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Derna (Darnah), Libya
Capital City

Follows Libya Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$800
Retiree Score
44.0
Safety Index
55.4
Healthcare
3 facilities

Living in Derna, Libya is no easy feat. With a population of around 150,000, this port city on the country's eastern coast has a reputation for being the most fundamentalist Muslim city in the country. The frequent flooding, thanks to the collapsing dams that failed to prevent disaster during 2023's Storm Daniel, is a persistent headache for residents. And the city's history of being taken over by militant groups like the Islamic State certainly doesn't inspire confidence. While Derna does offer some Islamic architecture and a scenic coastal setting, the bureaucratic hassles and safety concerns make it a tough sell for most would-be expats.

Can I afford Derna (Darnah)?

$

Derna (Darnah)

You could save

2,200/mo

Savings Rate73%

Monthly Costs

Rent $350
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$450

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
73/100
Retiree Score
(i)
44/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
60/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Libya Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
55
Safety
3
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) *$1
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) *$1
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$3

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$9
Meal (Mid-range) *$13
Cappuccino *$2
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) *$62
Mobile Plan (mo) *$10
Gym (mo) *$17
Cinema Ticket *$5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $280
1BR Outside (mo) *$94
3BR Center (mo) $600
3BR Outside (mo) *$171

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Very Few
Top Neighborhoods
Derna City Centre, Al Fataih District
Best For
humanitarian workers only under organizational support

Expat Life Notes

Derna is a city in northeastern Libya that suffered severe flooding in 2023 (Storm Daniel), which caused catastrophic loss of life. It was previously held by various armed groups during the Libyan conflict. Conditions remain extremely difficult.

Pros

  • ✓ Pre-conflict Mediterranean coastal location

Cons

  • ✗ 2023 catastrophic flood destruction
  • ✗ Active conflict history
  • ✗ Virtually no civilian expat life possible

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
—
Annual Rainfall
277 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
Jan, Mar, Apr, May, Nov, Dec

Also Consider

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Derna (Darnah)

Click any question to expand the answer.

Derna (Darnah) has a population of approximately 150,000 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $875 per month in Derna (Darnah), including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $350/month.

The nearest airport to Derna (Darnah) is LAQ, approximately 64km away.

Derna (Darnah) is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 55.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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