Verified Facts

Official NameState of Eritrea
CapitalAsmara
Population3.6 million
Area117,600 km² (45,406 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic, English, Tigrinya
CurrencyEritrean nakfa (Nfk)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API

Economic Indicators

Health Spend per Capita$28 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend48.5% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data

Eritrea is generally cheaper than Sudan, with an overall cost of living that is approximately 15-20% lower.

Quick Facts

Eritrea GDP per Capita (PPP)1,400
Sudan GDP per Capita (PPP)4,300
Eritrea Inflation Rate10%
Sudan Inflation Rate50%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Eritrea

Overview: Eritrea vs Sudan

Eritrea and Sudan are two neighboring countries in the Horn of Africa, with distinct economic and cultural profiles. Eritrea has a relatively small economy, with a strong focus on agriculture and services, while Sudan has a larger and more diversified economy, with significant oil reserves and a growing manufacturing sector. In terms of cost of living, Eritrea tends to be cheaper than Sudan, particularly when it comes to housing, food, and transportation. However, Sudan has a more developed economy and a wider range of amenities and services, which can make it a more attractive option for some expats and travelers.

The cost of living difference between Eritrea and Sudan is significant, with Eritrea offering a more affordable lifestyle for those who are willing to adapt to a more basic standard of living. However, Sudan's stronger economy and more developed infrastructure make it a more attractive option for those who value convenience, amenities, and a wider range of services. Overall, Eritrea is a better option for budget-conscious travelers and expats, while Sudan may be more suitable for those who are willing to pay a premium for a more comfortable and convenient lifestyle.

Rent & Housing Comparison

ItemEritrea (USD)Sudan (USD)Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)20035043% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)15025040% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)40060033% cheaper

Food & Dining Comparison

ItemEritrea (USD)Sudan (USD)Difference
Meal at Restaurant51050% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)10015033% cheaper
Beer (500ml)2333% cheaper
Coffee1250% cheaper

Transport Comparison

ItemEritrea (USD)Sudan (USD)Difference
Monthly Transit Pass102050% cheaper
Taxi (per km)0.5150% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)0.81.233% cheaper

Utilities & Internet Comparison

ItemEritrea (USD)Sudan (USD)Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)508037% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)203033% cheaper
Mobile Plan101533% cheaper

Monthly Budget Comparison

Budget TierEritrea (USD)Sudan (USD)Savings
Budget50070029%
Mid-Range8001,20033%
Comfortable1,2001,80033%

Where Each Country Wins

  • Eritrea is cheaper for:
  • Rent and housing, with prices that are 30-40% lower than in Sudan
  • Food and dining, with meal prices that are 30-50% lower than in Sudan
  • Transportation, with taxi and fuel prices that are 30-50% lower than in Sudan
  • Utilities and internet, with prices that are 30-40% lower than in Sudan
  • Sudan is cheaper for:
  • Certain imported goods, which may be more widely available and affordable in Sudan
  • Luxury items and high-end services, which may be more readily available in Sudan's larger cities
  • Travel and tourism, with a wider range of options and amenities available in Sudan
  • Business and investment, with a more developed economy and a wider range of opportunities available in Sudan

Bottom Line

Eritrea and Sudan offer distinct advantages and disadvantages for different types of travelers and expats. For budget-conscious travelers and expats, Eritrea's lower cost of living and more affordable lifestyle make it an attractive option. However, for those who value convenience, amenities, and a wider range of services, Sudan may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between Eritrea and Sudan will depend on individual priorities and preferences. Expats and travelers who are willing to adapt to a more basic standard of living may find that Eritrea offers better value, while those who are looking for a more comfortable and convenient lifestyle may prefer Sudan. Students and retirees may also find that Eritrea's lower cost of living makes it a more attractive option, while families may prefer Sudan's more developed economy and wider range of amenities.