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Zawiya (Az-zawiyah), Libya
Capital City

Follows Libya Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$880
Retiree Score
70.0
Safety Index
42.1
Healthcare
26 facilities

With a population of 198,567, Zawiya is no quaint coastal town. This sprawling city in northwestern Libya has seen its fair share of turmoil, emerging as a key battleground during the first Libyan civil war. While it boasts a university and an oil refinery, the day-to-day reality is one of bureaucratic headaches and persistent security concerns.

Gaddafi's forces brutally cracked down on anti-government protests here in 2011, leaving the city "in ruins" according to witness accounts. Since then, rebel forces have engaged in guerrilla actions against the regime's soldiers, creating an unstable environment. Even simple tasks like crossing the city on the key highway can be fraught with risk.

Zawiya is not for the faint of heart. Its hot, semi-arid climate and volatile political situation make it a difficult place to call home, best suited for those with a high tolerance for bureaucracy and personal safety risks.

Can I afford Zawiya (Az-zawiyah)?

$

Zawiya (Az-zawiyah)

You could save

2,120/mo

Savings Rate71%

Monthly Costs

Rent $400
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$480

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
71/100
Retiree Score
(i)
70/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Libya Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
42
Safety
26
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
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) *$2
Meal (Mid-range) $28
Cappuccino $0
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $94
Mobile Plan (mo) $5
Gym (mo) *$17
Cinema Ticket $4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $320
1BR Outside (mo) *$94
3BR Center (mo) $680
3BR Outside (mo) *$171

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
None
Top Neighborhoods
Az-Zawiyah Centre
Best For
—

Expat Life Notes

Zawiya is Libya's third-largest city, a significant oil refining center west of Tripoli. It has been significantly affected by post-2011 civil conflict and is not suitable for expat relocation.

Pros

  • ✓ Oil refinery employment base

Cons

  • ✗ Ongoing civil conflict
  • ✗ No expat infrastructure
  • ✗ Safety and security concerns
  • ✗ Humanitarian challenges

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

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

Also Consider

Zliten, LibyaAttractiveness Score: 58.0Misratah (Misrata), LibyaAttractiveness Score: 58.0Fernandópolis, BrazilLiving in Fernandópolis offers a small-town Brazil experience with urban conveniences. Ideal for those seeking a quiet, low-cost base far from major cities.Maceió, BrazilLiving in Maceió, Brazil offers affordable coastal living with a slower pace. Best for retirees or nomads, but limited opportunities and Portuguese fluency requ

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Zawiya (Az-zawiyah)

Click any question to expand the answer.

Zawiya (Az-zawiyah) has a population of approximately 198,567 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $1,000 per month in Zawiya (Az-zawiyah), including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $400/month.

The nearest airport to Zawiya (Az-zawiyah) is MJI, approximately 55km away.

Zawiya (Az-zawiyah) is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 42.1. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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