Cost of living in Libya

The cost of living in Libya is relatively cheap, especially if you choose to prepare your own meals with local produce and avoid spending money eating out or purchasing Western food, gadgets and luxuries.

You should expect to pay unusually high prices for personal care items such as cosmetics and toiletries. These are still relatively small expenses, so they won’t make a major dent in your finances. Telephone rentals and internet connections are also expensive for a country with a low cost of living. Again, these payments are not overwhelming when compared with larger expenses.

Transport, local groceries, furniture, appliances, and clothing are all reasonably priced and will help keep your day-to-day expenses minimal.

Cost of accommodation in Libya

Relocating to Libya offers unique advantages, especially in terms of accommodation costs, which are generally lower than in other North African destinations. This can significantly enhance your standard of living.

Various housing options are available in major urban centres like Tripoli and Benghazi, ranging from modern apartments to spacious standalone villas. These properties are often located in areas popular among expats, providing easy access to essential services and facilities, thus ensuring a high quality of life.

Due to ongoing political and economic instability, Libya experiences frequent electricity outages. Many residents and businesses resort to generators as a backup power source, which can be costly. When negotiating your relocation package, consider including an accommodation allowance that sufficiently covers utility expenses, including electricity and water, to avoid unexpected financial burdens.

Internet connectivity in Libya can be slow and unreliable, particularly for streaming video content. If your work requires a stable and fast internet connection, consider investing in a microwave-based internet system, which includes the necessary equipment, such as a modem, switch, router, and antenna, to ensure uninterrupted service.

Accommodation in Libya
Keeping in Touch in Libya

Cost of transport in Libya

Public transport in Libya is affordable, but it is limited to taxis and buses. Many expats prefer to hire a car and driver on a ‘wet lease’, which means that fuel, servicing, and the driver’s wages are all included. Some expats will have this cost covered as part of their relocation package, further reducing their living expenses in Libya.

Cost of groceries in Libya

Shopping for groceries in Libya offers an advantage due to generally lower prices than in nearby Tunisia. The variety and cost of local produce make it feasible to maintain a comfortable lifestyle while managing grocery expenses effectively.

While local products are affordable, imported goods and brands may vary in price due to fluctuating import costs and availability. Be prepared to pay a premium for familiar products and brands.

Cost of entertainment and eating out in Libya

Enjoying leisure activities and dining out in Libya typically costs less than in other North African countries. This affordability extends across various entertainment options, from casual dining to cultural events. Benghazi, known for its vibrant nightlife, offers an array of cultural experiences, including traditional Libyan music performances.

Cost of education in Libya

Education in Libya encompasses various types, each catering to different needs and financial capacities. Public schools provide free education, making them the most accessible option. Private schools in Libya offer smaller class sizes and generally higher teaching quality for those seeking enhanced educational standards. Although these schools charge tuition fees, they are preferred by families desiring more personalised education experiences.

At the top of the education cost spectrum are international schools, following curricula such as the International Baccalaureate or the American or British curricula. These schools provide a global standard of education but come with higher fees, which typically do not include additional costs like books and uniforms. Such schools are particularly popular among expats and wealthy locals.

If you’re relocating for work, we recommend trying to negotiate an education allowance as part of your contract.

Education and Schools in Libya

Cost of healthcare in Libya

Navigating the healthcare landscape in Libya can be complex, especially when choosing between the public system, which provides free but inadequate services, and the private sector, which offers higher care standards but at a high cost.

In light of these challenges, securing comprehensive private health insurance is advisable. This will ensure access to the best available medical treatments and facilities and safeguard against uncertainties and potential shortages in the public healthcare system. Consider a plan with the option of medical evacuation for serious injuries or illnesses.

Healthcare and Health Insurance in Libya