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Dakar, Senegal
Capital City

Follows Senegal Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$1,900
Retiree Score
93.0
Safety Index
52.4
Healthcare
126 facilities

With a population of 1,438,725, Dakar is a bustling metropolis on the westernmost tip of Africa. The colonial-era infrastructure and rapid growth have created persistent headaches, from heavy traffic to pollution. Bureaucracy is a constant hurdle, with the city split into a dizzying 19 communes d'arrondissement. Yet Dakar's strategic location, thriving finance sector, and status as a regional cultural hub make it an alluring destination for those seeking professional opportunities in West Africa.

Can I afford Dakar?

$

Dakar

You could save

1,100/mo

Savings Rate37%

Monthly Costs

Rent $900
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$1,000

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
37/100
Retiree Score
(i)
93/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
50/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Senegal Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
52
Safety
126
Healthcare
100
Walkability
35
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $3
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$1
Chicken (1kg) *$4

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$5
Meal (Mid-range) $89
Cappuccino $4
Water (0.33L) *$1

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $211
Mobile Plan (mo) $12
Gym (mo) *$50
Cinema Ticket $9

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $900
1BR Outside (mo) *$444
3BR Center (mo) $1,900
3BR Outside (mo) *$884

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Medium
Top Neighborhoods
Almadies, Plateau
Best For
diplomats, volunteers

Expat Life Notes

The westernmost city in Africa has a vibrant French-speaking expat community centered on the oceanfront.

Pros

  • ✓ Beautiful coastal location
  • ✓ Rich cultural and music scene
  • ✓ Safe for the region

Cons

  • ✗ English is not widely spoken (French needed)
  • ✗ Bureaucracy is slow
  • ✗ High pollution in center

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

Avg Internet
—
Temperature
18°C°C - 31°C°C
Annual Rainfall
471 mm
Coworking Spaces
—
Best Months to Visit
May, Jun, Jul, Aug

Also Consider

Saint-Louis, SenegalAttractiveness Score: 78.0Ziguinchor, SenegalAttractiveness Score: 62.8Favoriten, AustriaLiving in Favoriten, Austria: Vienna's affordable 10th district with Balkan flair and urban grit. Best for budget-conscious expats who prioritize transit over aSalzburg, AustriaLiving in Salzburg, Austria offers Alpine views and Baroque charm, but tourist crowds and high rents challenge expats. Best for retirees, not nomads.

Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Dakar

Click any question to expand the answer.

Dakar has a population of approximately 1,438,725 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $2,250 per month in Dakar, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $900/month.

The nearest airport to Dakar is DKR, approximately 7km away.

Dakar is considered moderate in terms of safety, with a safety index of 52.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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