The cost of living varies significantly across Africa, with food, housing, transportation, and other essential goods and services shaping how much residents spend to meet their daily needs.
In the 2026 Cost of Living Index, Seychelles ranks as Africa’s most expensive country, recording a score of 64.5. The Democratic Republic of the Congo follows with 50.2, while Senegal ranks third with 48.5.
The index measures the relative cost of consumer goods and services across countries, with higher scores indicating more expensive living conditions. However, the figures do not necessarily reflect differences in income or purchasing power, which also influence how affordable life is for residents.
The ranking highlights the wide economic differences across the continent and the varying financial pressures households face in meeting their basic needs.
Below are the top 10 African countries with the highest cost of living in 2026.
- Seychelles – 64.5
Seychelles ranks first in Africa, with a cost-of-living index of 64.5. Food is a major contributor to its high ranking, with grocery prices and restaurant meals both relatively expensive. As an island nation that relies heavily on imported goods, Seychelles incurs additional costs to bring food and other essentials into the country. - Democratic Republic of the Congo – 50.2. The Democratic Republic of the Congo ranks second, with an index of 50.2. Despite its vast natural resources, the country faces high consumer prices, particularly for restaurant meals and some everyday goods. The cost of transporting products across the country can also be a challenge, given its size and infrastructure limitations.
- Senegal – 48.5
Senegal takes third place, with food expenses contributing to its position among Africa’s most expensive countries. Grocery prices and restaurant meals both record relatively high scores in the comparison. Dakar, the country’s capital, is an important market for everyday goods and services. - Cape Verde – 46.3
Cape Verde ranks fourth, with grocery prices standing out among its living expenses. The country’s island geography means many goods must be transported across the Atlantic or between islands before reaching consumers. This can add to the cost of supplying food and other essentials. While expenses vary across households and locations, the cost of groceries is a notable factor in the country’s overall ranking. - Côte d’Ivoire – 44.8
Côte d’Ivoire ranks fifth, with food and restaurant prices contributing to its position on the list. Abidjan, the country’s largest city and commercial centre, has a concentration of businesses, services and consumer activity. - Angola – 42.3
Angola ranks sixth, with an index of 42.3. Grocery prices, restaurant meals, and housing costs all contribute to residents’ expenses, particularly in urban areas. Luanda, the capital, has long been associated with high living costs, including accommodation and imported goods. - Ethiopia – 41.8
Ethiopia ranks seventh, with grocery prices making a notable contribution to its overall position. The cost of food is an important consideration for households, while expenses can differ between Addis Ababa and other parts of the country. - Cameroon – 40.7
Cameroon ranks eighth among Africa’s most expensive countries. Restaurant prices stand out in its cost profile, while groceries also account for a significant share of everyday expenses. Costs vary between cities. Household spending also depends on whether people rely on restaurant meals, buy groceries for home cooking or pay for other services. - Mauritius – 38.3
Mauritius ranks ninth, with grocery prices contributing more to its overall cost of living than restaurant prices. As an island economy, it depends on international trade to supply a range of goods, including those not produced locally in sufficient quantities. The cost of imported items can therefore affect consumer prices. - South Africa – 37.1
South Africa completes the list, ranking tenth with an index of 37.1. Food, restaurant meals and other consumer expenses contribute to its position. Living costs vary across the country, particularly between major urban centres and smaller towns.
