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Moving to Tanzania | Expat Exchange
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Zanzibar, Tanzania

Moving to Tanzania

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Apr 17, 2024

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Tanzania for its low cost of living, warm climate, and diverse culture. People can find a place to live in Tanzania by searching online for rental properties, or by asking around in the local community. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Tanzania are Dar es Salaam, Arusha, and Zanzibar.

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What do I need to know before moving to Tanzania?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Tanzania, they said:

"Too many things to say... Have Good Security Check for Problems with Water Make sure the house can get internet in your area if this is important to you Sometimes it is expected you pay 3, 6, or 12 months in advance. Make sure you are clear with your landlord who is going to pay for things if/when they break, (water pipes, door handles, sink faucets, etc. ) Email me for details if you really whan't to know more... Bonnie at [email protected]," replied a member in Arusha.

"Tanzania is a beautiful and diverse country with a rich culture and history. Expats should be aware that the official language is Swahili, although English is widely spoken in urban areas. It is important to research the local laws and customs before moving to Tanzania, as there are certain restrictions on certain activities. Expats should also be aware that the cost of living in Tanzania is generally lower than in other countries, but that the quality of goods and services may not be as high. Additionally, expats should be aware that the healthcare system in Tanzania is not as advanced as in other countries, and that medical insurance is highly recommended. Finally, expats should be aware that the climate in Tanzania can be quite hot and humid, and that the rainy season can bring heavy rains and flooding," commented one expat who made the move to Tanzania.

How do I find a place to live in Tanzania?

We asked expats how they chose their neighborhood and found a place to live. They answered:

"After moving here you can post what you are looking for in a house on the Arusha Mail Out email service, that sends an email to most expats and companies in Arusha, you pay 10,000 tzs at Meat King, downtown Arusha. Or you can find a real estate agent that You drive around to show you houses," replied a member in Arusha.

"Finding a place to live in Tanzania can be a daunting task. It is important to research the area you are interested in living in and to consider your budget and lifestyle. You can start by looking online for rental listings, or by asking friends and family who may have connections in Tanzania. Additionally, you can contact local real estate agents who can help you find a suitable place to live. It is also a good idea to visit the area in person to get a better feel for the neighborhood and to make sure it is a good fit for you," commented one expat who made the move to Tanzania.

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What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Tanzania?

"3 bedroom 2 bathroom (no bath, just shower) Tile floor, running water, and electricity, :-) This is typical for most expats," remarked one expat who made the move to Arusha.

"Expat homes and apartments in Tanzania tend to be modern and comfortable, with amenities such as air conditioning, internet access, and satellite television. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer additional security and access to amenities such as swimming pools, gyms, and tennis courts. Expat homes and apartments in Tanzania are typically spacious and well-furnished, with plenty of room for entertaining guests," explained one expat living in Tanzania.

What is the average cost of housing in Tanzania?

If you are thinking about moving to Tanzania, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"Cheaper or about the same. For TX about the same, for California cheaper. House rent can cost around - 500 - 900 usd- this may or may not include security, water or electricity," explained one expat living in Arusha, Tanzania.

"The cost of housing in Tanzania varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in urban areas tends to be more expensive than in rural areas. Prices for housing can range from very affordable to quite expensive, depending on the size and amenities of the property," said one expat in Tanzania.

Should I buy or rent a home in Tanzania?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Tanzania, you should rent before even thinking about buying. We asked expats there about the buy vs. rent decision:

"When deciding whether to buy or rent a home in Tanzania, it is important to consider your budget, lifestyle, and long-term plans. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a place to live and the potential for appreciation in value. However, it also requires a large upfront investment and ongoing maintenance costs. Renting a home can be a more affordable option, as it requires less of an upfront investment and no maintenance costs. However, it does not provide the same potential for appreciation in value. Ultimately, the decision to buy or rent a home in Tanzania should be based on your individual needs and preferences," replied a member in Tanzania.

What should I pack when moving to Tanzania?

We asked people living in Tanzania to list three things they wish they had brought and three they wish they had left behind. They responded:

"When moving to Tanzania, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing that is appropriate for the hot and humid climate. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. Bring a mosquito net and insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes. Pack comfortable shoes for walking and exploring. Bring a first aid kit with basic medical supplies. Bring a universal adapter for charging electronics. Pack a few books or magazines to help pass the time. Finally, bring a few items that remind you of home to help you adjust to your new environment," replied a member in Tanzania.

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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tanzania?

We asked people in Tanzania if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!:

"I had diarrhea on a bus ride to a rural village. My husband had to get the bus to stop in the middle of the bush and went on top of the bus to grab my toilet paper, passed it to me in full view of everyone then I went into the bush to go to the bathroom while everyone had to wait. (Tanzanians view the use of toilet paper to be unclean). I confused the word AIDS with AUNTY in kiswahili, in front of all my Tanzanian in-laws..," said one expat in Dar es Salaam.

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Tanzania. Avoid making negative comments about the country or its people, as this can be seen as offensive. Additionally, it is important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local religious beliefs and to be respectful of religious sites. Finally, it is important to be aware of the local language and to avoid speaking in a loud or disrespectful manner," remarked one expat who made the move to Tanzania.

Why do people move to Tanzania?

When we asked people why foreigners move to Tanzania, they responded:

"Tanzania offers expats a unique cultural experience, with a diverse population and a rich history. The country is also home to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the world, including the Serengeti National Park and Mount Kilimanjaro. The cost of living in Tanzania is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Additionally, the country has a strong infrastructure and a growing economy, making it an ideal place to live and work," commented one expat who moved to Tanzania.

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How are healthcare services Tanzania?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tanzania, they replied:

"Healthcare services in Tanzania are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is available to all citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies depending on the region, but generally it is considered to be of lower quality than private healthcare. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, but they are not eligible for the same benefits as citizens. Expats in Tanzania typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and of higher quality. However, some expats may use the public healthcare system if they are unable to access private services," said one expat living in Tanzania.

What are medical services in Tanzania like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Tanzania, they replied:

"Tanzania has a public health system that provides basic medical services to its citizens. The country also has a number of private hospitals and clinics that offer more specialized care. The quality of medical services in Tanzania varies depending on the location and the resources available. In general, the public health system is underfunded and understaffed, leading to long wait times and limited access to specialized care. However, the country is making efforts to improve the quality of medical services, including increasing access to essential medicines and investing in training for healthcare workers," commented one expat who moved to Tanzania.

About the Author

Joshua Wood Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.

Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.

Zanzibar, Tanzania

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