Housing & Where to Live

Where you live shapes your whole experience of Mauritius — climate, community and budget all shift by region. Most movers rent first to learn the island, then buy once they know where they belong.

Renting first

Renting is the low-risk way to start. Furnished long-lets are common in expat areas; leases typically run 12 months. Budget more for the north and west coasts, less for the central plateau and east. Agents are widely used and usually paid by the landlord.

Buying as a foreigner

Foreign nationals can own property in Mauritius through government-approved schemes:

• PDS (Property Development Scheme) — the main route today; buying above a set value can also confer residence.
• IRS / RES — earlier luxury-resort schemes, still traded on the resale market.
• Smart City — mixed-use developments with residential eligibility.
• Ground+2 apartments — foreigners may buy apartments in qualifying buildings without a minimum price.

Purchases above the qualifying threshold can grant residence permits for the owner and dependents — see the visa guide.

Choosing a region

Region	Character
North (Grand Baie, Pereybère)	Lively, most expat amenities, higher prices
West (Tamarin, Black River, Flic en Flac)	Beaches, watersports, strong expat community
Centre (Moka, Curepipe)	Cooler, greener, more affordable, good schools
East (Belle Mare, Trou d'Eau Douce)	Quiet, scenic, fewer services
South (Bel Ombre)	Unspoilt, remote, growing

Explore live listings and neighbourhood guides with our property partner to match a region to your budget and lifestyle.