Dar es Salaam: Africa's Fastest-Growing City
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania's commercial capital with a population exceeding 7 million. The city's rapid growth means living costs — particularly rent — have risen significantly in recent years. Understanding these costs is essential for negotiating a salary that supports a comfortable lifestyle.
Costs vary dramatically by neighborhood. Masaki, Oyster Bay, and Peninsula offer premium living but at premium prices. Mikocheni, Sinza, and Mbezi Beach offer good quality at more moderate costs. Kinondoni, Temeke, and outlying areas are the most affordable.
Monthly Cost Breakdown
**Rent (unfurnished):** - 1-bed apartment, city center (Masaki/Oyster Bay): TZS 600,000-1,500,000 - 1-bed apartment, mid-range (Mikocheni/Sinza): TZS 300,000-600,000 - 2-bed apartment, mid-range: TZS 500,000-1,000,000 - 3-bed house, suburbs (Mbezi Beach/Tegeta): TZS 500,000-1,200,000
**Food and groceries:** - Monthly groceries (single person): TZS 250,000-500,000 - Lunch at local restaurant: TZS 5,000-15,000 - Dinner at mid-range restaurant: TZS 25,000-60,000
**Transport:** - Dala dala (minibus) ride: TZS 500-1,000 - BRT (rapid transit): TZS 650-800 - Ride-hailing (Bolt/InDriver): TZS 5,000-20,000 per trip - Fuel (per liter): TZS 3,000-3,500
**Utilities:** - Electricity: TZS 50,000-200,000 (depends on AC usage) - Water: TZS 20,000-50,000 - Internet (fiber): TZS 50,000-150,000 - Mobile data (30GB): TZS 25,000-50,000
**Other:** - Gym membership: TZS 50,000-150,000 - Health insurance (private, basic): TZS 30,000-80,000/month - Entertainment: TZS 100,000-300,000
Budget Planning Tips
**Rule of thumb:** Your rent should not exceed 30% of your net salary. If you're earning TZS 1.5M/month, look for housing in the TZS 300,000-450,000 range.
**Save on transport:** Living near your workplace dramatically reduces costs. BRT routes offer affordable, reliable commuting along major corridors.
**Cook at home:** Grocery shopping at markets (Kariakoo, Ilala) is 30-40% cheaper than supermarkets. Cooking at home can halve your food budget.
**Negotiate rent:** Annual leases often come with negotiable rates, especially if you pay several months upfront.
Use the salary data on Nafasi to ensure your compensation covers Dar es Salaam's cost of living comfortably.