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Cost of Living in Sri Lanka | Expat Exchange
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Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Cost of Living in Sri Lanka

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jun 02, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Sri Lanka is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in Sri Lanka can cost anywhere from $400 to $800 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Sri Lanka is usually around $10 to $15 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Sri Lanka high?

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

"The cost of living in Sri Lanka is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries. Eating out at restaurants is also quite affordable, with a meal for two people costing around $10 USD. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively inexpensive. Overall, Sri Lanka is a great place to live for those looking for a low cost of living," said one expat in Sri Lanka.

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William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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Will I save money living in Sri Lanka?

"Living in Sri Lanka can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Sri Lanka is much lower than in the United States, with basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing being much more affordable. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also much lower in Sri Lanka than in the United States. As a result, living in Sri Lanka can be a great way to save money compared to living in the United States," wrote a person living in Sri Lanka.

What is the average cost of housing in Sri Lanka?

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

"The cost of housing in Sri Lanka varies depending on the location and type of property. Generally, the cost of renting a house in Sri Lanka is relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around $200 to $500 per month for a basic house in a rural area. In urban areas, the cost of renting a house can be higher, with prices ranging from around $500 to $1,000 per month for a basic house. The cost of buying a house in Sri Lanka is also relatively affordable, with prices ranging from around $50,000 to $200,000 for a basic house," remarked one expat in Sri Lanka.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Sri Lanka?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Sri Lanka can vary depending on the location and amenities, but generally ranges from around $400 to $800 per month. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $600 to $1,200 per month," wrote one expat.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Sri Lanka what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"Rental properties in Sri Lanka typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, and washing machine. Other common appliances may include a microwave, dishwasher, and air conditioner. Depending on the property, some may also include a water heater, water filter, and/or a generator," said one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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.

Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

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William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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