Living in Sri Lanka: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Sri Lanka

Summary: The approximate population of Sri Lanka is 21.2 million people. The largest cities in Sri Lanka are Colombo, Kandy, and Jaffna. Expats love living in Sri Lanka for its beautiful beaches, friendly people, and low cost of living. People describe life in Sri Lanka as relaxed and laid-back, with a strong sense of community. Foods popular in Sri Lanka include rice and curry dishes, as well as seafood. The cons of living in Sri Lanka include the lack of infrastructure, limited job opportunities, and the high cost of imported goods. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000 to $1,500 per month, depending on lifestyle. This includes rent, utilities, food, and entertainment.

What do I need to know about living in Sri Lanka?

When we asked people what advice they would give someone preparing to move to Sri Lanka, they said:

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Sri Lanka to ensure they have enough money to cover their expenses. 2. It is important to familiarize yourself with the local culture and customs to ensure a smooth transition. 3. Expats should also consider the language barrier and whether they need to learn the local language. 4. Healthcare in Sri Lanka is generally good, but expats should research the quality of healthcare in the area they plan to retire in. 5. Expats should also research the visa requirements for retirement in Sri Lanka and ensure they have the necessary documents. 6. It is important to research the climate in Sri Lanka to ensure it is suitable for your lifestyle. 7. Expats should also consider the availability of amenities and services in the area they plan to retire in. 8. Finally, expats should research the safety and security situation in Sri Lanka to ensure they feel safe and secure," said one expat who made the move to Sri Lanka.

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How do I meet people in Sri Lanka?

When we asked people living in Sri Lanka about club and activities where newcomers can meet others, they responded:

"Expats in Sri Lanka often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, book clubs, and language classes. Expats can also meet people by attending local events such as festivals, concerts, and art exhibitions. Additionally, many expats join social media groups and online forums to connect with other expats living in Sri Lanka. Finally, expats can also meet people by attending networking events, joining local organizations, and volunteering in their community," said one expat who made the move to Sri Lanka.

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What is life like in Sri Lanka?

When we asked people living in Sri Lanka what life is like and how people spend their time, they said:

"Life for expats and digital nomads in Sri Lanka is generally quite pleasant. The country is known for its friendly people, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Expats and digital nomads can find a variety of accommodation options, from beachfront villas to city apartments. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. The country also offers a wide range of activities, from exploring ancient ruins to surfing on the beach. With its vibrant culture, stunning scenery, and friendly locals, Sri Lanka is an ideal destination for expats and digital nomads," explained one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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Is there a lot of crime in Sri Lanka?

We asked people if there is a lot of crime. They answered:

"Sri Lanka has a relatively low crime rate compared to other countries in the region. However, there have been reports of violent crimes such as robberies, assaults, and murders. In addition, there have been reports of drug trafficking, human trafficking, and other organized crime activities. The government has taken steps to address these issues, including increased police presence and increased penalties for certain crimes," remarked one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Sri Lanka accepting of differences?

"Sri Lanka is a culturally diverse country, with a population made up of many different ethnic and religious groups. People in Sri Lanka are generally accepting of differences, and there is a strong sense of unity and tolerance among the different communities. The country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between its various ethnic and religious groups, and this has helped to create a culture of acceptance and understanding," wrote a member in Sri Lanka.

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What are the schools in Sri Lanka like?

"This school seems to give all students some sense of local culture and the society, compared to many international schools in the country. We have done a good survey of all schools in this area before we get our ones enrolled. We were not very impressed with many other schools as they send students mad with unnecessarily heavy work load. They seem to have the understanding that more work will enable to make better products, which is a myth. But I know some local parents appreciate that approach, which is sad from the child's perspective," said one expat in Panadura with children at Leeds International School.

"OSC is getting smaller. Some of our friends have enrolled their children in other international schools, while others have left the country over security issues. It's a very fluid situation. Kidnappings by police, or people imitating the police, are on the increase, along with bombings and attacks in Colombo. It is sad to see the civil war destroying the country," remarked one parent with kids at Overseas School of Colombo in Colombo.

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Is the cost of living in Sri Lanka high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Sri Lanka, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Sri Lanka is generally considered to be quite affordable. Basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive compared to other countries. Eating out at restaurants is also quite affordable, with a meal for two people costing around $10 USD. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively inexpensive. Overall, Sri Lanka is a great place to live for those looking for a low cost of living," remarked one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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"The cost of living in Sri Lanka is generally considered to be quite affordable. The capital city of Colombo is the most expensive place to live in the country, with prices for goods and services being higher than in other parts of the country. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Colombo is around $500 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost up to $800 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Sri Lanka can cost around $10 USD per person," said an expat in Sri Lanka.

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What type of recreational facilities are in Sri Lanka?

When we asked people living in Sri Lanka about recreational activities, they mentioned:

"In Sri Lanka, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and waterfalls. There are also many cultural attractions, such as temples, museums, and monuments. For those who enjoy outdoor activities, there are plenty of opportunities for hiking, camping, and bird watching. For those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, there are plenty of cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers. Additionally, Sri Lanka is home to a number of sports facilities, such as golf courses, tennis courts, and cricket grounds," wrote one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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What is the weather like in Sri Lanka?

"The weather in Sri Lanka is generally warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from the mid-20s to the mid-30s Celsius throughout the year. The southwest monsoon brings heavy rains from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings lighter rains from December to March. The central highlands of Sri Lanka experience cooler temperatures, with occasional frost in the winter months," remarked one expat in Sri Lanka.

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Are there good restaurants in Sri Lanka?

"The Ministry of Crab is a popular seafood restaurant in Sri Lanka, located in Colombo. It is renowned for its succulent Sri Lankan crab dishes, which are cooked in a variety of styles. The restaurant is owned by celebrity chefs Dharshan Munidasa and Mark Boulton, and has been featured in international publications such as The New York Times and The Guardian. The Gallery Café is another popular restaurant in Sri Lanka, located in Colombo. It is known for its eclectic menu, which features a mix of Sri Lankan, Indian, and Western dishes. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area, making it a great spot for a night out. The Beach Wadiya is a beachfront restaurant in Negombo, Sri Lanka. It is known for its seafood dishes, which are cooked in a variety of styles. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area, making it a great spot for a night out. The Dutch Burgher Union is a restaurant in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is known for its traditional Sri Lankan dishes, which are cooked in a variety of styles. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area, making it a great spot for a night out. The Paradise Road Café is a restaurant in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is known for its modern Sri Lankan cuisine, which is cooked in a variety of styles. The restaurant also has a bar and lounge area, making it a great spot for a night out," commented one expat living in Sri Lanka.

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Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Sri Lanka?

"People living in Sri Lanka typically buy groceries from local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Other shopping can be done at malls, department stores, and specialty shops. Additionally, many people in Sri Lanka shop online for items such as clothing, electronics, and home goods," mentioned an expat living in Sri Lanka.

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What are the visa & residency requirements in Sri Lanka?

"To apply for a visa to Sri Lanka, travelers must submit an online application form and provide a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and proof of sufficient funds. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the visa will be issued and sent to the applicant. To apply for residency in Sri Lanka, applicants must submit an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of sufficient funds, and a valid work permit. Depending on the purpose of the residency, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the residency permit will be issued and sent to the applicant," said one expat.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Sri Lanka?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Sri Lanka can be expensive, depending on the type of care and coverage needed. Generally, public healthcare is more affordable than private healthcare, but the quality of care may not be as high. Health insurance is also available in Sri Lanka, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, many people in Sri Lanka are unable to afford health insurance, leaving them vulnerable to high medical costs," mentioned one expat inSri Lanka.

"Healthcare is free for everyone. Every city and town has a state run hospital/s which has super qualified doctors and treatments and medicine for free of charge. But sometimes line are long. You also have the option to go for a private hospital or clinic which is paid. Insurance usually covers all general treatments and can be claimed. Insurance providers are many in Sri Lanka - with Ceylinco Life, AIA and Janashakti been just a few. Each has different tiers of insurance depending on your budget. You can go as low as you want or as high. ," commented one expat who moved to Sri Lanka.

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