Average Income and Wages#

Pinpointing an exact single number for average income in Cairo is tricky because it depends heavily on the sector, experience, and type of employment. However, figures from various data sources give a picture.

As of mid-2024, the average net salary after tax for someone working in Cairo is often cited in the range of 8,000 to 12,000 Egyptian Pounds (EGP) per month. This number is just an average, meaning many earn less, and some earn significantly more. The national minimum wage in Egypt is currently set around 6,000 EGP per month for the private sector, which gives a baseline for lower incomes.

Entry-level jobs or positions in sectors with lower wages might pay below the average, while specialized roles, management positions, or jobs in high-paying industries can command salaries many times higher than the average.

Income Compared to Cost of Living#

Compared to average incomes in North America or Europe, the cost of living in Cairo is generally lower. However, when measured against the average local wage, life can be financially challenging for many residents.

Essential costs like food, transportation, and basic utilities are relatively affordable. Rent, however, can be a major expense, especially for desirable locations or larger properties. A one-bedroom apartment in the city center might cost between 6,000 and 12,000 EGP per month or more, which can consume a large portion of an average salary. Living further out usually reduces rent but increases transport costs and time.

For individuals or families earning close to the minimum wage or even the average, managing expenses requires careful budgeting. Discretionary spending, like eating out or entertainment, is a luxury for a large segment of the population.

Wealth Inequality#

There is a significant gap between the rich and the poor in Cairo. This inequality is visible geographically. Some areas show clear signs of affluence, while others face challenges with infrastructure and living conditions. This gap reflects differences in income, access to quality education, healthcare, and job opportunities.

Where Wealthy People Live#

Wealthy residents in Cairo tend to live in specific upscale neighborhoods and newer developments. Areas known for their affluent residents include:

• Zamalek: An island in the Nile known for its tree-lined streets, large apartments, foreign embassies, and upscale boutiques and restaurants.
• Maadi: A quieter, greener suburban area south of the city center, favored by expatriates and wealthy Egyptians, featuring villas and larger apartments.
• New Cairo and Sheikh Zayed: These are newer satellite cities built on the outskirts of the historical city. They feature large gated communities (compounds) with villas, private security, swimming pools, and modern amenities, offering a different lifestyle away from the congestion of central Cairo. Katameya and Rehab are well-known parts of New Cairo.

The lifestyle in these areas often includes large homes or luxury apartments, domestic staff, private clubs, high-end shopping, and sending children to expensive international schools.

High-Income Employment Sectors#

Certain sectors in Cairo consistently offer higher incomes compared to others:

• Oil and Gas: This industry provides many high-paying technical and managerial roles, especially within multinational corporations.
• Banking and Finance: Jobs in banks, investment firms, and financial services are generally well-compensated.
• Telecommunications and IT: With Egypt’s growing tech sector, skilled professionals in these fields can earn competitive salaries.
• Multinational Corporations: Working for large international companies across various sectors often means better pay and benefits than local firms.
• Specialized Professions: Experienced doctors, lawyers, engineers, and university professors, particularly those who are highly regarded or work in private practice/institutions, can earn substantial incomes.

In summary, while Cairo has a large population with many residents earning modest incomes that are stretched thin by living costs, it also has a wealthy class concentrated in specific areas and industries, enjoying a significantly higher standard of living.