City Profile
Sallum, Matrouh
Egypt · Comprehensive city data and intelligence
Sallum is a small port city and border town located in the north-western corner of Egypt, near the Libyan border. Positioned along the Mediterranean coast, it serves as a critical strategic entry and trade point for the Matrouh Governorate. Historically known as a quiet coastal outpost, the settlement features arid surrounding terrain contrasted by striking sea views. While not a major metropolis, its unique geographical positioning imbues it with a distinct border-town character.
Matrouh, also known as Marsa Matrouh, is a port city and the capital of the Matrouh Governorate in northwestern Egypt, characterized by its Mediterranean beaches and a blend of Bedouin traditions with modern resort life. The economy is significantly driven by tourism, particularly during the summer, alongside agriculture with crops like olives, dates, figs, wheat, and barley, and livestock farming (sheep and goats). Living in Matrouh generally offers a more affordable cost of living compared to cities like Cairo or Hurghada, with a single person spending approximately $476 per month including rent. The city experiences a subtropical desert climate, moderated by Mediterranean winds, resulting in hot, dry summers with average highs around 29-32°C (84-90°F) and mild, moderately wet winters with highs between 17-20°C (63-68°F). The lifestyle is relaxed, centered around its coastal environment, with a strong sense of community and a culinary scene influenced by Mediterranean and Bedouin flavors.
How this 73/100 was calculated five components, with every reading behind them
| Component | Readings used | Points | Weight | Contributes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safety | Safety score: 75 / 100 | 75.0 | 30% | 22.5 |
| Affordability | Cost of living index (100 = national baseline): 35.0 | 100.0 | 25% | 25.0 |
| Economy & jobs | Median household income: $4,000 Income needed to live here: $2,800 Unemployment rate: 7.2% | 56.8 | 20% | 11.4 |
| Growth | Population growth rate: 1.1% Job growth rate: 1.8% | 54.3 | 15% | 8.1 |
| Business climate assessment | Business climate assessment: 58 / 100 | 58.0 | 10% | 5.8 |
| Overall score | 72.8 | |||
Provenance.
These figures were produced by the research pass recorded as
Tier 1 (fast) (q=52, partial — below threshold), last refreshed
17 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 Sallum
Featured and sponsored events in Sallum.
Local Directory
Businesses in Sallum
Featured local businesses in Sallum.
Performance
Quality Scores
Expenses
Cost of Living
The cost of living in Sallum is generally lower than Egypt's major urban centers like Cairo or Alexandria, reflecting its remote location and smaller scale. Essential goods, local produce, and basic services remain affordable for residents, though specialized imported goods can incur higher prices due to transportation logistics. Housing costs are modest compared to national averages, influenced by the localized real estate market and limited high-density development.
Income
Salary Insights
Economic activity in Sallum is largely driven by cross-border trade, customs operations, local fisheries, and public sector employment. Because it functions as a primary land port between Egypt and Libya, logistics and transport services play a vital role in supporting the local labor force. Retail, small-scale commerce, and traditional trades also provide livelihoods for residents living in the coastal municipality.
The average salary in Sallum is $3,200 per year. You would need approximately $2,800 to live comfortably.
Employment
Top Industries
Weather
Climate
Mobility
Transport
Transportation in Sallum relies heavily on personal vehicles, microbuses, and regional bus services connecting the town to Marsa Matrouh and Alexandria. Walkability is high within the compact town center, though traveling beyond city limits requires reliance on major highway corridors like the coastal international highway. Public transit options within the town are informal but adequate for daily local commutes.
At a Glance
Pros & Cons
Advantages
Drawbacks
Head to Head
Compare Sallum
Community Q&A
Questions about Sallum
What people ask about living in and moving to Sallum, Matrouh.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Free Quotes
Get quotes from local pros in Sallum
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 Sallum with any city
See how it stacks up on cost, income, and quality of life.
Start Comparing