🇨🇮 Cost of Living: Ivory Coast vs Ghana — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Côte d'Ivoire
CapitalYamoussoukro
Population31.7 million
Area322,463 km² (124,504 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
CurrencyWest African CFA franc (Fr)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$7,669 (2024)
Inflation Rate3.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$88 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend32.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Ivory Coast is generally cheaper than Ghana, with an overall cost of living that is around 15-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Ivory Coast GDP per Capita (PPP)4,620
Ghana GDP per Capita (PPP)6,840
Ivory Coast Inflation Rate2.5%
Ghana Inflation Rate7.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Ivory Coast
Overview: Ivory Coast vs Ghana
Ivory Coast and Ghana are two neighboring countries in West Africa with distinct economic profiles. Ivory Coast has a more diversified economy, with a strong focus on agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, while Ghana's economy is primarily driven by agriculture and natural resources. In terms of cost of living, Ivory Coast tends to be more affordable than Ghana, particularly when it comes to housing, food, and transportation. The overall cost of living in Ivory Coast is around 15-20% lower than in Ghana, making it a more attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for a affordable lifestyle.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Ivory Coast has a more stable economy, with a lower inflation rate and a stronger currency, which helps to keep prices stable. In contrast, Ghana's economy has experienced higher inflation rates in recent years, which has driven up the cost of living. Additionally, the cost of housing, food, and transportation in Ghana is generally higher than in Ivory Coast, making it a more expensive option for those looking to live and work in the region.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Ivory Coast (USD)
Ghana (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
250
350
29% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
150
200
25% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
500
700
29% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Ivory Coast (USD)
Ghana (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
5
7
29% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
100
130
23% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
3
33% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Ivory Coast (USD)
Ghana (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
30
33% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
0.5
0.7
29% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.8
1.0
20% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Ivory Coast (USD)
Ghana (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
70
29% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
30
33% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
15
33% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Ivory Coast (USD)
Ghana (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
650
23%
Mid-Range
800
1,100
27%
Comfortable
1,200
1,600
25%
Where Each Country Wins
Ivory Coast is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices that are around 25-30% lower than in Ghana
Food and dining, with meal prices that are around 20-30% lower than in Ghana
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices that are around 20-30% lower than in Ghana
Utilities and internet, with prices that are around 25-35% lower than in Ghana
Ghana is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, which may be cheaper in Ghana due to its larger port and more developed import infrastructure
Tourism-related activities, such as guided tours and safari packages, which may be more developed and competitive in Ghana
Certain types of accommodation, such as luxury hotels and resorts, which may be more expensive in Ivory Coast
Certain types of food, such as high-end restaurant meals, which may be more expensive in Ivory Coast
Bottom Line
Ivory Coast and Ghana are both attractive options for those looking to live and work in West Africa, but they cater to different lifestyles and priorities. For expats and students on a budget, Ivory Coast is the clear winner, with a lower cost of living and a more affordable lifestyle. For those who prioritize convenience, amenities, and a more developed infrastructure, Ghana may be a better option, despite its higher cost of living. For retirees and families, Ivory Coast is also a more affordable option, with a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace of life. Ultimately, the choice between Ivory Coast and Ghana will depend on individual priorities and circumstances.