Verified Facts
Economic Indicators
The cost of utilities and internet in Mauritania can range from $60 to $200 per month for a medium-sized apartment, depending on the usage and service provider.
Quick Facts
Utility Costs Overview
Mauritania's utility infrastructure is still developing, with some areas experiencing frequent power outages and water shortages. The costs of utilities in Mauritania can be unstable and fluctuate depending on the season. During the hot summer months, the demand for electricity increases, leading to higher bills. The government has implemented measures to stabilize the prices, but the costs can still vary. The quality of utility services also differs across regions, with urban areas tend to have better access to reliable utilities compared to rural areas.
The inflation rate in Mauritania is relatively low, at 2.5%, which helps to keep the utility costs stable. However, the cost of electricity, water, and gas can still be affected by global market trends and seasonal variations. It is essential for residents and visitors to be aware of these fluctuations and plan their budgets accordingly. The government has also introduced initiatives to promote energy efficiency and reduce waste, which can help to lower the utility bills in the long run.
Monthly Utility Bills
| Utility | Small Apt (45 sqm) | Medium Apt (85 sqm) | Large Apt (120 sqm) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electricity | $30 | $50 | $70 | prepaid meters available |
| Water | $10 | $20 | $30 | includes sewage |
| Gas / Heating | $10 | $15 | $20 | mostly used for cooking |
| Garbage / Municipal | $5 | $10 | $15 | included in municipal taxes |
| Total | $55 | $95 | $135 |
Internet & Phone Plans
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Speed / Allowance | Provider Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fiber Internet (basic) | $30-50 | 10-30 Mbps | Mauritel, Chinguitel |
| Fiber Internet (fast) | $50-100 | 60-100 Mbps | Mauritel, Chinguitel |
| Mobile Data (prepaid) | $10-30 | 1-10 GB | Mauritel, Chinguitel, Mattel |
| Mobile Data (postpaid) | $20-50 | 5-20 GB | Mauritel, Chinguitel, Mattel |
| Phone + Internet Bundle | $50-150 | varies | Mauritel, Chinguitel |
Streaming & Digital Services
| Service | Monthly Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Netflix (standard) | $10 | available in English and French |
| Spotify (premium) | $10 | available in English and French |
| Local Streaming | $5 | available in Arabic and French |
Utility Tips
- To set up utilities in Mauritania, residents typically need to provide identification and proof of address to the service provider.
- Prepaid electricity meters are available, which can help to budget and control energy consumption.
- The best internet providers in Mauritania are Mauritel and Chinguitel, which offer a range of plans and speeds.
- To save on utility bills, residents can use energy-efficient appliances, turn off lights and electronics when not in use, and use public transportation or walk whenever possible.
- It is also recommended to negotiate with the landlord or service provider to get the best rates, especially for long-term rentals or contracts.