Cost of Living in Madang - Updated Prices & Insights

Solo nomad: Estimated monthly costs are $480 (excluding rent), and $549 including rent.

Family of 3: Estimated monthly costs are $1,206 (excluding rent), and $1,842 including rent.

Meal at Budget Restaurant

$6.84 PGK 27.92

Three-Course Dinner for Two, Mid-Range

$39.08 PGK 160

Fast Food Meal (McDonalds, etc)

$10.6 PGK 43.27

Cappuccino

$2.33 PGK 9.53

Coke/Pepsi/Fanta/Sprite (0.33 liter bottle)

$1.18 PGK 4.81

Water (0.33 liter bottle)

$0.75 PGK 3.07

Local Beer (0.5 liter draught)

$2.83 PGK 11.56

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$4.35 PGK 17.77

Milk (1 liter)

$1.97 PGK 8.03

White Bread (500g)

$1.42 PGK 5.79

Rice (white) (1kg)

$1.41 PGK 5.75

Eggs

$3.38 PGK 13.8

Chicken Fillets (1kg)

$5.61 PGK 22.9

Beef Round Steak (1kg)

$8.13 PGK 33.18

Apples (1kg)

$5.22 PGK 21.3

Banana (1kg)

$2.45 PGK 10.02

Oranges (1kg)

$1 PGK 4.08

Tomato (1kg)

$1.96 PGK 8.02

Potato (1kg)

$4.68 PGK 19.12

Onion (1kg)

$2.9 PGK 11.84

Lettuce (1 head)

$5.94 PGK 24.23

Water (1.5 liter bottle)

$0.5 PGK 2.04

Cigarettes 20 Pack (Marlboro, Camel)

$5.03 PGK 20.54

Wine (Bottle)

$11.8 PGK 48.15

Local Beer (0.5 liter bottle)

$2.11 PGK 8.62

Imported Beer (0.33 liter bottle)

$2.38 PGK 9.72

Gasoline (1 liter)

$1.11 PGK 4.53

Utilities for 2 People in 2-bedroom Apartment (Heating, Electricity, Gas, Water, Garbage) (85m2)

$67.2 PGK 274

Internet (50+ Mbps, Unlimited Data)

$23.76 PGK 97

Preschool or Kindergarten, Full Day, Private, 1 Child (Monthly)

$78.9 PGK 322

International Primary School, 1 Child (Yearly)

$6,021 PGK 24.6K

Jeans (Levis 501 Or Similar)

$18.86 PGK 77

Summer Dress (H&M, Zara, etc)

$14.63 PGK 59.7

Sport Shoes (Adidas, Nike)

$67 PGK 274

Men's Leather Business Shoes

$29.06 PGK 119

3-bedroom Apartment, City Center (Monthly)

$970 PGK 3,961

3-bedroom Apartment, Outside City Center (Monthly)

$605 PGK 2,468

Average Monthly Net Salary (After Tax)

$236 PGK 962

Citycost data is based on AI and user input – minor inaccuracies may occur.

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Cost of Living in Madang - Frequently Asked Questions

Compared to regional peers, Madang offers a comfortable balance of affordability and lifestyle. On a general level, you’ll find options that fit tight budgets without sacrificing basics, while more comfortable setups are available if you want more space or faster internet. The Cost of Living in Madang, Papua New Guinea tends to vary by neighborhood and type of stay – town-center apartments, hillside rentals, or guesthouses near the coast. Expect a mix of local markets, casual eateries, and affordable services that support a simple, ocean-front cadence. Tip: Prioritize a trial week to gauge what fits your routine.

Daily life in Madang unfolds with a warm, maritime vibe and practical rhythms. When you search for housing, start near the town center or the waterfront to minimize commute for errands and coworking; expect a mix of bungalow-style rentals, modest apartments, and guesthouses with flexible terms. Food is abundant and affordable at local markets – watch for fresh fruit, root crops, and seafood – plus a growing cafe scene for working days. Transport is straightforward: mini-buses, taxis, or walking routes; internet access can be variable, so plan for contingencies when you work remotely. Madang, Papua New Guinea living cost varies by location, so compare a few options before signing. Tip: test a few spots during a short stay to sharpen your shortlist.

Quality of life in Madang hinges on pace, weather, and social connections. A simple budgeting framework helps: allocate the core rent, utilities, and groceries first, then set a buffer for occasional dining and activities like markets or coast walks. Seasonality shows itself in the rainy season when some outdoor activities pause and transport can be slower; plan flexible days and keep backups for indoor work. Neighborhood fit matters: central coastal lanes feel lively, while hillside pockets offer scenic views and quieter evenings. Tip: rotate housing stays to test different vibes before committing long term.