A new continent-wide analysis reveals stark disparities in the daily living experience across Africa, with Tunisia emerging as a standout for balanced, secure, and comfortable urban life.
The Numbeo 2026 Quality of Life Index, which synthesizes resident surveys on factors from purchasing power and safety to healthcare and climate, has ranked Tunisia second highest on the continent. With an overall index score of 117.6, Tunisia places just behind South Africa (150.9) and ahead of Morocco (114.1), Kenya (99.4), and Egypt (81.9).
The data highlights Tunisia’s relative strengths in key areas of public concern. It achieves the highest safety score (55.1) among the top five ranked nations, a significant factor in daily well-being. This is coupled with a respectable healthcare index (56.6) and notably efficient traffic conditions, with a low commute time index of 33.0.
“The ranking reflects an environment where safety and manageable urban logistics provide a stable foundation for daily life,” the report suggests, noting Tunisia’s “balanced environment.”
However, the index also pinpoints economic pressures. Tunisians grapple with a moderate purchasing power index (36.3) and one of the continent’s more challenging property markets, indicated by a low property price-to-income ratio (12.8). This is partially offset by a moderate cost of living index (29.1) and a highly favourable climate score (94.3).
The report underscores a continent of contrasts. While leader South Africa boasts higher purchasing power and healthcare scores, it is burdened by a severe safety index of just 25.5. Tunisia’s profile presents a different trade-off, prioritizing stability and livability over raw economic power.
The ranking ultimately offers a data-driven snapshot of livability, positioning Tunisia as a leading destination where security, climate, and efficient public spaces converge to ease the challenges of day-to-day life.
TunisianMonitorOnline (NejiMed)
