City Profile
Safaga, Suez
Egypt · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Safaga is a historic port city situated along the western coast of the Red Sea in Egypt, renowned for its strategic maritime location and therapeutic environment. Originally established as a port town, it serves as a crucial gateway for trade, pilgrimages, and phosphate mineral exports from the Eastern Desert. In recent decades, Safaga has gained international recognition as a premier destination for windsurfing, kitesurfing, and scuba diving, attracting adventure seekers and travelers looking for a quieter alternative to nearby Hurghada. The city features a relaxed coastal character, characterized by low-rise architecture, pristine beaches, and a tranquil atmosphere distinct from Egypt's bustling metropolitan centers.
Suez, Egypt, is a major port city situated at the southern terminus of the Suez Canal, a critical global trade artery connecting the Mediterranean and Red Seas. Its economy is heavily reliant on maritime trade, with major industries including petroleum refining, petrochemicals, and the operation of canal workshops, alongside growing sectors like green energy, pharmaceuticals, and electronics within the Suez Canal Economic Zone. The cost of living in Suez is relatively low, with an average monthly cost for a single person around $507, excluding rent, and a generally warm, arid climate. The lifestyle is influenced by its industrial and trade focus, offering a unique blend of historical significance and modern economic development.
How this 74/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 78 / 100 | 78.0 | 30% | 23.4 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 30.0 | 100.0 | 25% | 25.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $3,500 Income needed to live here: $2,800 Unemployment rate: 6.5% | 50.0 | 20% | 10.0 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 2.1% Job growth rate: 2% | 68.8 | 15% | 10.3 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 55 / 100 | 55.0 | 10% | 5.5 |
| Overall score | 74.2 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 2 (reasoned) (q=54, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
16 October 2026.
They are researched estimates drawn from public sources, not a licensed data feed.
Each component is scored against fixed published endpoints, so this number is comparable with any other city and does not move as the dataset grows. Scoring framework 2026.10 — full methodology, weights and accepted ranges.
Featured Events
Happening in Safaga
Featured and sponsored events in Safaga.
Local Directory
Businesses in Safaga
Featured local businesses in Safaga.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Safaga is exceptionally low compared to Western standards and remains very affordable relative to Egypt's national averages. Everyday expenses such as local produce, seafood, public transportation, and basic services are competitively priced, making it an economical place for residents and long-term visitors. Housing costs, whether renting apartments or purchasing local property, are fractionally lower than in major hubs like Cairo or Alexandria, driven by modest regional development and lower land values. Utility expenses and telecommunications are also reasonably priced, though imported goods and specialized healthcare can introduce occasional premium costs.
Income
Salary Insights
Safaga's economy is anchored primarily by maritime logistics, port operations, and the mining sector, specifically the export of phosphate through its dedicated terminal. Tourism is the fastest-growing economic driver, with numerous resorts, diving centers, and hospitality businesses employing a significant portion of the local workforce. Fisheries and local commerce further support community employment, though formal corporate remote work infrastructure is still in its infancy. Economic initiatives by the Red Sea Governorate continue to focus on expanding tourism capacity and upgrading port infrastructure to stimulate regional employment.
The average salary in Safaga is $3,200 per year. You would need approximately $2,800 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Getting around Safaga is primarily accomplished via local microbuses, taxis, and private vehicles, serving the linear layout of the city along the coastal highway. The city lacks a heavy rail transit network, but intercity bus lines connect Safaga efficiently to Hurghada, Luxor, Qena, and Cairo. Walkability is moderate within specific commercial districts and beachfront zones, though vehicle reliance is high for traversing longer stretches along the coast. The Port of Safaga also handles major passenger ferry traffic connecting Egypt to Saudi Arabia.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Safaga
Community Q&A
Questions about Safaga
What people ask about living in and moving to Safaga, Suez.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Safaga
Tell us what you need and we’ll pass it to companies that serve your area. It’s free, and there’s no obligation.
Compare Safaga with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing