Dhaka vs. Dar es Salaam: Detailed 2026 Cost of Living & Quality Comparison

Overview

Climate Index

71.3 / 71.3

Cost of Living Index

25.7 / 27.6

Dhaka   Dar es Salaam

h2 This report provides a detailed comparison of the cost of living and quality of life between Dhaka, Bangladesh, and Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, based on available data. Dhaka, with a population of approximately 19 million, is one of the most densely populated cities in the world and serves as the capital of Bangladesh. Dar es Salaam, with a population of around 7.96 million, is the largest city in Tanzania and a major economic hub in East Africa. Both cities face challenges related to rapid urbanization, but they differ significantly in terms of economic development, infrastructure, and living standards.

Quality of Life

Health Care Index

40 / 52.9

Pollution Index

94 / 71.9

Dhaka   Dar es Salaam

h2 When it comes to quality of life, Dar es Salaam generally scores higher than Dhaka. The city's Quality of Life Index stands at 85.02, compared to Dhaka's 68.43. This difference is particularly evident in areas such as safety and healthcare. Dar es Salaam has a Safety Index of 44.69, which is higher than Dhaka's 36.43, indicating a relatively safer environment. Healthcare in Dar es Salaam also benefits from a higher Health Care Index (52.86) compared to Dhaka's 48.33. However, Dhaka has a higher Pollution Index (69.42) compared to Dar es Salaam's 71.91, reflecting poorer air quality in Bangladesh's capital. Additionally, while Dar es Salaam has a slightly lower Cost of Living Index (27.58) than Dhaka's 57.29, the overall quality of life in Tanzania appears more favorable due to better safety and healthcare provisions.

Cost of Living

Property Price to Income Ratio

14.6 / 24.2

Purchasing Power Index

41.5 / 27

Dhaka   Dar es Salaam

h2 The cost of living in both cities varies significantly depending on the category. For groceries, basic items such as bread, eggs, and local cheese are relatively cheaper in Dhaka. For example, a loaf of fresh white bread costs $0.73 in Dhaka compared to $0.73 in Dar es Salaam, while local cheese is $0.90 in Dhaka versus $9.20 in Dar es Salaam. However, when it comes to dining out, a mid-range restaurant meal for two people costs $18.47 in Dar es Salaam, which is lower than Dhaka's $30. The difference is even more pronounced for international brands, with a combo meal from McDonald's priced at $9.72 in Dar es Salaam versus $15.00 in Dhaka. Transportation costs also differ between the two cities. While public transport is cheaper in Dar es Salaam, with a monthly pass costing $15.16 compared to Dhaka's $40.00, owning a car is more expensive in Tanzania due to higher import duties and taxes. The price of a Volkswagen Golf in Dar es Salaam is $17,223.05, which is lower than Dhaka's $20,000.00, but the cost of maintaining a vehicle may be higher in Tanzania due to factors such as fuel prices and road conditions.

Housing

Quality of Life Index

65.2 / 85

Safety Index

37.6 / 44.7

Dhaka   Dar es Salaam

h2 Housing costs in both cities are high, but the situation differs significantly. In Dar es Salaam, the price per square meter for an apartment ranges from $1,084.89 to $1,531.64, depending on the location. Outside the city center, prices are lower, with a 3-bedroom apartment costing as little as $571.37 per month to rent, compared to Dhaka's $800.00. However, property prices in Dar es Salaam are still high relative to the average income, with a Property Price to Income Ratio of 24.15, compared to Dhaka's 12.88. This indicates that while housing costs are substantial, they are relatively more affordable in Dhaka compared to Dar es Salaam.

Salaries and Income

Traffic Commute Time Index

60.2 / 36.4

Dhaka   Dar es Salaam

h2 Salaries in Dhaka are generally higher than those in Dar es Salaam. The average monthly net salary in Bangladesh is $300.00, compared to Tanzania's $270.83. However, the cost of living in Dhaka is significantly higher, with a Cost of Living Index of 57.29 compared to Dar es Salaam's 27.58. This means that while salaries are higher in Dhaka, the purchasing power may be lower due to the higher cost of living. Additionally, Dhaka has a lower mortgage interest rate (7.00%) compared to Dar es Salaam's 18.25%, making it easier for individuals to secure housing loans in Bangladesh.

Conclusion

h2 Both Dhaka and Dar es Salaam present unique challenges and opportunities for residents. Dar es Salaam offers a higher quality of life with better safety and healthcare, but the cost of living is significantly lower, making it more affordable for many. Dhaka, while having a higher cost of living and poorer air quality, offers higher salaries and more economic opportunities. Ultimately, the choice between these two cities depends on individual priorities, whether they lean towards quality of life, affordability, or career prospects.