Living in Senegal

Senegal, located in Western Africa, is a beautiful and unique country with a rich culture and history. While not as well-known as some of its African neighbors, Senegal offers a fascinating place to call home. Here are some key things to know about living in Senegal.

Why Move to Senegal?

There are several reasons one might choose to move to Senegal.

The number one reason is for work opportunities. Senegal has a growing economy with increasing opportunities in engineering, mining, oil and gas, renewable energy, agribusiness and tourism.

For those seeking adventure, Senegal offers a chance to live in an exotic location with a different way of life.

Senegalese people are known for their warm, welcoming nature and the opportunity to immerse yourself in a rich African culture can be very appealing.

Finally, Senegal has natural beauty with long stretches of sandy beaches, coastal mangrove forests and the towering Fouta Djallon highlands.

Living in Senegal: Pros and Cons

Living in Senegal has both advantages and disadvantages.

The pros include the warm, friendly people, rich cultural life, affordable cost of living, great food, accessible healthcare and stable political system. The warm climate with coastal and desert regions also make for pleasurable living conditions.

Some cons to consider are linguistic issues as French is the primary language with few people speaking English, limited employment opportunities in international companies, less advanced infrastructure and conveniences compared to western countries, and power outages and other utilities issues can be frequent problems.

As with anywhere, you must weigh the pros and cons based on your priorities and lifestyle.

The Cost of Living in Senegal: A Comprehensive Guide

The cost of living in Senegal is generally considered to be very affordable compared to Western countries.

• Rent for a two-bedroom apartment in Dakar can range from around $300 to $800 per month depending on location and amenities.
• Utilities like water, electricity and internet average around $100 to $200 per month.
• Groceries and household items are quite inexpensive with basic staples like rice, meat, and produce very affordable.
• Transportation by taxi or public bus is also much cheaper than in western countries.
• International schools can be costly at around $5,000 to $20,000 per year depending on the school.

Overall, most expatriates state that living costs in Senegal allow them to live comfortably on an average salary.

Quality of Life in Senegal

Quality of life in Senegal ranges from good to excellent, depending primarily on income level and lifestyle.

• For those with higher incomes, Senegal provides a relatively comfortable lifestyle with amenities in larger cities, affordable household help and many opportunities for leisure and travel.
• Healthcare options have improved in recent years though advanced care may require travel abroad.
• Safety and security are also improving though crime and petty theft remain concerns, especially in larger cities.
• Everyday quality of life for most residents in Senegal remains lower due to factors like gaps in basic infrastructure, limited job opportunities and lower incomes.

However, Senegalese people are known for their warmth and community spirit which can enhance life satisfaction despite material limitations.

A Beginner’s Guide to Senegal Culture

Senegal has a rich and unique culture shaped by its ethnic diversity, Islamic faith and colonial history.

The predominant religions are Islam and Christianity with over 90% of residents being Muslim. Senegalese culture places a strong emphasis on family and community with extended families often living together.

The traditional greetings of “salam aleykum” (peace be upon you) and three kisses on each cheek upon meeting reflect the Islamic influences.

The Wolof ethnic group make up around 43% of the population and Wolof language has become the lingua franca of Senegal.

However, French is the official language and widely spoken.

Best Places to Live in Senegal

The main choices for where to live in Senegal are the capital city Dakar and other coastal cities.

Dakar is the economic and cultural capital with the most employment opportunities, amenities, shopping, nightlife and expat community. However, Dakar also faces more challenges like traffic, pollution and higher costs.

Coastal cities like Saint-Louis, M’Bour, and Ziguinchor offer a more relaxed lifestyle near the beach with lower costs but fewer job prospects and conveniences.

Inland cities like Kaolack and Tambacounda provide cheaper living but even less favorable conditions in terms of infrastructure, healthcare, and transportation.

Overall, most expats choose to live in Dakar for better access to services, employment and lifestyle.