Cost of Living in Zambia
The cost of living in Zambia is very low for those paid in a strong currency, but it is still fairly expensive as far as Africa is concerned. Most items are nonetheless significantly cheaper than they would be in the expat’s own country.
Securing a level of comfort found in Western Europe, however, will be very expensive, as even the most basic of consumer goods will then have to be imported. Those willing to spend on luxury accommodation will expect to pay around ZK 6,634,330 or more a month for rent, and the overall cost of living would run to about ZK 27,510,000 (US$6,000).
The informal market in Zambia is a good place to pick up bargains. Polite bartering is accepted in the street cafés and vendors’ shops in a way that it is not in more formal stores. Expect to be able to work a vendor down to about half his original quote. Buying more than one item at the same location can be beneficial, as the custom of mbasela (giving a free gift with multiple purchases) is strong in Zambia.
