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Kampala🇺🇬

Uganda · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Nomad community
Small

City metrics

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)US$420/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)US$250/mo
Cost of living (national avg)35 (USA=100, World Bank ICP)
Cheap mealUS$4.00
Mid-range meal for 2US$12.00
Monthly groceries~US$200

Lifestyle

Safety index55/100
English proficiencyExcellent
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Overall nomad score
45/100
Source: World Bank ICP (cost of living, USA=100), Ookla (internet), OpenAQ (air quality) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

Kampala offers an intriguing experience for digital nomads seeking genuine affordability, especially when it comes to housing. You can find very reasonable accommodations here. It's a great fit for independent spirits who enjoy exploring outside typical expat bubbles, as the nomad community is on the smaller, more intimate side. You'll generally find it easy to connect with locals thanks to excellent English proficiency. Internet, while not blazing fast everywhere, is typically reliable enough for remote work. The city vibrant and full of energy, but a key consideration is navigating safety after dark; local insight is crucial for a comfortable experience. It's an adventure, not a resort, but incredibly rewarding for the right person.

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Who this suits

Budget nomad

Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Kampala.

Find accommodation in Kampala

Browse hotels, serviced apartments and long stays — compare prices before you move.· Partner links

Frequently asked questions

How much does it cost to live in Kampala as a digital nomad?+

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Kampala averages around $420 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Uganda sits at 35 (USA=100) — sourced from World Bank ICP. City-level detail is coming as we gather it; for now this is a national figure. Nomads typically budget extra for coworking, eating out, and travel.

Is Kampala safe for digital nomads?+

Kampala scores 55/100 on our composite safety index, which blends the Global Peace Index, crime stats and traveller-advisory data. Most central neighbourhoods are fine with normal big-city awareness.

How fast is the internet in Kampala?+

Headline average internet speed in Kampala is around 41 Mbps based on Ookla Speedtest data. That's enough for video calls, large file uploads and most remote-work needs in central neighbourhoods — coworking spaces and serviced apartments usually run faster than that.

Community data for this city
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