Many Black travelers are investing more attention into the best African countries to move abroad and live. With so much variety across the continent, it is easy to see why; there is something for all lifestyles and budgets.
When choosing to live abroad there is lots to think about, from the quality of life, social life, work, housing, accessibility – the list goes on. The two most consistently considered aspects of moving abroad is where you can have out-of-this-world experiences not available in your home country and where the cost of living is not too expensive. The sweet spot is a blend of these both and a heavy sprinkling of African culture and Diaspora flavor. Covering all of these bases, in this Travel Noire list, we’ll give you a look at some of the top, attractive, affordable (and overlooked!) African countries to move abroad and fall in love with.
1. Zambia
Exploring the remote and immensely impressive natural wilderness in Zambia makes for an obvious reason why Black expats will enjoy this African destination for their move abroad.
Located on the Eastern side of Africa, The Zambian Kwacha is the official currency in the country and the price of living is said to be more than 50% less than most states in the U.S. as well as France. The capital is Lusaka where most expats relocate to in the country. The monthly cost of living is estimated around $953 USD for a single person.
Zambia makes the list for its abundance of exciting ways to choose life – whether spending time near the world-famous Victoria Falls or going slow on one of the main rivers – Zambia offers loads to the adventurous traveler and for much less than expected.
2. Senegal
Senegal is a favorite destination in Africa for its remarkable slow-paced life, its highly regarded art scene, not to mention it being the epitome of African chic vibes. The capital, Dakar, is the beating heart of Senegal but the entire country has much to offer for the slow traveler looking to create a life in a thriving African country.
While Senegal is far from the cheapest country in Africa, it is certainly an affordable option. A furnished studio in an expensive area in Dakar will cost you around $686 while dinner for two in an expensive area would cost around $52 USD.
3. Gambia
There is a lot to look forward to when making the move to Gambia, despite it being one of the smallest countries in the West African region. Moving to the country is an exciting prospect for expats looking for a slower pace of life and impressive beaches.
According to the Mercer Cost of Living Survey in 2021, Banjul, Gambia’s capital ranked 200th meaning that expats can expect a low cost of living in this West African country. Known as ‘The Smiling Coast of West Africa’, it is a pleasant place to settle and get to know local culture.
4. Tunisia
Located on the northernmost tip of Africa, Tunisia is a cheap, colourful and vibrant place to move to. Many travelers consider moving abroad to this African destination because of the hard-to-find balance between underestimated natural destinations and gorgeous, irresistible medinas to stroll through. Living in the country where the boundless beauty of the Atlas Mountains and its rolling hills is available to explore is another added bonus in this less-traveled country.
With easy access to Europe, the rest of Africa and nearby Arab countries, it is a go-to location with lots of influence and cultures within the small country.
5. Ethiopia
There is much to love about Ethiopia, historically and geographically speaking, the country is a wonder for many travelers worldwide. The most popular city for Black expats is Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. Whether exploring the mountains, delving into the many historical cities or checking out the Ethnological Museum, Haile Selassie’s former palace, living in Ethiopia is far from dull and not to steep either.
As an average, rent across the country is relatively affordable with prices as low as $741 USD in a fully furnished accommodation in an expensive area.
6. South Africa
South Africa has lots to offer Black expats looking to make a home in the country. The country has one of the fastest- growing economies in Africa. With Johannesburg and Cape Town being some of the most exciting options for Black expats, there is much to look forward to if international influence in a country is important to you.
As one of the key tourism destinations globally as well as on the continent, South Africa often ranks as first place for places to move in all of Africa but it shouldn’t be overlooked and assumed to be price! Living in Johannesburg South Africa is considerably cheap with rent in an expensive area being placed at $932 USD and $1,159 in an expensive area in Cape Town.
7. Mozambique
Looking for turquoise waters, dune-lined beaches and irresistible well-preserved traditions on the continent? Mozambique offers it all and then some. Many Black travelers skip the beauty that is Mozambique but it has a lot to offer if you’re ready to sink your feet into the warm golden sand and get to really know the country.
Mozambique is an affordable country with lots of budget-friendly ways of exploring the vastness of the country. Offering a variety of accommodation options for all budgets, cheap transportation, food and water sport tours, it is easy to see why it made the list. On average, renting an apartment in Maputo, the capital city could cost around $716 USD.
