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Living in Cameroon: Cost of Living, Healthcare and What to Know About Living in Cameroon | Expat Exchange
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Living in Cameroon

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Mar 07, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Cameroon is 24.2 million people. The largest cities in Cameroon are Douala, Yaoundé, Garoua, Maroua, and Bafoussam. Expats love living in Cameroon for its diverse culture, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes. People describe life in Cameroon as vibrant and full of life. Popular foods in Cameroon include plantains, cassava, yams, and fufu. Popular meats include beef, chicken, and fish. The cons of living in Cameroon include a lack of infrastructure, high crime rates, and a lack of access to basic services. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,500 to $2,000 per month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other basic necessities.

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What do I need to know about living in Cameroon?

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

"1. Expats should research the cost of living in Cameroon before retiring there, as it can vary significantly depending on the city and lifestyle. 2. It is important to understand the local laws and regulations, as well as the cultural norms, before retiring in Cameroon. 3. Expats should also consider the availability of healthcare and medical facilities in the area they plan to retire in. 4. It is important to research the availability of banking and financial services, as well as the local currency exchange rate. 5. Expats should also consider the availability of transportation, as well as the safety of the area they plan to retire in. 6. It is important to research the availability of housing and rental options, as well as the cost of living in the area. 7. Expats should also consider the availability of leisure activities and entertainment options in the area they plan to retire in," remarked one expat living in Cameroon.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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How do I meet people in Cameroon?

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

"Expats in Cameroon often join clubs and activities such as sports teams, language classes, and cultural events. Expats can also meet people by attending local festivals, visiting local markets, and exploring the city. Additionally, many expats join online forums and social media groups to connect with other expats living in Cameroon," remarked one expat who made the move to Cameroon.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

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What is life like in Cameroon?

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

"Living as an expat or digital nomad in Cameroon can be an exciting and rewarding experience. The country is known for its friendly people, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Expats and digital nomads can find a wide range of accommodation options, from luxury apartments to budget-friendly hostels. The cost of living is relatively low, making it an attractive destination for those looking to stretch their budget. Cameroon is also home to a diverse range of activities, from exploring the country's national parks to sampling its delicious cuisine. Expats and digital nomads can also take advantage of the country's excellent internet infrastructure, making it easy to stay connected while living abroad," wrote a member in Cameroon.

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Is there a lot of crime in Cameroon?

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

"Cameroon has a high crime rate, with reports of violent crime, including armed robbery, carjacking, and kidnapping, as well as non-violent crime such as pickpocketing, fraud, and cybercrime. The government has taken steps to combat crime, including increasing police presence in major cities and implementing a national security strategy. However, crime remains a major problem in Cameroon, and travelers should exercise caution when visiting the country," wrote one member in Cameroon.

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

"Cameroon is a culturally diverse country, with over 200 ethnic groups and a variety of languages spoken. People in Cameroon are generally accepting of differences, and the country has a long history of peaceful coexistence between different ethnic and religious groups," wrote one member in Cameroon.

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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

William RussellWilliam Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

What are the schools in Cameroon like?

"The Lycée Louis-le-Grand Yaoundé is one of the best international schools in Cameroon. It is a French-speaking school that offers a rigorous academic program and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a bilingual program, allowing students to learn both French and English. The International School of Yaoundé (ISY) is another excellent international school in Cameroon. It is an English-speaking school that offers a comprehensive curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a bilingual program, allowing students to learn both French and English. The Lycée Bilingue de Yaoundé is a bilingual school in Cameroon that offers a rigorous academic program and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school offers both French and English language instruction, allowing students to become proficient in both languages. The International School of Douala (ISD) is another excellent international school in Cameroon. It is an English-speaking school that offers a comprehensive curriculum and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a bilingual program, allowing students to learn both French and English. The Lycée Français de Douala is a French-speaking school in Cameroon that offers a rigorous academic program and a wide range of extracurricular activities. The school also offers a bilingual program, allowing students to learn both French and English," wrote an expat with kids at in .

Is the cost of living in Cameroon high?

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

"The cost of living in Cameroon varies depending on the region and lifestyle. Generally, basic necessities such as food, transportation, and housing are relatively inexpensive. Eating out at restaurants is also affordable, with meals costing around $2-3 USD. Utilities such as electricity and water are also relatively inexpensive. However, imported goods and luxury items can be more expensive," commented one expat who made the move to Cameroon.

"The cost of living in Cameroon varies greatly depending on the region. Generally, the cost of living is lower than in many other countries, but it is still higher than in some parts of the country. In the larger cities, such as Yaoundé and Douala, the cost of living is higher than in the smaller towns and villages. The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Cameroon is around $400 USD per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment is around $600 USD per month. Eating dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Cameroon will cost around $10 USD per person," mentioned one expat inCameroon.

What type of recreational facilities are in Cameroon?

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

"In Cameroon, residents enjoy a variety of recreational facilities, such as beaches, parks, and sports complexes. Beaches along the coast of Cameroon offer a great place to relax and enjoy the sun and sand. Parks provide a great place to take a leisurely stroll, have a picnic, or just enjoy the outdoors. Sports complexes offer a variety of activities, such as basketball, tennis, and soccer. Additionally, there are many cultural activities, such as music and dance performances, that can be enjoyed in Cameroon," said one expat.

What is the weather like in Cameroon?

"Cameroon has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a dry season from November to March and a wet season from April to October. The temperatures in Cameroon are generally hot and humid, with the average temperature ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius. The northern region of Cameroon is generally hotter and drier than the south, while the coastal areas tend to be more humid. Rainfall is abundant throughout the year, with the heaviest rains occurring during the wet season," wrote one expat living in Cameroon.

Are there good restaurants in Cameroon?

"One of the most popular restaurants in Cameroon is La Maison du Gourmet, located in the capital city of Yaoundé. This restaurant offers a variety of traditional Cameroonian dishes, as well as international cuisine. The atmosphere is relaxed and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Another popular restaurant is Le Bistro de la Plage, located in Douala. This restaurant specializes in seafood dishes, and the atmosphere is casual and inviting. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the food is always fresh and delicious. Finally, La Table de l'Etoile is a popular restaurant in Yaoundé. This restaurant offers a variety of French-inspired dishes, as well as traditional Cameroonian cuisine. The atmosphere is elegant and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive," mentioned an expat living in Cameroon.

Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Cameroon?

"People living in Cameroon typically buy groceries and do other shopping at local markets, supermarkets, and convenience stores. Many people also shop at roadside stalls and small shops in their neighborhoods. Additionally, some people may purchase items from vendors who come to their homes," remarked one expat living in Cameroon.

What are the visa & residency requirements in Cameroon?

"In order to visit Cameroon, foreign nationals must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The process of applying for a visa involves submitting an application form, a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, and proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay. Depending on the purpose of the visit, additional documents may be required. In order to obtain residency in Cameroon, foreign nationals must submit an application to the Ministry of Territorial Administration and Decentralization. The application must include a valid passport, two passport-sized photographs, proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of the stay, and a letter of motivation. Depending on the purpose of the stay, additional documents may be required. Once the application is approved, the applicant will be issued a residence permit," remarked one expat living in Cameroon.

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Cameroon?

"Healthcare and health insurance in Cameroon can be expensive, especially for those who are not covered by the government's social security system. Private health insurance is available, but it can be costly and may not cover all medical expenses. Additionally, the quality of healthcare in Cameroon is not always up to international standards, and many people may not be able to afford the cost of treatment," mentioned one expat inCameroon.

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

William Russell

William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.

Learn MoreGet Quote

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame 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.

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William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
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