Cost of living in Machakos
Machakos, a vibrant town in Kenya, offers a unique blend of urban and rural lifestyles. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering moving to or residing in this area.
This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses, including housing, transportation, groceries, and more, to help you plan your budget effectively.
Cost of Living Summary
Dining and Restaurants
- Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $2.32 on average, with a range between $1.93 and $10.04.
- Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $30.9, with prices ranging from $19.31 to $61.8.
- Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6.18, with a range between $4.63 and $7.72.
- Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer ranges from $1.78 to $3.48, imported beer $2.32 to $4.63, cappuccino $1.54 to $4.63, and Coke/Pepsi $0.39 to $1.93.
Grocery Prices
- Milk - Milk is priced between $0.39 and $1.28 per liter, averaging $0.39.
- Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs between $0.46 and $1.04, with an average price of $0.46.
- Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $1.39 to $2.32, averaging $1.39.
- Fruits (e.g., Apples, Oranges) - Apples cost $0.93 to $3.86 per kg, while oranges range from $0.39 to $3.86 per kg.
- Vegetables (e.g., Potatoes, Lettuce) - Potatoes are priced between $0.46 and $2.16 per kg, and lettuce costs $0.39 to $1.54 per head.
Transportation
- Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs between $0.77 and $1.93.
- Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.46 and $1.7 per liter.
- Taxi Fares - Taxi fares start at $0.77, with a cost of $0.77 to $2.32 per km and $2.16 to $5.41 per hour of waiting.
Housing Costs
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $92.7.
- 1-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent ranges from $61.8 to $77.25, averaging $69.52.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $154.5.
- 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (Outside Centre) - Outside the centre, rent averages $115.87.
Utilities
- Basic Utilities (Electricity, Heating, Water, etc.) - Basic utilities for an 85m2 apartment cost between $15.45 and $61.8, averaging $30.9.
- Internet - Internet services range from $11.59 to $61.8, with an average cost of $11.59.
Cost of Living Rankings
The cost of living indices for Kenya are compared to New York City (NYC), which serves as the baseline with an index of 100. These provide insights into the relative cost of living in different cities in Kenya, covering factors like consumer goods, rent, and purchasing power.
Cost of Living Data
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"Key Takeaways"
Machakos offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many urban areas. Dining out is inexpensive, and grocery prices are quite low.
Housing costs are particularly affordable, especially outside the city centre, making it an attractive option for those looking to save on rent.
Transportation costs are moderate, with affordable public transport and taxi services.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Machakos presents a cost-effective living environment with affordable housing and dining options.
While utilities and transportation are reasonably priced, potential residents can enjoy a balanced lifestyle without excessive expenses.