πΈπ· Cost of Living: Suriname vs French Guiana β Price Comparison
Last updated: February 2026
Verified Facts
Official NameRepublic of Suriname
CapitalParamaribo
Population616,500
Area163,820 kmΒ² (63,251 sq mi)
LanguagesDutch
CurrencySurinamese dollar ($)
TimezoneUTC-03:00
RegionAmericas / South America
Drives onLeft
Source: REST Countries API
Economic Indicators
GDP per Capita (PPP)$21,801 (2024)
Inflation Rate16.2% (2024)
Health Spend per Capita$297 (2023)
Out-of-Pocket Health Spend19.7% (2023)
Education Spend (% GDP)2.9% (2023)
Source: World Bank Open Data
Suriname is generally cheaper than French Guiana, with an overall cost of living that is around 20-30% lower.
Quick Facts
Suriname GDP per Capita (PPP)13,445
French Guiana GDP per Capita (PPP)26,439
Suriname Inflation Rate4.5%
French Guiana Inflation Rate1.5%
Overall Winner (Cheaper)Suriname
Overview: Suriname vs French Guiana
The cost of living in Suriname and French Guiana varies significantly, despite both countries being located in South America. Suriname has a lower cost of living, with affordable housing, food, and transportation options. The country's economy is driven by the export of aluminum, gold, and oil, which has contributed to its relatively stable economic growth. In contrast, French Guiana has a higher cost of living, mainly due to its status as an overseas department of France, which means that it is subject to French economic policies and prices. As a result, French Guiana has a more developed economy, with a higher GDP per capita, but also higher prices for goods and services.
The economic context of both countries plays a significant role in determining their cost of living. Suriname's economy is more focused on natural resource extraction, which has led to a relatively low cost of living. On the other hand, French Guiana's economy is more diversified, with a strong focus on services and industry, which has driven up prices. Overall, Suriname is a more affordable option for those looking to live in South America, with a cost of living that is around 20-30% lower than French Guiana. However, French Guiana offers a more developed infrastructure and a higher standard of living, which may be attractive to some individuals.
Rent & Housing Comparison
Item
Suriname (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
1BR Apartment (City Center)
400
700
42% cheaper
1BR Apartment (Outside)
250
450
44% cheaper
3BR Apartment (City Center)
700
1,200
42% cheaper
Food & Dining Comparison
Item
Suriname (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Meal at Restaurant
10
15
33% cheaper
Groceries (monthly)
300
500
40% cheaper
Beer (500ml)
2
3
33% cheaper
Coffee
1
2
50% cheaper
Transport Comparison
Item
Suriname (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Monthly Transit Pass
20
30
33% cheaper
Taxi (per km)
1
2
50% cheaper
Fuel (per liter)
0.80
1.20
33% cheaper
Utilities & Internet Comparison
Item
Suriname (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Difference
Utilities (85 sqm apt)
100
150
33% cheaper
Internet (60 Mbps)
30
50
40% cheaper
Mobile Plan
20
30
33% cheaper
Monthly Budget Comparison
Budget Tier
Suriname (USD)
French Guiana (USD)
Savings
Budget
800
1,200
33%
Mid-Range
1,200
1,800
33%
Comfortable
2,000
3,000
33%
Where Each Country Wins
Suriname is cheaper for:
Rent and housing, with options available for 40-50% less than in French Guiana
Food and dining, with meals and groceries available for 30-40% less than in French Guiana
Transportation, with taxi fares and fuel prices 30-50% lower than in French Guiana
Utilities and internet, with options available for 30-40% less than in French Guiana
French Guiana is cheaper for:
High-end goods and services, such as luxury cars and designer clothing
International travel, with more frequent flights and better connections to Europe and other parts of the world
Education, with access to French universities and schools
Healthcare, with access to high-quality medical facilities and specialists
Bottom Line
Suriname and French Guiana offer different value propositions for different lifestyles. For expats, students, and retirees on a budget, Suriname is a more affordable option, with a lower cost of living and a more relaxed pace of life. However, for those who value a more developed infrastructure, a higher standard of living, and access to high-end goods and services, French Guiana may be a better choice. Ultimately, the decision between Suriname and French Guiana will depend on individual priorities and preferences. It is essential to research and visit both countries before making a decision, as the cost of living is just one factor to consider when choosing a place to live.