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Data Source: Safety, crime, and quality metrics are sourced from Numbeo, a crowd-sourced global database of reported data.
All scores are relative comparisons on a 0-100 scale, where 50 = global average. Higher scores mean better than average, lower scores mean worse than average.
Mtwara offers a quiet, coastal alternative to Tanzania’s more frenetic hubs, appealing primarily to those seeking a slower pace of life near the Indian Ocean. It is a functional, unpretentious port town where the lifestyle revolves around maritime industry and local rhythms rather than high-end amenities. For professionals, the environment is stable and relatively safe, providing a sense of calm that is hard to find in larger African metropolises.
However, relocation here requires a mindset of self-sufficiency. While healthcare and transport are serviceable, you will find a lack of the specialized services and diverse social infrastructure common in Dar es Salaam. It is an ideal choice for those prioritizing tranquility and lower costs, provided you are comfortable navigating a more limited urban landscape.
Population
96,602
Area
1,473 km²
Density
66 per km²
Founded
-
Language
English, Swahili
Distance to Coast
1 km
Districts & Neighborhoods in Mtwara
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Climate & Weather in Mtwara
Mtwara has a tropical wet-and-dry climate (Köppen Aw) with hot, humid conditions most of the year and a distinct rainy season from roughly November to April or May. It is warm year-round, with coastal influence moderating extremes, and annual rainfall is around 1,024 to 1,145 mm, which fits Tanzania’s broader coastal climate range.
Summer Average
29°C
Winter Average
24°C
Climate Type
Tropical Savanna
Rainy Days
95
Sunny Days
290
Humidity
72%
Spring
September - November
25-30°C
Temperatures rise quickly and humidity increases as the city moves toward the onset of the rains. Conditions are often warm to hot, with the first thunderstorms typically appearing late in the season.
Low rainfall
Summer
December - February
28-31°C
This is one of the hottest and wettest periods of the year, with frequent showers and high humidity. Rain can be heavy at times, but there are also bright, sunny intervals between storms.
High rainfall
Autumn
March - May
26-30°C
The rainy season usually continues through March and April, then tapers off toward May. Warm temperatures remain steady, and cloud cover is common during wetter weeks.
High rainfall
Winter
June - August
23-27°C
This is the coolest and driest part of the year, with more comfortable temperatures and lower rainfall. Skies are often clearer, making it a favorable season for travel.
Low rainfall
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Air Quality
Mtwara
Advantages
Mtwara
Coastal beach access
Low cost living
Tight-knit community
Growing port development
Peaceful, quiet lifestyle
Disadvantages
Mtwara
Limited higher education options
Few job opportunities locally
Poor infrastructure development
Minimal entertainment activities
Limited business ecosystem
Safety & Security in Mtwara
Overall Safety Score
Includes resilience and environmental factors
Moderate
55
/100
Tanzania Avg
56
Africa Avg
54
Worldwide Avg
56
Crime & Safety Metrics
Thermometer compares Mtwara to Tanzania averages using different marker styles.Compare:
Mtwara
Tanzania Average
No city-specific data available — showing Tanzania country averages instead.
Safety Index
0510
Low
Safety from Crime
0510
Concerning
Safe Alone (Day)
0510
Moderate
Safe Alone (Night)
0510
Low
Safety from Violent Crime
0510
Concerning
Safety from Property Crime
0510
Concerning
Environmental & Natural Hazard Risks
Resilience Score: N/A
Data Currently Under Investigation
Environmental risk assessments are being researched. The indicators below show what data will be available soon.
