
Relocating to a new country is an exciting adventure, but one of the first things you need to understand is the cost of living. Whether you’re planning to retire, work, or just explore Sri Lanka, it’s essential to have a clear picture of how much living in this beautiful island nation will cost you.
In this guide, we’ll break down the cost of living in Sri Lanka in 2025 by category, city, and lifestyle, giving you an in-depth understanding to help you plan your move wisely.
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Key Factors Influencing the Cost of Living in Sri Lanka
Before diving into the specifics, let’s take a quick look at the factors that shape the cost of living in Sri Lanka.
Economic Situation
Sri Lanka’s economy has faced challenges in recent years, with inflation and fluctuating exchange rates affecting daily expenses. Despite these challenges, the cost of living remains relatively affordable compared to many Western countries. As an expat, it’s important to keep an eye on Sri Lanka prices and adjust your budget accordingly.
Location
The cost of living can differ significantly depending on where you decide to settle in Sri Lanka. Major cities like Colombo tend to have higher living costs, while rural areas offer more affordable lifestyles. Smaller towns can help you save on housing and daily expenses.
Lifestyle Choices
Your lifestyle plays a major role in determining how much you spend each month. A luxury lifestyle with frequent dining out and high-end accommodations will cost more. But, if you embrace a simpler lifestyle, Sri Lanka offers plenty of budget-friendly options.
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Cost of Living in Sri Lanka by City
Sri Lanka is home to a variety of cities, each with its own character and price range. Let’s take a closer look at how the average cost of living compares in the major cities.
Colombo
As the capital, Colombo is the most expensive city in Sri Lanka. Renting a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center can cost around 60,366 Rs per month. Utilities for a standard apartment range from 8,000 to 30,000 Rs monthly.
Kandy
Kandy offers a more relaxed atmosphere with slightly lower living costs. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs about 38,000-50,000 Rs per month. It’s a great option for expats seeking a balance between affordability and convenience.
Galle
Galle, a picturesque coastal city, offers a more affordable alternative to Colombo. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in the city center costs between 40,000-55,000 Rs per month. Galle’s living costs are more manageable than Colombo’s, making it ideal for beach lovers.
Other Cities and Rural Areas
Smaller towns and rural areas in Sri Lanka offer the most cost-effective living options. Rent for a 1-bedroom apartment outside the city center can start at around 20,000 Rs. Utilities typically range from 6,000-15,000 Rs per month.
Renting and Buying Property in Sri Lanka
When it comes to housing, renting is the most common option for expats in Sri Lanka. However, buying property is also an option for those who wish to stay long-term.
Renting
Rent prices vary based on location and apartment size. A 1-bedroom apartment in the city center of Colombo costs around 60,366 Rs per month. In contrast, outside the city center, the price drops to around 38,066 Rs per month.
Buying Property
If you’re considering purchasing property, Sri Lanka offers varying prices. The cost to buy a property in Colombo’s city center is about 46,963 Rs per square foot. On the outskirts, the price is a bit lower, around 40,563 Rs per square foot.
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Food and Grocery Shopping in Sri Lanka
Food and groceries are a significant part of your monthly costs. Prices for local products and dining out vary across cities.
Dining Out
A meal for two at a mid-range restaurant typically costs around 7,000 Rs. If you’re craving fast food, a Big Mac meal costs around 2,048 Rs. A cappuccino at a local café will cost about 705 Rs.
Grocery Shopping
At local markets, fresh produce is affordable. A loaf of fresh white bread costs around 171 Rs. A gallon of milk is priced at about 1,854 Rs, while 500 grams of boneless chicken costs around 909 Rs.
What About the Transportation in Sri Lanka?
Getting around Sri Lanka is relatively inexpensive, with options ranging from public transport to taxis and private vehicles.
Public Transport
A one-way ticket on public transport typically costs around 70 Rs. A monthly pass will set you back about 2,000 Rs. Taxis have a starting fare of 150 Rs, with an additional charge of around 160 Rs per mile.
Fuel Costs
Gasoline in Sri Lanka costs about 1,500 Rs per gallon. If you’re thinking about purchasing a car, a new Toyota Corolla costs around 11,827,583 Rs.
Monthly Bills in Sri Lanka
Monthly utility costs depend on the size of your apartment. For an 85 m² apartment, utilities like electricity, water, and garbage collection will cost between 8,000 and 30,000 Rs. High-speed internet with 60 Mbps typically costs around 4,625 Rs per month.
Lifestyle Costs in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers personal care, entertainment, and leisure options at affordable prices.
Personal Care
Toiletries like deodorants cost around 887 Rs for 50ml. A visit to a private doctor may cost around 4,642 Rs, while over-the-counter cold medicine can cost about 1,716 Rs.
Entertainment
A basic dinner at a neighborhood pub costs around 5,275 Rs. Movie tickets for two cost about 1,626 Rs, while a monthly gym membership in an expat area is around 8,491 Rs.
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Living in Sri Lanka offers many opportunities to save money. Embrace local culture, shop at markets, and use public transportation to reduce your expenses.
In conclusion, Sri Lanka in 2025 remains a relatively affordable destination compared to many other countries, particularly in South Asia. By understanding the cost of living and adjusting your expectations, you can make the most of your time in Sri Lanka while keeping expenses manageable. And as you settle into your new life, managing your finances for sending money abroad is necessary.
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