🇬🇵 Cost of Living: Guadeloupe vs Reunion — Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameGuadeloupe
CapitalBasse-Terre
Population378,561
Area1,628 km² (629 sq mi)
LanguagesFrench
Currencyeuro (€)
TimezoneUTC-04:00
RegionAmericas / Caribbean
Drives onRight
Source: REST Countries API
Guadeloupe is generally cheaper than Reunion, with an overall cost of living difference of around 15-20%.
Quick Facts
Guadeloupe GDP per Capita (PPP)26,390
Reunion GDP per Capita (PPP)29,740
Guadeloupe Inflation Rate1.3%
Reunion Inflation Rate1.1%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Guadeloupe
Overview: Guadeloupe vs Reunion
The cost of living in Guadeloupe and Reunion, two French overseas territories, differs significantly due to their unique economic contexts. Guadeloupe, located in the Caribbean, has a smaller economy and lower prices compared to Reunion, an island in the Indian Ocean with a more developed economy. The main factors contributing to the cost difference are the prices of housing, food, and transportation. On average, Guadeloupe is around 15-20% cheaper than Reunion, making it an attractive option for expats, students, and retirees looking for an affordable Caribbean lifestyle.
The economic context of both territories also plays a significant role in determining the cost of living. Guadeloupe's economy is primarily driven by tourism, agriculture, and services, while Reunion's economy is more diversified, with a strong focus on industry, tourism, and services. The difference in economic structure contributes to the variation in prices, with Reunion tend to have higher prices due to its more developed economy and higher standard of living. However, Guadeloupe's lower prices and stunning natural beauty make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more affordable and relaxed Caribbean experience.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Guadeloupe (USD)
Reunion (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
450
650
31% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
350
500
30% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
800
1,200
33% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Guadeloupe (USD)
Reunion (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
15
20
25% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
500
650
23% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
3
4
25% cheaper
Coffee
2
3
33% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Guadeloupe (USD)
Reunion (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
50
70
29% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
2
3
33% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
1.20
1.50
20% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Guadeloupe (USD)
Reunion (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
150
200
25% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
40
25% cheaper
Mobile Plan
20
30
33% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Guadeloupe (USD)
Reunion (USD)
Savings
Budget
1,200
1,600
25%
Mid-Range
2,000
2,600
23%
Comfortable
3,000
4,000
25%
Where Each Country Wins
Guadeloupe is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with prices up to 33% lower than in Reunion
Food and dining, with meal prices up to 25% lower
Transportation, with fuel prices up to 20% lower
Utilities and internet, with prices up to 25% lower
Reunion is cheaper for:
Certain imported goods, due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean
High-end tourism services, with a more developed infrastructure
Certain luxury items, with a higher standard of living
Education, with a more comprehensive and developed education system
Bottom Line
Guadeloupe and Reunion offer distinct advantages and disadvantages, depending on individual lifestyles and preferences. Expats and retirees may prefer Guadeloupe for its lower cost of living, stunning natural beauty, and relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. Students, on the other hand, may prefer Reunion for its more comprehensive education system and higher standard of living. Families may also prefer Reunion for its more developed infrastructure and wider range of amenities. Ultimately, Guadeloupe offers better value for those seeking an affordable and relaxed Caribbean lifestyle, while Reunion provides a more developed and luxurious experience.