Numbeo’s 2026 index ranks Seychelles as Africa’s most expensive country to live in, with import dependence and weak purchasing power driving affordability challenges across the continent.
Numbeo’s 2026 Cost of Living Index highlights how income levels, import dependence and economic structure shape daily expenses across Africa. Although the platform published data for 27 African countries, the rankings reveal clear trends, with island economies and import-reliant nations dominating the upper tier.
1. Seychelles – 64.5
Seychelles tops the list as Africa’s most expensive country. Heavy reliance on imports drives grocery prices (74.8) and restaurant costs (66.2) higher. Despite a tourism-driven economy, purchasing power remains modest at 34.3.
2. Democratic Republic of the Congo – 50.2
Limited infrastructure and import dependence in urban centres elevate living costs. Restaurant prices reach 66.1, rent stands at 32.8, while purchasing power is low at 26.3.
3. Senegal – 48.5
Rising urban costs in Dakar push grocery prices to 45.0 and restaurant costs to 42.9. Purchasing power remains weak at 22.2.
4. Cape Verde – 46.3
Island geography increases dependence on imported goods, pushing grocery costs to 57.2. Rent is relatively low at 8.8, but purchasing power stands at 21.3.
5. Ivory Coast – 44.8
Despite strong economic growth, consumer prices remain elevated. Restaurant costs are 39.1, rent 21.8, and purchasing power is low at 12.7.
6. Angola – 42.3
Angola records the highest purchasing power index (200.8) among the top 10, largely reflecting stronger earnings in oil-related sectors.
7. Ethiopia – 41.8
Inflationary pressures contribute to higher grocery prices (44.5). Restaurant costs remain lower at 22.9, but purchasing power is just 12.5.
8. Cameroon – 40.7
Groceries cost 37.8, restaurant prices 45.5, while purchasing power stands at 10.5 — one of the lowest among the top 10.
9. Mauritius – 38.3
Mauritius combines moderate costs with stronger purchasing power (55.1). Low rent (10.9) and a diversified economy support relative affordability.
10. South Africa – 37.1
South Africa ranks as the least expensive within the top 10. With purchasing power at 109.2, it balances moderate living costs with comparatively stronger income levels.
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