From majestic Victoria Falls to teeming game reserves, Zimbabwe offers expats extraordinary nature, poignant history and lively culture. While challenged by economic instability and political conflict in recent decades, Zimbabwe’s diverse landscapes and welcoming people endure. This guide covers everything you need to know about living in Zimbabwe.
Why Move to Zimbabwe?
Zimbabwe provides newcomers some compelling reasons to move there:
- Abundant wildlife and stunning natural landscapes from Hwange National Park to Matobo Hills. Victoria Falls is a top global attraction.
- Vibrant culture blending Shona, Ndebele and European influences into arts, music, food and traditions still thriving in villages.
- Lower cost of living and slower pace of life compared to the West, especially housing and domestic help. Allows more disposable income.
- Pleasant tropical climate keeps temperatures consistent year-round even in higher elevation areas. Very little winter.
- English speaking former British colony provides more accessibility than other parts of Africa. Relatively easy assimilation.
- Tight knit expat community supportive of newcomers. Shared passion for the country’s potentials.
- Independent since 1980 with recent stability. Youthful generation ready for change, growth and opportunities.
- Gateway for exploring southern Africa including South Africa, Zambia, Botswana and Mozambique a short drive away.
Living in Zimbabwe: Pros and Cons
While promising, Zimbabwe still faces some challenges:
Pros :
- Abundant wildlife and stunning natural landscapes
- Vibrant Shona and Ndebele culture
- Lower cost of living
- Pleasant tropical climate
- English speaking population
- Supportive expat community
- Recent political stability
- Gateway to southern Africa
Cons :
- Cash liquidity issues and currency fluctuations
- Underdeveloped infrastructure in rural areas
- High unemployment rates
- Residue of government corruption and human rights issues
- Limited healthcare requiring private care
- Power and internet outages still occur
- Poverty still affects millions of Zimbabweans
- Wildlife poaching and environmental threats
Zimbabwe appeals to nature lovers and pioneering expats, but economic struggles persist. Patience and optimism still required to look past the negatives.
The Cost of Living in Zimbabwe
While costs vary based on economic factors, Zimbabwe remains relatively affordable especially for basics:
Housing
- Rents around $400-$800 for apartments in Harare.
- Houses for purchase from $60,000+.
- Cheaper in rural areas.
Food
- Local produce is inexpensive.
- Groceries about $200-$300 monthly for two.
- Eating out $5-$15 per meal.
Transportation
- Older used cars start around $5,000.
- Fuel is $1.20-$1.50 per liter.
- Taxis in cities average $5-$10 per 5km trip.
Utilities
- Electricity $50-$100 monthly.
- Satellite internet starts from $30 monthly.
- Water and waste collection $20-$50.
Healthcare
- Public healthcare is lacking.
- Private healthcare from $50 per visit uninsured.
- Policies start around $75 monthly.
Education
- Government schools are basic.
- Private schools average $2,000-$5,000 per year.
Childcare
- Nannies available locally for $150-$300 per month. $10 per hour for babysitters.
Taxes
- Individual income tax up to 50%.
- VAT is 15%.
- Reduced tax incentives for expats.
Quality of Life in Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe offers relatively good quality of life composed of:
- Affordability – Lower costs especially for housing and domestic services. But imported goods are pricier.
- Healthcare – Public care is underfunded. Quality private care available in cities. Remote areas lack services.
- Infrastructure – Major investments the last decade improved roads and utilities, but rural areas still need development. Internet improving.
- Environment – Amazing nature and wildlife, but poaching threats persist. Climate change exacerbating droughts and agriculture struggles.
- Safety & Security – Incidents of violent crime are increasing in cities, but most areas are still relatively safe.
- Economy – Struggles with unemployment and cash liquidity, but rich in minerals and agricultural potential.
- Leisure & Culture – Locals highly value time with family and community. Vibrant arts, markets, music, food and faith practices.
A Beginner’s Guide to Zimbabwean Culture
Here is a brief overview of Zimbabwean culture:
- Major ethnic groups are Shona and Ndebele, plus mixed race Coloureds and immigrant groups.
- Traditional sculptures, masks, crafts, music instruments and fabrics remain prevalent. Contemporary art thrives in cities.
- Cuisine features maize, wild game meats, greens, beans, peanuts in stews and porridges. Braai grilled meats are popular.
- Zimbabweans have strong family, community and religious values with church playing a central role. Elders are respected.
- Music and dance integral to culture, from mbira thumb piano to energetic jerusarema dance.
- Oral storytelling traditions of myths, proverbs and poetry are still passed down generations.
- Conservative gender roles remain common, but women have growing opportunities in business, politics and education.
- Love for nature and outdoor lifestyle. Sports also huge – soccer, cricket, rugby, golf, polo and more.
Best Places to Live in Zimbabwe
Top spots for expats include:
- Harare – The lively capital and largest city with most opportunities and amenities.
- Bulawayo – Cultural hub in the southwest known for arts and colonial architecture.
- Victoria Falls – Adventure tourist town near the iconic waterfalls. Beautiful scenery.
- Hwange – Wilderness town and gateway to Hwange National Park’s wildlife including elephants.
- Kariba – Scenic lakeside town perfect for fishing, boating and a relaxed lifestyle.
From majestic Victoria Falls to modern Harare, Zimbabwe captivates explorers with diverse natural beauty and enduring cultural traditions ready for rediscovery.
I also want to commend the use of up-to-date statistics and references. It’s clear that this article is based on current, well-researched information, which adds significant credibility to the arguments presented.