🇨🇲 Cost of Living: Cameroon vs Chad — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Cameroon
CapitalYaoundé
Population29.4 million
Area475,442 km² (183,569 sq mi)
LanguagesEnglish, French
CurrencyCentral African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC+01:00
RegionAfrica / Middle Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$5,589 (2024)
Inflation Rate4.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$79 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend67.7% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.8% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Cameroon is generally cheaper than Chad, with a cost of living difference of around 15-20% in many categories.
Quick Facts
Cameroon GDP per Capita (PPP)3,910
Chad GDP per Capita (PPP)2,430
Cameroon Inflation Rate2.5%
Chad Inflation Rate4.8%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Cameroon
Overview: Cameroon vs Chad
Cameroon and Chad are two neighboring countries in Central Africa with distinct economic profiles. Cameroon has a more diversified economy, with a strong focus on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, while Chad's economy is primarily driven by oil exports. This economic difference is reflected in the cost of living, with Cameroon generally offering lower prices for everyday items and services. The overall cost of living in Cameroon is around 15-20% lower than in Chad, making it a more attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable lifestyle.
The economic context of both countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Cameroon has a more developed infrastructure, with better roads, transportation, and communication networks, which can reduce costs for individuals and businesses. In contrast, Chad's infrastructure is less developed, which can increase costs for transportation, logistics, and other services. Additionally, Cameroon has a more stable economy, with a lower inflation rate, which can help to keep prices stable and predictable.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Chad (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
250
350
29% cheaper in Cameroon
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
200
25% cheaper in Cameroon
3BR Apartment (City Center)
450
600
25% cheaper in Cameroon
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Chad (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
10
15
33% cheaper in Cameroon
Groceries (monthly)
150
200
25% cheaper in Cameroon
Beer (500ml)
2
3
33% cheaper in Cameroon
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper in Cameroon
Transport Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Chad (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
30
33% cheaper in Cameroon
Taxi (per km)
1
2
50% cheaper in Cameroon
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.20
33% cheaper in Cameroon
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Chad (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
100
150
33% cheaper in Cameroon
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
50
40% cheaper in Cameroon
Mobile Plan
10
20
50% cheaper in Cameroon
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Cameroon (USD)
Chad (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
650
23% cheaper in Cameroon
Mid-Range
800
1,100
27% cheaper in Cameroon
Comfortable
1,200
1,600
25% cheaper in Cameroon
Where Each Country Wins
Cameroon is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices 25-30% lower than in Chad
Food and dining, with meal prices 30-40% lower than in Chad
Transportation, with taxi and fuel prices 30-50% lower than in Chad
Utilities and internet, with prices 30-50% lower than in Chad
Chad is cheaper for:
Some imported goods, such as electronics and clothing, which may be 10-20% cheaper than in Cameroon
Travel and tourism, with some tour packages and safari options 10-20% cheaper than in Cameroon
Certain types of accommodation, such as luxury hotels and resorts, which may be 10-20% cheaper than in Cameroon
Some types of entertainment, such as nightlife and events, which may be 10-20% cheaper than in Cameroon
Bottom Line
In conclusion, Cameroon offers a more affordable lifestyle than Chad, with lower prices for everyday items and services. Expats, students, and retirees may find Cameroon to be a more attractive option due to its lower cost of living and more developed infrastructure. However, Chad may offer some advantages for certain types of travelers or expats, such as those looking for luxury accommodations or specific types of entertainment. Ultimately, the choice between Cameroon and Chad will depend on individual preferences and priorities. For those looking for a budget-friendly lifestyle, Cameroon is likely the better choice, while those seeking luxury and convenience may prefer Chad.