🇱🇦 Cost of Living: Laos vs Myanmar — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameLao People's Democratic Republic
CapitalVientiane
Population7.6 million
Area236,800 km² (91,429 sq mi)
LanguagesLao
CurrencyLao kip (â‚)
TimezoneUTC+07:00
RegionAsia / South-Eastern Asia
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$9,776 (2024)
Inflation Rate23.1% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$27 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend44.8% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)1.2% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Laos is generally cheaper than Myanmar, with an overall cost of living that is approximately 15-20% lower.
Quick Facts
Laos GDP per Capita (PPP)7,400
Myanmar GDP per Capita (PPP)6,300
Laos Inflation Rate2.5%
Myanmar Inflation Rate5.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Laos
Overview: Laos vs Myanmar
Laos and Myanmar are two neighboring countries in Southeast Asia that offer a unique blend of traditional culture, rich history, and natural beauty. In terms of cost of living, Laos is generally considered to be the more affordable option, with lower prices for accommodation, food, and transportation. The economic context of the two countries is also different, with Laos having a more stable economy and a higher GDP per capita. Myanmar, on the other hand, is still recovering from years of economic isolation and has a more rapidly growing economy.
The cost of living in Laos is approximately 15-20% lower than in Myanmar, making it an attractive option for expats, tourists, and travelers on a budget. However, it's worth noting that prices in both countries can vary depending on the location, with cities like Vientiane and Yangon tend to be more expensive than smaller towns and rural areas. Overall, Laos offers a great balance of affordability and quality of life, making it a popular destination for those looking to experience the best of Southeast Asia without breaking the bank.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Laos (USD)
Myanmar (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
200
300
33% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
100
150
33% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
400
600
33% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Laos (USD)
Myanmar (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
3
5
40% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
50
70
29% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
1
2
50% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Laos (USD)
Myanmar (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
10
20
50% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
0.50
1
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.20
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Laos (USD)
Myanmar (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
50
70
29% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
20
30
33% cheaper
Mobile Plan
5
10
50% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Laos (USD)
Myanmar (USD)
Savings
Budget
400
600
33%
Mid-Range
800
1,200
33%
Comfortable
1,200
1,800
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Laos is cheaper for:
Accommodation, with prices for apartments and houses tend to be lower than in Myanmar
Food, with meals at restaurants and groceries tend to be cheaper
Transportation, with lower prices for taxis, fuel, and monthly transit passes
Utilities, with lower prices for internet, mobile plans, and utilities
Myanmar is cheaper for:
Some tourist attractions, with entrance fees tend to be lower than in Laos
Local handicrafts, with prices for traditional crafts tend to be lower
Some types of clothing, with prices for traditional clothing tend to be lower
Certain types of street food, with prices for some types of street food tend to be lower
Bottom Line
Laos and Myanmar are both great destinations for travelers and expats, but they offer different experiences and lifestyles. Laos is generally cheaper and more laid-back, making it a great option for those on a budget or looking for a relaxed atmosphere. Myanmar, on the other hand, offers a more vibrant and dynamic culture, with a rapidly growing economy and a wide range of attractions and activities. For expats and digital nomads, Laos may be the better option, with its lower cost of living and more relaxed atmosphere. For tourists and travelers, Myanmar may be the better option, with its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Ultimately, the choice between Laos and Myanmar depends on your individual preferences and priorities.