How Maldives compares across key indices
Cost of Living
48 vs NYC
100 = NYC
Safety Index
48/100
Healthcare
46/100
Quality of Life
104/200
Climate
58/100
How far your money goes in Maldives
Cost of Living
48
100 = NYC baseline
Rent Index
22
100 = NYC rent
Groceries
53
100 = NYC groceries
Restaurant Prices
41
100 = NYC dining
How safe residents feel in Maldives — based on surveys of people living there
Safety Index
48/100
Crime Index
52/100
Lower is better
Crime Trend
60/100
Crime perceived as increasing
21 point drop from day to night
0 = no problem, 100 = severe problem
Based on 104 survey responses. 0 = not worried, 100 = very worried.
We're gathering city-level data for Maldives.
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Healthcare system overview for Maldives
Healthcare Index
46/100
How satisfied residents are with healthcare costs relative to quality
Based on 25 survey responses
Real coverage for real life abroad. Not travel insurance. Not hoping for the best.
A portion of affiliate revenue is donated to UNHCR
Air quality, water, and environmental conditions in Maldives
Pollution Index
75/100
Lower is better
0 = no concern, 100 = severe concern
Based on 34 survey responses. Perception scores are 0–100 where higher is better unless noted.
How people get around in Maldives
Average One-Way Commute
19minutes
Very Short
Traffic Index
67
Below average congestion
Inefficiency
52
Time wasted in traffic
CO2 Emissions
1.4kg/trip
Based on 7 survey responses.
Common questions about living in Maldives, answered with data
Maldives has a cost of living index of 48 relative to New York City (100). It is moderately affordable compared to the US.
Maldives has a safety index of 48/100, making it moderately safe for expats and travellers.
Maldives scores 46/100 on Numbeo's healthcare index, making it adequate by global standards. This index reflects the overall quality of the healthcare system, medical staff, and facilities.
Yes. Maldives's cost of living is roughly 52% lower than New York City and generally cheaper than most major US cities. Rent specifically is around 78% cheaper. This makes it a popular destination for remote workers looking to stretch their dollar.
Maldives has a pollution index of 75/100 (lower = cleaner). Pollution can be a concern in urban areas. Research specific cities before committing, as rural and coastal areas typically fare better.
Your pre-departure checklist for Maldives
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