Bamako, the bustling capital of Mali, is a city rich in culture and history. Understanding the cost of living here is crucial for anyone considering moving to or visiting the city.

This guide provides a detailed breakdown of expenses in Bamako, from dining and groceries to housing and transportation, helping you plan your budget effectively.

Cost of Living Summary

Dining and Restaurants

  • Inexpensive Restaurant Meal - A meal at a casual restaurant will typically cost $6.7 on average, with a range between $1.56 and $10.
  • Mid-Range Restaurant (Three-Course Meal for Two) - For a more upscale dining experience, expect to pay around $36, with prices ranging from $26.18 to $38.88.
  • Fast Food (e.g., McDonald's) - A McMeal or equivalent combo meal averages $6.42, with a range between $4.67 and $8.18.
  • Beverages (e.g., Domestic Beer, Imported Beer, Cappuccino, Coke/Pepsi) - Domestic beer averages $2.39, imported beer $12, cappuccino $1.89, and Coke/Pepsi $0.77.

Grocery Prices

  • Milk - Milk is priced at $2.5 per liter.
  • Bread (Loaf of Fresh White Bread) - A loaf of fresh white bread costs $1.1.
  • Eggs (Dozen) - A dozen eggs range from $2 to $4.25, averaging $3.13.
  • Fruits (e.g., Oranges, Bananas) - Oranges cost $2.2 per kg, while bananas are priced at $1.1 per kg.
  • Vegetables (e.g., Tomatoes, Onions) - Tomatoes and onions are priced at $2.2 and $1.65 per kg, respectively.
  • Meat (e.g., Chicken Fillets, Beef) - Chicken fillets cost $13.23 per kg, and beef is priced at $8.82 per kg.

Transportation

  • Public Transport (One-Way Ticket) - A one-way local transport ticket costs $4.67.
  • Fuel (Gasoline) - Gasoline is priced between $1.26 and $1.5 per liter, averaging $1.45.
  • Taxi Fares - Taxi fares cost $1.24 per km.

Housing Costs

  • 3-Bedroom Apartment Rent (City Centre) - Rent for a 3-bedroom apartment in the city centre averages $311.05.

Utilities

  • Internet - Internet services range from $40 to $42.54, with an average cost of $41.27.

Cost of Living Data

The following pricing data has been gathered from 7 user contributions, as of the most recent update in August, 2024.
Restaurants
Avg / Range
Meal, Inexpensive Restaurant
$6.70
Meal for 2 People, Mid-range Restaurant, Three-course
$36.00
McMeal at McDonalds (or Equivalent Combo Meal)
$6.42
Domestic Beer (0.5 liter draught)
$2.39
Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)
$12.00
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.77
Water (0.33 liter bottle)
$0.58
Cappuccino (regular)
$1.89
Markets
Avg / Range
Milk (regular), (1 liter)
$2.50
Loaf of Fresh White Bread (500g)
$1.10
Eggs (regular) (12)
$3.13
Water (1.5 liter bottle)
$0.60
Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro)
$0.93
Chicken Fillets (1kg)
$13.23
Oranges (1kg)
$2.20
Tomato (1kg)
$2.20
Banana (1kg)
$1.10
Onion (1kg)
$1.65
Beef Round (1kg) (or Equivalent Back Leg Red Meat)
$8.82
Transportation
Avg / Range
One-way Ticket (Local Transport)
$4.67
Gasoline (1 liter)
$1.45
Taxi 1km (Normal Tariff)
$1.24
Rent Per Month
Avg / Range
Apartment (3 bedrooms) in City Centre
$311.05
Utilities (Monthly)
Avg / Range
Internet (60 Mbps or More, Unlimited Data, Cable/ADSL)
$41.27
Sports And Leisure
Avg / Range
Fitness Club, Monthly Fee for 1 Adult
$67.41
Tennis Court Rent (1 Hour on Weekend)
$4.05
Cinema, International Release, 1 Seat
$5.67
Salaries And Financing
Avg / Range
Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)
$261.83
Bamako Cost of Living

"Key Takeaways"

Bamako offers a relatively affordable cost of living compared to many global cities, with low rental prices and reasonable dining costs.

Transportation and fuel costs are moderate, making it easier to navigate the city without breaking the bank.

Grocery prices vary, with some items like chicken fillets being more expensive, while staples like bread and eggs remain affordable.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Bamako presents a cost-effective living environment, especially for those looking to experience life in a vibrant African city.

While some imported goods and services may be pricier, the overall expenses remain manageable, making Bamako an attractive option for expatriates and locals alike.

Bamako

Nearby Cities

We don't have any relevant "Quality of life" data on cities with a 200 mile radius of Bamako
All cities in Mali