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Windhoek🇳🇦

Namibia · Cost of living & nomad guide 2026

Timezone
Africa/Windhoek
Nomad community
Small

City metrics

Financial

Rent 1BR (centre)US$550/mo
Rent 1BR (outside)US$400/mo
Rent 3BR (centre)US$1,200/mo
Cost of living (national avg)83 (USA=100, World Bank ICP)
Cheap mealUS$7.00
Mid-range meal for 2US$16.00
Monthly groceries~US$260

Infrastructure

Internet speed45 Mbps
Internet reliability7/100
Healthcare index60/100
Coworking spaces~3

Lifestyle

Safety index62/100
Air quality30 AQI — Good
Walkability50/100
Climate score78/100
English proficiencyhigh
Source: OpenAQ · Global Peace Index · regional statistical agencies · Updated Live + annual

Nomad

Nomad communitySmall
Visa easeeasy
Budget score8/100
Lifestyle score7/100
Overall nomad score
6/100
Source: World Bank ICP (cost of living, USA=100), Ookla (internet), OpenAQ (air quality) · Updated Quarterly

What it's actually like here

For the budget-conscious digital nomad seeking an African adventure, this city offers genuine affordability, particularly for housing. You'll find a moderate pace of life here, appealing to those who prefer a quieter environment over a bustling metropolis. The internet is generally reliable and fast enough for most remote work needs, which is a big plus. The expat and nomad community is present but on the smaller side, so don't expect a huge, established scene; you'll likely need to be proactive in finding your tribe. English proficiency is high, making communication straightforward. A huge benefit is the ease of obtaining a visa, simplifying the move. However, be mindful that while generally safe during the day, it's wise to exercise caution, especially after dark, as is common in many urban centers.

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Who this suits

Premium lifestyleClean air seeker

Featured neighbourhoods

Neighbourhood guides coming soon for Windhoek.

Find accommodation in Windhoek

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Frequently asked questions

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

As of 2026, a 1-bedroom apartment in the centre of Windhoek averages around $550 per month. The national cost-of-living index for Namibia sits at 83 (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 Windhoek safe for digital nomads?+

Windhoek scores 62/100 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 Windhoek?+

Headline average internet speed in Windhoek is around 45 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.

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