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

Living in Sri Lanka

Last updated on Jan 06, 2024

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," commented one expat who made the move to Sri Lanka.

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About the Author

Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.