What Is the True Cost of Living in Ghana?

Understanding the financial landscape of a new country is important for anyone considering relocation or an extended stay. Ghana, a West African nation known for its vibrant culture and growing economy, presents a unique cost of living environment. This article provides an overview of expenditures one might encounter, offering practical insights into daily expenses from housing to transportation.

Factors Affecting Living Expenses

The overall cost of living in Ghana is shaped by several factors, with significant variations across the country. Geographical location plays a substantial role; major urban centers like Accra, Kumasi, and Takoradi generally exhibit higher costs for accommodation, goods, and services due to higher demand.

An individual’s lifestyle choices also directly influence expenses. Opting for local habits, such as relying on local markets for food and utilizing public transport, can result in lower costs than maintaining a standard accustomed to imported goods and frequent dining at high-end establishments. The type of accommodation chosen, whether an apartment or a house, and its location, further impacts total expenditure.

Accommodation and Utilities

Housing typically represents the most substantial living expense in Ghana, with costs varying considerably based on location and type. In Accra, a one-bedroom apartment can range from GHS 1,266 to GHS 4,000 per month. Larger accommodations, such as two or three-bedroom houses, range from GHS 2,710 to GHS 6,940 monthly, while four-bedroom houses may start from GHS 15,260 per month. Furnished options in expat-preferred areas like Airport Residential, Cantonments, or East Legon command higher prices, with one-bedroom apartments ranging from $1,000 to $1,800 and three-bedroom properties from $2,500 to $5,625 per month.

Utility expenses are an additional monthly consideration. The average cost for essential utilities, including electricity, heating, and gas for two people in an 85m² apartment in Accra, is around GHS 1,059 per month. Electricity tariffs increased in 2024 and 2025, with rates rising by 3.45% for small-scale consumers and 5.84% for those using more than 30 kilowatt-hours. Water tariffs also increased by 5.16% in July 2024 and 4.02% in May 2025. Many homes utilize prepaid electricity meters, where consumption directly impacts top-up frequency, especially with air conditioning use. Internet services vary, with unlimited residential plans costing around GHS 300 per month, and mobile data averaging GHS 6.30 per gigabyte.

Food and Transportation

Daily food expenses in Ghana vary based on purchasing habits and dining preferences. Groceries from local markets are more affordable than those from supermarkets, especially for local produce and staples. For example, a kilogram of tomatoes might cost GHS 5 at a local market compared to GHS 10 at a supermarket. A single person’s monthly grocery budget can range from GHS 800 to GHS 1,500, with imported items adding significantly to the cost.

Dining out also offers a range of price points. A meal at an inexpensive local eatery, often called a “chop bar,” can cost around GHS 20 to GHS 40. Mid-range restaurants might charge GHS 60 to GHS 80 per person, while a three-course meal for two could be about $47.50. Street food is an economical option, with servings available for as low as GHS 5.

Transportation costs depend on the chosen mode. Public transport, such as shared minibuses known as tro-tros, offers an affordable way to travel within cities. Taxi fares require negotiation, as meters are not commonly used. A short taxi ride might cost GHS 1 to GHS 7, while a trip from Kotoka International Airport to the city center could range from GHS 30 to GHS 40. Ride-sharing services are available but can be more expensive than regular taxis. Fuel prices fluctuate, with gasoline costing GHS 11 to GHS 14 per liter as of mid-2025.

Healthcare, Education, and Other Essentials

Healthcare services in Ghana are available through both public and private facilities. While the National Health Insurance Scheme provides public healthcare access, many expatriates opt for private facilities, often relying on comprehensive health insurance or out-of-pocket payments. Consultation fees vary by facility and service type.

For families considering education, costs differ significantly between local public schools and international private schools. Local public schools are low-cost, while international private schools, which cater to a global curriculum, involve substantially higher tuition fees.

Personal care items, such as body wash, lotions, and other hygiene products, are widely available, with prices varying based on brand and origin. Leisure and entertainment costs, including cinema tickets, gym memberships, or dining out, vary widely depending on personal preferences and establishment type.

Financial Planning and Currency

The local currency in Ghana is the Ghanaian Cedi (GHS). Its value against major foreign currencies like the US Dollar, British Pound, and Euro can fluctuate. For instance, in August 2025, the Cedi traded between GHS 11.40 and GHS 11.90 to one US Dollar in the retail market, and GHS 10.65 to one US Dollar on the interbank market.

Banking services are accessible, with numerous local and international banks operating in Ghana. Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) are available in urban areas for cash withdrawals. Mobile money services are widely prevalent and used for various daily transactions, offering a convenient alternative to traditional banking.

Creating a detailed budget is advisable for managing living costs in Ghana. Expenses provided are estimates, and actual spending habits will vary based on individual choices and needs. Strategies such as frequenting local markets for groceries and utilizing public transportation can help manage overall expenditures.