR 2,404 |
Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data) | MUR 1,443 |
Mobile Phone Monthly Plan with Calls and 10GB+ Data | MUR 846 |
Cost of Transportation in Mauritius
Mauritius boasts a highly convenient and affordable transportation system, making it easy for residents to travel around the city. The city offers a variety of local transport options, including trains, buses, and ferries.
The monthly cost for a transportation pass is approximately MUR 1,024, which is a significant component of the overall cost of living in Mauritius. Here is an overview of the various modes of transportation and their monthly costs:
Mode of Transport | Approx. Monthly Cost |
One-way Ticket(Local Transport) | MUR 40 |
Monthly Pass(Regular Price) | MUR 1,024 |
Taxi Start(Normal Tariff) | MUR 150 |
Taxi 1km(Normal Tariff) | MUR 108 |
Taxi 1 hour Waiting(Normal Tariff) | MUR 450 |
1-litre Gasoline | MUR 71.24 |
Also Read: Cost of Living in Taiwan: A Guide on Expected Expenses
Average Tuition Fees in Mauritius
When considering the cost of living in Mauritius, international students must also factor in their university tuition fees. Before relocating, it’s crucial for students to evaluate the average tuition fees of universities here so they can choose their desired university and properly manage their finances.
To aid in this assessment, we’ve provided a table below outlining the average tuition fees at some of the universities in Mauritius:
University Name | Average Tuition Fees (per year) |
University of Mauritius | MUR 16310 – MUR 329000 |
University of Mascareignes | MUR 60,000 – MUR 70,000 |
Padmashree Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College | MUR 303000 |
University of Technology, Mauritius | MUR 50,000 – MUR 75,000 |
Open University of Mauritius | MUR 15,000 – MUR 25,000 |
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Cost of Living Comparison: Mauritius vs Other Cities
When comparing the cost of living in Mauritius to other countries and major cities, several factors should be considered. It is well-known for its affordable housing and transportation costs, making it an appealing choice for those seeking a balanced lifestyle.
Understanding how the cost of living in Mauritius measures up against other countries and cities is essential for making informed decisions about moving or long-term stays. To provide a clear picture of how living expenses in Mauritius compare to major cities like Nigeria, the UK, the USA, South Africa, Canada, Australia, Dubai and Cape Town we have gathered relevant data. Here’s a detailed comparison for better clarity:
Cost of Living City Wise | Average Cost of living | Comparison with Cost of Living in Mauritius |
Cost of Living in Nigeria | MUR 26476 (excluding rent) | Approximately equal to Mauritius |
Cost of Living in the UK | MUR 48360 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
Cost of Living in Australia | MUR 51752 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
Cost of Living in the USA | MUR 54972 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
Cost of Living in South Africa | MUR 27605 (excluding rent) | Approximately equal to Mauritius |
Cost of Living in Canada | MUR 49641 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
Cost of Living in Dubai | MUR 51768 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
Cost of Living in Cape Town | MUR 28267 (excluding rent) | Higher than Mauritius |
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FAQs
Answer: The average monthly cost of living in Mauritius, excluding rent, is approximately MUR 26,779. Renting a one-bedroom apartment in the city of Mauritius costs around MUR 19,535. This makes the overall cost of living here fairly reasonable for students when compared to other nearby countries and cities.
Answer: You need around MUR 46,314 to live comfortably in Mauritius. This amount is the sum of the cost of living in Mauritius and renting a one-bedroom apartment in Mauritius City.
Answer: The monthly housing rent in Mauritius for a single person is around MUR 19,535 per month. This figure varies depending on factors such as location, apartment amenities, and individual preferences.
Answer: Mauritius is generally seen as a moderately expensive place to live, with the average monthly cost of living excluding rent estimated at around MUR 26,779. This ranking positions Mauritius 118th out of 197 countries globally in terms of cost of living and places it as the 62nd best country to live in overall.
So, this was all about the cost of living in Mauritius. Many Indian students dream of pursuing education in foreign nations due to the exposure and career growth they offer. Consider joining a free counselling session with Leverage Edu if you plan to study abroad.