Latest update: Mauritian workers earning up to MUR 50,000/month now receive a cost-of-living compensation of MUR 610, while the average monthly living cost for a single person is around USD 625 (≈ MUR 28,240).
The cost of living in Mauritius is an important factor for students, expats, and families planning relocation. According to Statistics Mauritius, the country saw an average 6–7% inflation in 2025, impacting housing, food, and transport.
Here are the approximate costs:
Students: Spend around MUR 20,000–35,000 (INR 37K–INR 65K) on rent, food, and transport.
Working Professionals: Budget MUR 30,000–60,000 (INR 55K– INR 1.1L) depending on housing choices and daily expenses.
Families with one child: Require about MUR 80,000–120,000 (INR 1.5L–INR 2.2L) to cover rent, schooling, healthcare, and utilities.
Rent is highest in Port Louis and Grand Baie, while Curepipe and Quatre Bornes offer more affordable housing. Essentials like food, public transport, and the internet remain manageable, but costs rise quickly if you rely on imported products or dine out frequently.
This blog will give you a full breakdown of expenses in Mauritius, covering housing, groceries, utilities, transportation, healthcare, education, and entertainment.
Monthly Cost of Living in Mauritius for Expats & Students
The average monthly cost of living in Mauritius depends heavily on your lifestyle. Students can comfortably live on MUR 20,000–35,000 (USD 440–770), while working professionals spend between MUR 30,000–60,000 (USD 660–1,320).
Here’s a quick look at the average monthly costs for different lifestyles in Mauritius:
Mauritius Living Costs by Lifestyle (2025)
Expense Category
Student (MUR/INR)
Single Professional (MUR/INR)
Rent (1BHK)
10,000–18,000 (₹18K–₹33K)
15,000–30,000 (₹28K–₹55K)
Utilities & Internet
2,500–4,000 (₹4.5K–₹7.3K)
3,500–6,000 (₹6.4K–₹11K)
Groceries
6,000–10,000 (₹11K–₹18K)
8,000–15,000 (₹15K–₹28K)
Transportation
1,500–3,000 (₹2.7K–₹5.5K)
3,000–6,000 (₹5.5K–₹11K)
Entertainment
2,000–5,000 (₹3.7K–₹9.2K)
5,000–10,000 (₹9.2K–₹18K)
Total (Estimate)
20,000–35,000 (₹37K–₹65K)
30,000–60,000 (₹55K–₹1.1L)
Source: Numbeo, Mauritius Statistics Bureau (2025)
Note: For families, monthly expenses range from MUR 80,000–120,000 (USD 1,750–2,640).
Considering a medical degree? This post on MBBS in Mauritius covers tuition fees, cost of living, and admission timelines.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Accommodation
Rent in Mauritius is a major factor in your monthly expenses. Central areas like Port Louis and Grand Baie have higher rental rates, while Curepipe and Quatre Bornes are more budget-friendly. Rent Costs (per month):
Type/Location
Average Rent (MUR)
Average Rent (INR)
BHK in city center
MUR 19,463
INR 36,980
1BHK outside center
MUR 14,051
INR 26,700
3BHK in city center
MUR 35,303
INR 67,080
3BHK outside center
MUR 27,899
INR 52,990
Buying Property (2025):
City center (per sqm): MUR 137,342
Outside city (per sqm): MUR 107,395
For students living in Mauritius, housing options include:
On-campus housing: Starts at MUR 8,000–12,000 per month, usually includes internet
Shared apartments: Common around Moka and Ébène, MUR 10,000–18,000 monthly
Private studios/1BHKs: Cost between MUR 15,000–25,000 depending on location
Factors that influence rent in Mauritius:
Location: Rent is higher in expat-friendly or business zones
Furnishing: A furnished flat can cost MUR 3,000–7,000 more per month
Utilities: If not included, expect to pay MUR 1,500–4,000 for electricity and water
Whether you're a student budgeting carefully or a family looking for spacious housing, understanding Mauritius rent prices by city helps in choosing the right location.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Food & Grocery
How much does food cost in Mauritius? If you prefer home-cooked meals and shop at local markets, your grocery bill will stay low. Eating out regularly or choosing imported items can quickly raise monthly expenses. Eating Out in Mauritius: Street Food to Fine Dining Dining out in Mauritius ranges from affordable street eats to fine dining. Local food stalls and cafés offer meals under MUR 300 (around USD 6.50), while a three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant can cost MUR 2,000–4,000 (USD 44–88). Dining Option
Dining Option
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Street Food / Inexpensive Meal
300
INR 550
McDonald’s Combo (McMeal)
300
INR 550
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
2,000
INR 3,650
Domestic Beer (0.5L draught)
100
INR 185
Cappuccino
111
INR 200
Bottle of Water (0.33L)
29
INR 55
Grocery Prices in Mauritius
If you're cooking at home, here’s what you can expect to spend on basic items:
Item
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Milk (1 liter)
63.16
INR 120
Bread (500g)
30.62
INR 57
Rice (1kg)
86.21
INR 163
Eggs (12)
101.19
INR 191
Chicken (1kg)
252.41
INR 477
Apples (1kg)
99.90
INR 189
Tomatoes (1kg)
130.28
INR 246
Cooking Oil (1L)
100–180
INR 189–340
Local markets like Port Louis Market offer fruits, vegetables, and seafood at prices 30–40% lower than supermarkets.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Transport
Whether you're a student or working professional, transportation is a key factor in calculating your cost of living in Mauritius in USD.
Public Transport in Mauritius: Bus, Metro, and Taxi
Mauritius has reliable public transport. Buses are the most affordable, while taxis can be expensive unless shared or pre-booked.
Transport Type
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
One-way Bus Ticket
44
INR 83
Monthly Pass (Bus/Metro)
1,402
INR 2,650
Taxi Start
175
INR 330
Taxi per km
150
INR 284
Gasoline (per liter)
69.34
INR 131
Pro Tip: Carpooling apps like Yugo or Blink are increasingly popular among students and professionals.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Utility Bills & Internet
Utility costs in Mauritius are moderate, especially if you're energy-conscious. However, villas and larger homes see higher electricity bills due to air conditioning in summer.
Utility Type
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Electricity, Water, Garbage
2,696.75
INR 5,100
Electricity, Water, Garbage (Villa/Home)
5,000–10,000
INR 9,460–18,920
Mobile Plan (10GB+)
752.35
INR 1,420
Broadband Internet (60 Mbps+)
1,469.38
INR 2,780
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Healthcare & Medical Expenses
If you're planning a move, understanding the healthcare costs in Mauritius for expats is key. Public hospitals offer free care for citizens and residents, but long wait times are common. Expats often prefer private clinics for quicker service, though costs vary. Prescription drugs and general pharmacy prices are affordable. Based on 2025 Numbeo data, here are average costs:
Medicine Type
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Paracetamol (10 tablets)
75
INR 142
Antibiotics (Course)
500
INR 946
Chronic Medication (Monthly)
2,000
INR 3,785
Vaccination (Per Dose)
2,750
INR 5,200
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Education
When it comes to education costs in Mauritius for expat families, international schools are the most popular but can be expensive. Public schools are free for residents and follow a bilingual curriculum in English and French.
Service Type
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Preschool (Private, Monthly)
6,998
INR 13,230
International Primary School (Yearly)
160,500
INR 303,550
Want to know about med school options? This guide on Medical Colleges in Mauritius includes cost, curriculum, and NMC-approved colleges.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Entertainment & Leisure
The cost of entertainment in Mauritius for foreigners depends on lifestyle. Local leisure activities like cinemas and fitness clubs are fairly affordable. Upscale nightlife and dining out can be expensive, especially in coastal tourist zones.
Activity
Avg. Cost (MUR)
Avg. Cost (INR)
Fitness Club (Monthly)
1,544
INR 2,920
Tennis Court (1 Hour, Weekend)
394
INR 745
Cinema Ticket (International Release)
300
INR 570
Meal for 2 (Mid-range Restaurant)
2,000
INR 3,780
Cocktail at Beach Bar
450
INR 850
Nightclub Entry
1,000
INR 1,890
For most expats, a monthly entertainment budget of MUR 5,000–10,000 (₹9K–₹18K) is reasonable if you mix local and premium options.
Cost of Living in Mauritius: Taxes & Financial Costs
Mauritius is known for low taxes, making it a top choice for expats, business owners, and retirees. There’s no capital gains tax or inheritance tax, and income tax rates are much lower than in many Western countries. But VAT, banking fees, and money transfers can add up, so it's important to plan ahead.
Income Tax & VAT Rates in Mauritius
Mauritius has a progressive income tax system, meaning the more you earn, the more you pay.
Income Bracket (Annual)
Tax Rate
Up to MUR 700,000 (₹12.9L)
10%
Above MUR 700,000 (₹12.9L)
15%
No capital gains tax – Buying and selling property or stocks won’t be taxed.
No inheritance tax – Family members don’t pay taxes on inherited wealth.
Corporate tax – Businesses pay a flat 15% tax on profits.
VAT in Mauritius (2025)
Most goods and services in Mauritius are taxed at 15% VAT, except for basic food, medical services, and education, which are exempt.
Item Type
VAT Rate
Basic groceries
0% (Exempt)
Electronics & luxury items
15%
Restaurants & hotels
15%
Medical & healthcare services
0% (Exempt)
Source: Mauritius Revenue Authority (MRA), 2025
Banking Costs & International Money Transfers
Opening a bank account in Mauritius is easy for residents and expats, but some banks require a minimum balance for certain accounts.
Service
Cost (MUR/INR)
Popular Banks
Bank Account Setup
Free – 2,500 (INR 0 – INR 4.6K)
MCB, SBM, Absa Bank
Minimum Balance for Expats
10,000–50,000 (INR 18K–INR 92K)
Varies by bank
International Money Transfer (₹1L sent)
1,000–3,500 (INR 1.8K–INR 6.4K)
Western Union, Wise, SWIFT
MCB (Mauritius Commercial Bank) – Best for expats, offers digital banking.
SBM (State Bank of Mauritius) – Reliable, government-backed bank.
Absa Bank – Great for international transactions.
How to Save Money in Mauritius
Shop at local markets – Port Louis, Rose Belle Market have fresh food 30–40% cheaper than supermarkets.
Use public transport – A monthly bus/metro pass (MUR 1,200–2,500/₹2.2K–₹4.6K) saves a lot compared to taxis.
Get a local SIM card – Emtel, My.T, and Chili offer unlimited data plans for MUR 1,200 (₹2.2K).
Rent in Curepipe or Quatre Bornes – 20–30% lower rent than Grand Baie or Port Louis.
Cook at home – Regularly eating out can double your monthly food expenses.
Cost Comparison: Mauritius vs. Other Popular Destinations
Mauritius is cheaper than Dubai or the UK, but more expensive than India or South Africa when it comes to rent and imported goods.
Average Salary in Mauritius: How Much Can You Earn?
Salaries in Mauritius vary by industry, experience, and location. Expats working in finance, IT, healthcare, and hospitality earn higher salaries, while local wages in retail and customer service tend to be lower.
The average monthly salary in Mauritius is around MUR 30,000–50,000 (₹55K–₹92K) after taxes.
Average
Job Role
Average Salary (MUR/INR)
After-Tax Salary (MUR/INR)
Finance Manager
90,000–150,000 (INR 1.65L–2.75L)
75,000–120,000 (INR 1.38L–2.2L)
Software Engineer
60,000–100,000 (INR 1.1L–1.85L)
50,000–85,000 (INR 92K–1.55L)
Marketing Manager
50,000–90,000 (INR 92K–1.65L)
42,500–76,500 (INR 78K–1.4L)
Hotel Manager (Hospitality)
40,000–80,000 (INR 73K–1.47L)
34,000–68,000 (INR 63K–1.25L)
Customer Service Executive
20,000–35,000 (INR 37K–65K)
18,000–30,000 (INR 33K–55K)
Retail Worker (Entry-Level)
15,000–25,000 (INR 28K–46K)
13,500–22,500 (INR 25K–41K)
Monthly Salaries in Mauritius (2025)
Source: Mauritius Employment Market Report, 2025
How to Save Money While Living in Mauritius
Living in Mauritius can be cost-effective with smart planning. Whether you're a student, expat, or remote worker, here are practical money-saving tips across key categories:
Rent & Utilities
Choose budget-friendly cities like Curepipe, Quatre Bornes, or Rose Hill (20–30% cheaper than Port Louis/Grand Baie).
Share housing with roommates to save up to 50% on rent.
Negotiate lower prices for long-term lease agreements.
Use fans instead of air conditioners to cut electricity costs.
Groceries & Essentials
Buy groceries in bulk at Jumbo or Super U stores.
Shop at local markets like Flacq, Port Louis, or Quatre Bornes (30–50% cheaper than supermarkets).
Use discount chains like Intermart and Winners.
Explore online grocery deals via Shop.mu or MyT Market.
Student Discounts & Local Deals
Get public transport subsidies: MUR 600–1,200/month (₹1,100–₹2,200).
Enjoy movie discounts at MCine and Star Cinema on Wednesdays.
Grab meal deals at malls like Bagatelle or Le Caudan Waterfront (MUR 150–250 or ₹280–₹460).
Join gyms like Synergy, Riverland, or Fast Fit with student membership offers.
Affordable Transport
Use bus/metro passes: MUR 1,200–2,500/month (₹2,200–₹4,600)—cheaper than taxis.
Save on travel with ride-sharing apps like Yugo and Blink.
Buy a second-hand bicycle for MUR 5,000–10,000 (₹9,200–₹18,000) on Facebook Marketplace.
Utilize free shuttle services offered by malls or business parks.
Use upGrad Abroad’s Calculator to Estimate the Cost of Living in Mauritius
Planning to study in Mauritius? upGrad Abroad’s Expense Calculator helps you estimate your tuition fees and day-to-day living costs in minutes, before you even move.
You can calculate accommodation expenses (city center vs. outside), grocery and food costs, monthly utilities like electricity and internet, and transport expenses whether you use buses, taxis, or shared rides. Tuition fee estimates are included based on your university and course.
The calculator is tailored to different lifestyles, whether you live alone, in shared housing, or with family. It also shows available scholarships, fee waivers, and grants that may reduce your financial burden.
Not sure which university or city in Mauritius suits your lifestyle and budget? Book a free counseling session to get expert guidance on costs, admissions, and scholarships.
Conclusion
Understanding the cost of living in Mauritius is key for students, professionals, and families planning to move. By knowing expenses for rent, groceries, transport, and utilities, you can budget effectively and enjoy a comfortable lifestyle without surprises. Inland towns and coastal areas both offer options to fit different budgets.
Using tips like cooking at home, shopping at local markets, and relying on public transport can significantly reduce your monthly expenses. With the right planning, you can manage the cost of living in Mauritius smartly and enjoy the island’s culture, leisure, and opportunities for work or study abroad.
FAQs
How much do mobile data plans cost in Mauritius?
Mobile data plans with 10GB or more typically cost around MUR 752 per month. Providers like Emtel and My.T offer competitive packages. This allows students, expats, and remote workers to stay connected without overspending, making communication and online work affordable.
Are medicines expensive in Mauritius?
Common medicines like paracetamol cost about MUR 75 for 10 tablets, while chronic medication may reach MUR 2,000 per month. Vaccinations range from MUR 1,500–4,000 per dose. Public hospitals provide some medicines at subsidized rates, but private pharmacies are generally more convenient.
How much is a taxi ride in Mauritius?
Taxi fares start at MUR 175 and cost MUR 150 per kilometer. Short trips may be cheaper with app-based taxis like Yugo or Blink. For daily commuting, shared taxis and public transport offer significant savings while still being safe and reliable.
What are the average salaries for entry-level jobs in Mauritius?
Entry-level jobs like retail or customer service pay between MUR 15,000–35,000 monthly. After-tax salaries range from MUR 13,500–30,000. More experienced roles, such as software engineers or managers, earn significantly higher, supporting comfortable living in Mauritius.
How much does a gym membership cost in Mauritius?
A standard fitness club membership costs around MUR 1,544 per month. Prices vary from MUR 1,000–2,500 depending on location and facilities. Outdoor sports or local community clubs provide cheaper options for staying active and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
Are imported goods expensive for expats in Mauritius?
Imported electronics, branded clothes, and luxury items often cost 20–30% more due to taxes. Shopping locally or buying essentials at markets reduces costs. Expats relying heavily on imported products should budget extra to avoid overspending.
Can expats get affordable internet for remote work?
Yes, broadband plans with 60 Mbps+ cost about MUR 1,469 per month. Some coworking spaces provide high-speed internet and workspace access. Combining broadband with mobile data plans ensures uninterrupted work for digital nomads or remote employees.
How much does a 1BHK apartment cost outside city centers?
A 1BHK outside central Port Louis costs around MUR 14,051 monthly, or INR 26K. Choosing towns like Curepipe or Quatre Bornes can further reduce rent. Shared apartments lower costs, making it affordable for students and young professionals.
Are there affordable entertainment options in Mauritius?
Yes, activities like beach outings, local festivals, and hiking are often free or low cost. Cinema tickets cost around MUR 300, while nightclubs or high-end bars are pricier. Balancing paid and free entertainment keeps budgets manageable.
How much does an international school year cost in Mauritius?
International schools charge approximately MUR 160,500 per year. Preschool programs cost around MUR 6,998 per month. Fees depend on curriculum and facilities, with English-French bilingual options common for expat families.
Can expats save on electricity and water bills?
Yes, small apartments pay about MUR 2,696 monthly for electricity, water, and garbage. Villas or larger homes can reach MUR 10,000. Using LED lights, fans, and energy-saving appliances helps manage monthly utility expenses efficiently.
What’s the cost of dining out in tourist vs local areas?
A meal for two at mid-range restaurants costs MUR 2,000–4,000 in tourist areas, while local eateries charge around MUR 300–600. Opting for local cafés and cooking at home helps save money without compromising on the culinary experience.
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