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Kairouan, Tunisia
Capital City

Follows Tunisia Residency Rules. Check Digital Nomad & Retiree Pathways →
Est. Monthly Cost (1 Person)
$610
Retiree Score
59.0
Safety Index
70.4
Healthcare
—

The population of 117,903 belies Kairouan's dwindling importance as a commercial and cultural center. Once a thriving hub of Islamic scholarship and industry, the city now struggles with a "scarce" water supply and a decaying infrastructure. The collapse of a section of the historic city walls in 2023, killing several workers, serves as a sobering reminder of Kairouan's gradual decline. Those drawn to its storied past and remaining architectural gems will have to contend with persistent bureaucratic headaches. This former Berber stronghold is best suited for the intrepid historian or pilgrim, not the casual tourist.

Can I afford Kairouan?

$

Kairouan

You could save

2,390/mo

Savings Rate80%

Monthly Costs

Rent $230
Living (Country Average Adjusted)$380

Attractiveness Scores

FIRE Score
(i)
80/100
Retiree Score
(i)
59/100
Lifestyle Score
(i)
55/100
💻Nomad Score
(i)
50/100
Meets Tunisia Digital Nomad Visa Income Rule.
70
Safety
0
Healthcare
100
Walkability
20
Nomad

Grocery Basket

Milk (1L) $0
Bread (loaf) *$1
Eggs (12) $2
Rice (1kg) *$2
Chicken (1kg) *$6

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Eating Out

Meal (Inexpensive) *$3
Meal (Mid-range) $48
Cappuccino $1
Water (0.33L) *$0

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Utilities & Lifestyle

Utilities (mo) $60
Mobile Plan (mo) $9
Gym (mo) *$24
Cinema Ticket $5

* Estimated based on regional averages.

Housing

1BR Center (mo) $138
1BR Outside (mo) *$94
3BR Center (mo) $258
3BR Outside (mo) *$163

* Estimated based on regional averages.

🧳 Expat Life

English Proficiency
Limited
Expat Community
Small
Top Neighborhoods
Kairouan Medina, Hay Nour
Best For
Islamic scholars, heritage researchers, development workers

Expat Life Notes

Kairouan is one of the holiest cities in Islam and a UNESCO World Heritage site in central Tunisia. It attracts religious scholars and heritage researchers. Some French-speaking expats in development sectors reside here.

Pros

  • ✓ UNESCO World Heritage medina
  • ✓ Deep Islamic heritage
  • ✓ Affordable

Cons

  • ✗ Conservative religious character
  • ✗ Very limited English
  • ✗ Basic amenities

🌐 Infrastructure & Lifestyle

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions about Kairouan

Click any question to expand the answer.

Kairouan has a population of approximately 117,903 people.

A single person can expect to spend around $575 per month in Kairouan, including rent. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $230/month.

The nearest airport to Kairouan is SFA, approximately 119km away.

Kairouan is considered relatively safe, with a safety index of 70.4. As with any city abroad, expats should research specific neighborhoods before committing to a location.

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