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Cost of Living in Papua New Guinea | Expat Exchange
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Cost of Living in Papua New Guinea

By Betsy Burlingame

Last updated on Sep 21, 2023

Summary: The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is generally considered to be quite affordable. A nice 1 bedroom apartment in the country can cost anywhere from $500 to $1,000 per month, while a nice 2 bedroom apartment can cost from $800 to $1,500 per month. The cost of dinner at a moderately priced restaurant in Papua New Guinea is usually around $15 to $20 per person.

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Is the cost of living in Papua New Guinea high?

We asked people how much they someone comfortably live on in Papua New Guinea, they wrote:

"The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is generally considered to be relatively high. Prices for basic goods and services such as food, housing, transportation, and utilities are generally higher than in many other countries. The cost of living in the capital city of Port Moresby is particularly high, with prices for goods and services being significantly higher than in other parts of the country. Additionally, the cost of imported goods is also higher due to the country's limited access to international markets," said one person in Papua New Guinea.

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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.
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Will I save money living in Papua New Guinea?

"Living in Papua New Guinea can be significantly cheaper than living in the United States. The cost of living in Papua New Guinea is much lower than in the United States, with basic necessities such as food, housing, and transportation costing significantly less. Additionally, the cost of entertainment and leisure activities is also much lower in Papua New Guinea than in the United States. As a result, living in Papua New Guinea can be a great way to save money compared to living in the United States," explained one expat living in Papua New Guinea.

What is the average cost of housing in Papua New Guinea?

If you are thinking about moving to Papua New Guinea, cost of living in probably a key consideration. Expats commented about the cost of housing:

"The cost of housing in Papua New Guinea varies greatly depending on the location and type of housing. Generally, housing in urban areas is more expensive than in rural areas. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in a city can range from around $200 to $500 per month, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment can range from around $400 to $800 per month. In rural areas, rent for a one-bedroom apartment can range from around $50 to $150 per month, while rent for a two-bedroom apartment can range from around $100 to $250 per month," explained one expat.

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.

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What are typical rental prices for expats in Papua New Guinea?

"The rental price for a nice 1 bedroom apartment in Papua New Guinea can range from around $500 to $1,000 per month, depending on the location and amenities. For a nice 2 bedroom apartment, the rental price can range from around $800 to $1,500 per month, again depending on the location and amenities," commented one expat living in Papua New Guinea.

What appliances are typically included in a rental?

We asked foreigners in Papua New Guinea what appliances are typically included in a rental, and, if there is anything else included or not included that a newcomer would not expect. Replies included:

"In Papua New Guinea, rental properties typically include a refrigerator, stove, oven, washing machine, and air conditioning unit. Other appliances such as a dishwasher, microwave, and dryer may also be included depending on the property," said one expat.

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

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

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