🇲🇬 Cost of Living: Madagascar vs Mozambique — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Madagascar
CapitalAntananarivo
Population31.7 million
Area587,041 km² (226,658 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench, Malagasy
CurrencyMalagasy ariary (Ar)
TimezoneUTC+03:00
RegionAfrica / Eastern Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$1,884 (2024)
Inflation Rate9.9% (2023)
Health Spend per Capita$17 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend27.4% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)3.0% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Madagascar is generally cheaper than Mozambique, with an overall cost of living that is approximately 20-30% lower.
Quick Facts
Madagascar GDP per Capita (PPP)$1,600
Mozambique GDP per Capita (PPP)$1,300
Madagascar Inflation Rate6.5%
Mozambique Inflation Rate3.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Madagascar
Overview: Madagascar vs Mozambique
Madagascar and Mozambique are two neighboring countries in Africa with distinct economic profiles. Madagascar has a more diverse economy, with a strong focus on agriculture, mining, and tourism, while Mozambique's economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, particularly coal and gas. The cost of living in Madagascar is generally lower than in Mozambique, with prices for housing, food, and transportation being relatively more affordable. However, Mozambique has a more developed infrastructure and a stronger expat community, which can drive up costs in certain areas, such as housing and healthcare.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Madagascar has a larger and more diverse economy, with a growing middle class, while Mozambique's economy is more dependent on foreign investment and aid. As a result, Madagascar has a more developed consumer market, with a wider range of goods and services available, which can contribute to lower prices. On the other hand, Mozambique's economy is more vulnerable to fluctuations in global commodity prices, which can impact the cost of living. Overall, Madagascar offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living that is approximately 20-30% lower than in Mozambique.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Madagascar (USD)
Mozambique (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
$200
$350
43% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$150
$250
40% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
$400
$600
33% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Madagascar (USD)
Mozambique (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
$5
$10
50% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
$100
$150
33% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
$2
$3
33% cheaper
Coffee
$1
$2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Madagascar (USD)
Mozambique (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
$20
$30
33% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
$0.50
$1
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80
$1.20
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Madagascar (USD)
Mozambique (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
$50
$100
50% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
$20
$30
33% cheaper
Mobile Plan
$10
$20
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Madagascar (USD)
Mozambique (USD)
Savings
Budget
$400
$600
33%
Mid-Range
$800
$1,200
33%
Comfortable
$1,200
$1,800
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Madagascar is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices being 30-40% lower than in Mozambique
Food and dining, with meals and groceries being 30-50% cheaper
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices being 30-50% lower
Utilities and internet, with prices being 30-50% cheaper
Mozambique is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, such as electronics and appliances, which can be 10-20% cheaper due to Mozambique's more developed trade relationships
Healthcare, with better-equipped hospitals and more qualified medical staff, although prices may be higher
Tourism activities, such as safaris and beach resorts, which can be 10-20% cheaper due to Mozambique's more developed tourism infrastructure
Certain educational programs, such as international schools, which can be 10-20% cheaper due to Mozambique's more established expat community
Bottom Line
Madagascar offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living that is approximately 20-30% lower than in Mozambique. This makes it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees who are looking for a budget-friendly destination. However, Mozambique has a more developed infrastructure and a stronger expat community, which can drive up costs in certain areas. Ultimately, the choice between Madagascar and Mozambique will depend on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. For those who value affordability and a more laid-back pace of life, Madagascar may be the better choice. For those who prioritize access to better healthcare, education, and tourism activities, Mozambique may be worth the extra cost.