🇪🇹 Cost of Living: Ethiopia vs South Sudan — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameFederal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
CapitalAddis Ababa
Population111.7 million
Area1,104,300 km² (426372 sq mi)
LanguagesAmharic
CurrencyEthiopian birr (Br)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$3,288 (2024)
Inflation Rate21.0% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$35 (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.3% (2024)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Ethiopia is generally cheaper than South Sudan, with a cost of living that is approximately 30-40% lower.
Quick Facts
Ethiopia GDP per Capita (PPP)2,244
South Sudan GDP per Capita (PPP)1,655
Ethiopia Inflation Rate20.8%
South Sudan Inflation Rate37.2%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Ethiopia
Overview: Ethiopia vs South Sudan
The cost of living in Ethiopia and South Sudan varies significantly, with Ethiopia being the more affordable option. Ethiopia has a larger and more diverse economy, with a growing manufacturing sector and a strong agricultural industry. In contrast, South Sudan's economy is largely dependent on oil exports and has been affected by years of conflict and instability. As a result, the cost of living in South Sudan is higher, with prices for basic goods and services often inflated due to supply chain disruptions and limited infrastructure.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Ethiopia has a more developed infrastructure, with better roads, transportation, and communication systems, which helps to keep costs lower. In addition, Ethiopia has a larger and more competitive market, with many local and international businesses operating in the country. This competition helps to drive down prices and improve the quality of goods and services. In contrast, South Sudan's economy is more isolated, with limited access to international markets and a lack of competition, which can drive up prices.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Ethiopia (USD)
South Sudan (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
150
300
50% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
80
200
60% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
250
500
50% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Ethiopia (USD)
South Sudan (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
10
50% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
50
100
50% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
5
60% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Ethiopia (USD)
South Sudan (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
10
20
50% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
0.50
1.00
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.20
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Ethiopia (USD)
South Sudan (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
30
60
50% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
40
50% cheaper
Mobile Plan
5
10
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Ethiopia (USD)
South Sudan (USD)
Savings
Budget
300
500
40%
Mid-Range
600
1,000
40%
Comfortable
1,200
2,000
40%
Where Each Country Wins
Ethiopia is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices up to 60% lower than in South Sudan
Food and dining, with meal prices up to 50% lower than in South Sudan
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices up to 50% lower than in South Sudan
Utilities and internet, with prices up to 50% lower than in South Sudan
South Sudan is cheaper for:
Limited categories, as Ethiopia is generally the more affordable option
However, South Sudan may offer more job opportunities in certain fields, such as oil and gas
South Sudan may also offer more opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures, particularly in the areas of agriculture and trade
Additionally, South Sudan may have more lenient regulations and laws, which can make it easier to start and operate a business
Bottom Line
For expats, students, and retirees, Ethiopia is generally the better value, with a lower cost of living and a more developed infrastructure. However, for those who are looking to start a business or invest in a country with significant growth potential, South Sudan may be a more attractive option. Despite the higher cost of living, South Sudan offers more opportunities for entrepreneurial ventures and may have more lenient regulations and laws. Ultimately, the choice between Ethiopia and South Sudan will depend on an individual's specific needs and priorities. It's essential to research and weigh the pros and cons of each country before making a decision.