Best fit: FIRE / Geoarbitrage (score: 66)
Maun sits at 945 meters above sea level in northern Botswana, a semi-arid subtropical town where the dry season brings mild winters with lows around 4°C and the hot months from September to April can peak at 41°C. The brief rainy season runs from November to March, but humidity stays low year-round. Expats tend to cluster in the Matlapana neighborhood, a medium-sized community that offers a practical base near the town's amenities and the gateway to the Okavango Delta.
Living here is relatively affordable, with a cost of living index of 46 out of 100 compared to New York City. A single person's monthly expenses excluding rent come to about $600, while a family of four spends around $2,100 excluding rent. Rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city centre runs $450 per month, dropping to $320 outside the centre. A three-bedroom in the centre costs $850, while outside the centre it is $600. For a single adult, the budget tier totals $1,050 per month including rent, the mid-range tier $1,500, and the comfortable tier $2,200.
Safety is moderate, with a safety index of 60 and a crime index of 40, indicating a relatively stable environment compared to many urban areas. Healthcare quality, however, is rated as poor, so expats with serious medical needs should plan for evacuation or travel to larger cities. The air quality index is 45, which is generally acceptable, and the average internet speed is 10 Mbps, which may be limiting for heavy remote work.
For those considering a longer stay, Botswana offers a Residence Permit for Retired Persons, which is the retirement visa program available. The nearest airport is MUB, just 2 kilometers from town, making access straightforward. Maun suits budget-conscious expats and retirees who prioritize low living costs and a quiet, nature-oriented lifestyle, though the limited healthcare and modest digital infrastructure mean it is not ideal for those requiring advanced medical care or high-speed connectivity. The overall expat score is 66, with a FIRE score of 68, but retiree and digital nomad scores are lower at 45 and 48, respectively, reflecting the trade-offs.
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A category breakdown is not available for Maun yet. We publish a breakdown only when every category can be priced from local data, rather than showing figures we cannot stand behind.
Still needed for a full breakdown: grocery prices, restaurant prices and utility bills.
A 1BR in the center runs about $450/mo. If your income is in another currency, bank FX fees add up. A multi-currency account can cut that cost.
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Maun is relatively safe for expats compared to many African cities, with a moderate safety profile suitable for remote workers and retirees. Petty theft and burglary are the primary concerns, particularly in less-developed areas and after dark. Violent crime against foreigners is uncommon but not unheard of. Avoid displaying wealth, walking alone at night, and the informal settlements on the city's periphery. The main business and expat districts are generally secure. Botswana's stable political environment and professional police presence add to the overall security picture, making Maun a reasonable choice for cautious expats willing to exercise standard urban precautions.
Maun has a safety index of 60/100. Petty theft and lost belongings are the most common problems for newcomers. Compare travel insurance before you go.
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Maun has a semi-arid subtropical climate with hot, dry summers (September-April, peaks at 41°C) and mild winters (May-August, lows around 4°C), featuring low humidity year-round and a brief rainy season from November to March.
A gateway to the Okavango Delta with few remote working facilities.
| Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| The Workshop Maun | Located in the heart of Maun, The Workshop offers a modern and comfortable workspace with reliable internet, air conditioning, and printing facilities. It's a popular spot for both locals and expats, fostering a collaborative community. |
| Maun Lodge Conference Centre | While primarily a conference center, Maun Lodge offers flexible workspace options with access to their amenities, including reliable Wi-Fi and catering services. Its location near the Thamalakane River provides a tranquil working environment. |
| Thamalakane River Lodge | Thamalakane River Lodge offers a relaxed atmosphere with outdoor workspaces and reliable internet. It's a great option for those who prefer a more natural setting and enjoy working near the river. |
Names, locations and hours can change. Check each space's website before you visit. Places from © OpenStreetMap contributors and Foursquare Open Source Places (Apache 2.0).
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Gateway to the Okavango Delta. High expat presence in the safari and aviation industries.
Areas of Maun that expats often consider.
Conditions can change from one block to the next, and these descriptions are general guides, not safety assessments. Before choosing where to stay or live, check current travel advisories, talk to people who live there, and visit in person if you can.
Central, bustling, mixed residential
Sedie Ward is centrally located, offering a mix of residential and commercial properties. It's relatively walkable and has good access to shops and services, making it popular with both locals and expats. However, it can be noisy due to its central location and traffic.
Convenient, transient, developing
Close to the airport, this area is convenient for frequent travelers. It's seeing new development, including guesthouses and lodges catering to tourists and business travelers. While convenient, it lacks the charm of more established residential areas and can be pricier due to tourism.
Residential, quiet, family-oriented
Matlapana is a more residential area located a bit further from the town center. It's quieter and more affordable, making it popular with families. Public transport is available, but owning a car is recommended. It's less expat-focused, so some Setswana language skills would be helpful.
Upmarket, spacious, residential
Boseja is considered one of the more upscale residential areas in Maun. Properties tend to be larger with more land. It's relatively quiet and safe, attracting wealthier residents and some expats. A car is essential due to the distances.
With a 1-bedroom in the center at $450/mo, your FIRE number here might be much lower than you think.
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