What is the general cost of living in Egypt? Does it vary much from area to area?

Prices do vary. Hurghada is more expensive than Luxor and Cairo. Probably because it has so many foreign residents and tourists. Sharm el Sheikh I think is the most expensive from buying property there to actual shopping costs.
It is all relative though, comparing prices to Europe they are very very cheap. Basics are unbelievably low but of course prices have risen here as well quite a lot in the past year.
Rents in Hurghada are ridiculous - a 2 bedroom apartment, not particularly well furnished can cost 2,500 - 3,000. Water - well it depends if there is a government line and then it depends if the landlord charges the government rate or his own rate. Electricity is very cheap, a month with air-con running all night approx. 65 LE. My phone bill, okay I mainly only use the phone for the internet is 116 LE every 3 months and that includes the line rental.
Hope the above helps but if there is anything else just let me know.

We were just having a conversation the other day about how the rent has gone up just about anywhere you live. I did have a quick question about the water rate? You mentioned that the landlord can charge his own rate. Is he allowed to do this even if the water is supplied to him at the government rate? Just curious, thanks

I'd really like to consider moving to Egypt for a couple years to gain some experience unfourtunately I doubt I could afford it... I don't even know where I would begin to look for a job and such. Owell... maybe in a few years when I have more money saved up.

Yes unfortunately our present landlord does exactly that. I think we are paying for the whole building re the water!

I heard the same in Sharm el Sheikh, the agent I was with was telling me that the people running a complex called Sharm Delta where the residents charging more than double of what the electric and water was costing them.

Looks like a common problem in resorts.

__________________
CrescentHomes real estate, TurkishLiving & EgyptianLiving forums.

Wow that is just terrible that they can just charge so much over what the actual bill is for water. At that rate they basically have you over a barrel. Thanks for the information.