Cost of living and prices in Kampala, prices of food, rent, shopping, etc. 🇺🇬
Updated Jul 2023

Food is an essential part of the culture of Kampala, and every corner of the city offers delicious options for all tastes. There are several high-end restaurants that offer a diverse range of local and international cuisines such as Indian, Chinese, Italian, and American. Most of these upscale restaurants are located in prominent parts of the city and they offer a unique dining experience with an excellent atmosphere.

For those who prefer a more casual experience, Kampala has plenty of street food options and local eateries that offer authentic cuisines. These places vary in quality and ambiance and are scattered throughout the city in both tourist and residential areas. Street food vendors offer a plethora of affordable options, and they are popular among locals and tourists alike. Traditional Ugandan dishes like matooke, beans, and matoke are readily available, and they offer an excellent way to immerse yourself in the local culture.

Market prices in Kampala, Uganda fluctuate based on a variety of factors such as seasonality, availability of goods, and competition among vendors. Kampala's markets offer a unique shopping experience with a wide variety of products ranging from fresh fruits and vegetables to handmade crafts.

Visitors to Kampala's markets can expect to negotiate prices with vendors, and bartering is a common practice. With so many options available, shoppers can find affordable bargains or splurge on higher-priced artisanal goods. The energy and buzz of the markets make them an essential part of experiencing Kampala's culture and economy.

Traveling in Kampala offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience bustling city life in one of East Africa's most dynamic cities. The city is served by an extensive public transportation network, including shared taxis, buses, and boda-bodas (motorcycle taxis). Shared taxis (locally known as matatus) are the most common mode of transport, and they can be found in almost every corner of the city. They are brightly painted and offer cheap rides to locals and travelers alike. However, they can be quite challenging to navigate for first-time visitors as there are no designated bus stops, and the routes are not clearly marked. Therefore, for those not comfortable with navigating the matatus, private taxis are available for hire, and they offer a more comfortable ride and more convenient pick-up and drop-off points.

If you're looking for an adventurous way to get around Kampala, we highly recommend trying boda-bodas. Although they are not the safest mode of transport, they are the fastest and most convenient way to navigate around the city's crowded streets. Boda-bodas are popular among locals and visitors alike and have become part of Kampala's culture. They weave through traffic to get you to your destination faster than traditional taxis. However, it is crucial to keep safety in mind and remember to wear a helmet (which the driver should provide). If you prefer a safer option, the city has a growing number of car rental services where you can rent a car and drive it yourself or hire a driver to safely take you around Kampala.

If you're planning a trip to Kampala, Uganda, it's important to be mindful of your utility usage. The cost of water and electricity can vary depending on where you stay, and it's possible to run up a hefty bill if you're not careful. Water is typically paid for on a monthly basis, and the cost can be higher if you use lots of hot water for showers or washing clothes. Electricity is usually calculated based on how much you use, and it's important to turn off lights and appliances when not in use to avoid racking up charges.

Another thing to keep in mind is that power outages are common in Kampala. This means that electricity won't always be available, so it's a good idea to have a generator or alternative source of power on hand. Additionally, some accommodations may only have electricity available during certain times of the day or night. It's important to ask about this before booking your stay so that you can plan accordingly and make sure you have access to the amenities you need.

Sports and leisure are booming in Kampala, Uganda, thanks to the city’s warm climate, lush parks and gardens, and friendly locals. One of the most popular sports in Kampala is soccer, with several top-tier and amateur clubs spread throughout the city. Visitors can catch a game at Mandela National Stadium, built in 1997 and considered one of the finest soccer arenas in Africa. The stadium, which sits on a 45-hectare complex, can accommodate up to 50,000 fans and is home to Uganda’s national team, the Uganda Cranes.

If you’re looking for something more low-key, Kampala offers plenty of opportunities for leisure activities as well. One of the most popular spots for nature lovers is the Uganda Wildlife Education Centre, which offers guided tours, animal shows and other outdoor activities. Visitors can also take a trip to Lake Victoria, the world's second largest freshwater lake and home to a wide variety of fish and other aquatic creatures. Whether you’re interested in sports or leisure, Kampala is the perfect destination for anyone looking to enjoy the great outdoors in a vibrant, multicultural city.

If you are planning to travel to Kampala, Uganda, it's important to note that salaries and financing can be quite different from what you may be used to. The cost of living is generally lower, but salaries are also lower in most job sectors when compared to other parts of the world. Therefore, you may be able to stretch your money further, but you may also need to adjust your expectations regarding the types of accommodations, activities, and dining experiences you will be able to afford.

When it comes to financing in Kampala, there are a variety of options available. ATMs are common throughout the city, and many shops, restaurants, and hotels will accept credit cards. It's worth noting, however, that some places may charge an additional fee for card transactions. It's also a good idea to carry small bills and coins with you, as some smaller vendors and taxis may not be able to provide change for larger bills. If you need to exchange currency, there are many banks and currency exchange shops available, but it's important to do your research to ensure you are getting a fair exchange rate.

Childcare prices in Kampala, Uganda vary depending on the type of childcare facility, but as a general rule, school fees are often higher than fees for Kindergartens. Schools in Kampala often offer a more comprehensive curriculum, including subjects such as Mathematics, Sciences, and Humanities, in addition to basic childcare services. Schools also often have more resources available, including libraries, computer labs, and sports facilities. However, these additional services often come at a higher cost.

Kindergartens, on the other hand, are often more affordable than schools. They focus more on basic childcare services such as playtime, basic literacy and numeracy skills and may not have the same level of resources as schools. However, Kindergartens still provide a safe and nurturing environment for children, and are an excellent option for families who cannot afford the high fees charged by schools.

Kampala, Uganda is a bustling city with a vast array of clothing and shoe options. From locally made traditional outfits to designer brands, there is something for everyone's taste and budget. Street markets and small shops offer unique clothing and shoe options at affordable prices, while larger shopping centers provide a more extensive selection of international brands at higher price points. Regardless of where you choose to shop, bargaining is a common practice, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

In addition to traditional brick-and-mortar stores, Kampala has also embraced online shopping, with several e-commerce platforms available for customers to browse and purchase clothing and shoes from the comfort of their homes. Delivery options vary, but many retailers offer inexpensive or even free shipping within Kampala. When shopping online, it's always important to make sure to read reviews and check sizing charts, as many Ugandan clothing brands may have different sizing standards than what you are used to.

If you're planning a short stay in Kampala, there are plenty of options available to you. From cozy apartments to luxury villas, there's something for everyone. The range of short stay accommodations is broad, catering for different tastes, budgets and group sizes. Whether you need a place for a solo stay, a romantic getaway or a family vacation, you'll find the perfect fit in the city. Location is a key consideration when choosing a short stay in Kampala, as the city is geographically diverse and traffic can be challenging during peak hours. Despite some of the challenges, you'll be able to choose an affordable accommodation that meets your needs.

Short rent accommodation options in Kampala, Uganda are varied and competitive. There are many furnished apartments and villas that offer a comfortable alternative to the traditional hotel experience. These short stay apartments are equipped with a range of amenities, including studio, one or two bedrooms and kitchens, Wi-Fi, TV, and air conditioning. The apartment options are typically well maintained, come with housekeeping, and often offer the kind of flexibility that suits short-term stays. Compared to the price of staying in a hotel, short term accommodation offers you a higher level of space, privacy, and freedom to move at your pace. Kampala is an attractive destination for travelers because of its beautiful landscape, rich history, and vibrant culture and having a comfortable experience extends the stay.

Real estate buying options in Kampala, Uganda are diverse and are suitable for different needs. From apartments to townhouses to multi-bedroom family homes, the property market in Kampala caters to different tastes and preferences. For those interested in luxurious living, high-end properties are available in exclusive neighborhoods. For those looking for more affordable options, there are townhouses and apartments that are more budget-friendly. Additionally, the real estate market in Kampala offers opportunities for those looking for land to build their own homes or for investment purposes.

When it comes to prices, the real estate market in Kampala is influenced by various factors such as location, property size, and amenities. Generally, properties located in exclusive neighborhoods tend to be more expensive than those in less affluent areas. The same goes for properties with more bedrooms and amenities such as an onsite gym or swimming pool. However, regardless of the price, property owners can rest assured that they are investing in a valuable asset as the real estate market in Kampala continues to grow.