Major Cities & Regions
Dakar - Capital city, business center, Atlantic port, cosmopolitan lifestyle Best for: Business, international community, cultural life, coastal living
Saint-Louis - Former capital, UNESCO site, cultural center, colonial charm Best for: Cultural immersion, historical interest, relaxed lifestyle
Thiès - Industrial center, railway hub, crafts and agriculture Best for: Manufacturing, agriculture, traditional crafts
Kaolack - Commercial center, groundnut trading, river port Best for: Agriculture, trade, traditional Senegalese culture
Ziguinchor - Southern capital, tropical climate, Casamance region Best for: Agriculture, tropical lifestyle, cultural diversity
Cost of Living (Monthly) - 1-bedroom apartment (Dakar): $300-600 - 3-bedroom house with yard: $600-1,200 - Local meals: $2-5 | Restaurant meals: $8-15 - Transportation: $40-80 | Utilities: $60-120 - French school: $2,000-6,000/year - Domestic help: $60-120/month
Practical Information - Currency: West African CFA Franc (XOF) - Languages: French (official), Wolof, Pulaar, Serer - Climate: Tropical, wet and dry seasons - Time Zone: GMT (same as London) - Electricity: 230V, European-style plugs - Internet: Good in Dakar, expanding to rural areas