Verified Facts
Economic Indicators
The cost of utilities and internet in Eswatini can vary depending on the location, usage, and provider, but on average, a monthly utility bill for an 85 sqm apartment can range from $150 to $300 USD.
Quick Facts
Utility Costs Overview
The utility infrastructure in Eswatini is relatively well-developed, with a reliable supply of electricity, water, and garbage collection services. However, the costs of utilities can fluctuate due to seasonal variation, with higher electricity costs during the winter months (June to August) due to increased demand for heating. The government has implemented measures to stabilize prices, but the overall cost of living in Eswatini remains relatively high compared to other countries in the region.
The quality of utility services in Eswatini is generally good, with a high level of access to electricity, water, and sanitation. However, there are some challenges related to the reliability of services, particularly in rural areas where outages and disruptions can occur more frequently. The government is working to upgrade the utility infrastructure and improve the efficiency of services, which is expected to lead to more stable and affordable utility costs in the long term.
Monthly Utility Bills
| Utility | Small Apt (45 sqm) | Medium Apt (85 sqm) | Large Apt (120 sqm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $50 | $100 | $150 | |
| Water | $20 | $30 | $40 | |
| Gas / Heating | $10 | $20 | $30 | (mostly used for cooking) |
| Garbage / Municipal | $10 | $15 | $20 | (included in municipal rates) |
| Total | $90 | $165 | $240 |
Internet & Phone Plans
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Speed / Allowance | Provider Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet (basic) | $30-50 | 10-20 Mbps | Eswatini Telecommunications, MTN |
| Fiber Internet (fast) | $50-100 | 50-100 Mbps | Eswatini Telecommunications, MTN |
| Mobile Data (prepaid) | $10-20 | 1-5 GB | MTN, Eswatini Telecommunications |
| Mobile Data (postpaid) | $20-50 | 5-20 GB | MTN, Eswatini Telecommunications |
| Phone + Internet Bundle | $50-100 | varies | MTN, Eswatini Telecommunications |
Streaming & Digital Services
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (standard) | $10 | |
| Spotify (premium) | $10 | |
| Local Streaming | $5 | (Eswatini-based streaming services) |
Utility Tips
- To set up utilities, it is recommended to contact the service providers directly, such as Eswatini Telecommunications or the municipal council, to arrange for connections and payments.
- Prepaid electricity meters are widely used in Eswatini, which can help households manage their energy consumption and avoid unexpected bills.
- The best internet providers in Eswatini are Eswatini Telecommunications and MTN, which offer a range of plans and packages to suit different needs and budgets.
- To save on utility bills, households can take steps such as using energy-efficient appliances, conserving water, and switching to prepaid electricity meters.
- It is also recommended to shop around for the best deals on internet and phone plans, as prices and packages can vary significantly between providers.