🇲🇠Cost of Living in Marshall Islands - Prices & Budget Guide
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of the Marshall Islands
CapitalMajuro
Population42,418
Area181.0 km²
LanguagesEnglish, Marshallese
CurrencyUnited States dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC+12:00
RegionOceania / Micronesia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$8,195 (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$894 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend1.1% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)7.7% (2022)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Quick Facts
Cost LevelExpensive
Daily Budget (Backpacker)$80-120 USD
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)$150-250 USD
Daily Budget (Comfort)$300-500 USD
CurrencyUSD
Tipping Customnot expected
How Expensive Is Marshall Islands?
The Marshall Islands is a sovereign nation located in the Pacific Ocean, and it is considered one of the most expensive countries to visit or live in. The cost of living in the Marshall Islands is high due to its remote location, limited resources, and reliance on imported goods. The country's economy is largely dependent on foreign aid, and this has led to a high cost of living, particularly in the capital city of Majuro. Compared to its neighbors, Kiribati and Micronesia, the Marshall Islands is more expensive, with prices for accommodation, food, and transportation being significantly higher.
The high cost of living in the Marshall Islands is also due to the limited availability of goods and services, which drives up prices. The country has a small population and a limited number of businesses, which means that there is little competition to keep prices low. Additionally, the Marshall Islands is vulnerable to natural disasters, such as typhoons and droughts, which can disrupt the supply chain and drive up prices. Overall, the Marshall Islands is a challenging destination for budget travelers, and visitors should be prepared for high prices and limited amenities.
Accommodation Prices
Type
Price Range (USD/night)
Notes
Hostel/Budget
$30-60
basic rooms with shared facilities
Mid-Range Hotel
$100-200
air-conditioned rooms with private bathrooms
Luxury/Resort
$250-500
high-end amenities and services
Apartment Rent (monthly)
$800-1,500
city center, furnished, 1-2 bedrooms
Food & Dining Prices
Meal Type
Price Range (USD)
Street Food / Local Eatery
$5-10
Casual Restaurant
$15-30
Mid-Range Restaurant (2 people)
$30-60
Fine Dining
$60-100
Beer (local)
$5-10
Coffee
$3-5
Water (1.5L bottle)
$2-3
Transport Costs
Transport
Cost (USD)
Local bus/metro ride
$1-2
Taxi (per km)
$5-10
Domestic flight
$100-200
Fuel (per liter)
$1.50-2.50
Monthly Budget Breakdown
Category
Budget ($)
Mid-Range ($)
Comfortable ($)
Rent
800
1,200
2,000
Food
500
800
1,200
Transport
100
200
300
Utilities
150
250
350
Entertainment
200
300
500
Total
1,750
2,750
4,350
Money-Saving Tips
Consider staying in a hostel or budget hotel to save on accommodation costs
Eat at local eateries or street food stalls to save on food costs
Use public transportation or walk/bike whenever possible to save on transport costs
Buy groceries and cook your own meals to save on food costs
Avoid traveling during peak season (June to August) to save on accommodation and transportation costs
Research and book accommodations and flights well in advance to get the best prices
Note: The prices listed are approximate and can vary depending on the location, season, and other factors. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before making any travel or accommodation arrangements.