🇧🇫 Cost of Living: Burkina Faso vs Togo — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameBurkina Faso
CapitalOuagadougou
Population24.1 million
Area272,967 km² (105,393 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$2,896 (2024)
Inflation Rate4.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$72 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)5.3% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Burkina Faso is generally cheaper than Togo, with an overall cost of living difference of around 15-20%.
Quick Facts
Burkina Faso GDP per Capita (PPP)2,275
Togo GDP per Capita (PPP)2,044
Burkina Faso Inflation Rate2.5%
Togo Inflation Rate1.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Burkina Faso
Overview: Burkina Faso vs Togo
Burkina Faso and Togo are two neighboring countries in West Africa, both with unique cultural and economic profiles. In terms of cost of living, Burkina Faso is generally considered to be the more affordable option, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation. This is largely due to the country's lower overall GDP per capita and lower inflation rate, which contribute to a more stable and affordable economy. Togo, on the other hand, has a slightly higher cost of living, particularly in the capital city of Lomé, where prices for accommodation and food can be relatively high.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining their cost of living. Burkina Faso has a largely agricultural economy, with a strong focus on cotton and gold production, while Togo has a more diversified economy with a strong focus on phosphate mining and manufacturing. This diversification can contribute to higher prices for goods and services in Togo, particularly in the urban areas. Overall, Burkina Faso is generally around 15-20% cheaper than Togo, making it a more attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Burkina Faso (USD)
Togo (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
150
200
25% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
100
150
33% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
300
400
25% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Burkina Faso (USD)
Togo (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
7
29% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
50
70
29% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
3
33% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Burkina Faso (USD)
Togo (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
10
15
33% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
0.50
0.75
33% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.00
20% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Burkina Faso (USD)
Togo (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
70
29% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
40
25% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
15
33% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Burkina Faso (USD)
Togo (USD)
Savings
Budget
400
550
27%
Mid-Range
700
950
26%
Comfortable
1,200
1,600
25%
Where Each Country Wins
Burkina Faso is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices around 25-33% lower than in Togo
Food and dining, with meal prices around 29% lower and groceries around 29% lower
Transportation, with taxi prices around 33% lower and fuel prices around 20% lower
Utilities and internet, with prices around 25-33% lower
Togo is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, which may be more widely available in Togo due to its coastal location
Tourist attractions and activities, which may be more developed in Togo
Business and investment opportunities, which may be more diverse in Togo
Access to international schools and healthcare, which may be more developed in Togo
Bottom Line
For expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle, Burkina Faso is generally the better option, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation. However, Togo may offer more opportunities for business and investment, as well as better access to international schools and healthcare. Ultimately, the choice between Burkina Faso and Togo will depend on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. For those who value affordability and a more laid-back lifestyle, Burkina Faso may be the better choice. For those who prioritize business and investment opportunities, as well as access to international amenities, Togo may be the better option.