Housing Costs
In Alexandria, the cost of living is influenced heavily by housing expenses, which vary depending on location, type, and amenities. For those seeking an apartment in the city center, expect to pay around 3,000 to 5,000 EGP per month for a one-bedroom unit. If you move to the outskirts or less central neighborhoods, this cost drops to approximately 2,000 to 3,500 EGP per month. For larger families or those desiring more space, a three-bedroom apartment in the city center ranges from 6,000 to 9,000 EGP per month, while similar accommodations in the suburbs can cost between 4,500 to 7,000 EGP.
Utilities, including electricity, heating, cooling, water, and garbage, typically add around 500 to 800 EGP per month for an average-sized apartment. Internet service, essential for most modern households, averages about 250 to 400 EGP monthly, depending on the speed and provider.
Groceries and Food
Grocery shopping in Alexandria can be economical, especially when buying local products. A monthly grocery bill for a single person ranges from 1,500 to 2,500 EGP, while a family of four might spend between 4,000 and 6,500 EGP. Local markets offer fresh produce, meats, and dairy products at lower prices compared to supermarkets. For instance, a liter of milk costs around 15 EGP, a loaf of bread is about 2 EGP, and a kilogram of chicken breasts is approximately 80 EGP.
Dining out is also quite affordable. A meal at an inexpensive restaurant costs around 50 to 80 EGP, while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant ranges from 200 to 400 EGP. Fast food options like McDonald’s or KFC cost about 60 to 100 EGP per meal.
Transportation
Public transportation in Alexandria includes buses, minibuses, and the Alexandria Tram, which is one of the oldest tram systems in the world. A monthly pass for public transportation costs around 200 to 300 EGP, making it a budget-friendly option for daily commuting. Single ride tickets for buses and trams range from 3 to 5 EGP, depending on the route and distance.
For those who prefer private transportation, taxis are widely available, with fares starting at 5 EGP and costing about 2 EGP per kilometer. Ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem also operate in Alexandria, offering competitive rates. Additionally, owning a car involves costs such as fuel, which is priced at approximately 8.75 EGP per liter, insurance, and maintenance, which can add up to several thousand EGP annually.
Healthcare
Healthcare in Alexandria is relatively affordable, with a mix of public and private options. Public healthcare is subsidized by the government, making it accessible to residents at minimal cost. However, many expats and locals prefer private healthcare for its higher standards and shorter waiting times. A visit to a general practitioner in a private clinic costs between 200 and 400 EGP, while a specialist consultation can range from 300 to 600 EGP.
Pharmaceuticals are also reasonably priced. Common medications, such as antibiotics or painkillers, are readily available and generally cost less than 100 EGP per prescription. Health insurance, which is recommended for comprehensive coverage, varies in price depending on the provider and the extent of the coverage, typically costing between 2,000 and 5,000 EGP annually for an individual.
Education
For families with children, education is a significant part of the cost of living. Public schools offer free education in Arabic, but many expats and affluent locals opt for private or international schools, which provide instruction in English or other languages. Tuition fees for private schools in Alexandria range from 20,000 to 60,000 EGP per year, depending on the school’s reputation and curriculum. International schools, offering curricula like the British, American, or International Baccalaureate, can charge between 50,000 and 150,000 EGP annually.
Additional expenses for education include uniforms, school supplies, extracurricular activities, and transportation, which can add several thousand EGP to the annual cost.
Entertainment and Leisure
Entertainment and leisure activities in Alexandria are diverse and cater to various interests and budgets. Cinema tickets cost around 50 to 100 EGP, depending on the theater and the movie. For those who enjoy fitness, a monthly gym membership ranges from 300 to 800 EGP. Historical sites and museums, such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina and the Citadel of Qaitbay, often have nominal entrance fees, typically under 50 EGP.
Dining out, visiting cafes, and enjoying the city’s nightlife are popular pastimes. A cup of coffee at a local cafe costs around 20 to 30 EGP, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant ranges from 200 to 400 EGP. Beach resorts and clubs along the Mediterranean coast offer day passes that range from 100 to 300 EGP, providing access to private beaches, pools, and other amenities.
Clothing and Personal Care
Clothing and personal care costs in Alexandria are comparable to other major cities in Egypt. Shopping at local markets and smaller boutiques offers good value, with prices for casual clothing items like t-shirts and jeans ranging from 100 to 400 EGP. International brands and designer labels found in malls or upscale stores are more expensive, with prices similar to those in Europe or North America.
Personal care items, such as toiletries and cosmetics, are widely available and reasonably priced. A haircut at a local salon costs around 50 to 150 EGP, while a visit to a more upscale salon can range from 200 to 500 EGP.
Conclusion
The cost of living in Alexandria offers a balance between affordability and quality of life, making it an attractive option for both locals and expatriates. While housing and education can be significant expenses, the overall cost of groceries, transportation, healthcare, and entertainment remains relatively low compared to many other global cities. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and beautiful Mediterranean coastline, Alexandria provides a unique and cost-effective living experience.
submitted by traveler no. 100754