Cost of Living in Ghana

### Ultimate Cost Guide for Living in Ghana

Ghana, located in West Africa, offers a unique blend of vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and a growing economy. As a prospective resident or expatriate considering a move to this diverse country, it's essential to understand the cost of living to help you plan your budget effectively. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into various aspects of living costs in Ghana, including housing, data/SIM costs, food expenses, transport, coworking rates, lifestyle expenses, healthcare, regional differences, and budget tiers.

#### Housing Costs

Housing costs in Ghana can vary significantly depending on the region and the type of accommodation. As of 2021, here are the approximate monthly rental costs for a 1-bedroom apartment in different regions:

- Accra (Capital): GHS 1,500 - GHS 3,500 - Kumasi: GHS 600 - GHS 1,200 - Takoradi: GHS 800 - GHS 1,500 - Tamale: GHS 400 - GHS 800

Accra, being the capital city and the commercial hub, tends to have higher rental prices compared to other regions in Ghana.

#### Data/SIM Costs

Ghana has a competitive telecommunications market, with several providers offering data and SIM card services. The cost of data and SIM cards can vary based on the provider and the package you choose. On average, a monthly data plan with approximately 5GB of data can cost between GHS 30 to GHS 50.

A pre-paid SIM card with some data and call credit typically costs around GHS 5 to GHS 10, depending on the network operator.

#### Food Expenses

##### Groceries: - A loaf of bread: GHS 3 - GHS 5 - A litre of milk: GHS 6 - GHS 10 - A kilogram of rice: GHS 7 - GHS 15 - A dozen eggs: GHS 7 - GHS 10 - Local cheese (per 250g): GHS 10 - GHS 15

##### Dining Out: - Meal at an inexpensive restaurant: GHS 10 - GHS 20 - Meal at a mid-range restaurant for two: GHS 80 - GHS 150 - Cappuccino: GHS 10 - GHS 15 - Local beer (0.5L): GHS 5 - GHS 10

#### Transport Costs

Transport costs in Ghana can vary based on the mode of transportation. Here are some average costs:

- One-way public transport ticket: GHS 1 - GHS 5 - Taxi start (normal tariff): GHS 3 - GHS 5 - Petrol (per litre): GHS 5 - GHS 6

#### Coworking Rates

Ghana is experiencing a growth in coworking spaces, especially in urban areas like Accra. The cost of coworking spaces can range from GHS 300 to GHS 700 per month, depending on the location and facilities provided.

#### Lifestyle Expenses

Additional lifestyle expenses such as gym memberships, entertainment, and leisure activities can vary based on personal preferences. On average, a gym membership can cost between GHS 100 to GHS 300 per month.

#### Healthcare

Ghana has a mix of public and private healthcare facilities. The cost of healthcare services can vary depending on the facility and the type of service required. An average doctor's consultation can cost between GHS 50 to GHS 150.

#### Regional Differences

As highlighted earlier, regional differences play a significant role in the cost of living in Ghana. Accra, being the capital city, tends to have higher prices for housing, food, and other amenities compared to other regions such as Kumasi, Takoradi, and Tamale.

#### Budget Tiers

To provide a clearer picture, we can categorize budget tiers for living in Ghana as follows:

- Budget Tier (Low): GHS 2,000 - GHS 3,500 per month - Shared accommodation - Basic groceries - Limited dining out - Public transport

- Budget Tier (Medium): GHS 3,500 - GHS 6,000 per month - Renting a 1-bedroom apartment - Moderate groceries and dining out - Occasional leisure activities

- Budget Tier (High): GHS 6,000+ per month - Renting a higher-end apartment - Quality groceries and dining out - Gym memberships, entertainment, and travel

In conclusion, living in Ghana offers a wide range of options to suit different budgets and lifestyles. By understanding the costs associated with housing, food, transport, coworking, lifestyle, healthcare, and regional differences, you can make informed decisions when planning your move to this beautiful West African country.