Cost of Living Guide in Vanuatu
Complete pricing for housing, food, transportation, and everyday expenses
Vanuatu's cost of living is moderately high for Oceania, with overall costs including rent about 51% higher than the regional average, driven by elevated rents that are 114% above Oceania norms while consumer prices excluding rent are 33% higher. It's a paradise for expats seeking tropical beaches and zero taxation, but requires careful budgeting around imports and housing in Port Vila. Digital nomads can thrive outside the capital with self-sufficient setups, slashing expenses significantly.
Estimated Monthly Budget
Vanuatu offers solid value for beach-loving expats with external income, undercutting Australia/NZ by 20–40% via local living, but it's 51% pricier overall than Oceania averages due to housing—ideal for self-sufficient nomads on islands like Santo.
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
Meal for 2, Mid-range Restaurant (3-course)
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)
Domestic Beer (0.5L draught)
Apartment (1 bedroom) in City Centre
Apartment (1 bedroom) Outside Centre
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre
Apartment (3 bedrooms) Outside Centre
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
Monthly Transport Pass
Gasoline (1L)
Utilities for 85m² Apartment
Internet (60 Mbps+, Unlimited)
Mobile Plan (10GB+ Data)
Milk (1L)
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
Eggs (12)
Local Cheese (1kg)
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee
Tennis Court (1 hour, weekend)
Cinema Ticket
Preschool / Kindergarten (monthly, private)
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