🇨🇲 Cost of Living: Cameroon vs Equatorial Guinea — 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 Equatorial Guinea, with an overall cost of living that is around 30-40% lower.
Quick Facts
Cameroon GDP per Capita (PPP)3,820
Equatorial Guinea GDP per Capita (PPP)20,570
Cameroon Inflation Rate2.5%
Equatorial Guinea Inflation Rate1.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Cameroon
Overview: Cameroon vs Equatorial Guinea
Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea are two neighboring countries in Central Africa, with distinct economic profiles. Cameroon has a more diverse economy, with a strong agricultural sector, while Equatorial Guinea is heavily reliant on its oil and gas reserves. As a result, Equatorial Guinea has a higher GDP per capita, but also a higher cost of living. The main difference in costs between the two countries lies in the prices of accommodation, food, and transportation. Cameroon offers a more affordable lifestyle, with lower prices for rent, meals, and transportation, making it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Cameroon has a larger population and a more developed economy, which has led to a more competitive market and lower prices. In contrast, Equatorial Guinea's economy is smaller and more dependent on oil exports, which has resulted in higher prices for goods and services. Overall, Cameroon is the more affordable option, with a cost of living that is around 30-40% lower than Equatorial Guinea. This makes it an attractive destination for those looking for a more affordable lifestyle in Central Africa.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Equatorial Guinea (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
250
450
44% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
300
50% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
450
800
44% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Equatorial Guinea (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
10
50% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
100
200
50% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
4
50% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Equatorial Guinea (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
40
50% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
1
2
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.8
1.2
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Cameroon (USD)
Equatorial Guinea (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
100
50% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
60
50% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
20
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Cameroon (USD)
Equatorial Guinea (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
900
44%
Mid-Range
800
1,400
43%
Comfortable
1,200
2,200
45%
Where Each Country Wins
Cameroon is cheaper for:
Rent and accommodation
Food and dining
Transportation
Utilities and internet
Equatorial Guinea is cheaper for:
No specific categories, as Cameroon is generally cheaper
However, Equatorial Guinea may offer better job opportunities and higher salaries, especially in the oil and gas sector
Additionally, Equatorial Guinea has a more developed infrastructure, with better roads and transportation links
Bottom Line
Cameroon offers a more affordable lifestyle, with lower prices for rent, food, transportation, and utilities. This makes it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees who are looking for a budget-friendly destination in Central Africa. However, Equatorial Guinea may offer better job opportunities and higher salaries, especially in the oil and gas sector. Ultimately, the choice between Cameroon and Equatorial Guinea will depend on individual priorities and circumstances. For those who value a more affordable lifestyle and are willing to sacrifice some amenities, Cameroon is the better choice. For those who prioritize job opportunities and a more developed infrastructure, Equatorial Guinea may be the better option.