🇲🇷 Cost of Living: Mauritania vs Senegal — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameIslamic Republic of Mauritania
CapitalNouakchott
Population4.9 million
Area1,030,700 km² (397955 sq mi)
LanguagesArabic
CurrencyMauritanian ouguiya (UM)
TimezoneUTC
RegionAfrica / Western Africa
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$7,369 (2024)
Inflation Rate2.5% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$92 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend43.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)4.7% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Mauritania is generally cheaper than Senegal, with an overall cost of living that is around 15-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Mauritania GDP per Capita (PPP)$4,300
Senegal GDP per Capita (PPP)$4,700
Mauritania Inflation Rate3.5%
Senegal Inflation Rate2.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Mauritania
Overview: Mauritania vs Senegal
Mauritania and Senegal are two neighboring countries in West Africa, with distinct economic profiles and cost structures. Mauritania has a relatively low GDP per capita and a high inflation rate, which contributes to its lower cost of living. In contrast, Senegal has a more diversified economy and a higher GDP per capita, resulting in higher prices for goods and services. Overall, Mauritania is a more affordable option for expats, students, and travelers, with a cost of living that is around 15-20% lower than in Senegal.
The economic context of both countries also plays a significant role in shaping their cost structures. Mauritania's economy is heavily reliant on natural resources, such as iron ore and fish, while Senegal has a more diversified economy with a strong services sector. This diversification has contributed to Senegal's higher cost of living, particularly in urban areas like Dakar. In contrast, Mauritania's capital city, Nouakchott, has a more relaxed and affordable atmosphere, with lower prices for housing, food, and transportation.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Mauritania (USD)
Senegal (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
$200
$300
33% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
$150
$250
40% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
$400
$600
33% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Mauritania (USD)
Senegal (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
Mauritania (USD)
Senegal (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
$20
$30
33% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
$0.50
$1.00
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
$0.80
$1.20
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Mauritania (USD)
Senegal (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
$50
$100
50% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
$30
$50
40% cheaper
Mobile Plan
$10
$20
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Mauritania (USD)
Senegal (USD)
Savings
Budget
$500
$700
29%
Mid-Range
$1,000
$1,500
33%
Comfortable
$2,000
$3,000
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Mauritania is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices that are 30-40% lower than in Senegal
Food and dining, with meal prices that are 50% lower than in Senegal
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices that are 30-50% lower than in Senegal
Utilities and internet, with prices that are 30-50% lower than in Senegal
Senegal is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, such as electronics and clothing, which are often cheaper in Senegal due to its more developed trade networks
Healthcare, with better-equipped hospitals and medical facilities in Senegal
Education, with a more developed education system and a wider range of international schools in Senegal
Tourist attractions, with a wider range of cultural and historical sites in Senegal
Bottom Line
Mauritania offers better value for expats, students, and travelers who are looking for an affordable and relaxed lifestyle. With its low cost of living and rich cultural heritage, Mauritania is an attractive option for those who want to experience West African culture without breaking the bank. However, Senegal may be a better option for those who value a more developed infrastructure, better healthcare and education systems, and a wider range of amenities and services. Ultimately, the choice between Mauritania and Senegal depends on individual priorities and lifestyle preferences. For retirees and families, Mauritania's affordable housing and low cost of living make it an attractive option, while for professionals and entrepreneurs, Senegal's more developed economy and trade networks may be more appealing.