The Best Places to Live in {Egypt}

Egypt is a fascinating country with a rich history and culture. It is also a popular destination for expats who want to enjoy a low cost of living, a warm climate, and a diverse lifestyle. But where are the best places to live in Egypt? In this blog post, I will introduce you to six of the most attractive cities for expats in Egypt based on various factors such as safety, amenities, entertainment, and opportunities.

Cairo

Cairo is Egypt's capital and largest city and one of the world's most vibrant and dynamic cities. It offers a mix of ancient and modern attractions, from the iconic pyramids of Giza to the downtown skyscrapers. Cairo has a world-class healthcare system, an extensive public transport network, and a thriving nightlife scene. It also has the most job and business opportunities for expats, especially in the education, tourism, media, and technology sectors.

However, Cairo is not without its drawbacks. It is a highly polluted city with frequent traffic jams and noise. It can also be overwhelming for some people who prefer a more peaceful and relaxed environment. The cost of living in Cairo is low compared to other major cities worldwide, but it varies depending on the neighborhood. Zamalek, Maadi, and New Cairo are some of the most popular and expensive areas for expats, while Nasr City, Dokki, and Mohandessin are more affordable options.

Alexandria

Alexandria is Egypt's second-largest city and the Mediterranean Sea's main port. It has a long and illustrious history as a center of culture, commerce, and learning. It was founded by Alexander the Great in 331 BC and was home to the legendary Library of Alexandria and the Pharos Lighthouse, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Today, Alexandria is a modern and cosmopolitan city that retains its charm and elegance. It has a beautiful coastline with sandy beaches and resorts, a lively downtown area with cafes and restaurants, and a diverse population with many foreign cultures.

Alexandria is one of the best places to live in Egypt for expats who want to enjoy a Mediterranean lifestyle with a touch of Greek influence. Many people speak English here, making it easy to communicate and socialize. The city also has many educational institutions, such as the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the modern successor of the ancient library, and Alexandria University, one of Egypt's oldest and most prestigious universities. The cost of living in Alexandria is similar to that of Cairo, but it depends on the location. The Corniche, Stanley Bridge, and Montaza Palace are some of the most desirable and expensive areas for expats, while Sidi Gaber, Smouha, and Roushdy are more budget-friendly options.

Hurghada

Hurghada is a small resort town along the Red Sea on the east coast of Egypt. It is one of the best places to live in Egypt for digital nomads who want to work from the beach and enjoy a laid-back lifestyle. Hurghada has a significant expat community, mainly from Russia and Europe. It is famous for its stunning coral reefs, crystal-clear water, and diverse marine life. It is also a paradise for water sports enthusiasts who can indulge in diving, snorkeling, kite surfing, sailing, and fishing.

Hurghada has a warm and sunny climate all year round, with an average temperature of 25°C (77°F). It has many modern amenities such as shopping malls, cinemas, bars, and clubs. It also has an international airport that connects it to major cities in Europe and the Middle East. The cost of living in Hurghada is meager compared to other cities in Egypt. You can find a one-bedroom apartment for as little as $150 per month or a luxury villa for $500 per month. El Gouna, Sahl Hasheesh, and Makadi Bay are some of Hurghada's most upscale and expensive areas for expats.

Ismailia

Ismailia is a medium-sized city on the west bank of the Suez Canal. It is one of the best places to live in Egypt for expats who want to experience a more authentic and traditional Egyptian culture. Ismailia was founded in 1863 by Khedive Ismail Pasha as the headquarters of the Suez Canal Company. It is known as "The City of Beauty and Enchantment" because of its greenery, gardens, lakes, and canals. It has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it easy to mingle with locals.

Ismailia has many historical and cultural attractions such as the Ismailia Museum, which displays artifacts from ancient Egypt to modern times; the De Lesseps House Museum, which was once the residence of Ferdinand de Lesseps; the French engineer who supervised the construction of the Suez Canal; and Lake Timsah; which hosts many festivals and events throughout the year. The cost of living in Ismailia is meager compared to other cities in Egypt. You can find a one-bedroom apartment for as little as $100 per month or a spacious house for $300 per month. The city also has a good infrastructure and public services, such as hospitals, schools, and banks.

Sharm El Sheikh

Sharm El Sheikh is another resort town on the south coast of the Sinai Peninsula, overlooking the Gulf of Aqaba. It is one of the best places to live in Egypt for expats who love nature and adventure. Sharm El Sheikh is surrounded by mountains, deserts, and seas, offering a variety of landscapes and activities. It is also a gateway to some of the most spectacular natural wonders in Egypt, such as Mount Sinai, where Moses received the Ten Commandments; Saint Catherine's Monastery, the oldest Christian monastery in the world; and Ras Mohammed National Park, a protected area that hosts more than 1,000 species of fish and coral.

Sharm El Sheikh has a hot and dry climate, with an average temperature of 28°C (82°F). It has many luxurious hotels, resorts, spas, and golf courses. It also has a vibrant nightlife scene with casinos, nightclubs, and shows. The cost of living in Sharm El Sheikh is higher than in other cities in Egypt but still affordable compared to other countries. You can find a one-bedroom apartment for around $200 per month or a villa for $600 per month. Naama Bay, Shark's Bay, and Nabq Bay are some of the most popular and expensive areas for expats in Sharm El Sheikh.

Luxor

Luxor is a city in southern Egypt that was once the capital of ancient Egypt during the New Kingdom period. It is one of the best places to live in Egypt for expats fascinated by history and archaeology. Luxor is often called "The World's Largest Open-Air Museum" because of its abundance of monuments, temples, tombs, and statues. Some of the most famous attractions include the Valley of the Kings, where Tutankhamun and other pharaohs were buried; the Karnak Temple Complex, which was dedicated to the god Amun-Ra; and the Luxor Temple, which Amenhotep III and Ramses II built.

Luxor has a hot and sunny climate, with an average temperature of 27°C (81°F). It has a calm and peaceful vibe that contrasts with the hustle and bustle of Cairo. It also has a friendly and welcoming community that respects and appreciates foreign visitors. The cost of living in Luxor is meager compared to other cities in Egypt. You can find a one-bedroom apartment for around $100 per month or a house for $300 per month. The East Bank, where most of the monuments are located, is more expensive than the West Bank, where most locals live.

Conclusion

Egypt is a country that offers something for everyone. Whether you are looking for culture, nature, adventure, or relaxation, you can find it in one of these six cities. Each city has its advantages and disadvantages, but they all share a common feature: they are affordable and enjoyable places to live as an expat. So, if you are considering moving to Egypt, consider these six options and choose the one that suits you best.

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