Siliana, Tunisia

Siliana sits in northern Tunisia at 389 meters above sea level, a small city of 31 thousand people in a region defined by a semi-arid continental climate. Summers from June through August are hot and dry, winters from December through February are mild, and rainfall is low, concentrated in autumn and spring. The temperature swings between seasons are significant, so packing for both heat and chill matters. The city keeps time on Africa/Tunis. Expats who settle here tend to choose the city center for its proximity to daily needs, though the community is small and the pace is unhurried.

Monthly costs are modest by most standards. Utilities run about $45/mo, internet about $15/mo, and a mobile phone plan about $9/mo. An inexpensive restaurant meal costs around $3 per person, while a mid-range three-course meal for two comes to roughly $17. A cappuccino at a restaurant is about $1. Against those figures, the average monthly net salary locally is $450/mo, and a one-bedroom apartment in the city center rents for an estimated $242/mo. The gap between local wages and imported incomes is wide, which shapes who can live comfortably and who cannot. Internet speeds average 8 Mbps, so heavy remote work demands patience.

Safety sits at a middle ground, with a safety index of 50/100 and a crime index of 50/100, where a lower crime figure would mean safer conditions. Air quality is a concern at 68 on the index, where lower is better. Healthcare quality is rated fair, which means routine care is available but complex or specialized treatment may require travel to larger cities. Expats with ongoing medical needs should plan accordingly and keep contingencies in mind.

The Temporary Residence Permit, known as the Carte de séjour, is the route for retirees and longer stays. The nearest airport is TUN, 127 km away, so arrivals involve a road transfer after landing. Overall scores place Siliana at 47/100 for expats, 49/100 for retirees, and 37/100 for digital nomads. English proficiency is limited, so basic French or Arabic helps enormously. This city suits budget-conscious retirees and those seeking a quiet, low-cost base rather than fast connectivity or a large international community.