🇬🇲 Cost of Living in Gambia - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of the Gambia
CapitalBanjul
Population2.4 million
Area10,689 km² (4,127 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish
Currencydalasi (D)
TimezoneUTC+00:00
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$3,476 (2024)
Inflation Rate11.6% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$26 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend33.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.8% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Quick Facts
Cost LevelAffordable
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$20-30 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$40-60 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$80-120 USD
CurrencyGMD
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Gambia?
Gambia is considered one of the most affordable countries in West Africa, offering a great balance of low costs and exciting experiences for travelers. Compared to its neighboring country, Senegal, Gambia has a lower cost of living, making it an attractive destination for budget-conscious travelers. The country's economy is primarily driven by agriculture, tourism, and remittances, which contributes to its relatively low prices. Overall, Gambia is an excellent choice for travelers looking to explore Africa without breaking the bank.
In terms of global averages, Gambia's cost of living is significantly lower than in many Western countries. However, prices can vary depending on the location, with the capital city Banjul and the tourist areas tend to be more expensive than the rest of the country. Despite this, Gambia remains an affordable destination, offering a unique and enriching experience for visitors.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$10-20
Basic rooms with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$30-60
Air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms
Luxury/Resort
$80-150
High-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$100-300
City center: $200-400, outside: $100-200
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$2-5
Casual Restaurant
$5-10
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$15-30
Fine Dining
$30-50
Beer (local)
$2-3
Coffee
$1-2
Water (1.5L bottle)
$1-2
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$0.50-1
Taxi (per km)
$1-2
Domestic flight
$50-100
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80-1.20
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
100-200
200-400
400-600
Food
150-300
300-500
500-800
Transport
50-100
100-200
200-300
Utilities
50-100
100-200
200-300
Entertainment
100-200
200-400
400-600
Total
500-1000
1000-2000
2000-3500
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in budget-friendly accommodations, such as hostels or guesthouses, to save on accommodation costs.
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls to experience the local cuisine at affordable prices.
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to reduce transport costs.
Avoid exchanging money at airports or hotels, as the rates tend to be unfavorable.
Learn some basic Wolof phrases, such as "ba beneen" (hello), to show respect for the local culture and potentially receive better prices.
Bargain at markets and from vendors, as it's a common practice in Gambia, to get the best deals on souvenirs and other items.