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Living in Libya: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Libya | Expat Exchange
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Living in Libya

By Joshua Wood, LPC

Last updated on Jan 05, 2024

Summary: People describe life in Libya as a mix of traditional and modern. Expats love the warm climate, the friendly people, and the low cost of living. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 per month. The population of Libya is estimated to be around 6.5 million people. The largest cities in Libya are Tripoli (the capital), Benghazi, Misrata, and Sabha. The cons of living in Libya include the lack of infrastructure, the lack of reliable public transportation, and the lack of access to basic services such as healthcare and education. Additionally, the security situation in Libya is unstable and there is a risk of violence and terrorism.

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What do I need to know about living in Libya?

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

"Before retiring in Libya, expats should be aware of the political and security situation in the country. It is important to research the current laws and regulations regarding visas, residency, and other legal matters. Expats should also be aware of the local culture and customs, and be prepared to adjust to the climate and environment. Additionally, expats should research the availability of healthcare and other services, and make sure they have access to the necessary resources. Finally, expats should be aware of the cost of living in Libya and plan accordingly," explained one expat living in Libya.

How do I meet people in Libya?

When we asked people living in Libya about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Libya often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as concerts, festivals, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats find it helpful to join online forums and social media groups related to their interests, as this can be a great way to connect with other expats and locals. Finally, expats can also meet people by simply exploring the city and striking up conversations with people they meet in cafes, parks, and other public spaces," said one expat in Libya.

What is life like in Libya?

When we asked people living in Libya what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Libya can be challenging due to the political and security situation in the country. Expats and digital nomads must be aware of the risks associated with living in Libya and take appropriate safety precautions. Despite the challenges, there are some advantages to living in Libya, such as the low cost of living and the opportunity to experience a unique culture. Expats and digital nomads should also be aware of the restrictions on internet access and the limited availability of certain goods and services. Despite these challenges, many expats and digital nomads have found Libya to be an interesting and rewarding place to live," wrote a member in Libya.

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Is there a lot of crime in Libya?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Crime is a problem in Libya, with reports of armed robberies, carjackings, and kidnappings occurring in some areas. There have also been reports of violence against foreigners, including assaults and robberies. In addition, there have been reports of human trafficking and smuggling of migrants. The security situation in Libya is unpredictable and can change quickly, so it is important to exercise caution when travelling in the country," said one expat in Libya.

Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Libya accepting of differences?

"Libya is a diverse country with a population made up of many different ethnic and religious groups. People in Libya are generally accepting of differences and have a strong sense of national identity. There is a long history of peaceful coexistence between different communities in Libya, and the country is known for its hospitality and tolerance," said one expat who made the move to Libya.

What are the schools in Libya like?

"The International School of Benghazi (ISB) is one of the best international schools in Libya. Located in Benghazi, it offers a comprehensive education for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. The school follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. ISB also offers a variety of language courses, including English, French, and Arabic. The International School of Tripoli (IST) is another excellent international school in Libya. Located in Tripoli, it offers a comprehensive education for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. IST follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a variety of language courses, including English, French, and Arabic. The International School of Misrata (ISM) is a bilingual school in Libya. Located in Misrata, it offers a comprehensive education for students from pre-kindergarten to grade 12. ISM follows the International Baccalaureate (IB) curriculum and provides a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a variety of language courses, including English, French, and Arabic," commented one expat when asked about in Libya.

Is the cost of living in Libya high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Libya, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Libya is generally low compared to other countries. Prices for basic necessities such as food, clothing, and housing are relatively inexpensive. However, due to the ongoing political and economic instability, the cost of living can vary significantly from one region to another. Additionally, the cost of imported goods is often higher than in other countries due to the limited availability of foreign currency," said one expat in Libya.

"The cost of living in Libya is generally quite low, with basic goods and services being relatively inexpensive. However, the cost of living in the capital city of Tripoli is higher than in other parts of the country, due to the higher demand for goods and services in the city. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Libya is typically around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Libya will usually cost around $10 USD per person," said one expat.

What type of recreational facilities are in Libya?

When we asked people living in Libya about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Libya, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. The beaches offer a great opportunity to relax and enjoy the sun and the sea. Parks provide a place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just enjoy the outdoors. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and swimming. Additionally, there are many cultural and historical sites to explore, such as ancient ruins, mosques, and museums," remarked one expat living in Libya.

What is the weather like in Libya?

"The weather in Libya is generally hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 40°C in the summer months. The winter months are milder, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C. Rainfall is scarce, with most of the country receiving less than 100mm of rain per year. The coastal areas are more humid, with higher levels of precipitation," mentioned an expat living in Libya.

Are there good restaurants in Libya?

"One of Libya's most popular restaurants is Al-Mabruk, located in Tripoli. Al-Mabruk is known for its traditional Libyan cuisine, such as couscous, tajine, and kofta. The restaurant also serves a variety of international dishes, such as Italian and French cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Another popular restaurant in Libya is Al-Habib, located in Benghazi. Al-Habib is known for its delicious seafood dishes, such as grilled fish and calamari. The restaurant also serves a variety of traditional Libyan dishes, such as couscous and tajine. The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family. Finally, Al-Mabruk is a popular restaurant in Misrata. Al-Mabruk is known for its traditional Libyan cuisine, such as couscous, tajine, and kofta. The restaurant also serves a variety of international dishes, such as Italian and French cuisine. The restaurant has a cozy atmosphere and is a great place to enjoy a meal with friends and family," said one expat.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Libya?

"People living in Libya typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop online for items such as clothing, electronics, and household items. Additionally, there are a variety of specialty stores that offer unique items such as traditional handicrafts and souvenirs," remarked one expat in Libya.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Libya?

"In order to visit Libya, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee to the Libyan Embassy or Consulate in the applicant's home country. In order to obtain residency in Libya, foreign nationals must first obtain a residence permit. This permit is issued by the Libyan Ministry of Interior and requires the submission of an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and a fee. The applicant must also provide proof of employment or a business license, proof of sufficient funds, and a medical certificate. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," commented one expat who moved to Libya.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Libya?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Libya can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Libya is not always up to international standards, and medical facilities may not have the latest equipment or medicines. As a result, many people in Libya rely on traditional medicine and home remedies to treat their ailments," commented one expat living in Libya.

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.

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