Sierra Leone, a country on the West African coast, offers a complex mix of living costs that can vary dramatically between expatriate and local standards. With a population of approximately 8 million people, Sierra Leone combines emerging opportunities with developing infrastructure, particularly in Freetown, the capital city.

Sierra Leone's economy is primarily driven by mining, agriculture, and a growing services sector. While the country continues to develop its infrastructure, expatriates often face relatively high costs for international-standard amenities and imported goods, despite the overall low cost of living for local items.

The expatriate community in Sierra Leone is concentrated primarily in Freetown, particularly in areas like Hill Station, Wilberforce, and Aberdeen. Many are drawn by opportunities in mining, international development, and NGOs, though living costs for international-standard accommodation and services can be surprisingly high.

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Regional Comparison

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Housing Costs in Sierra Leone

Housing costs in Sierra Leone vary significantly between expatriate and local standards. In Freetown's expatriate areas, a one-bedroom apartment meeting international standards typically rents for 5,000,000-8,000,000 SLL monthly, while similar accommodations in middle-range areas range from 3,000,000-5,000,000 SLL. Many expatriate rentals require advance payments of six months to one year.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (expatriate areas): 5,000,000-8,000,000 SLL/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (middle-range): 3,000,000-5,000,000 SLL/month
• Rent, local standard housing: 1,000,000-2,000,000 SLL/month

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Food Costs in Sierra Leone

Food expenses in Sierra Leone vary dramatically between local and imported options. A meal at a local restaurant costs 50,000-100,000 SLL, while dinner at an international restaurant might run 200,000-400,000 SLL per person. Monthly grocery shopping at supermarkets catering to expatriates typically costs 2,000,000-3,000,000 SLL for one person, though local markets offer much lower prices for local produce.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 50,000-100,000 SLL
• International restaurant dinner: 200,000-400,000 SLL
• Monthly groceries (expatriate standard): 2,000,000-3,000,000 SLL

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Transportation Costs in Sierra Leone

Transportation in Sierra Leone relies on a mix of private vehicles, taxis, and okadas (motorcycle taxis). Local taxi rides cost 20,000-50,000 SLL, while dedicated car services used by expatriates charge significantly more. Many expatriates maintain private vehicles or use organization-provided transportation due to limited public transport options.

Summary:

• Local taxi ride: 20,000-50,000 SLL
• Okada ride: 10,000-20,000 SLL
• Monthly transportation (private car): 1,500,000-2,500,000 SLL

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Healthcare Costs in Sierra Leone

Healthcare in Sierra Leone requires careful consideration, with most expatriates using private facilities or international medical coverage. Private health insurance typically costs 1,000,000-2,000,000 SLL monthly per person. A consultation at an international-standard clinic costs 500,000-1,000,000 SLL, while more serious medical issues often require evacuation to other countries.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 1,000,000-2,000,000 SLL/month
• Private clinic consultation: 500,000-1,000,000 SLL
• International evacuation insurance: Essential

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Utility Costs in Sierra Leone

Utility costs in Sierra Leone can be substantial, particularly due to the need for private power generation. Monthly utilities including electricity (often requiring a generator), water, and basic services typically range from 1,000,000-2,000,000 SLL for an apartment. Internet service costs 500,000-1,000,000 SLL monthly for reliable connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 200,000-400,000 SLL monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 1,000,000-2,000,000 SLL/month
• Internet: 500,000-1,000,000 SLL/month
• Mobile phone plan: 200,000-400,000 SLL/month

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Example Monthly Expenses in Sierra Leone

Average monthly expenses for a single person living at expatriate standards:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 6,000,000 SLL
• Utilities: 1,500,000 SLL
• Food: 2,500,000 SLL
• Transportation: 2,000,000 SLL
• Healthcare (insurance): 1,500,000 SLL
• Internet/Phone: 800,000 SLL
• Entertainment: 1,000,000 SLL
• Total: 15,300,000 SLL

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Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

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If you want to know more about Sierra Leone and the cost of living there you can also check out the Sierra Leon page.