Pros and Cons of Living in Gambia
Last updated on Jun 11, 2023
Summary: The pros of living in Gambia include its warm climate, friendly people, and low cost of living. Additionally, Gambia is a great place to experience African culture and wildlife. On the other hand, the cons of living in Gambia include limited access to healthcare and education, as well as a lack of economic opportunities. Additionally, the country is prone to political instability and corruption.
What are the pros and cons of living in Gambia?
Expats, digital nomads and retirees living in Gambia responded:
"Expats and digital nomads in Gambia enjoy the warm climate, friendly locals, and the low cost of living. They also appreciate the country's stunning beaches and the opportunity to explore the diverse culture. On the other hand, some expats and digital nomads find the lack of infrastructure and the limited access to modern amenities to be a challenge. Additionally, the country's political instability can be a source of concern for some," explained one expat in Gambia.

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What do expats in Gambia appreciate most about the local culture?
"Expats in Gambia appreciate the warm hospitality of the local people, the vibrant culture and the beautiful landscapes. They also enjoy the relaxed atmosphere and the friendly nature of the Gambian people. Additionally, expats appreciate the variety of traditional foods and the unique music and dance styles of the country. The country's rich history and cultural heritage are also highly valued by expats," remarked one expat in Gambia.
What do expats find most challenging?
"Expats in Gambia often find the local culture to be quite different from what they are used to. The language barrier can be a challenge, as English is not widely spoken. Additionally, the local customs and traditions can be difficult to understand and navigate. Expats may also find the climate to be quite different from what they are used to, with hot and humid temperatures throughout the year. Finally, the infrastructure in Gambia can be lacking, making it difficult to access certain services and amenities," said a person living in Gambia.
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.
Additional Information:
- Gambia Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Gambia
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Gambia
- Best Places to Live in Gambia
- Guide to Real Estate in Gambia
- Pros & Cons of Living in Gambia
- Cost of Living in Gambia
- Is Health Insurance Required When Moving to Gambia?
- Having a Baby in Gambia
- Health Insurance for Expats in Gambia
- Best Places to Visit in Gambia for Christmas Cheer
- Pros and Cons of Living in Gambia 2025