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).
Thinking about moving to Mauritius and wondering what the cost of living in Mauritius looks like? Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a family planning long-term relocation, your monthly budget will vary based on your lifestyle and location.
Lifestyle Type
Monthly Expenses (MUR)
INR Equivalent
Student
MUR 20,000–35,000
₹37K–₹65K
Working Professional
MUR 30,000–60,000
₹55K–₹1.1L
Family (with 1 child)
MUR 80,000–120,000
₹1.5L–₹2.2L
Rent is highest in Port Louis and Grand Baie, while towns like Curepipe and Quatre Bornes offer more affordable housing. Daily costs like food, transport, and internet are generally manageable, but living costs for expats in Mauritius can spike if you rely on imported goods or dine out often. This detailed guide covers all key categories—housing, groceries, utilities, transport, healthcare, education, and entertainment—so you can plan smart and avoid surprises. Explore diverse Bachelor’s Programs Abroad across business, science, and healthcare. Looking for postgraduate options? Discover Master’s Programs Abroad that fit global career goals.
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). For families, monthly expenses range from MUR 80,000–120,000 (USD 1,750–2,640).
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)
Family (MUR/INR)
Rent (1BHK)
10,000–18,000 (₹18K–₹33K)
15,000–30,000 (₹28K–₹55K)
30,000–50,000 (₹55K–₹92K)
Utilities & Internet
2,500–4,000 (₹4.5K–₹7.3K)
3,500–6,000 (₹6.4K–₹11K)
6,000–10,000 (₹11K–₹18K)
Groceries
6,000–10,000 (₹11K–₹18K)
8,000–15,000 (₹15K–₹28K)
15,000–25,000 (₹28K–₹46K)
Transportation
1,500–3,000 (₹2.7K–₹5.5K)
3,000–6,000 (₹5.5K–₹11K)
7,000–12,000 (₹13K–₹22K)
Entertainment
2,000–5,000 (₹3.7K–₹9.2K)
5,000–10,000 (₹9.2K–₹18K)
10,000–20,000 (₹18K–₹37K)
Total (Estimate)
20,000–35,000 (₹37K–₹65K)
30,000–60,000 (₹55K–₹1.1L)
80,000–120,000 (₹1.5L–₹2.2L)
Source: Numbeo, Mauritius Statistics Bureau (2025)
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)
BHK in city center
MUR 19,463
1BHK outside center
MUR 14,051
3BHK in city center
MUR 35,303
3BHK outside center
MUR 27,899
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
Average Cost (MUR)
Price Range (MUR)
Price in USD (approx.)
Street Food / Inexpensive Meal
300
150–568.90
3.25–12.30
McDonald’s Combo (McMeal)
300
250–350
5.50–6.50
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
2,000
1,200–4,000
26.50–88
Domestic Beer (0.5L draught)
100
60–250
1.30–5.50
Cappuccino
111
50–250
1.10–5.50
Bottle of Water (0.33L)
29
20–50
0.45–1.10
Grocery Prices in Mauritius
If you're cooking at home, here’s what you can expect to spend on basic items:
Item
Average Cost (MUR)
Range (MUR)
Price in USD (approx.)
Milk (1 liter)
63.16
48–100
1.40–2.20
Bread (500g)
30.62
10–55
0.70–1.30
Rice (1kg)
86.21
50–150
1.10–3.30
Eggs (12)
101.19
60–120
1.30–2.60
Chicken (1kg)
252.41
95–400
2.10–8.80
Apples (1kg)
99.90
55–150
1.20–3.30
Tomatoes (1kg)
130.28
50–200
1.10–4.40
Cooking Oil (1L)
100–180
–
2.20–4.00
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
Average Cost (MUR)
Range (MUR)
Price in USD (approx.)
One-way Bus Ticket
44
35–50
0.90–1.10
Monthly Pass (Bus/Metro)
1,402
1,000–2,608
22–57
Taxi Start
175
100–300
2.20–6.60
Taxi per km
150
100–200
2.20–4.40
Gasoline (per liter)
69.34
61.20–75
1.40–1.60
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
Small Apartment (MUR)
Villa/Home (MUR)
USD Equivalent
Electricity, Water, Garbage
2,696.75
5,000–10,000
60–220
Mobile Plan (10GB+)
752.35
–
16.50
Broadband Internet (60 Mbps+)
1,469.38
–
33
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
Average Cost (MUR)
Cost Range (MUR)
Paracetamol (10 tablets)
75
50–100
Antibiotics (Course)
500
200–800
Chronic Medication (Monthly)
2000
1,000–3,000
Vaccination (Per Dose)
2750
1,500–4,000
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
Average Cost (MUR)
Cost Range (MUR)
Preschool (Private, Monthly)
6,998
4,558–10,000
International Primary School (Yearly)
160,500
120,000–300,000
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
Average Cost (MUR)
Cost Range (MUR)
Fitness Club (Monthly)
1,544
1,000–2,500
Tennis Court (1 Hour, Weekend)
394
250–500
Cinema Ticket (International Release)
300
250–400
Meal for 2 (Mid-range Restaurant)
2,000
1,200–4,000
Cocktail at Beach Bar
450
300–600
Nightclub Entry
1,000
500–1,500
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 (₹0 – ₹4.6K)
MCB, SBM, Absa Bank
Minimum Balance for Expats
10,000–50,000 (₹18K–₹92K)
Varies by bank
International Money Transfer (₹1L sent)
1,000–3,500 (₹1.8K–₹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 Monthly Salaries in Mauritius (2025)
Job Role
Average Salary (MUR/INR)
After-Tax Salary (MUR/INR)
Finance Manager
90,000–150,000 (₹1.65L–₹2.75L)
75,000–120,000 (₹1.38L–₹2.2L)
Software Engineer
60,000–100,000 (₹1.1L–₹1.85L)
50,000–85,000 (₹92K–₹1.55L)
Marketing Manager
50,000–90,000 (₹92K–₹1.65L)
42,500–76,500 (₹78K–₹1.4L)
Hotel Manager (Hospitality)
40,000–80,000 (₹73K–₹1.47L)
34,000–68,000 (₹63K–₹1.25L)
Customer Service Executive
20,000–35,000 (₹37K–₹65K)
18,000–30,000 (₹33K–₹55K)
Retail Worker (Entry-Level)
15,000–25,000 (₹28K–₹46K)
13,500–22,500 (₹25K–₹41K)
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. Also, explore free short courses to upgrade your skills and strengthen your application while you plan your move.
FAQs on Cost of Living in Mauritius
Can expats live comfortably in Mauritius on a local salary?
Yes, expats can live comfortably in Mauritius if they earn a monthly salary of MUR 40,000 or more. The average salary in Mauritius for expats in finance, IT, and healthcare is often enough to cover rent, groceries, transport, and leisure. However, those working in lower-paying jobs like retail or customer service may need to budget carefully to manage expenses.
What are the rental agreement rules in Mauritius and how much deposit is needed?
Rental agreements in Mauritius for expats usually require 1–3 months’ deposit along with the first month’s rent paid in advance. Landlords typically ask for a minimum 12-month lease. Rent prices vary based on location, amenities, and furnished status.
Is it cheaper to live in inland cities or coastal areas in Mauritius?
Yes, living in inland cities like Curepipe or Quatre Bornes is more affordable than coastal areas like Grand Baie or Port Louis. Inland rent and grocery prices are lower, while coastal regions are costlier due to tourist demand and expat housing.
Do local markets have cheaper grocery prices than supermarkets in Mauritius?
Local grocery markets in Mauritius, such as Port Louis Market and Flacq Market, are 30–50% cheaper than supermarkets. Fresh produce, seafood, and spices are more affordable and often fresher when bought from open-air markets.
What hidden living expenses should expats expect in Mauritius?
Hidden costs include import duties on electronics and cars in Mauritius, visa renewal fees, and higher prices for luxury goods. Expats should also budget for private healthcare, schooling (if relocating with children), and insurance.
What’s the cheapest way to commute in Mauritius daily?
The cheapest daily transport option is public transport in Mauritius, with bus or Metro Express passes costing MUR 1,200–2,500 (₹2.2K–₹4.6K) per month. Carpooling and ride-share apps like Yugo and Blink are also affordable.
How much does a second-hand car cost in Mauritius in 2025?
Buying a used car in Mauritius costs between MUR 150,000 and 350,000 (₹2.8L–₹6.5L), depending on brand, condition, and age. Older models and Japanese imports are typically more affordable.
What are average utility costs for a small apartment vs. a villa in Mauritius?
Utility costs in Mauritius for a 1BHK apartment range from MUR 2,500–5,000 (₹4.6K–₹9.2K), while villas may incur bills up to MUR 12,000 (₹22K) per month due to higher electricity use in summer.
Are imported products expensive in Mauritius for expats?
Yes, imported products in Mauritius are 20–30% more expensive than local items due to high import taxes. Electronics, branded clothes, and luxury goods are priced significantly higher.
Can a digital nomad live in Mauritius on a budget?
Yes, digital nomads in Mauritius can live on MUR 30,000–40,000 (₹55K–₹73K) per month by choosing shared rentals, cooking at home, and using public transport. Internet access is reliable, making it a remote work-friendly destination.
What is the cost of hiring a nanny or childcare in Mauritius?
Childcare and nanny costs in Mauritius range from MUR 6,000–12,000 (₹11K–₹22K) monthly for part-time services. Full-time or live-in help may charge between MUR 15,000–30,000 (₹28K–₹55K), especially in expat-friendly areas.
Is cash or card better for everyday spending in Mauritius?
Both are widely used, but for daily expenses in Mauritius, it’s best to carry both. Credit cards work at malls, supermarkets, and restaurants, while local markets, taxis, and small shops often prefer cash.
What is the cost of healthcare in Mauritius without insurance?
Private healthcare in Mauritius costs MUR 1,000–2,500 (₹1.8K–₹4.6K) for a general consultation. Specialist visits and emergency care may cost MUR 5,000–15,000 (₹9.2K–₹28K) without insurance.
How much does it cost to hire domestic help in Mauritius?
Hiring domestic help in Mauritius such as housekeepers or cooks costs MUR 8,000–15,000 (₹15K–₹28K) per month. Drivers and full-time help with additional responsibilities may charge up to MUR 30,000 (₹55K).
Do expats in Mauritius get tax benefits or government financial aid?
Expats don’t receive financial aid, but expats in Mauritius benefit from low tax rates. There’s no capital gains tax or inheritance tax. Businesses also enjoy a flat 15% corporate tax and various investment incentives.
Ireland( study abroad expert) |54 articles published
Honey Gupta is a leading consultant with over 10 years of experience in helping students navigate the complexities of studying overseas, with a specialized focus on Ireland. Honey brings a wealth of a...
Refer Your Friend & Earn upto ₹15000
Help your friend upgrade to a Global Career and earn rewards together.
