Colombo vs Zanzibar

Cost of living comparison for 2026. Colombo is roughly 8% more affordable than Zanzibar (index 20 vs 21, New York = 100). Data sourced live via AI — updated regularly.

Colombo
More affordable overall
8% cheaper than Zanzibar · Cost index: 20 vs 21

Life Power at $3,000/mo

The same salary ranks differently depending on where you live — from Beggar to King.

Head-to-Head Stats

20Cost Index21
1,800Median Income /mo550
57Safety Index62
18Income Tax %20
45Internet (Mbps)15
150Coworking /mo150

Price Breakdown

ColomboCategoryZanzibar
$550/month
1-BR Apartment (Center)
$550/month
$0.48/liter
Meal for One
4% cheaper →
$0.5/liter
$4.5/meal
Restaurant (Mid-range)
20% cheaper →
$5.66/meal
$20/month
Monthly Transit Pass
20% cheaper →
$25/month
$35/month
Utilities (Monthly)
53% cheaper →
$75/month
$25/visit
Doctor Visit
50% cheaper →
$50/visit

Digital Nomad Profile

Colombo

Internet45 Mbps
Coworking$150/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishhigh
Communitygrowing
Walkability60/100

Zanzibar

Internet15 Mbps
Coworking$150/mo
Café WiFifair
Englishmoderate
Communitygrowing
Walkability60/100

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Colombo cheaper than Zanzibar?

Colombo is cheaper than Zanzibar. Colombo has a cost of living index of 20/100 compared to 21/100 for Zanzibar (New York = 100), making it roughly 8% more affordable overall.

How much cheaper is Colombo than Zanzibar?

Colombo is approximately 8% cheaper than Zanzibar based on cost index scores (20 vs 21, where New York = 100). A person spending $3,000/month in Zanzibar could live a similar lifestyle for roughly $2,763/month in Colombo.

What is the rent comparison between Colombo and Zanzibar?

In Colombo, a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately $550/month. In Zanzibar, the equivalent is around $550/month.

Which city is better for digital nomads — Colombo or Zanzibar?

Both cities have nomad infrastructure. Colombo offers 45 Mbps internet and coworking at ~$150/month. Zanzibar offers 15 Mbps and coworking at ~$150/month. Colombo has a cost advantage of 8%.

What is the average income in Colombo vs Zanzibar?

The median net monthly salary in Colombo is approximately $1,800 USD, compared to $550 USD in Zanzibar.

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