MONTHLY COST Of Living In TONGA 2023 [Expat Budget Guide]

Cost of living in Tonga 2023 Moving Guide Introduction

Hey Friends! The Cost Of Living In Tonga makes it possible to Live For $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. For a strict Budget vs a Luxury Budget.

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on the cost of living in Tonga in the Oceania Pacific Islands Region!

This article will take you on a journey with Videos, a Table of expenses, and more to explore the costs of living in Tonga, from housing and transportation to food and things to do here.

With our expert analysis and practical insights and personal experience in Tonga, you’ll know what to expect when making the move to this unique Pacific Country.

Whether you’re a digital nomad, Expat, Retiree, or just looking to experience Tonga for a few months, our guide is going to help you make the most of your budget with a range of expenses estimated to cost between $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month.

Tonga is truly a hidden Exotic gem and one of the last unique Exotic destinations in the world in the South Pacific and Oceania region that offers a unique and unforgettable experience for those willing to explore for an extended period of time. If you’re considering a move to Tonga, here are 8 reasons why you should move Here:

Cost of Living In Tonga: Tonga is not as expensive as you might think. While the cost of living in Tonga is higher than in other parts of the world, it is still cheaper than in many major cities worldwide and 2.5 times cheaper than in New York and California. The Average monthly cost of living, including rent, utilities, food, and transportation, ranges from $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. A studio apartment in the city can cost as low as $500 per month, while a one-bedroom apartment can range from $700 to $1,500 per month.
Nature and Outdoors: Tonga is a nature lover’s paradise. The country is home to stunning waterfalls, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches. The clear turquoise waters surrounding the islands are perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving, where you can explore the colorful coral reefs and marine life. If you’re looking for adventure, there are plenty of hiking, kayaking, and even whale watching opportunities.
Rich Culture and History: Tonga has a fascinating culture and history that dates back over a thousand years. The country has a unique Polynesian culture that is still very much alive today. Tonga is famous for its traditional dance, music, and crafts, which you can experience at cultural events and festivals throughout the year. The country is also home to ancient ruins and historic sites that offer a glimpse into its rich past.
Quality of Life: Tonga offers a high quality of life that is hard to find elsewhere. The cost of living is low, and the pace of life is relaxed and unhurried. The people are friendly and welcoming, and the crime rate is very low, making it a safe place to live. The healthcare system is also excellent, with modern hospitals and clinics located throughout the country.
Beautiful Beaches and Islands: Tonga is home to some of the world’s most beautiful beaches and islands. The pristine white sand beaches are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The islands themselves are also worth exploring, with each one offering something unique and different. From the rugged and remote ‘Eua Island to the lush and tropical Vava’u Islands, there is an island for every taste.
Natural Beauty: Tonga is blessed with natural beauty that is hard to rival. The country is home to lush rainforests, dramatic volcanic landscapes, and crystal-clear waters. Tonga is also home to unique flora and fauna, such as the Tongan flying fox, which is found nowhere else in the world. Natural beauty is everywhere, whether exploring the rainforest, snorkeling in the ocean, or just taking a stroll along the beach.
Safe Country: Tonga is one of the safest countries in the world, with a low crime rate and a stable political environment. The locals are friendly and welcoming, and the country is known for its sense of community and family values. Whether you’re walking through the streets or exploring the countryside, you’ll feel safe and secure in Tonga the only things to worry about probably is the street dogs.
Friendly Locals: The people of Tonga are known for their warm hospitality and welcoming nature. They take pride in their culture and are eager to share it with visitors. Whether you’re attending a traditional feast, learning how to dance the tāmū dance, or just chatting with locals at the market, you’ll be welcomed with open arms.

Cost Of Living in Tonga Quick Facts Key Takeaways

Here are some quick facts about the cost of living in Tonga:

Here’s a breakdown of some key expenses: Total Monthly Living Costs in Tonga, Is $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. For all expenses, and if you budget smartly, you can expect to spend $2000 to $3500 per month for all expenses.
Tonga, is 3.2 times cheaper than New York City, United States.
Living well in Tonga is possible with a monthly income of around $2000.
The monthly rent, food budget, housing expenses, and transportation options in Tonga are determined by your budget.
To maintain the same standard of life as $10,000 in New York City, an estimated $4,400 is needed in Tonga.
On average, the cost of living in Tonga, is 65% lower than in New York City, United States.
On average, rent in Tonga is 65% cheaper than in New York City, New York, USA.
The costs of rent in Tonga range from $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. Depending on your budget.
A budget food and grocery plan in Tonga will cost around $240 – $1000 per month, depending on location and budget.
An estimated monthly cost for a family of four in Tonga is $3050.
An estimated monthly cost for a single person in Tonga is $1000 – 3,000.
Transportation costs in Tonga are estimated to be $20 – $700 per month.
The average monthly cost of living in Tonga for local natives with a good job is around $850 and for some under $800. Expats and digital nomads may spend more, $1200 – $3100 per month, to maintain their living standards in Tonga. We spent around $1,110 – $2,240 (TOP 2300 – TOP 5300) monthly on all expenses for example.

Our Personal Costs of Living in Tonga: Table of expenses Breakdown 2023

This Is a table of expenses of what we personally spent living as digital nomads every month in Tonga. Sometimes, we spent less or more.

Here’s a breakdown of our monthly cost of living in Tonga:

Our Monthly Cost of Rent and accommodation: We pay between $500 – $1000 per month (TOP 1100 – TOP 2300) for our apartment.
Our Monthly Cost of Utilities: Our monthly cost for electricity and water usually ranges between $100 – $200 (TOP 220 – TOP 440).
Our Monthly Cost of Gym membership: We spend around $20 – $50 (TOP 44 – TOP 110) per month on gym membership.
Our Monthly Cost of Food and Groceries: Our monthly cost for food and groceries is usually around $300 – $600 (TOP 660 – TOP 1300).
Our Monthly Cost of Transportation: Our monthly cost for transportation is between $40 – $200 (TOP 100 – TOP 440), depending on how much we use public transport, taxis, or rent a car or scooter.
Our Monthly Cost of Activities and entertainment: We usually spend around $100 – $200 (TOP 220 – TOP 440) per month on leisure activities such as going out to eat, attending events, or other entertainment options.
Our Monthly Cost of Health insurance: We pay around $50 – $200 (TOP 110 – TOP 440) per month for health insurance.

In total, our monthly cost of living in Tonga usually ranges between $1,110 – $2,240 (TOP 2300 – TOP 5300), depending on our lifestyle choices and expenses.

Here is a table of Expenses for what we personally spent in Tonga:

Our Monthly Cost of Living In Tonga	Cost (USD)	Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Our Monthly Cost of Rent and Accommodation	$500 – $1,000	TOP 1,100 – TOP 2,300
Our Monthly Cost of Utilities	$100 – $200	TOP 220 – TOP 440
Our Gym Cost per month in Tonga	$20 – $50	TOP 44 – TOP 110
Our Monthly Cost of Food and Groceries	$300 – $600	TOP 660 – TOP 1,300
Our Monthly Cost of Transportation	$40 – $200	TOP 100 – TOP 440
Our Monthly Cost of Activities, Leisure, Entertainment	$100 – $200	TOP 220 – TOP 440
Our Monthly Cost of Health Insurance	$50 – $200	TOP 110 – TOP 440
Our Monthly Cost of Living in Tonga total expenses	$1,110 – $2,240	TOP 2,300 – TOP 5,300

Monthly Cost of Living in Tonga Summary Cost Of Rent, Groceries, Transportation, Healthcare: $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month

You can live in Tonga, for around $880 a month for all expenses on a tight budget or $3,950 a month if you want to live much more luxuriously. The Cost of living in Tonga is from $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month.

You can still maintain a monthly budget and enjoy all the beautiful things Tonga, offers.

Here is a breakdown of the costs:

Rent: The cost of renting a studio apartment in Tonga ranges from $300 to $500 per month, or TOP 660 to TOP 1,100. A 1 bedroom apartment costs $500 to $1,000 per month, or TOP 1,100 to TOP 2,200. A 2 bedroom apartment costs $1,000 to $1,500 monthly, or TOP 2,200 to 3,300. And for a 3 bedroom apartment costs $1,500 to $2,500 per month, or TOP 3,300 to TOP 5,500.
Utilities: The cost of electricity and water is relatively affordable in Tonga, ranging from $100 to $200 per month, or TOP 220 to TOP 440.
Mobile Phone: A mobile phone plan with unlimited data and a sim card costs $20 to $50 per month, or TOP 44 to TOP 110.
Internet: A wifi connection costs $50 to $100 per month, or TOP 110 to TOP 220.
Food: The cost of groceries, dining out, partying, and nightlife varies widely depending on your preferences, but can range from $300 to $600 per month, or TOP 660 to TOP 1,200.
Transportation: Public transport, taxis, and renting a scooter or car are all options for getting around Tonga. Costs for transportation can range from $40 to $400 per month, or TOP 108 to TOP 1,000.
Healthy Activities: Costs for gym memberships, martial arts classes, yoga classes, and massages vary, but can range from $20 to $100 per month, or TOP 54 to TOP 440.
Health Insurance: SafetyWing, World Nomads, or Medicare are options for health insurance in Tonga. Costs range from $50 to $200 monthly, or TOP 100 to 440.

In summary, the total monthly cost of living in Tonga can range from $880 to $3,950 per month, or TOP 2,000 to TOP 8,030. Keep in mind that these costs can vary depending on your lifestyle and preferences, but this table provides a good estimate of the average costs for basic necessities in Tonga.

A great monthly budget for a single person living in Tonga, is around $2000 to $3000 monthly. You can also do it for cheaper.

The costs of living in Tonga, Depending on various factors and spending habits, the price may change. Others spend $5300 or more each month for an extravagant, next-level lifestyle or even $1400 on the strictest budget staying in hostels, couchsurfing, and smaller studio apartments, ensuring they make it work no matter what!

Expect to spend $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. for a single person or a family living in Tonga. $2000 per Month is sufficient to live on.
Local Tonga markets, Local Food trucks, Local food shops, and supermarkets are the most cost-effective and knowledgeable ways to shop and eat in Tonga!

Here is a table of expenses for a couple living in Tonga per month:

Average Cost of Living In Tonga	Cost in USD	Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Rent (Studio apartment)	$300 – $500	TOP 660 – TOP 1,100
Rent (1 bedroom apartment)	$500 – $1,000	TOP 1,100 – TOP 2,200
Rent (2 bedroom apartment)	$1,000 – $1,500	TOP 2,200 – TOP 3,300
Rent (3 bedroom apartment)	$1,500 – $2,500	TOP 3,300 – TOP 5,500
Utilities (electricity, water)	$100 – $200	TOP 220 – TOP 440
Mobile phone (unlimited data plan, Sim Card)	$20 – $50	TOP 44 – TOP 110
Internet (wifi)	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220
Food (groceries, dining out, Partying, nightlife)	$300 – $600	TOP 660 – TOP 1,200
Transportation (Public transport, Taxi, Scooter, car)	$40 – $400	TOP 108 – TOP 1,000
Healthy activities (gym, martial arts, yoga, massages)	$20 – $100	TOP 54 – TOP 440
Health insurance (SafetyWing, World Nomads, or Medicare)	$50 – $200	TOP 100 – TOP 440
Cost of Living In Tonga Per Month Total Expenses	$880 – $3,950	TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030

Cost of Living in Tonga: Table of Expenses in 2023

This table of expenses will help you plan your budget for your move to Tonga.

The Cost of living table below An extensive poll of Digital Nomads, Expats, travelers, our personal experience living Here, Locals, and Numbeo users were used to put this together.

The Exchange Rate is $1 USD is Currently equal to 2.3 Tongan Pa’anga Currency TOP This estimate is based on a Strict Budget Vs. A luxury Budget in Tonga per Month! The Cost Of Living Per Month In Tonga, is $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month or more, depending on your spending habits! Check out the Currency Converter.

Here is the Table of the monthly budget for two people living in Tonga:

Cost of Living in Tonga per person	Cost in USD	Cost in Tongan Pa’anga
Cost of living for a single person in Tonga	$700 – $2,000	TOP 1,320 – TOP 4,200
Cost of living for a couple in Tonga	$1,200 – $2,500	TOP 2,640 – TOP 5,100
Cost of living for a family of four in Tonga	$2,400 – $4,000	TOP 5,280 – TOP 8,800

Average Monthly Expenses in Tonga	Cost in USD	Cost in TOP
Average monthly rent for a studio	$500 – $1,200	TOP 1,200 – 2,400
Average monthly cost for food and groceries	$200 – $400	TOP 440 – 880
Average monthly cost for dining out	$100 – $200	TOP 220 – 440
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous items	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – 220
Average monthly cost for utilities	$100 – $150	TOP 220 – 330
Average monthly cost for transportation	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – 220
Total average monthly cost of living in Tonga	$750 – $2,150	TOP 1,430 – 4,400

Cost of Living in Tonga Expenses	Cost (Monthly) in USD	Cost (Monthly) In Tongan Pa’anga
Cost of Rent and Accommodation in Tonga	$350 – $1750	TOP 770 – TOP 40,00
Cost of Food and Groceries in Tonga	$250 – $600	TOP 550 – TOP 1300
Cost of Utilities in Tonga	$70 – $150	TOP 155 – TOP 330
Cost of Public Transportation in Tonga	$20 – $30	TOP 44 – TOP 66
Cost of Private Transportation in Tonga	$200 – $400	TOP 440 – TOP 880
Cost of Healthcare in Tonga	$30 – $150	TOP 66 – TOP 330
Cost of Entertainment in Tonga	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220
Cost of Clothing and Personal Items in Tonga	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220
Cost of Activities and Excursions in Tonga	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220

Cost of Rent In Tonga In-Depth Summary And Table of Expenses

The cost of accommodation in Tonga is essential for many expats, retirees, digital nomads, and locals. It can vary depending on the apartment type and location you are looking for.

The cost of studio and one-bedroom apartments in Tonga:

For studios located in the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $400 to $1000 USD or TOP 800 to TOP 2000 Tongan Pa’anga.
For studios located outside the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $200 to $800 USD or TOP 400 to TOP 1600 Tongan Pa’anga.
For 1 bedroom apartments located in the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $600 to $2,200 USD or TOP 1,200 to TOP 4,400 Tongan Pa’anga.
For 1 bedroom apartments outside the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $400 to $800 USD or TOP 800 to 1,600 Tongan Pa’anga.

Cost of an Apartment in Tonga	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (Tongan Pa’anga)
Cost of a Studio in the city of Tonga	City	$400 – $1000	TOP 800 – TOP 2000
Cost of a Studio outside the city in Tonga	Outside City	$200 – $800	TOP 400 – TOP 1600
Cost of a 1 bedroom in the city in Tonga	City	$600 – $2,200	TOP 1,200 – TOP 4,400
Cost of a 1 bedroom outside the city in Tonga	Outside City	$400 – $800	TOP 800 – TOP 1,600

The Cost of 2 Bedroom Apartment in Tonga:

For 2 bedroom apartments located in the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $800 to $2,500 USD or TOP 1,600 to TOP 5,000 Tongan Pa’anga.
For 2 bedroom apartments located outside the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $500 to $2,000 USD or TOP 1,000 to TOP 4,000 Tongan Pa’anga.

Cost of a 2 bedroom Apartment in Tonga	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (Tongan Pa’anga)
Cost of a 2 bedroom in the city of Tonga	City	$800 – $2,500	TOP 1,600 – TOP 5,000
Cost of a 2 bedroom outside the city of Tonga	Outside City	$500 – $2000	TOP 1,000 – TOP 4,000

The Cost of a 3 bedroom apartment in Tonga:

For 3 bedroom apartments located in the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $900 to $3,000 USD or TOP 2,000 to TOP 6,000 Tongan Pa’anga.
For 3 bedroom apartments located outside the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $800 to $2,500 USD or TOP 1,600 to TOP 5,000 Tongan Pa’anga.

Cost of a 3 bedroom Apartment in Tonga	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (Tongan Pa’anga)
Cost of a 3 bedroom in the city of Tonga	City	$900 – $3,000	TOP 2,000 – 6,000
Cost of a 3 bedroom outside the city of Tonga	Outside City	$800 – $2,500	TOP 1,600 – 5,000

The Cost of a Luxury Apartment in Tonga per month:

For luxury apartments located in the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $2,000 to $5,000 USD or TOP 4,000 to TOP 10,000 Tongan Pa’anga.
For luxury apartments located outside the city, the average monthly cost ranges from $1,500 to $4,500 USD or TOP 3,000 to TOP 9,000 Tongan Pa’anga.

Cost of a Luxury Apartment in Tonga	Location	Average Cost per Month (USD)	Average Cost per Month (Tongan Pa’anga)
Cost of a Luxury apartment in the city	City	$2,000 – $5,000	TOP 4,000 – TOP 10,000
Cost of a Luxury apartment outside the city	Outside City	$1,500 – $4,500	TOP 3,000 – TOP 9,000

Suppose you’re considering renting an apartment in Tonga. In that case, your best bet is to opt for a monthly rental in person, via Facebook Marketplace, Real estate Tonga rental group on Facebook, Booking.com, and Airbnb.

To save money on your rental and daily expenses, consider looking for an apartment located in a neighborhood with access to local markets, gyms, and restaurants and short walking distances and safe areas.
You can also join Facebook groups such as “Digital Nomads in Tonga” or “Expats in Tonga” and Tonga rental groups on Facebook to connect with others and potentially find affordable rental options.
Alternatively, consider staying at a Hostel, Airbnb, hotel monthly, homestay, guesthouse, or bed and breakfast in Tonga for more affordable rates rather than a costly hotel or tourist location.

Monthly Rent in Tonga: Table of Expenses in 2023

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of rent and Accommodation in Tonga per month:

Cost of Rent in Tonga	Cost per Month (USD)	Cost per Month (Tongan Pa’anga)
Studio Apartment	$300 – $1000	625 – 2,250 TOP
1 Bedroom Apartment	$400 – $1,500	830 – 3,125 TOP
2 Bedroom Apartment	$800 – $1,500	1,660 – 3,125 TOP
3 Bedroom Apartment	$1,200 – $2,500	2,500 – 5,210 TOP
Luxury Apartment	$2,500 – $5,000	5,210 – 10,420 TOP

Average Monthly Rent Expense in Tonga	Average Monthly Rent in USD	Average Monthly Rent in Tongan Pa’anga
Average monthly rent for a studio	$250 – $1,000	500 – 2,000 TOP
Average monthly rent for a 1 bedroom	$400 – $1,400	800 – 2,800 TOP
Average monthly rent for a 2 bedrooms	$700 – $2,200	1,400 – 4,400 TOP
Average monthly rent for a 3 bedrooms	$1,200 – $3,000	2,400 – 6,000 TOP

Here is a table of estimated costs for rent and accommodation in Tonga:

Accommodation Type in Tonga	Average Monthly Cost in USD	Average Monthly Cost in Tongan Pa’anga
Price of a 1 bedroom apartment in city center	$500 – $1000	TOP 1100 – TOP 2200
Price of a 1 bedroom apartment outside city center	$300 – $700	TOP 660 – TOP 1540
Price of a studio apartment in city center	$400 – $800	TOP 880 – TOP 1760
Price of a studio apartment outside city center	$250 – $600	TOP 550 – TOP 1320
Price of a shared room in city center	$150 – $350	TOP 330 – TOP 770
Price of a shared room outside city center	$100 – $300	TOP 220 – TOP 660
Price of a hotel room (3-star)	$20 – $200	TOP 40 – TOP 440
Price of a hotel room (5-star)	$250 – $450	TOP 550 – TOP 990
Price of a 2 bedroom apartment in city center	$800 – $1500	TOP 1760 – TOP 3300
Price of a 2 bedroom apartment outside city center	$500 – $1000	TOP 1100 – TOP 2200
Price of a 3 bedroom apartment in city center	$1500 – $2500	TOP 3300 – TOP 5500
Price of a 3 bedroom apartment outside city center	$1000 – $2000	TOP 2200 – TOP 4400

Housing Accommodation Type	Price Range per day (USD)	Price Range (Tongan Pa’anga)
Hostel	$10 – $20	TOP 22 – TOP 44
Budget Hotel	$40 – $60	TOP 88 – TOP 132
Mid-range Hotel	$70 – $150	TOP 154 – TOP 330
Luxury Hotel	$200 – $500	TOP 440 – TOP 1,100
Vacation Rental	$50 – $250	TOP 110 – TOP 550
Guest House	$30 – $80	TOP 66 – TOP 176
Bed & Breakfast	$40 – $120	TOP 88 – TOP 264

Living in Tonga Credible Reliable Sources

Here is a list of Government resources for Visas, Cost of living in Tonga, Tourism Boards, and more to help you with your potential move here! I hope this helps you all as you plan your move here!

Here is a site to find Apartment rentals on Tonga Facebook Rental group and Tonga Expat Facebook Group
Tonga Facebook Group: Tonga Expat Facebook group to connect with other expats and locals.
Tonga Tourism Site: Tonga Tourism Board and Government Department of tourism in Tonga
Tonga Data from the World Bank and World Data and Tonga Travel Data
Tonga Embassy for more information like Visas and more from Tonga Embassy

Cost Of Transportation In Tonga Summary and Table of expenses

The average cost a traveler spends a day on transportation while in Tonga, is $5 to $30 a day USD or $30 – $700 per month depending on if you use transport by Bus, ferries, have your own scooter, or rent a car or ATV four wheeler.

Here are different methods of public transport you can do in Tonga:

Bus (Local): The cost of taking a local bus in Tonga ranges from $0.25 to $0.50 per trip, equivalent to TOP 0.50 to TOP 1.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Bus (Long-Distance): For longer trips, the cost of taking a bus in Tonga is between $1.50 to $3.00 per trip, or TOP 3.00 to TOP 6.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Taxi (City): Taxis are available in Tongan cities and the cost for a trip ranges from $2.00 to $4.00, or TOP 4.00 to TOP 8.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Taxi (Long-Distance): For longer trips outside the city, the cost of taking a taxi in Tonga ranges from $3.00 to $6.00 per trip, or TOP 6.00 to TOP 12.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Rental Car (Compact): If you prefer to rent a car, the cost of renting a compact car in Tonga ranges from $20.00 to $40.00 per day or $300 – $500 per month, which is equivalent to TOP 40.00 to TOP 80.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Rental Car (Luxury): For luxury car rentals, the cost in Tonga ranges from $50.00 to $100.00 per day or $500 – $1000 per month, or TOP 100.00 – TOP 200.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Bicycle: If you prefer to bike around Tonga, you can rent a bicycle for free to $2.00 per day, which is equivalent to TOP 0 to TOP 4.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Scooter: For those who prefer to rent a scooter, the cost is between $10.00 to $20.00 per day or $100 – $200 per month, which is equivalent to TOP 20.00 to TOP 40.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Four Wheeler, Quad Bike: Renting a four-wheeler or quad bike in Tonga is between $20.00 to $40.00 per day or $200 – $300 per month, equivalent to TOP 40.00 to TOP 80.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Ferry (Inter-Island): If you need to travel between the islands, the cost of taking a ferry in Tonga ranges from $10.00 to $40.00 per trip, or TOP 20.00 to TOP 80.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.
Domestic Flight: Finally, if you need to fly domestically in Tonga, the cost is between $60.00 to $120.00 per trip, or TOP 120.00 to TOP 240.00 in Tongan Pa’anga.

Here is a detailed table of estimated costs for public transportation in Tonga:

Transportation Option in Tonga	Average Monthly and per Trip Cost (USD)	Average Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Bus (Local)	$0.25 – $0.50	TOP 0.50 – TOP 1.00
Bus (Long-Distance)	$1.50 – $3.00	TOP 3.00 – TOP 6.00
Taxi (City)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.00 – TOP 8.00
Taxi (Long-Distance)	$3.00 – $6.00	TOP 6.00 – TOP 12.00
Rental Car (Compact)	$20.00 – $40.00 or $300 – $500 per month	TOP 40.00 – TOP 80.00
Rental Car (Luxury)	$50.00 – $100.00 or $500 – $1000 per month	TOP 100.00 – TOP 200.00
Bicycle	$0 – $2.00	TOP 0 – TOP 4.00
Scooter	$10.00 – $20.00 or $100 – $200 per month	TOP 20.00 – TOP 40.00
Four Wheeler, Quad Bike	$20.00 – $40.00 or $200 – $300 per month	TOP 40.00 – TOP 80.00
Ferry (Inter-Island)	$10.00 – $40.00	TOP 20.00 – TOP 80.00
Domestic Flight	$60.00 – $120.00	TOP 120.00 – TOP 240.00

Additionally, here are some other related expenses:

Gasoline (1 gallon): around $4 – $7 per gallon.

Monthly Cost Of Gas and Petrol For Scooter in Tonga	Cost in USD	Cost In Tongan Pa’anga
Average monthly cost for gasoline, Petrol for scooter	$30 – $110	TOP 60 – 120 TOP

Ultimately, we recommend renting a Scooter This will give you the best experience, and you can explore Tonga this way.

Cost of Food and Markets In Tonga Explained: Table Of Expenses 2023

The average cost of food per day in Tonga is about $7 to $30 per day or $240 to $800 per month.

Another great option is to shop at the local markets for affordable fresh food and cook meals at home.

But if you eat at local food stalls and supermarkets around your area, you’re looking to spend around $240 or more on food per Month.

The average monthly cost of food in Tonga is as follows:

Local food: The average monthly cost of local food in Tonga ranges from $150 to $300 USD, which is equivalent to TOP 330 to TOP 660. This includes dishes made with local ingredients, such as fish, taro, and yams, that you can find at local restaurants or markets.
Mid-range restaurants: If you prefer to eat out, you can expect to spend between $10 and $20 per meal at mid-range restaurants, which is equal to TOP 22 to TOP 44 per meal. These restaurants typically serve Western-style dishes with some local options.
Fine dining restaurants: For a fancier dining experience, you can try one of the fine dining restaurants in Tonga. The average cost per meal at these restaurants ranges from $30 to $50 USD or TOP 66 to TOP 110. These restaurants offer a more sophisticated atmosphere and menu, often featuring international cuisine.
Groceries: If you plan to cook your own meals, the average monthly cost of groceries in Tonga ranges from $200 to $600 USD or TOP 440 to TOP 1200. The cost can vary depending on whether you choose to purchase local or imported products.
Supermarkets (imported goods): If you prefer to shop at supermarkets for imported goods, you can expect to spend between $10 and $50 USD or TOP 20 to TOP 100 per trip. These supermarkets offer a variety of imported products, such as canned food, cereal, and snacks.
Street food: For a quick and cheap meal, you can try some of the local street food options, which cost between $2 to $10 per meal or TOP 4 to TOP 22. These meals typically include local favorites, such as grilled meat skewers, fried breadfruit, and coconut pancakes.
Specialty food stores: If you’re looking for a specific ingredient or want to indulge in some gourmet food items, you can visit a specialty food store. The average cost per item in these stores ranges from $15 to $30 USD or TOP 33 to TOP 66.

Overall, the monthly cost of food in Tonga can range from $200 to $1000 USD or TOP 1,100 to TOP 2,200, depending on your preferences and dining habits.

Here is a table of expenses for the Cost of Food in Tonga per month:

Monthly Food Expense	Average Monthly Cost (USD)	Average Monthly Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Local food	$150 – $300	TOP 330 – TOP 660
Mid-range restaurants	$10 – $20 per meal	TOP 22 – TOP 44 per meal
Fine dining restaurants	$30 – $50 per meal	TOP 66 – TOP 110 per meal
Groceries	$200 – $600	TOP 440 – TOP 1200
Supermarkets (imported goods)	$10 – $50	TOP 20 – TOP 100
Street food	$2 – $10 per meal	TOP 4 – TOP 22 per meal
Specialty food stores	$15 – $30 per item	TOP 33 – TOP 66 per item
Overall Monthly Cost of Food	$200 – $1000	TOP 1,100 – TOP 2,200

Average Monthly Food Costs in Tonga	Cost in USD	Cost in Tongan Pa’anga
Local Food Markets, Street food and Local Supermarkets and cheaper dining options	$200 – $700	400 – 1,400 TOP
Eating out at Mid range restaurants and expensive restaurants per month (No Budget)	$600 – $1,000	1200 – 2,000 TOP

Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly food and grocery costs in Tonga:

Monthly Food Expenses in Tonga	Cost in USD	Cost in Tongan Pa’anga
Average monthly cost for groceries	$200 – $300	TOP 440 – TOP 660
Average monthly cost for dining out	$150 – $250	TOP 330 – TOP 550
Average monthly cost for miscellaneous food items	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220
Total average monthly cost for food in Tonga	$400 – $650	TOP 880 – TOP 1,430

Here is a table of estimated costs for food and Groceries in supermarkets in Tonga:

Cost Of food and Groceries In a Supermarket	Estimated Cost (USD)	Estimated Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Milk (1 liter)	$2.00 – $3.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 6.60
Bread (500g loaf)	$2.00 – $3.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 6.60
Rice (1kg)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 8.80
Chicken (1kg)	$5.00 – $7.00	TOP 11.00 – TOP 15.40
Apples (1kg)	$3.00 – $5.00	TOP 6.60 – TOP 11.00
Oranges (1kg)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 8.80
Eggs (1 dozen)	$3.00 – $5.00	TOP 6.60 – TOP 11.00
Cheese (1kg)	$10.00 – $15.00	TOP 22.00 – TOP 33.00
Beef (1kg)	$10.00 – $15.00	TOP 22.00 – TOP 33.00
Potatoes (1kg)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 8.80
Tomatoes (1kg)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 8.80
Onion (1kg)	$2.00 – $4.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 8.80
Water (1.5 liter bottle)	$1.00 – $2.00	TOP 2.20 – TOP 4.40
Soft drink (1.5 liter bottle)	$2.00 – $3.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 6.60
Beer (330ml bottle)	$2.00 – $3.00	TOP 4.40 – TOP 6.60
Wine (mid-range bottle)	$10.00 – $15.00	TOP 22.00 – TOP 33.00
Fast food meal	$5.00 – $10.00	TOP 11.00 – TOP 22.00
Restaurant meal (mid-range)	$15.00 – $25.00	TOP 33.00 – TOP 55.00

Here is a table of some popular local food in Tonga:

Local and Traditional Tonga Food	Description	Cost (USD)	Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Lu Sipi	A dish made with taro leaves and cooked with coconut cream and beef, served with cassava or taro root	$5 – 8	TOP 11 – 14
‘Ota ‘ika	A salad made with raw fish marinated in lemon or lime juice, coconut cream, and vegetables like tomatoes, onions, and cucumber	$3 – 5	TOP 6 – 10
Faikakai Topai	A dish made with cassava or taro root, coconut cream, and salted corned beef	$3 – 5	TOP 6 – 10
Feke Tolo	Grilled or boiled octopus, served with taro or cassava	$6 – 10	TOP 12 – 20
Lū Polō	Chicken and taro leaves cooked in coconut cream, served with cassava or taro root	$6 – 8	TOP 12 – 14
‘Umu	A traditional Tongan feast cooked in an underground oven, consisting of various meats, root vegetables, and fruits	$2 – 20	TOP 4 – 40
Lu Pulu	A dish made with taro leaves and cooked with coconut cream and corned beef or lamb, served with cassava or taro root	$5 – $8	TOP 11 – 14
‘Otai	A drink made with coconut milk, watermelon, and sometimes other fruits like pineapple or mango	$2 – $4	TOP 4 – 8
Topai	A flatbread made from cassava or taro root flour, often served with butter or jam	$1 – $2	TOP 2 – 4
‘Ota ika Moli	A variation of ‘ota ‘ika with added slices of ripe mango and onions, marinated in a tangy and sweet dressing	$4 – $6	TOP 8 – 12

Cost of Utilities in Tonga Summary and Table of Expenses 2023

The cost of utilities in Tonga can vary significantly depending on the location and the individual’s energy consumption habits:

Basic electricity/gas: The estimated monthly cost of basic electricity and gas in Tonga ranges from $75 to $120 USD (TOP 165 – TOP 264).
- This includes the cost of powering household appliances and gas for cooking.
Water: The estimated monthly cost of water in Tonga ranges from $20 to $40 USD (TOP 44 – TOP 88).
- This includes the cost of water usage for household activities such as showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry.
Internet (Broadband): The estimated monthly cost of broadband internet in Tonga ranges from $50 to $100 USD (TOP 110 – TOP 220).
- This includes the cost of high-speed internet for browsing, streaming, and working from home.
Mobile phone sim card (Prepaid): The estimated monthly cost of a prepaid mobile phone sim card in Tonga ranges from $5 to $10 USD (TOP 11 – TOP 22).
- This includes the cost of a sim card for making calls and sending texts.
Mobile phone plan (Postpaid): The estimated monthly cost of a postpaid mobile phone plan in Tonga ranges from $30 to $60 USD (TOP 66 – TOP 132).
- This includes the cost of a mobile phone plan with a set amount of call time, texts, and data.
Mobile phone plan (Unlimited data): The estimated monthly cost of a mobile phone plan with unlimited data in Tonga ranges from $60 to $100 USD (TOP 132 – TOP 220).
- This includes the cost of a mobile phone plan with unlimited data for browsing, streaming, and working remotely.

The estimated total monthly cost of utilities in Tonga ranges from $100 to $300 USD (TOP 528 – TOP 946).

Here is an example table of expenses for the average monthly utilities in Tonga:

Monthly Cost of Utilities in Tonga	Estimated Monthly Cost (USD)	Estimated Monthly Cost (Tongan Pa’anga)
Basic electricity/gas	$75 – $120	TOP 165 – TOP 264
Water	$20 – $40	TOP 44 – TOP 88
Internet (Broadband)	$50 – $100	TOP 110 – TOP 220
Mobile phone sim card (Prepaid)	$5 – $10	TOP 11 – TOP 22
Mobile phone plan (Postpaid)	$30 – $60	TOP 66 – TOP 132
Mobile phone plan (Unlimited data)	$60 – $100	TOP 132 – TOP 220
Total Cost of utilities in Tonga	$100 – $300	TOP 528 – TOP 946

Pros and Cons of Living in Tonga: Is it the Right Choice for You?

Living in Tonga: Pros and Cons:

The Kingdom of Tonga is an island nation located in the South Pacific that is known for its Spectacular stunning natural beauty, friendly locals, and laid-back lifestyle. While it may seem like paradise and it is, there are both pros and cons to living in Tonga as with anywhere in the world. In this section we will explore the Pros, advantages and Cons, disadvantages of living in Tonga.

Pros of Living In Tonga:

Natural Beauty in Tonga: Tonga offers breathtaking natural beauty with its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery.
Friendly Locals and Safety in Tonga: Tongans are known for their friendly nature, and the country is considered a safe place to live.
Relaxed Lifestyle in Tonga: Tonga offers a slower, more relaxed pace of life compared to larger cities.
Rich Culture and History in Tonga: Tonga has a rich cultural heritage with unique traditions, art, and music.
Affordable Cost of Living in Tonga: Tonga is an affordable place to live, with a low cost of living compared to other countries.
Amazing Weather and Climate in Tonga: Tonga enjoys a warm, tropical climate with year-round sunshine.

Cons of Living In Tonga:

Far From the Rest Of the World: Tonga is a remote island nation in the South Pacific, which can make travel and communication with the outside world difficult.
Cyclones and Natural Disasters: Tonga is prone to natural disasters, including cyclones and earthquakes.
Limited Infrastructure in Tonga: Tonga has limited infrastructure, including limited internet connectivity, which can make day-to-day life challenging.
Medical Facilities in Tonga: Tonga’s medical facilities are limited, and serious medical emergencies may require evacuation to another country.
Limited Transportation in Tonga: Tonga has limited transportation options, which can make it difficult to travel around the country.
Slower Paced Lifestyle in Tonga: While the relaxed pace of life in Tonga is a pro, it can also be a con for those who are used to a faster pace of life.

Pros and Cons of Living in Tonga Table:

Pros of Living In Tonga	Cons of Living In Tonga
Natural Beauty In Tonga	Far From the Rest Of the World
Friendly Locals and Safety in Tonga	Cyclones and Natural Disasters
Relaxed Lifestyle in Tonga	Limited Infrastructure in Tonga
Rich Culture and History in Tonga	Medical Facilities in Tonga
Affordable Cost of Living in Tonga	Limited Transportation in Tonga
Amazing Weather and Climate in Tonga	Slower paced Lifestyle in Tonga

Leisure, Activities and Things to do in Tonga

The Kingdom of Tonga is a beautiful Country located in the Pacific Ocean, known for its stunning islands and beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique cultural heritage. With over 170 islands to explore, there’s no shortage of things to do in Tonga.

Here are the 18 things to do in Tonga:

Snorkel with Humpback Whales
Swim with Giant Manta Rays
Explore Tongatapu Island
Visit the Royal Palace in Nuku’alofa
See the Mapu’a ‘a Vaea Blowholes
Visit the Ancient Royal Tombs
Go Sea Kayaking
Visit the Ha’amonga ‘a Maui Trilithon
Experience Tongan Culture at the Talamahu Market
Go Sailing
Visit the ‘Anahulu Cave
Take a Whale Watching Tour
Attend a Tongan Feast
Visit the ‘Ene’io Botanical Gardens
Explore the ‘Eua Island
Go Fishing
Visit the Abel Tasman Landing Site.
Explore the deserted islands

Healthcare Costs in Tonga

Medical care in Tonga is average at best, make sure if you need something major done to take a short flight to Australia or New Zealand.

SafetyWing Insurance is an innovative travel insurance solution designed for travelers, digital nomads, and remote workers. Whether you’re on a gap year, working abroad, or traveling for business, SafetyWing offers a comprehensive coverage plan to keep you protected and secure during your journey.

Here are just a few reasons why you should try SafetyWing Insurance for your next trip:

Global Coverage: SafetyWing insurance covers you anywhere in the world, including countries that many other insurance companies exclude.
Affordable: SafetyWing offers affordable insurance options that are more cost-effective than many other travel insurance plans.
Easy to Use: With SafetyWing, you can sign up, manage your policy, and file claims all from the comfort of your phone or computer.
Wide Range of Coverage: SafetyWing offers coverage for a variety of events, including medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost or stolen property, and more.
24/7 Support: SafetyWing provides 24/7 support to its customers, so you can get help when you need it, no matter where you are in the world.

We suggest you also have it, especially if you live as an expat and digital nomad in Tonga. We always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. They start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable!

Click To Visit SafetyWing!

Main FAQS Section About Tonga:

What is the monthly cost of living in Tonga?

The cost of living in Tonga on average, is around $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. This includes rent, food, transportation, and other costs like utilities and phone bills.

What is the Cost Of Living in Tonga Vs USA?

The Cost Of Living in Tonga is around 65% less than living in New York City, USA, and the average monthly Cost of living in Tonga is $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month. in Tonga vs $5500 to $10340 per month living in New York City, United States.

What is the Cost of Accommodation in Tonga?

The Cost of Accommodation in Tonga costs around $400 to $4000 per month. from a simple studio to a Luxury 3+ bedroom Condo

What is the best time of year to visit Tonga?

The best time to visit Tonga is during the dry season from April to October.

How Much does it cost to live in Tonga?

On average, living in Tonga costs around $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month.

What is the Cost of Utilities in Tonga?

The Cost of Utilities in Tonga Cost around $100 to $300 per month, depending on your energy consumption!

What is the Cost of Food in Tonga vs USA?

The Cost Of Food in Tonga is 30% less than in New York, United States. Monthly Food Costs in Tonga is from $240 to $800 per month.

What is the Cost Of Rent in Tonga VS USA?

The Cost of Rent in Tonga is 65% less Than in New York, United States A 1 bedroom apartment in Tonga costs $500 to $2200 per month on average, and 1 bedroom Apartment in New York City, United States, Costs over $2891 per month.

What is the Food Expenses In Tonga?

The Food expenses in Tonga is from $240 to $800 per month. Make sure to eat the local Food, local Food markets and supermarkets to save money.

What is the Rental Expenses In Tonga?

The monthly rent for a 1-bedroom in Tonga is from $500 to $1500.

What is the Expenses for a Single Person in Tonga?

The Expenses for a Single Person in Tonga is from $880 – $3,950 (TOP 2,000 – TOP 8,030) Per Month for all expenses.

What is the average cost of Rent In Tonga?

The Average cost of rent in Tonga is around $400 to $3100 Per Month in Tonga.

What is the average Cost of Transportation In Tonga?

The average cost of transportation in Tonga is about $5 – $30 USD per day or $32 to $700 per month, Depending if you use a Bus, Scooter, Quad Bike ATV or personal car.

What is the Cost of Mobile Phone SIM and Internet Data In Tonga?

The Cost of Phone Data and internet from in Tonga is around $25 to $100 per month and the phone plan provider is called Digicel.

What is the Cost of Food in Tonga?

The Cost of Food in Tonga costs around $240 to $800 per month; try to eat at the local restaurants and street food for the best and cheapest food to stay on budget!

Is Tonga a good place to live?

Yes, Tonga regularly ranks as one of the Safest and Happiest countries in the world! but of course, you always need to watch what you are doing and keep safety top of mind as you would anywhere in the world.

Is it expensive to live in Tonga?

No, it isn’t expensive to Live in Tonga you can expect to spend $1,200 to $3000 per month if you live on a budget and don’t do tourist things. I recommend renting a studio, eating local food, renting a bicycle or scooter, and shopping at the local markets. If you do this you will save a lot of money!

What is the average salary in Tonga?

The Average salary range for people working in Tonga is typically from $800 to $1000 per month.

What is a good salary to live in Tonga?

A great Salary to live on in Tonga is around $3000 – $4000 per month. This will cover all expenses.

Cost Of Living in Tonga Conclusion

We hope that you have found this blog post helpful! We have summarized the cost of living in Tonga and provided a table of expenses, provided information on rent, accommodation, food costs, videos and more from our time living there as digital nomads!

We will be continually updating this blog post! Also, below are many excellent travel resources that will help you in your Journey around the world and helping you on your journey to Tonga!

Travel Resources and Reliable Sources For Tonga

Booking Flights: To score insane flight deals, search on Google Flights, Skyscanner. Money-saving tips: fly in the middle of the week, on the weekend; fly carry-on only on a budget airline, and take red-eyes or early morning flights.
Tours, tour packages, activities and booking private drivers: We love booking guided tours, especially food and walking tours, to get a local’s perspective and a history lesson while sight-seeing! We reserve our tours using Viator, and GetYourGuide for professional service.
Accommodations: We usually stay in budget-friendly vacation rentals, boutique hotels, or private hostel rooms. We use Booking.com to book hotels (we love their flexible cancellation policy) and Hostelworld to book hostels (low deposit, easy change/cancellation, and excellent reviews). We use Airbnb monthly for weekly or monthly rentals, where you can get an entire villa for a monthly fee in for under $400 a month! You can also book vacation rentals on Expedia USA, Expedia UK, Hotels.com, and Vrbo, like Airbnb.
Travel Insurance: We always have travel insurance monthly for international trips and living abroad. We STRONGLY suggest that you have it as well, just in case other digital nomads live abroad, and we always use SafetyWing for international travel insurance and medical concerns. SafetyWing is one of the few policies covering Covid-19, and they start at $42 a month! It’s incredible and always reliable! SafetyWing is perfect for Digital Nomads and long-term travelers!
Travel Credit Cards
Vaccines & Meds: We use the travel guides on the CDC website to research recommended medications and vaccines for international trips. You can get them at your primary care doctor’s office or a walk-in pharmacy.
Transportation: We use GetTransfer, and the local Uber-type apps in different countries. Usually, that is GrabGrab.
VPN Service: A VPN keeps your digital information (like website login details, bank info, etc.) safe, even when you’re connected to an unsecured network while traveling. Plus, it lets you use Netflix & other streaming sites abroad! We use NordVPN!

If you want to keep up with our travels, go ahead and follow us on our travel page on Instagram @onelifepassport! Comment below what else you would like to know/see about our experiences traveling the world! Also, check out our YouTube Channel!

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Austin Pierce

About the Author: I Became A Digital Nomad in 2018 after working soul-crushing jobs in Tennessee, United States. I figured out how to make money online, and I bought a one-way ticket to Thailand in 2018, and we never looked back; I have been traveling the world with my girlfriend, Salina. We Run a YouTube Channel and this Blog; We write about the Digital Nomad Lifestyle, The Places we live, and How to Make Money Online. I am also an MMA and Muay Thai Fighter, and I am really into Fitness!

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