The Cost of Living in Ghana | An Expert Guide

Ghana, often referred to as "Africa's Gateway," combines rich cultural heritage with one of West Africa's most stable economies. With a population of approximately 31 million people, Ghana offers a unique blend of traditional values and modern development, particularly in urban centers like Accra and Kumasi.

Ghana's economy is one of the fastest-growing in Africa, driven by sectors including services, technology, mining, and oil production. Recent years have seen significant infrastructure development, particularly in Accra, though the country continues to face challenges with currency stability and inflation, which can impact living costs.

The expatriate community in Ghana is concentrated primarily in Accra, particularly in areas like Airport Residential, Cantonments, and East Legon, with smaller populations in Kumasi and Takoradi. Many are drawn by opportunities in international organizations, oil and gas sectors, and NGOs, along with the country's political stability and welcoming atmosphere.

‍

Housing Costs in Ghana

Housing costs in Ghana's expatriate areas can be surprisingly high due to limited supply of high-quality accommodation. In Accra's upscale districts like Airport Residential or Cantonments, a modern one-bedroom apartment typically rents for 3,000-5,000 GHS monthly, while similar accommodations in middle-class areas range from 1,500-3,000 GHS. Other cities offer more affordable options, with comparable apartments ranging from 1,000-2,000 GHS monthly. Many landlords require one to two years' rent in advance, though this practice is gradually changing.

Summary:

• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Accra upscale): 3,000-5,000 GHS/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (Accra middle-class): 1,500-3,000 GHS/month
• Rent, 1-bedroom apartment (other cities): 1,000-2,000 GHS/month

‍

Food Costs in Ghana

Food expenses in Ghana vary significantly depending on shopping and dining habits. A meal at a local restaurant costs 20-40 GHS, while dinner at an international restaurant might run 100-200 GHS per person. Monthly grocery shopping at modern supermarkets like ShopRite or Melcom typically costs 800-1,500 GHS for one person, though shopping at local markets can reduce costs significantly. Imported items carry premium prices.

Summary:

• Local restaurant meal: 20-40 GHS
• International restaurant dinner: 100-200 GHS
• Monthly groceries (1 person): 800-1,500 GHS

‍

Transportation Costs in Ghana

Transportation in Ghanaian cities relies on a mix of private vehicles, taxis, and trotros (minibuses). Trotro fares for common routes cost 2-5 GHS, while taxi rides typically range from 15-40 GHS depending on distance. Many expatriates use ride-hailing services like Uber or Bolt, which offer more predictable pricing. Some choose to hire drivers, which can cost 1,500-2,500 GHS monthly.

Summary:

• Trotro fare: 2-5 GHS
• Taxi ride (short distance): 15-40 GHS
• Monthly driver service: 1,500-2,500 GHS

‍

Healthcare Costs in Ghana

Healthcare in Ghana varies significantly between public and private facilities. Private health insurance typically costs 200-500 GHS monthly per person, depending on coverage. A consultation at an international clinic costs 200-400 GHS, while specialist visits range from 300-600 GHS. Most expatriates use private international hospitals and clinics, which offer higher standards of care but at premium prices.

Summary:

• Private health insurance: 200-500 GHS/month
• Doctor's consultation: 200-400 GHS
• Specialist visit: 300-600 GHS

‍

Utility Costs in Ghana

Utility costs in Ghana can be substantial, particularly due to the need for air conditioning and potential power backup systems. Monthly utilities including electricity, water, and garbage collection typically range from 300-600 GHS for an apartment. Internet service costs 200-400 GHS monthly for reliable connections. Mobile phone plans with data typically range from 50-150 GHS monthly.

Summary:

• Basic utilities: 300-600 GHS/month
• Internet: 200-400 GHS/month
• Mobile phone plan: 50-150 GHS/month

‍

Example Monthly Expenses in Ghana

Average monthly expenses for a single person living in Accra:

• Rent (1-bedroom, good area): 4,000 GHS
• Utilities: 500 GHS
• Food: 1,200 GHS
• Transportation: 400 GHS
• Healthcare (insurance): 300 GHS
• Internet/Phone: 300 GHS
• Entertainment: 800 GHS
• Total: 7,500 GHS

‍

Cost of Living vs Quality of Life Correlation

‍

If you want to know more about Ghana and the cost of living there you can also check out the Ghana page.