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As Zimbabwe’s second-largest city, Bulawayo balances affordability and quality of life, drawing both locals and expatriates. Here's an updated look at Bulawayo's living costs, using recent data from ZIMSTAT, the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe, and Property.co.zw’s Real Estate Index.
1. Housing Costs in Bulawayo
Housing is generally affordable, with rental prices differing by location and property type.
Average Monthly Rent:
City Centre:
- 1-Bedroom Apartment: $250 - $350
- 3-Bedroom Apartment: $400 - $600
Suburbs:
- 2-3 Bedroom House in areas like Hillside and North End: $500 - $700
- Larger Homes in upscale Khumalo: $900 - $1,200
For buyers, Property.co.zw reports that homes in Khumalo and Hillside range between $80,000 and $120,000, while entry-level homes in Cowdray Park and Nkulumane start around $15,000
2. Utility Costs in Bulawayo
Utilities are affordable, but electricity reliability issues mean many residents invest in solar power systems.
Monthly Utility Costs:
- Electricity: $40 - $70, with additional solar or backup power options.
- Water: $15 - $25.
- Internet: Liquid Telecom’s FibroniX offers a range starting at $44 for 100GB. TelOne’s Platinum Unlimited package costs $90 per month, with speeds up to 20 Mbps depending on location
3. Food and Grocery Costs
The Consumer Council of Zimbabwe lists essential food costs that remain affordable, though prices for imported goods are higher.
Estimated Monthly Grocery Budget:
- Single Person: $80 - $150
- Family of Four: $300 - $500
Sample Grocery Costs:
- Milk (1 liter): $1
- Bread (1 loaf): $1.20
- Eggs (dozen): $2.50 - $3
- Chicken (whole): $7 - $10
ZIMSTAT’s Poverty Datum Lines estimates food expenses for basic nutritional needs in urban areas at ZWL 425 per person, though costs vary based on location
4. Transportation Costs
With affordable public transit and moderate fuel costs, transportation expenses in Bulawayo are reasonable.
Average Monthly Transportation:
- Fuel: $1.50 per liter.
- Public Minibus: $0.50 - $1 per trip.
- Taxi Services: $5 - $10 for city trips.
For car owners, monthly transportation costs average $100 to $150, including insurance and maintenance.
5. Education and Childcare
Bulawayo’s education options cover public and private institutions, with costs based on school type.
Estimated Costs:
- Daycare: $100 - $200 monthly.
Primary and Secondary: - Public Schools: $30 - $100 per term
- Private Schools: $300 - $800 per term
6. Entertainment and Leisure
Leisure in Bulawayo remains affordable, with options ranging from dining out to visiting cultural sites.
Average Monthly Leisure Expenses:
- Dining Out: $5 - $10 for a meal, or $25 - $40 for a three-course dinner for two.
- Fitness: Gym memberships range from $20 - $40 monthly.
- Movies & Attractions: Cinema tickets average $5, while museums or parks charge $5 - $10 per visit.
7. Healthcare
Healthcare in Bulawayo includes public hospitals and private clinics, with costs reflecting the chosen level of care.
Average Monthly Healthcare Costs:
- Doctor Visit: $20 - $50
- Health Insurance: $50 - $100 per person for basic coverage
Summary of Living Costs
Estimated monthly costs by household:
- Single Professional: $600 - $800
- Young Couple: $800 - $1,100
- Family of Four: $1,300 - $1,700
Bulawayo’s blend of affordable living costs and a high quality of life makes it a great place for families and individuals alike. For property listings, visit Property.co.zw for the latest updates on homes in Bulawayo’s most desirable neighborhoods.
