Cost of Living in Ivory Coast

Money

The cost of living in Ivory Coast is considered to be low, despite the country having a relatively high GDP per capita compared to other nations belonging in the West African region. Abidjan, the biggest city of Ivory Coast, was ranked 67^th out of 214 cities around the world when it comes to cost of living for foreign nationals.  

Buying Real Estate

The real estate market in Ivory Coast has been improving since the political upheaval in the country in the past decade. The government encourages foreign investment in the country, and in relation to this, expats are generally allowed to purchase property in Ivory Coast. Some of the most popular places for foreign nationals interested in buying property in the country are Abidjan, Yamoussoukro, Bouake, and Cocody. Prices of property in Ivory Coast can range from US$ 

Renting

The most common accommodations that foreign nationals rent in Ivory Coast are located in the capital city, Yamoussoukro, or the biggest city, Abidjan. Types of accommodations vary, from unfurnished to furnished ones, with or without utilities. Lease agreements can be negotiated with the landlords on short or long terms. The price of a one-bedroom apartment in the city center of Ivory Coast cost about US$483 a month, while a three-bedroom apartment in the city center costs approximately US$600 a month. 

Utilities

Ivory Coast’s price of basic utilities such as water, heating, electricity, gas and garbage cost about US$242 a month. 8MB internet connection costs about US$85 a month, and a one-minute local call using prepaid mobile phone costs about US$0.35. 

Food Consumption

The cost for dining out in Ivory Coast at an inexpensive restaurant ranges from US$4.20 to $23 a meal, while a three-course meal for two persons at a mid-range restaurant ranges from US$20. to US$157. A combo meal at McDonald’s or any other similar fast food chain costs about US$10. A 1.5 liter of bottled water costs approximately US$1.75, one liter of regular milk costs about US$2.24, one kilogram of local cheese costs around US$14, one kilogram of chicken breasts costs approximately US$17, one kilogram of white rice costs US$2, a dozen eggs cost about US$2.94, and a loaf of fresh white bread costs approximately US$1.57. A bottle of mid-range wine in Ivory Coast costs about US$6.30, imported beer costs US$2.20, and domestic beer costs about US$1.36.  

Transportation

The price of one liter of gasoline in Ivory Coast costs about US$1.57, while a one-way ticket for a local transport such as the bus or train costs about US$0.42. A monthly ticket costs approximately US$79. Taxi fares start at US$0.42, with an additional US$1.05 for every kilometer ride. An eight-kilometer ride in a taxi in Ivory Coast on a business day can cost about US$17.

Taxation

All individuals residing in Ivory Coast have to pay income tax depending on their salary bracket. The income tax rate in the country is on a progressive scale, starting from 10% up to 60%. Gift and inheritance taxes range from 0% to 45%, depending on the relationship of the donor and the beneficiary, as well as the value of the real estate. Ivory Coast has double tax treaties in place with several countries, including Belgium, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Norway, Switzerland and the United Kingdom.