Pros and Cons of Living in Luanda
Last updated on Apr 08, 2025
Summary: The pros of living in Luanda, Angola include its vibrant culture, diverse population, and beautiful beaches. The city is also home to a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Additionally, the cost of living in Luanda is relatively low compared to other cities in the region. On the other hand, the cons of living in Luanda include its high crime rate, poor infrastructure, and lack of reliable public transportation. Additionally, the city is prone to flooding during the rainy season, and the air quality is often poor due to the high levels of pollution.
What are the pros and cons of living in Luanda?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Luanda responded:
"Expats and digital nomads living in Luanda, often appreciate the warm and sunny weather, as well as the beautiful beaches along the Atlantic coast. They also enjoy the vibrant culture, friendly locals, and the opportunity to learn Portuguese. The city's growing expat community provides a sense of camaraderie and support for newcomers. On the other hand, expats and digital nomads may dislike the high cost of living in Luanda, as it is considered one of the most expensive cities in the world for expatriates. The lack of reliable public transportation and heavy traffic can make getting around the city challenging. Additionally, the quality of healthcare facilities may not be up to the standards that some expats are accustomed to, and there may be limited access to certain medications. Safety and security can also be a concern for expats living in Luanda, as crime rates are relatively high. The language barrier can be an issue for those who do not speak Portuguese, making it difficult to navigate daily life and interact with locals. Finally, the limited availability of high-speed internet and the lack of coworking spaces can be frustrating for digital nomads who rely on reliable connectivity for their work," said one expat in Luanda.
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What do expats in Luanda appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Luanda appreciate the city's vibrant culture, which is a mix of African, Portuguese, and Brazilian influences. They also enjoy the city's friendly people, who are always willing to help out newcomers. The city's diverse cuisine is another highlight, with a variety of dishes from all over the world. Expats also appreciate the city's vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants to explore. Finally, the city's stunning natural beauty, with its beaches, lagoons, and forests, is a major draw for expats," said one expat in Luanda.
"Eagerness to grow, they are appreciative of what I can offer and so make me feel needed and appreciated," said a person living in Luanda.
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What do expats find most challenging?
"Getting used to the fact that they are not a clean nation, they have adapted to live in filth and seem content to do so," said one expat in Luanda.
"Expats in Luanda often find the language barrier to be one of the most challenging aspects of the local culture. Additionally, the cost of living in Luanda is very high, making it difficult for expats to adjust to the local economy. Furthermore, the city is known for its chaotic traffic and lack of public transportation, which can be difficult to navigate for those unfamiliar with the area. Additionally, the cultural norms and expectations can be difficult to understand for those coming from different backgrounds," said a person living in Luanda.
About the Author
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.