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Living costs across Africa vary sharply, influenced by factors such as import dependence, currency performance, urbanisation, and consumer demand. While several countries on the continent remain relatively affordable, others stand out for their high day-to-day expenses, particularly for food, dining, transport, and utilities.

Based on the latest Cost of Living Index data from Numbeo, which compares everyday expenses across cities worldwide (excluding rent), this ranking outlines the 15 African countries with the highest cost of living at the beginning of 2026. The data provides a clear snapshot of where residents and expatriates face the greatest financial pressure in daily life.

1. Seychelles (64.5)

Seychelles remains Africa’s most expensive country to live in, with a cost of living index of 64.5. The island nation’s geographic isolation and heavy reliance on imports push prices significantly higher, particularly for groceries and dining, which stand at 74.8 and 66.2 respectively. Although rent remains relatively moderate at 27.6, the overall cost of everyday living keeps Seychelles firmly at the top of the ranking.

2. Democratic Republic of the Congo (50.2)

Despite its abundant natural resources, the Democratic Republic of the Congo records a high cost of living index of 50.2. Food and restaurant prices are especially elevated, while rent in major cities such as Kinshasa places additional strain on household budgets. With local purchasing power at just 26.3, many residents face a wide gap between income levels and daily expenses.

3. Senegal (48.5)

Senegal ranks third with an index score of 48.5. Housing costs remain relatively manageable, but rising prices for groceries and restaurant meals continue to push up the overall cost of living. Limited purchasing power remains a challenge, even as Dakar’s urban appeal and coastal lifestyle attract both locals and expatriates.

4. Cape Verde (46.3)

Cape Verde’s cost of living index of 46.3 highlights the economic pressures faced by island economies. Heavy reliance on imported food drives prices higher, although rent remains among the lowest in the top 15. Tourism helps stabilise restaurant pricing, but modest purchasing power means residents feel the impact of rising daily costs more acutely.

5. Ivory Coast (44.8)

Ivory Coast posts a cost of living index of 44.8, combining relatively affordable housing with steadily increasing food and dining expenses. Local purchasing power is among the weakest in this ranking, making it difficult for many residents—particularly in Abidjan—to comfortably manage everyday living costs.

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6. Angola (42.3)

Angola remains one of Africa’s most expensive countries, driven largely by high prices in Luanda, long regarded as one of the continent’s costliest cities. While grocery and restaurant prices are lower than in Seychelles, rent remains elevated. The comparatively high purchasing power index reflects economic imbalances rather than widespread affordability.

7. Ethiopia (41.8)

Ethiopia records a cost of living index of 41.8, with high grocery prices in urban centres such as Addis Ababa playing a major role. Rent is moderate and restaurant prices comparatively lower, providing some balance. However, limited purchasing power continues to restrict disposable income for many households.

8. Cameroon (40.7)

Cameroon ranks eighth with an index score of 40.7. Restaurant costs exceed grocery prices, while rent remains mid-range. With purchasing power among the lowest in this group, residents in major cities often struggle to keep pace with rising living expenses.

9. Mauritius (38.3)

Mauritius combines moderate living costs with comparatively stronger purchasing power. While groceries and dining remain expensive due to tourism demand and import reliance, low rent levels help offset daily expenses, offering residents greater financial flexibility than in many high-cost African countries.

10. South Africa (37.1)

South Africa completes the top ten with a cost of living index of 37.1. Although expenses for groceries, rent, and dining are relatively balanced, the country stands out for its strong local purchasing power, allowing residents more room to manage rising costs compared to other nations on the list.

11. Kenya (35.9)

Kenya’s rising urban costs, particularly in Nairobi, push its cost of living index to 35.9. Grocery prices and transport expenses have increased steadily, while rent remains a significant burden for middle-income earners. Purchasing power continues to lag behind the pace of price growth.

12. Ghana (34.7)

Ghana posts a cost of living index of 34.7, driven by higher food prices and rising utility costs in cities such as Accra. While rent varies widely, a weaker currency has increased the cost of imported goods, placing additional pressure on household budgets.

13. Botswana (33.8)

Botswana records an index score of 33.8, reflecting rising grocery and dining costs, particularly in Gaborone. Although rent remains moderate, limited purchasing power means everyday expenses account for a significant share of income for many residents.

14. Rwanda (32.6)

Rwanda continues to experience gradual increases in living costs, especially in Kigali, where food and transport prices have risen. Despite relatively low rent, modest purchasing power places sustained pressure on household finances.

15. Namibia (31.9)

Namibia rounds out the top 15 with a cost of living index of 31.9. High prices for imported goods, fuel, and food—particularly in urban areas—continue to weigh on residents. While rent remains manageable, overall affordability remains a challenge for many households at the start of 2026.