What is the cost of living in Mauritius for expats?
Direct Answer
A couple living comfortably in a rented villa with a car and regular dining out can expect to spend USD 2,500–4,000 per month all-in, excluding school fees.
Monthly budget overview
Mauritius is not the cheapest country in Africa, but it is significantly less expensive than Western Europe, Australia, or the UAE for an equivalent lifestyle. The biggest single cost is housing, followed by schooling for families.
Housing
A furnished two-bedroom apartment in Grand Baie costs MUR 35,000–55,000 per month (approximately USD 770–1,200). A three-bedroom villa with a pool typically runs MUR 60,000–100,000 (USD 1,300–2,200). Unfurnished properties or those in less central locations are notably cheaper.
Food and groceries
A weekly supermarket shop for two people costs approximately MUR 4,000–6,000 at Super U or Jumbo. Fresh local fruit, vegetables, and fish from the market are far cheaper — budget MUR 1,500–2,000 per week if you shop locally. Dining out at a good restaurant costs MUR 800–1,500 per person for a full meal with wine. Street food (dholl puri, biryani) costs MUR 50–100 per portion.
Transport
Owning a car costs MUR 8,000–15,000 per month on finance, plus fuel (approximately MUR 55 per litre for petrol). Taxis and ride-hailing (Yelo) are widely available. A taxi from Grand Baie to Port Louis costs approximately MUR 600–800.
Utilities
Electricity is subsidised for lower consumption bands but rises steeply. A two-bedroom apartment will cost MUR 2,000–4,500 per month. Water and internet (fibre, 100Mbps) add approximately MUR 1,500 per month combined. Mobile plans with generous data cost MUR 500–800 per month.
Schools
International school fees are the most significant variable for families. Northfields International School costs approximately MUR 200,000–250,000 per year per child. Lycée Labourdonnais (French curriculum) and Clavis are in a similar range.
Healthcare
Private GP consultations cost MUR 800–1,500. Specialists at Wellkin or Apollo Bramwell Hospital: MUR 1,500–3,000 per consultation. A comprehensive private health insurance policy for one adult costs approximately USD 150–300 per month.