🇲🇷 Cost of Living: Mauritania vs Western Sahara — 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 Western Sahara, with an overall cost of living difference of around 15-20%.
Quick Facts
Mauritania GDP per Capita (PPP)4,500
Western Sahara GDP per Capita (PPP)2,500
Mauritania Inflation Rate2.5%
Western Sahara Inflation Rate3.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Mauritania
Overview: Mauritania vs Western Sahara
Mauritania and Western Sahara are two neighboring countries in Northwest Africa, with distinct economic contexts. Mauritania has a relatively more diversified economy, with a mix of agriculture, mining, and fishing industries, while Western Sahara's economy is largely based on phosphate mining and fishing. The cost of living in Mauritania is generally lower, with prices for housing, food, and transportation being more affordable. On the other hand, Western Sahara has a more limited market, which can drive up prices for certain goods and services.
The economic context of the two countries also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Mauritania has a more developed infrastructure, with better roads, ports, and communication networks, which facilitates trade and commerce. In contrast, Western Sahara's infrastructure is more limited, which can make it more expensive to import goods and services. Overall, Mauritania offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living that is around 15-20% lower than Western Sahara.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Mauritania (USD)
Western Sahara (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)
Western Sahara (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)
Western Sahara (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)
Western Sahara (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
80
37% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
50
40% cheaper
Mobile Plan
10
20
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Mauritania (USD)
Western Sahara (USD)
Savings
Budget
500
700
29%
Mid-Range
800
1,200
33%
Comfortable
1,200
1,800
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Mauritania is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices being 30-40% lower
Food and dining, with meal prices being 50% lower
Transportation, with fuel and taxi prices being 33-50% lower
Utilities and internet, with prices being 37-50% lower
Western Sahara is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, which may be more readily available due to its coastal location
Tourism-related activities, such as guided tours and outdoor excursions
High-end accommodations and dining, which may be more developed in Western Sahara
Certain business services, such as logistics and trade facilitation
Bottom Line
Mauritania offers a more affordable lifestyle, with a cost of living that is around 15-20% lower than Western Sahara. This makes it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for a budget-friendly destination. However, Western Sahara may be more suitable for certain types of businesses or investments, particularly those related to trade and logistics. Ultimately, the choice between Mauritania and Western Sahara depends on individual priorities and circumstances. For those prioritizing affordability and a more laid-back lifestyle, Mauritania may be the better choice. For those requiring more developed infrastructure and business services, Western Sahara may be more suitable.