As the cost of living continues to climb, many men in Tanzania say that staying home has become more expensive than going out.
Rising food prices, electricity bills, and household expenses are forcing families to spend more even when they choose to cut back on leisure and social activities.
For many, the home—once seen as a safe and affordable retreat—is now where expenses pile up the most. Basic needs such as cooking gas, water, and electricity have become difficult to manage, leaving many households struggling to stretch their income until the end of the month.
“I thought staying indoors would save me money,” says John, a Dar es Salaam resident. “But every time I’m at home, there is food to prepare, children to attend to, and power bills that keep going up. It’s like the home has become a place where money disappears.”
Similar stories are echoed by other men, many of whom admit they now spend cautiously outside but feel the pressure of endless household demands when they are at home. Rising school fees, rent, and medical expenses are also adding to the strain.
The situation reflects a broader economic challenge. Inflation has pushed up prices of essentials like maize flour, cooking oil, and fuel, making it difficult for ordinary families to cope.
For many breadwinners, even small luxuries like taking the family out for a weekend treat have been sacrificed, yet the savings are quickly absorbed by rising household costs.
Economists point out that the cost-of-living crisis is being felt in homes across the region, and not just in Tanzania. “What we are seeing is that families are under pressure both inside and outside the home.
Inflation means that even if you cut spending on entertainment, you still pay more for basic needs,” says financial analyst Grace Mrema.
Beyond finances, men say the pressure of providing under these conditions is taking a toll on their mental well-being.
Some describe feelings of guilt when they cannot meet family expectations, while others admit to avoiding home to escape constant financial requests.
“People think going out is expensive, but nowadays, being at home can be worse,” says Peter, a boda boda rider. “Children want food, school fees are due, and the landlord is calling—it never ends.”
Experts suggest practical steps such as better budgeting, reducing food waste, and exploring side hustles to supplement income. However, they also note that broader government action is needed to stabilize food prices and ease inflationary pressures.
For now, many men continue to feel trapped between the rising costs of staying at home and the equally expensive demands of life outside. The question they ask is simple: when home becomes the costliest place to be, where else can one turn?
