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Living in Ethiopia

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Jan 10, 2024

Summary: The approximate population of Ethiopia is 109 million people. The largest cities in Ethiopia are Addis Ababa (the capital), Dire Dawa, Adama, Nazret, and Bahir Dar. Expats love living in Ethiopia for its rich culture, friendly people, and beautiful landscapes. Life in Ethiopia is often described as vibrant, with a mix of traditional and modern influences. Foods popular in Ethiopia include injera (a spongy flatbread made from teff flour), wat (a spicy stew), and shiro (a chickpea-based dish). The cons of living in Ethiopia include a lack of infrastructure, limited access to healthcare, and a high crime rate. The average cost of living for an expat is around $1,000-$1,500 per month. This includes rent, utilities, food, transportation, and entertainment.

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Cigna Global Health

What do I need to know about living in Ethiopia?

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

"Before retiring in Ethiopia, expats should familiarize themselves with the local language, Amharic, as it is the official language of the country. It is also important to research the cost of living in Ethiopia, as it can vary greatly depending on the city and lifestyle. Additionally, expats should be aware of the local laws and regulations, as well as the visa requirements for long-term stays. It is also important to research the healthcare system in Ethiopia, as it may not be up to the same standards as other countries. Finally, expats should be aware of the cultural norms and customs of Ethiopia, as they may be different from their home country," said one expat in Ethiopia.

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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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