🇪🇬 Cost of Living: Egypt vs Sudan — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameArab Republic of Egypt
CapitalCairo
Population107.3 million
Area1,002,450 km² (387048 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic
CurrencyEgyptian pound (£)
TimezoneUTC+02:00
RegionAfrica / Northern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$19,094 (2024)
Inflation Rate28.3% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$141 (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Egypt is generally cheaper than Sudan, with an overall cost of living that is around 20-30% lower.
Quick Facts
Egypt GDP per Capita (PPP)14,350
Sudan GDP per Capita (PPP)4,580
Egypt Inflation Rate5.6%
Sudan Inflation Rate50.4%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Egypt
Overview: Egypt vs Sudan
Egypt and Sudan are two neighboring countries in northeastern Africa, with distinct economic profiles and cost of living standards. Egypt has a relatively large and diversified economy, with a strong service sector and a significant industrial base, which contributes to its higher GDP per capita. In contrast, Sudan has a smaller and more fragile economy, with a high inflation rate and a heavy reliance on agriculture and oil exports. As a result, the cost of living in Sudan is generally higher than in Egypt, particularly when it comes to food, transportation, and utilities.
The economic context of both countries also plays a significant role in shaping their cost of living. Egypt has a large and growing population, with a relatively high level of urbanization, which puts pressure on housing and transportation costs. However, the country's strong economy and relatively stable political environment have also attracted significant foreign investment, which has helped to keep prices in check. In Sudan, the economic situation is more challenging, with a smaller and more isolated economy, which has been affected by international sanctions and a lack of foreign investment. As a result, the cost of living in Sudan is generally higher, particularly for expatriates and foreigners.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Egypt (USD)
Sudan (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
200
300
33% more expensive in Sudan
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
250
40% more expensive in Sudan
3BR Apartment (City Center)
400
600
33% more expensive in Sudan
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Egypt (USD)
Sudan (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
10
50% more expensive in Sudan
Groceries (monthly)
100
150
33% more expensive in Sudan
Beer (500ml)
2
5
60% more expensive in Sudan
Coffee
1
2
50% more expensive in Sudan
Transport Comparison
Item
Egypt (USD)
Sudan (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
10
20
50% more expensive in Sudan
Taxi (per km)
0.5
1
50% more expensive in Sudan
Fuel (per liter)
0.5
1.5
67% more expensive in Sudan
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Egypt (USD)
Sudan (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
100
50% more expensive in Sudan
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
50
60% more expensive in Sudan
Mobile Plan
10
20
50% more expensive in Sudan
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Egypt (USD)
Sudan (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
800
37% cheaper in Egypt
Mid-Range
1000
1500
33% cheaper in Egypt
Comfortable
2000
3000
33% cheaper in Egypt
Where Each Country Wins
Egypt is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices that are 30-40% lower than in Sudan
Food and dining, with meal prices that are 50-60% lower than in Sudan
Transportation, with fuel and taxi prices that are 50-67% lower than in Sudan
Utilities and internet, with prices that are 50-60% lower than in Sudan
Sudan is cheaper for:
Certain types of groceries, such as fresh produce and meat, which can be 10-20% cheaper than in Egypt
Some types of entertainment, such as cinema tickets and museum entrance fees, which can be 20-30% cheaper than in Egypt
Certain types of clothing and textiles, which can be 10-20% cheaper than in Egypt
Traditional handicrafts and souvenirs, which can be 20-30% cheaper than in Egypt
Bottom Line
Overall, Egypt offers a more affordable cost of living than Sudan, with prices that are 20-30% lower across a range of categories. This makes Egypt a more attractive option for expatriates, students, and retirees who are looking for a low-cost destination with a rich cultural heritage and a relatively high standard of living. However, Sudan has its own unique advantages, including a more relaxed pace of life and a stronger sense of community, which can make it an attractive option for those who value these aspects of life. Ultimately, the choice between Egypt and Sudan will depend on individual preferences and priorities, as well as the specific lifestyle and budget of each person.