Africa is rapidly transforming into a magnet for international talent, entrepreneurs, and remote workers. From the coastal flair of Cape Town to the organized calm of Kigali, a new wave of African cities is rising, offering infrastructure, affordability, and vibrant local life. These cities are not only growing fast but are also opening up to the world, providing a high quality of life and access to modern amenities. This guide explores the best African cities for expats. For each country, we highlight one standout city, including reasons to move, lifestyle advantages, and practical considerations like cost and challenges.
For a broader perspective on the top African countries for expats in terms of life quality, living expenses, and job opportunities, you can also check out our detailed overview.
A closer look at the top cities for expats
Each African city has its own personality, pace, and perks. Whether you’re drawn to island life, urban energy, or peaceful greenery, there’s a place on this continent that feels like home. Here’s a look at ten standout cities that offer a great mix of opportunity, lifestyle, and everyday comfort for expats:
Cape Town, South Africa
Cape Town in South Africa is often considered the most beautiful city in Africa. It sits between the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain, offering stunning views, a moderate climate, and high-end services. Known for its cultural diversity and creative scene, Cape Town also provides solid healthcare, quality education, and English as the main spoken language. Expats will find a thriving community, a growing tech ecosystem, and plenty of recreational options from surfing to hiking.
- Why expats love it: Scenery, healthcare, multicultural vibe
- Urban perks: Table Mountain, wine regions, beaches
- Cost of living: Moderate to high
- Challenges: Safety in certain districts
Nairobi, Kenya
Nairobi is the financial and innovation hub of East Africa. It is home to global tech companies, NGOs, and one of Africa’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems. As the capital of Kenya, Nairobi offers a mix of modern infrastructure, green spaces, and strong expat networks. English is widely spoken, and the city’s international schools and hospitals make it ideal for families. Neighborhoods like Westlands and Karen offer a balanced mix of convenience and nature.
- Why expats love it: Expat network, English-speaking, safari access
- Urban perks: Tech scene, malls, green parks
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Challenges: Traffic and urban sprawl
Lagos, Nigeria
Lagos is Nigeria’s economic engine and the largest city in Africa by population. It is full of energy, opportunity, and ambition. For expats who can handle the pace, Lagos rewards with strong business potential in finance, tech, and creative industries. Neighbourhoods like Victoria Island and Lekki offer luxury housing, top restaurants, and access to international schools. The city is a cultural giant and a leader in African music and fashion.
- Why expats love it: Entertainment, fintech, English fluency
- Urban perks: Culture, nightlife, markets
- Cost of living: High
- Challenges: Infrastructure strain, high costs
Accra, Ghana
Accra offers a more relaxed lifestyle compared to other West African cities. It has become a creative and tech destination, known for its welcoming locals, safety, and strong English proficiency. Its coastal location, open spaces, and friendly vibe appeal to digital nomads and professionals alike. The city is also a hotspot for music, arts, and Afrobeat culture, giving expats a strong sense of place.
- Why expats love it: Stable politics, friendly locals, Afrobeat culture
- Urban perks: Cafes, art galleries, beach clubs
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Challenges: Rising rent in popular areas
Kigali, Rwanda
Kigali is one of the cleanest and safest cities in Africa. It is the capital of Rwanda and has gained attention for its order, digital services, and urban planning. Kigali is especially popular among professionals in development, sustainability, and tech. The government has invested in making the city environmentally friendly, efficient, and welcoming to foreign talent.
- Why expats love it: Clean, safe, tech-friendly, green policies
- Urban perks: Orderly growth, serene atmosphere
- Cost of living: Low to moderate
- Challenges: Limited nightlife, bureaucracy
Cairo, Egypt
Cairo is the largest urban center in North Africa and a place where ancient history meets modern business. Expats working in education, journalism, or development find it rich in culture and surprisingly affordable. The city is full of museums, riverside cafes, and historical treasures, while also offering access to affordable housing and public transport.
- Why expats love it: Affordable, cultural depth, business options
- Urban perks: Nile views, heritage sites, lively streets
- Cost of living: Low
- Challenges: Pollution, heavy traffic
Port Louis, Mauritius
Port Louis is the capital of Mauritius and a strategic business hub in the Indian Ocean. It is known for its low taxes, safety, and a high quality of life. The city’s European, African, and Indian influences create a unique cultural mix. For expats in finance, IT, or tourism, Port Louis offers a clean, efficient, and scenic place to live and work.
- Why expats love it: Tax-friendly, safe, tropical lifestyle
- Urban perks: Colonial architecture, safe streets, professional vibe
- Cost of living: High
- Challenges: Limited local job market
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Addis Ababa is the diplomatic capital of Africa, hosting the African Union and multiple embassies. The city is also a transport and logistics hub, anchored by Ethiopian Airlines. Expats are often drawn to Addis for careers in international development, aviation, and global affairs. It is still growing and modernizing but has a strong cultural identity and deep local pride.
- Why expats love it: Diplomatic hub, growing economy, airline access
- Urban perks: Embassies, aviation HQ, museums
- Cost of living: Low
- Challenges: Urban planning, air quality
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
Dar es Salaam is Tanzania’s biggest city and a fast-emerging center for shipping, tourism, and construction. While Dodoma is the official capital, Dar remains the economic heart. Expats love the relaxed coastal vibe, tropical climate, and access to Zanzibar. It is a city of growth that offers lifestyle value for professionals and remote workers.
- Why expats love it: Coastal life, affordability, tourism potential
- Urban perks: Oceanside homes, Zanzibar proximity
- Cost of living: Moderate
- Challenges: Business setup limitations
Stone Town, Zanzibar
Stone Town is a historic city on the island of Zanzibar. With its Swahili architecture, spice markets, and peaceful pace, it is ideal for creatives, remote workers, and anyone seeking island life. The city is not ideal for corporate careers, but for those in tourism or online work, it is one of the most charming destinations in Africa.
- Why expats love it: Historic charm, beachside creativity, slow living
- Urban perks: Swahili culture, white alleys, ocean breeze
- Cost of living: Low
- Challenges: Limited infrastructure
Conclusions
To summarize, the African continent offers a growing number of urban centers where expats can find opportunity, comfort, and cultural richness. Choosing the right city depends on your priorities whether it’s affordability, safety, career opportunities, or climate.
| City | Country | Why expats love it | Cost of living | Challenges |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cape Town | South Africa | Scenery, healthcare, multicultural vibe | Moderate to high | Safety in certain districts |
| Nairobi | Kenya | Expat network, English-speaking, safari access | Moderate | Traffic and urban sprawl |
| Lagos | Nigeria | Entertainment, fintech, English fluency | High | Infrastructure strain, high costs |
| Accra | Ghana | Stable politics, friendly locals, Afrobeat culture | Moderate | Rising rent in popular areas |
| Kigali | Rwanda | Clean, safe, tech-friendly, green policies | Low to moderate | Limited nightlife, bureaucracy |
| Cairo | Egypt | Affordable, cultural depth, business options | Low | Pollution, heavy traffic |
| Port Louis | Mauritius | Tax-friendly, safe, tropical lifestyle | High | Limited local job market |
| Addis Ababa | Ethiopia | Diplomatic hub, growing economy, airline access | Low | Urban planning, air quality |
| Dar es Salaam | Tanzania | Coastal life, affordability, tourism potential | Moderate | Business setup limitations |
| Stone Town | Tanzania (Zanzibar) | Historic charm, beachside creativity, slow living | Low | Limited infrastructure |
