Cost of Living in Mauritius (2026): A Guide for Foreigners
One of the reasons foreigners choose Mauritius is that a comfortable, sunny lifestyle costs far less than the equivalent in London, Paris, Cape Town or Dubai. It is not, however, a “cheap” destination in the way parts of South-East Asia are: good housing in the north and west, imported goods and international schooling all add up. This guide sets out realistic 2026 costs and sample monthly budgets so you can plan properly.
All figures are indicative and quoted in US dollars for comparison (the local currency is the Mauritian rupee, MUR). Your actual costs depend heavily on where you live, whether you rent or own, and the schooling you need. For the wider picture, see our guide to living in Mauritius as a foreigner.
Housing — the biggest variable
Rent is the single largest line in most budgets, and prices in the sought-after coastal north (Grand Baie, Tamarin) and west sit well above the national average. As a rough guide for long-term rentals:
- Modern 1–2 bed apartment, north/west: about USD 800–1,800 per month
- 3–4 bed family house with garden or pool: about USD 1,800–4,000+ per month
- Central or inland towns (Curepipe, Quatre Bornes): noticeably less for the same space
Buying instead of renting is an option for foreigners through approved schemes — see investing in Mauritius real estate and where to live.
Everyday costs
- Groceries: local produce, fish and market vegetables are inexpensive; imported and branded goods cost more than in Europe. A couple typically spends USD 400–700 a month.
- Utilities & internet: electricity, water and fibre broadband together run around USD 100–200 a month, more if you run air-conditioning heavily.
- Transport: fuel is moderate and a second-hand car is common; expect USD 150–400 a month running a vehicle, far less if you use the light-rail Metro Express and buses.
- Eating out: a meal at a local table d’hôte is a few dollars; a dinner for two at a good restaurant is USD 40–80.
Healthcare and schooling
Public healthcare is free but variable; most expatriates use private clinics and hold international health insurance. See our guide to healthcare in Mauritius. Families should budget carefully for education: fees at the international schools typically range from around USD 5,000 to USD 15,000+ per child per year depending on the curriculum.
Sample monthly budgets (2026, indicative)
| Household | Comfortable monthly budget (excl. rent) | Typical rent |
|---|---|---|
| Single professional | USD 1,000–1,600 | USD 800–1,400 |
| Couple | USD 1,600–2,600 | USD 1,200–2,200 |
| Family of four (with schooling) | USD 3,500–6,000 | USD 1,800–4,000 |
The tax angle
Cost of living is only half the picture. Mauritius has no capital gains tax, no inheritance tax and a personal income tax that runs from 0% to 20%, so more of your income stays with you — read our guide to taxation in Mauritius. Retirees in particular find the maths compelling; see the retirement route.
Is Mauritius expensive to live in?
Mauritius is more affordable than most Western capitals but not a budget destination. Local food, transport and services are inexpensive; imported goods, quality coastal housing and international schooling are where costs rise. A couple can live comfortably from roughly USD 2,500–4,000 a month including rent.
How much money do I need to live comfortably in Mauritius?
As an indicative guide for 2026, a single person needs around USD 1,800–3,000 a month all-in, a couple around USD 2,800–4,800, and a family of four with international schooling USD 5,500–10,000. The retirement permit requires transferring at least USD 2,000 a month, which broadly reflects a comfortable single or couple budget.
Where is the cheapest place to live in Mauritius?
Inland towns such as Curepipe, Quatre Bornes and Vacoas are significantly cheaper than the coastal north and west. Most foreigners still choose Grand Baie, Tamarin or Flic en Flac for lifestyle and community, and pay a premium for it.
Sources & further reading
Figures are summarised for general guidance and were correct at the time of writing; tax and immigration rules change, so we confirm the current position for your circumstances before you act.
More insights
Related reading
What the UK–Mauritius treaty covers — residence tie-breakers, dividends, interest, pensions and gains — and how it helps people and businesses.
How UK nationals are taxed after moving to Mauritius — leaving UK residence, UK-source income, the treaty and the Mauritian remittance basis.
The 183-day and 270-day tests, the domicile rule, the remittance basis for foreign income, and how to obtain a Tax Residence Certificate — explained clearly.
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