💼 Living Costs in Mauritius for Expats and Property Investors
A Smart, Strategic Move to Paradise
Mauritius, an island jewel in the Indian Ocean, continues to attract high-net-worth individuals (HNWIs), expatriates, and global property investors with its unmatched combination of natural beauty, economic stability, and investor-friendly policies. Beyond its luxurious lifestyle, Mauritius offers a surprisingly affordable cost of living—making it not just a dream destination, but a strategic investment location.
At Harcourts Offshore, Mauritius’ premier real estate agency, we work closely with investors and expats to help them navigate this vibrant market with confidence. Below, we provide a breakdown of the cost of living in Mauritius, plus key insights into why it’s the smart choice for your next home or real estate investment.
🌍 Why Choose Mauritius?
Mauritius is more than a postcard-perfect island—it’s a global lifestyle and investment hub offering:
✅ Favourable Tax Framework
- No capital gains tax
- Low corporate and personal income taxes
- No inheritance tax
- Residency eligibility through real estate investment
✅ Luxury Living in a Stable Economy
- Beautiful beaches, modern infrastructure, and year-round sunshine
- Safe and politically stable environment
- English- and French-speaking society
- High-quality healthcare and education
✅ Real Estate Investment Incentives
- Access to freehold beachfront property through government-approved schemes such as the Property Development Scheme (PDS)
- Residency for the buyer and family with real estate purchases of USD 375,000 and above
- Solid rental yields and long-term capital appreciation
✅ Global Connectivity
- Convenient flight routes to Europe, Asia, and Africa
- Growing presence of international banks and multinational firms
🏡 1. Housing Costs: Rent or Buy in Paradise
Whether you’re relocating permanently or investing in a holiday home, Mauritius offers a diverse range of properties—from contemporary apartments in Grand Baie to lavish villas in Tamarin, Black River, and Anahita.
📊 Rental Guide (Monthly Averages)
Property Type | Location | Price (MUR) | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|
1-Bed Apartment | City Centre | 15,000–25,000 | 350–600 |
1-Bed Apartment | Suburbs | 10,000–18,000 | 230–420 |
3-Bed House | City Centre | 35,000–60,000 | 800–1,400 |
3-Bed House | Suburbs | 25,000–40,000 | 600–950 |
🏘️ Buying Property
Under the PDS, IRS, and RES schemes, foreigners can purchase luxury freehold properties starting from USD 375,000, often qualifying for Mauritian residency. Upscale developments with resort-style amenities in Black River, Péreybère, and Mont Choisy offer both lifestyle and investment appeal.
💡 Harcourts Offshore Tip: Our team provides exclusive access to off-market listings and handles every step of the compliance and acquisition process.
💡 2. Utilities: Cost-Effective and Reliable
Utility expenses remain modest compared to other island destinations, even for larger villas or high-end apartments.
Service | Monthly Cost (MUR) | Monthly Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Electricity (Apartment) | 2,500–5,000 | 60–120 |
Electricity (Villa) | Up to 12,000 | Up to 290 |
Water | 500–1,000 | 12–25 |
Internet (Fiber) | 1,000–2,000 | 25–50 |
Mobile Plan | 500–1,000 | 12–25 |
🚗 3. Transportation: Convenient and Flexible
Mauritius offers various transport options to suit every lifestyle:
- Bus Fare: MUR 20–50 (USD 0.50–1.25)
- Taxi (20 min): MUR 500–1,000 (USD 12–25)
- Car Rental (daily): MUR 1,200–2,500 (USD 30–60)
- Car Ownership: Common for expats living long-term
Mobile apps like Yugo, Bolt, and Blink make carpooling and taxi services accessible island-wide.
🍽️ 4. Food and Dining: Fresh, Diverse, and Affordable
Mauritius’ food scene is a reflection of its multicultural heritage. From fine-dining restaurants to local street food, options abound.
🛒 Monthly Grocery Costs (1 person): MUR 6,000–10,000 (USD 140–230)
Item | Cost (MUR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Milk (1L) | 50 | 1.20 |
Bread (500g) | 35 | 0.85 |
Chicken (1kg) | 250 | 6 |
Rice (1kg) | 100 | 2.40 |
Imported items are available but may carry a premium.
🍴 Dining Out
- Local restaurant meals: MUR 200–500 (USD 5–12)
- Fine dining: MUR 1,000+ per person (USD 25+)
🏥 5. Healthcare: Quality and Accessibility
Mauritius boasts a mix of public hospitals and private clinics, with most expats opting for private care due to speed and comfort.
Service | Cost (MUR) | Cost (USD) |
|---|---|---|
Public Consultation | 100–300 | 2.50–7 |
Private Consultation | 1,000–3,000 | 25–70 |
Health Insurance (Individual) | 2,000–5,000/month | 50–120 |
Family Plan | Up to 8,000/month | ~190 |
🎓 6. Education: Top International Options
Mauritius is home to several respected international schools, ideal for expatriate families.
- Public Schools: Free, with modest fees (~MUR 3,000 registration)
- International Schools: MUR 100,000–500,000/year (USD 2,300–11,600)
Curricula include British, French, IB, and American programs.
💼 Why Invest in Real Estate in Mauritius?
Mauritius offers one of the most robust and secure property investment landscapes in Africa:
- Residency for Foreign Buyers
- Strong Rental Demand in Key Tourist Zones
- High-End Developments with Resort Amenities
- Proven Capital Appreciation in PDS Zones
- Diversified Portfolio Opportunities: Villas, Apartments, Beachfront Properties
At Harcourts Offshore, we match investors with prime property opportunities across Mauritius. Whether you're looking for a second home, holiday rental income, or capital growth—we provide expert local guidance, global standards, and unmatched client service.
✈️ Plan Your Move with Harcourts Offshore
Mauritius offers a unique lifestyle: crystal-clear waters, world-class golf estates, global cuisine, international schooling, and a stable investment environment—all with relatively low living costs.
👉 Ready to Make the Move?
Let Harcourts Offshore help you discover the property that suits your vision, lifestyle, and financial goals.
