10 Cheapest countries to live in Africa (2024)

It is no longer a hidden fact that the cost of living in our world today is quite high and expensive. As it is with everyone, we would love to live in the best of places, drive the best of cars and visit the best of places for vacation.

However, it’s not everyone that has the glossary of affording all this. But information they say is key to every form of life, hence in this article, we will be looking at ten countries in Africa that are quite cheap to live in.

Cheapest countries to live in Africa and the cost of living index 

Rank	Country	Cost of living index
1	Tunisia	25.43
2	Egypt	29.09
3	Algeria	30.54
4	Uganda	31.72
5	Nigeria	31.75
6	Rwanda	34.01
7	Morocco	34.59
8	Tanzania	35.07
9	Zambia	35.59
10	Kenya	39.26

1. Tunisia

Tunisia ranks first on this list with a cost of living index of 25.43 due to so many reasons, one of which is that the  Tunisian government provides subsidies for basic goods such as bread, milk, and petrol, which helps to keep prices low for consumers.

The country bus is located in North Africa and is the most affordable country in Africa to live in. 

2. Egypt

Egypt comes in second position on our least of cheap countries in Africa to live in. This is because of the very low cost of living index which stands at 29.09. the country is located in North Africa.  Currency: The Egyptian Pound is weaker compared to major currencies such as the US dollar, euro, and British pound.

This makes it easier for foreigners to afford to live in Egypt. Food is also very affordable, with a basic meal costing around $2. Transportation is also cheap, with a one-way bus ticket costing around $0.30.

3. Algeria

Algeria, located in North Africa, is the largest country on the continent and has a diverse landscape that ranges from the Sahara Desert to the Mediterranean coast. While the cost of living in major cities like Algiers can be high, there are more affordable options in smaller cities and towns.

The cost of living index of the country is 30.54. Food is also relatively cheap and readily available in the country like most of the counties earlier mentioned in this article. The cost of transportation is also very affordable.

4. Uganda

The country is located in East Africa and is a landlocked country known for its stunning natural beauty and friendly people. The cost of living in Uganda is relatively low,  Food is also affordable, with a basic meal costing around $1.50 almost similar to that of Nigeria.

The country is also known for its good and cheap transportation rate. Uganda takes on the fourth position in our least with the cost of living index of 31.72. 

5. Nigeria

Nigeria, also known as the giant of the continent, assumes the 5th position on our list with a cost of living index of 31.75. the country is blessed with enormous amounts of natural resources making her the largest economy on the continent, the country, the economy of the country may not be its best, but there are various programs geared towards the sustainability of the citizens of the country especially that of fuel subsidy, which aims to reduce the cost of transportation in the country.

The country is also rich in agriculture making food cheap and readily available with a basic meal costing around $1-$2.

6. Rwanda

Another country you should take note of on our list is Rwanda,   although the country has faced a lot with regard to bad governance in the past few decades, the country has made significant growth toward economic development. The country stands as the sixth cheapest country to live in Africa with a cost of living index of 34.01.

Apart from the visible economic growth, the country also is home to stunning natural beauty, including the iconic Volcanoes National Park, where visitors can witness the endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. Unity and Reconciliation: Rwanda has made significant strides towards unity and reconciliation after the 1994 genocide that claimed over 800,000 lives.

7. Morocco

Next on our list is Morocco, most people may not know this, but this country offers a very good standard of living in Africa, and the country is known for its rich and long-standing culture. The country’s cost of living index stands at 34.59, next to that of  Tanzania. Due to the country’s favourable weather conditions for agriculture and low labour costs.

Morocco is known for its fertile farmland, which allows for the cultivation of a variety of crops, including wheat, olives, and fruits. Food is very cheap in the country and mostly available. So if you are looking for a list of countries in Africa where you can live at a cheap rate and still have the comfort of life you have always wanted to have, Morocco should be on your list. 

8. Tanzania

Tanzania has a cost of living index of 35.07, making her the eighth country on our list. The country is located in the eastern part of the continent, known for its robust wildlife history and tall mountains, the country is also a safe place when it comes to security, with an average cost of living of about $700 to $1800 the country is no doubt a place to live In.

Although it’s important to also note that the cost of living in the country varies from city to city when compared to other countries in the continent that don’t even have so much to offer the ranks best. 

9. Zambia

Zambia has secured a place among the top 10 most economical countries in Africa, ranking at the 9th spot, with a Cost of Living Index (CDI) of 35.59. This country is known for its stunning natural beauty, welcoming locals, diverse cultural heritage, and pristine wilderness, which make it one of the most affordable destinations globally, despite its relatively high living expenses compared to its neighbouring countries.

Since Zambia is landlocked, it relies heavily on imports from its nearby countries, which can drive up the cost of living for its residents. On average, the cost of living in Zambia ranges from $600 to $1200, depending on the size of the family and their preferred lifestyle.

10. Kenya 

Last on our countdown is Kenya. Based on the Cost of Living Index, Kenya is ranked as the tenth most affordable country to live in on the African continent, with a score of 39.26. It’s important to note that personal spending habits and preferences may impact overall expenses, despite the country’s generally low cost of living.

In comparison, living expenses in Kenya are about 45% lower than in the United States of America, while its capital city, Nairobi, is around 50% cheaper than in London. Generally, the monthly cost of living in Kenya can range from $700 to $2500 on average.

Conclusion

While these countries offer a lower cost of living compared to many Western countries, it’s important to note that salaries and wages are sadly lower. Experts suggest one should carefully consider their income and expenses before making the move to one of these countries. Additionally, while these countries are generally safe, People should exercise caution and take necessary precautions to ensure their safety.