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Moving to Liberia | Expat Exchange
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Moving to Liberia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Oct 15, 2023

Summary: Many expats and digital nomads move to Liberia for its low cost of living, warm climate, and friendly people. The most popular cities for expats and digital nomads in Liberia are Monrovia, Gbarnga, and Buchanan. People looking for a place to live in Liberia can search online for rental listings, contact real estate agents, or ask around in the local community for recommendations.

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What do I need to know before moving to Liberia?

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

"Expatriates should be aware that Liberia is a developing country and that the infrastructure is not as developed as in other countries. It is important to research the cost of living in Liberia before moving, as prices can vary significantly from city to city. Expats should also be aware that the healthcare system in Liberia is not as advanced as in other countries, and it is important to have adequate health insurance coverage. Additionally, expats should be aware that the political situation in Liberia is unstable and that there is a risk of civil unrest. It is also important to research the local laws and customs before moving to Liberia, as they can differ significantly from those in other countries. Finally, expats should be aware that the climate in Liberia is tropical and that the rainy season can last from May to October," remarked one expat who made the move to Liberia.

How do I find a place to live in Liberia?

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

"One of the best ways to find a place to live in Liberia is to contact a local real estate agent or property management company. They will be able to provide you with information about available rental properties in the area, as well as advice on the best neighborhoods to live in. Additionally, you can search online for rental listings in Liberia, or ask friends and family who may already live in the country for recommendations," commented one expat who made the move to Liberia.

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

"Expat homes and apartments in Liberia tend to be modern and comfortable, with air conditioning, internet access, and other amenities. Many expats choose to live in gated communities, which offer a greater sense of security and privacy. Expat homes and apartments often come with a variety of amenities, such as swimming pools, gyms, and other recreational facilities. Expats also have access to a wide range of international restaurants, shops, and other services," remarked one expat who made the move to Liberia.

What is the average cost of housing in Liberia?

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

"The cost of housing in Liberia varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in Liberia is relatively inexpensive compared to other countries, with basic housing costing around $50 to $100 per month. However, more luxurious housing can cost up to several hundred dollars per month," said one expat in Liberia.

Should I buy or rent a home in Liberia?

If you have not spent a lot of time in Liberia, 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 Liberia, it is important to consider your financial situation, lifestyle, and long-term goals. Buying a home can be a great investment, as it can provide you with a stable 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 Liberia should be based on your individual needs and preferences," commented one expat who made the move to Liberia.

What should I pack when moving to Liberia?

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

"When moving to Liberia, it is important to pack items that will help you adjust to the climate and culture. Bring clothing that is lightweight and breathable, as well as items that will protect you from the sun. It is also important to bring items that will help you stay connected to family and friends back home, such as a laptop, phone, and internet access. Additionally, it is a good idea to bring basic medical supplies, such as over-the-counter medications, bandages, and antiseptic. Finally, it is important to bring items that will help you feel at home, such as photos, books, and other personal items," remarked one expat who made the move to Liberia.

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

We asked people in Liberia 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!:

"It is important to be respectful of local customs and traditions when visiting Liberia. It is considered impolite to show up late to social gatherings or meetings. It is also important to dress modestly and to avoid public displays of affection. It is also important to be aware of the local language and to avoid using offensive language or making jokes about local customs or beliefs. Additionally, it is important to be aware of the local religious beliefs and to avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics or religion. Finally, it is important to be respectful of the local environment and to avoid littering or damaging the natural environment," commented one expat who made the move to Liberia.

Why do people move to Liberia?

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

"Liberia offers expats a unique opportunity to experience a vibrant culture and a diverse landscape. The country is home to a wide variety of wildlife, stunning beaches, and lush rainforests. Expats can also enjoy a low cost of living, a friendly and welcoming population, and a stable political environment. Additionally, Liberia is a great place to start a business, with a growing economy and a supportive business environment. With its rich history and culture, Liberia is an attractive destination for expats looking for a new home," replied one expat when asked about moving to Liberia.

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How are healthcare services Liberia?

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

"Healthcare services in Liberia are limited and the quality of care is generally poor. The public healthcare system is largely underfunded and understaffed, and is unable to meet the needs of the population. The majority of healthcare services are provided by private clinics and hospitals, which are often expensive and out of reach for many people. Foreign residents have access to the public healthcare system, but the quality of care is not as good as in other countries. Expats in Liberia typically use private healthcare services, as they are more reliable and offer better quality care," stated one expat who made the move to Liberia.

What are medical services in Liberia like?

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

"Medical services in Liberia are limited due to a lack of resources and infrastructure. The country has only a few hospitals and clinics, and most of them are located in the capital city of Monrovia. The majority of medical care is provided by non-governmental organizations and international aid organizations. The quality of care is often inadequate due to a lack of trained medical personnel and supplies. Additionally, many Liberians lack access to basic health services due to poverty and a lack of transportation," wrote one expat living in Liberia.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.

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